This post will focus on the northern part of the Chesapeake Bay, and the area surrounding Annapolis: Maryland's capital.
National Maritime Day is May 22 – every day this week, celebrate your port's industry by sounding your horn every day at noon!
Sound Off!
In celebration of National Maritime Day, each day this week – Monday, May 18 through Friday, May 22 – the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) encourages vessels in each port’s harbor and berths to sound their horns or whistles four short times in succession at noon each workday during this week.
About National Maritime Day
In 1933, Congress declared National Maritime Day to commemorate the American steamship Savannah’s voyage from the United States to England, marking the first successful crossing of the Atlantic Ocean with steam propulsion. During World War II more than 250,000 members of the American Merchant Marine served their country, with more than 6,700 giving their lives, hundreds being detained as prisoners of war and more than 800 U.S. merchant ships being sunk or damaged.
Maritime Day is a time-honored tradition that recognizes one of our country’s most important industries. Each year, ceremonies and celebrations throughout the country recognize Maritime Day and the people our maritime nation depends on.
Why Sound Off?
Per the AAPA, the unified and recognized voice of seaports in the Americas, the goals of the Sound Off initiative are:
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To remind those within earshot of the dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism of the port industry workforce in its collective effort to slow the spread of coronavirus while ensuring a steady flow of vital goods and services.
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To recognize and support the week of National Maritime Day as a salute and tribute to maritime commerce and the ports through which that commerce flows. Ports ensure that we are able to get the goods we need and depend on for everyday living.
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To increase public awareness of the value and importance of the maritime industry to each nation’s trade, innovation, economy, jobs and quality of life.
Learn more about Maritime Day from the Maritime Administration's (MARAD) website.
