About Us
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum explores and preserves the history, environment, and culture of the entire Chesapeake Bay region, and makes this resource accessible to all. Every aspect of fulfilling this mission is driven by CBMM’s values of relevance, authenticity, and stewardship, along with a commitment to providing engaging guest experiences and transformative educational programming, all while serving as a vital community partner.
What We Work For
As a vital community partner, CBMM strives to enhance where we live, work, and play. We work closely every day with our neighbors to help make a difference.
Each year, CBMM serves more than 6,000 Maryland students, teachers, and chaperones.
CBMM’s collection contains more than 80,000 objects dedicated to the history of the region.
CBMM employees are involved with more than 100 community organizations through public service or volunteering.
Our History
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum opened in 1965 on Navy Point, formerly a busy complex of docks, workboats, and packing houses on St. Michaels Harbor. Since then, CBMM has maintained an unwavering vision: to tell the stories of the Chesapeake Bay region and its people, environment, and history.
- CBMM was founded by interested citizens intent on preserving the Bay’s history and traditions.
- From humble origins in the 1960s, CBMM is now recognized as a world-class maritime museum and welcomes nearly 100,000 guests annually.
- The 18-acre campus includes historic structures, purpose-built exhibition galleries, and CBMM’s floating fleet of historic vessels.
What We’re Working On
Phase II of our Master Plan campus upgrade is in full swing with construction of a new Welcome Center, Museum Store, and exhibition space, scheduled to open in fall 2023.
Our Leadership
A diverse Board of Governors provides support for CBMM’s mission, vision, and objectives, while a Senior Leadership Team oversees day-to-day operations.
Hear From Our Community
“We have been involved as volunteers with the Boat Donation Program for years. We love messing about in boats. Cleaning them up and preparing them for a new home has been very rewarding. As retired teachers, we are proud to be a part of a program that supports the educational efforts of the museum.
Volunteering has given us the opportunity to work with many fine staff and other volunteers. These people are truly first rate and we’re lucky to have made their acquaintance. Seeing the looks on the perspective buyers faces and helping them to make informed decisions, is very gratifying. We also just love CBMM!”
Jeanne and Marty McLean, Volunteers
Get to Know Our Partners
CBMM has forged more than 140 partnerships with local businesses and community organizations. Some of our partners include Habitat for Humanity Choptank, Academy Art Museum, and YMCA of the Chesapeake.