Maritime
Anne Arundel County’s maritime industry is deeply rooted in the region’s history, economy, and identity. With more than 500 miles of shoreline along the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, the county supports a thriving waterfront economy that includes boating, marine services, seafood industries, and maritime education.
Combined with proximity to the Port of Baltimore and BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, Anne Arundel County’s maritime sector connects local businesses to regional and global markets while supporting vibrant waterfront communities.
Why Choose Anne Arundel County for Maritime
Anne Arundel County offers a unique environment for maritime businesses, combining extensive waterfront access with a strong network of marine services and recreation.
Key advantages include:
- 500+ miles of shoreline supporting marinas, marine businesses, and waterfront development
- Over 200 marinas and more than 10,000 boat slips, making the county one of the region’s largest boating hubs
- Access to global markets through the Port of Baltimore and nearby international airports
- A long-standing maritime workforce skilled in boatbuilding, repair, marine construction, and waterfront operations
AAEDC works directly with maritime businesses to help them succeed in Anne Arundel County. The team can assist with site selection, financing programs, workforce training resources, and connections to local partners, helping businesses navigate opportunities and regulations within the maritime industry. Ideally situated between Baltimore, D.C., and the Chesapeake Bay, Anne Arundel County combines a prime location, world-class infrastructure, highly skilled workforce, and thriving industries with an exceptional quality of life to create a powerful environment for business growth and innovation.
Photo Credit: VAAAC
Maritime Industry Ecosystem
Anne Arundel County’s maritime sector includes a diverse network of businesses and organizations that support the region’s waterfront economy.
Key segments include:
- Recreational boating and marine tourism, including marinas, charter operations, boat dealers, and sailing organizations
- Marine services and manufacturing, including boatbuilding, repair, maintenance, and marine construction
- Commercial seafood industries, including fishing, crabbing, oystering, and seafood processing
- Maritime education and environmental organizations focused on stewardship of the Chesapeake Bay
Together, these industries help sustain the county’s waterfront communities while supporting economic growth and quality of life.
Maritime Business Resources
AAEDC provides a range of resources designed to support maritime businesses at every stage of growth.
Support includes:
- Financing programs to support investment and expansion
- Regulatory guidance and advocacy related to permits, inspections, zoning, and environmental requirements
- Market research and industry data to support business planning and expansion
- Site selection assistance for marinas, boatyards, marine service facilities, and waterfront commercial space
Photo Credit: VAAAC
Maritime Industry Leadership
Anne Arundel County’s Maritime Industry Advisory Board promotes and supports the local maritime sector while advising county leadership on policies and initiatives that affect maritime businesses.
The board includes representatives from marinas, marine services companies, yacht clubs, environmental organizations, and education institutions. Through this collaboration, the board helps strengthen the county’s maritime economy and ensure that the needs of maritime businesses are represented. Not sure where to start? Our team of experts can help identify the programs and incentives that make the most sense for your business.
