No Boaty McBoatface: What Should Annapolis Name the City Boat?

From the City of Annapolis: Annapolis residents are being asked to help name the city’s boat, which will be used for educational and recreational purposes. The name should be a proper, seaworthy name, no "Boaty McBoatface" suggestions please, say city officials. (That's the goofy internet name that came out tops in a popularity when the National Environment Research Council asked the public to vote for a name for its newest polar research vessel last year.)

After meeting John Harris, the owner of Chesapeake Light Craft, Mayor Michael Pantelides was enthusiastic about building a boat that could help him tell the story of Annapolis’ maritime history. Back in September of 2016, Pantelides built a Northeaster Dory, an enduring vessel with its popularity going back 150 years.

“I had a blast building the boat by hand as a number of individuals and groups joined in to help, including Boy and Eagle Scout Troop 771, local business owners, nonprofit organizations, and those working in the Maritime Industry,” Mayor Pantelides said in a news release. “From the first timber, John Harris and I agreed this boat was the city’s boat and should be used for future enjoyment and education. However, everyone knows that a sea-worthy vessel needs a name.”

Legend has it that naming a boat has been a necessary practice of voyagers for more than a thousand years. Early on, boats were named after gods, goddesses or saints hoping that good fortune would accompany them. Since then, names have evolved to include cities, companies, numerous acronyms, and children’s names.

So now it’s up to you, to be a part of Annapolis’ long maritime and marine tradition and help name the boat. Come up with a name that represents the city, the Maritime and Marine trade, and the impact the industry has had on Annapolis over the years. Send your choice of a suitable name to cityboat@annapolis.gov by August 29th.

Anyone who submits a suitable name will be eligible for a drawing to go on a boat ride with Mayor Panelides and the person who submits the winning name for the boat will be included in the promotional materials and part of the dedication ceremony.

Photos courtesy of the City of Annapolis