Blessing of the Fleet Ceremony

The Blessing of the Fleet ceremony is an age-old tradition typically held in the Spring when watermen are preparing for the opening of a new season. Local watermen bring their boats to the harbor, and local clergy will gather together with the watermen’s community to pray for a blessing of safety and prosperity for the upcoming crab, clam and fishing seasons. They will also pray a blessing of safety for all those who pass through the waters of the Bay Hundred region during the recreational boating season. The blowing of the Shofar has become a tradition at the ceremony and the Bay Hundred Men will join us in song.
We are extending a special invitation to all who are associated with the harvesting and processing of seafood – the Chesapeake’s most valuable resource. This event is free and open to the public.
Join us at Dogwood Harbor, Tilghman, MD on April 12, 2026 at 3:00pm to meet those who work hard to bring you the best seafood the Chesapeake Bay has to offer. Now in its tenth year, the Blessing of the Fleet is a community outreach sponsored by St. John’s Chapel. However, it is a community event that would not be possible without the co-operation of our local Tilghman Fire Department, Ladies Auxiliary, Tilghman Watermen’s Museum, Talbot Watermen’s Association and local businesses who join us in this annual event.
For information email: stjohnschapeltilghman@gmail.com