Houston Ship Channel Boat Tour Day Trip - May 21, 2010

by Lucy Salas



Attendees were ready for the exciting boat ride.

Our trip started from Bayland Park at 8:40 am. We wanted to make sure to get to the boat in time since it was leaving at 10:00 am. They had advised us to get there at least 30 minutes early because we had to pass through the checkpoint and show our picture ID's. Also, large bags such as backpacks and oversized purses are not allowed on board.



Our tour boat awaits.

We were ready for an unforgettably spectacular waterborne tour of one of the busiest ports in the world aboard the Port of Houston Authority's free public tour boat.

Security regulations also prohibit the carrying of any camera equipment aboard the boat and the taking of photographs from aboard is strictly prohibited.



A bunch of hungry folks descend on the Monument Inn for a great meal.

Named for the legendary military commander who led the fight for Texas independence from Mexico and later statehood, the 90-minute round-trip cruise aboard the Sam Houston along the Houston Ship Channel was narrated by the able Captain. Complementary coffee and soft drinks were made available during the cruise. We enjoyed passing views of international cargo vessels, and operations at the port's Turning Basin Terminal. Measuring 95 feet in length and 24 feet in width, the boat has a maximum capacity of 90 passengers with air-conditioned lounge seating and additional standing room on the boat's decks.





After the trip we left to eat at The Monument Inn, located further down the Ship Channel. The food was awesome and enjoyed by EVERYBODY. Pictures were taken and the view of large ships passing by on the Ship Channel was enjoyed by all.

Coming back to Bayland Park the bus driver, Larry Gurka, kept us laughing and made us go down memory lane by asking us questions about Texas history and culture.

The winners of prizes in the bus drawing were Ralph Garcia, Dolores Baugh, Kay Cook, Gladys Price and Dorothy Wade





Attendees were: Lucy Salas, Vivian Watkins, Virginia & Israel Villareal, Eva Rose, Pearl Singleton, Delores Ellis Baugh, Gladys Price, Jewel Welch, Daren Welch, Dorothy & James Wade, Howard & Mary Lee Cameron, Lawson & Kay Cook, Marian & Bob Grubar, Ralph & Estella Garcia, Patsy Seay, Ruth Heath, Pat & Annette Hawkins, Jeanne Brandt, Ted Brandt, Rose Cerda, Linda Hanes, Israel & Nora Morales, Virginia Vargas, Mary Gomez, Gloria & KJ Byers, Charles & Sylvia Slanina, Marie Kucera, and Bill & Mary Young.

Join us soon on another exciting Day Trip.