Most yachting facilities are centered around Clear Lake in the Kemah/Seabrook area. Keep to the ship channel whenever possible. There are some obstructions in the area, including fishing floats, oil rigs, pipeline maintenance structures, and other uncharted obstructions. These may be lit or unlit. It is not advised to approach or make passages in this area at night outside the shipping channel.

There is no dedicated channel between the main shipping channel, but there is an approach channel into the Clear Lake area. There are dedicated “boater cuts” extending perpendicular from the ship channel. It is strongly advised to use these cuts rather than sailing straight to your destination.

Access to many of the Clear Lake marinas is behind a bridge. The bridge is fixed at 73ft.

Due to the heightened amount of ship traffic, there is a Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) system in place in the Houston/Galveston area. Private yachts with an LOA more than 40m/131ft are required to participate. Private yachts more than 20m/66ft are required to monitor the VTS working channel as well as VHF Channel 16. Private yachts less than 20m/66ft are not required to participate with the VTS requirements; however, while navigating in the Houston/Galveston area you are required by law to comply with all VTS instructions given on VHF Channel 16, as well as all other practices of safe navigation and seamanship. Please consult this USCG guide – VTS Houston/Galveston for more information.

Anchorages

There are numerous anchorages around the Houston/Galveston Bay area. The ICW runs within the Bolivar Peninsula as is often too narrow to safely anchor. (Do not anchor in any channel.) Most of this area features thick mud with good holding.

Take caution when anchoring in certain areas near developments. It is common to use the bay as a dumping ground and the seabed is sometimes spoiled.

Near the Galveston Bay Inlet, try to the east immediately after passing the jetty. These areas outside the Houston Ship Channel are good for quick exits and early departures into the Gulf of Mexico.

In the middle of the bay, there is a man-made island. It is possible to anchor in this area, but wakes from ship traffic is regular.

There are many anchorages around Clear Lake near the marinas, but due to the marinas, there is a lot of recreational traffic. It is possible to dock against the Kemah boardwalk for free for access to the downtown amenities. You may be able to stay overnight; however, long stays of multiple days and nights are not allowed.

Last updated:  May 2019

Read Related Comments

If you have information for this section, or feedback on businesses used, please let us know at [email protected]. We also welcome new information about businesses you have used (see Related Businesses).

---

Offline Access (Downloads)

Select your download option below

This feature is only available to Premium members. You need to Login or Register to access port and formalities downloads.

---

Special Offers for Noonsite Members

This feature is only available to Basic and Premium members. You need to Login or Register to access special offers.