Texas City to Kemah by boat

Pilotage Plan for Journey from Texas City, Texas to Kemah, Texas

Starting Point: Texas City, Texas (Lat/Long: 29.5162° N, 94.8938° W) Ending Point: Kemah, Texas (Lat/Long: 29.5523° N, 95.0517° W)

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Overview

This trip along the Gulf Coast is a delightful blend of coastal scenery, local lore, and safe havens along the way. It's suitable for recreational boaters, families, and small groups looking for a leisurely outing on the water without venturing into highly challenging waters. With minimal hazards and ample navigation aids, this route is ideal for intermediate boaters who may be less experienced with offshore conditions but still seek the thrill of coastal navigation.

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Route Sections

Departure from Texas City

As you depart Texas City, prepare to navigate the Texas City Channel. Pay close attention to the navigation buoys as you traverse this busy waterway. The channel can be congested with commercial shipping vessels, so keeping a lookout for larger traffic is crucial. Know that the channel is well-marked, providing clear guidance as you proceed.

Notable Nearby Points:

• Texas City Dike: A classic spot for swimming and fishing; consider a brief stop if weather permits.
• Texas City Museum: A quick detour if you wish to explore local history.

Transition into Galveston Bay

Once you exit the Texas City Channel, your next destination is the entrance into Galveston Bay. The bay spans a vast region with good shelter options should weather conditions deteriorate. Especially during stormy weather, head toward Pier 21 in Galveston for refuge.

Important Navigation Aids: Look for the Galveston Entrance Light and the numerous buoys marking the safer passing channels. These will assist you in avoiding shallow areas.

Bays for Shelter:

• Offatts Bayou: Located just south of Galveston Island, this calm inlet offers excellent shelter and is popular with local boaters.
• Trinity Bay: Should the weather turn particularly foul, looping around to the northern section of Galveston Bay can lead you to calmer waters.

Navigating Toward Kemah

As you chart your course towards Kemah, stay vigilant about transient weather changes and the possibility of sudden winds. This stretch usually features beautiful vistas and local wildlife.

Key Points:

• Keep an eye out for recreational fishermen—a common sight here. Maintain a safe distance while respecting their fishing zones.
• Notable Landmarks: The famous Kemah Boardwalk, nearly in sight as you approach, is a landmark for local shops and dining restaurants.

Regulations & Local Considerations: Adhere to local speed limits, especially in marked zones around the Kemah area. You may also encounter no-wake zones that are marked clearly to protect local habitats.

Arrival in Kemah

Upon arriving at Kemah, be prepared for a bustling waterfront resort atmosphere. The marina is well-equipped with facilities should you need to refuel or rest. Kemah itself is known for restaurants, shopping, and entertainment—worth an exploration once your boat is docked.

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Safety and Navigation Tools

• Savvy Navvy: A fantastic app to assist with navigation, showing you real-time updates about your route, weather conditions, and hazards.
• Navionics: Great for chart plotting and understanding the intricate details of shallow areas and depths along your course.
• Weather Alerts App: Essential for staying informed about any sudden changes in conditions that could affect your journey.

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In conclusion, this pilotage plan offers not just a safe pathway from Texas City to Kemah, but also a trip filled with opportunities for shelter and enjoyment. Maintain awareness of your surroundings, navigate carefully, and embrace the beautiful scenery along the way. Enjoy your explorative journey on the water!