Sam Houston Boat Tour
Explore the
Houston
Ship Channel
The M/V Sam Houston has been operating as Port Houston’s public tour vessel since its inaugural voyage on July 30, 1958. This free service offers a leisurely, 90-minute round-trip, educational tour along the Houston Ship Channel. Individuals and groups are invited aboard to learn more about the port and maritime industry.
Tour Experience
Embarking from Port Houston’s Sam Houston Landing, visiting sightseers aboard the M/V Sam Houston can enjoy passing views of international cargo vessels and operations at the port’s Turning Basin Terminal. The 95-ft. vessel holds up to 100 passengers and features air-conditioned lounge seating, as well as standing room outside on the boat’s deck.
Reservations
For September 2024, the M/V Sam will be closed due to its regularly scheduled maintenance. Tours will resume in October and scheduling for October will be available September 4th.
Reservations are required to board the Sam Houston Boat Tour. Reservations can be made online and will be available only at the first of each month for a 30-day period.
If you have any questions or would like to inquire about a tour date, please contact the Sam Houston team at 713-670-2631.
Scheduled tours may be canceled without advance notice. Before traveling to Port Houston, please check this web site for information on the status of your tour.
Directions
Please be advised that there is currently roadway construction on Clinton Drive near Gate 8, and guests should exercise additional caution in the area.
Tour Address: 7300 Clinton Drive, Houston, TX 77020
Take Exit 28, Clinton Drive, from the I-610 East Loop. Head west on Clinton Dr., past McCarty, to Gate 8 on the left. A security guard and signs will direct you to the Sam Houston Landing.
For Your Enjoyment, Safety, & Security
Port Houston Access
Passengers age 18 and older must present a valid, government-issued photo identification before entering Port Houston property. Because the Sam Houston tour is located inside an active port facility, guests must enter the terminal and drive to the tour area in a car, van, or bus.
Arrival
Passengers are advised to arrive at least 15 to 30 minutes before their tour launches to ensure adequate time for check-in.
Parking
Parking at the Sam Houston Landing is free. Ample spaces are available for personal vehicles as well as charter vans and buses.
Check-In
All passengers must have a reservation in advance and check in with staff prior to boarding.
Weather Conditions
Tours operate under most weather conditions. In the rare event that weather impacts the tour, a Sam Houston representative will contact you with additional information.
Children
As part of our commitment to safety, all children under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. A maximum passenger ratio of one (1) adult for every four (4) children under age 12 is mandatory.
Handicapped Accessibility
The vessel is handicapped accessible, but please be advised that certain conditions may require an alternative configuration of the vessel, limiting handicapped accessibility.
Food & Beverages
Passengers may not bring food or beverages onto the dock area or aboard the vessel. One free beverage per passenger is offered on the vessel during the tour. Due to extreme heat in the summer, we advise that you bring your own water or water bottles while you wait to board the vessel at the landing area.
Attire
Masks are optional for all passengers while aboard the Sam Houston Boat Tour. Casual attire and flat, comfortable footwear are recommended.
Carry-On Bags
Backpacks, oversized purses and other large bags are prohibited aboard the vessel. Passengers’ personal belongings may be subject to searches in accordance with federal regulations.
Photography
Cameras are allowed on the tour; however, Port Houston must provide consent for any photographs to be published.
Cost
The tour is free. Reservations are on a first-come, first-serve basis, and they are required at least 24 hours in advance.
Restroom Facilities
Restroom facilities are available at the Sam Houston landing area. Restrooms are also available below decks aboard the vessel.
Environmental Commitment
The M/V Sam Houston vessel operates on low-emission fuel engines and generators. These environmental upgrades were made possible through grants from the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan and American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding through EPA’s National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program.
Enjoy Your Tour!
We hope you enjoy your tour aboard the M/V Sam Houston. Our crew members are available throughout the trip to provide additional information and answer any questions you may have.
Please Note: Port Houston reserves the right to refuse passage to board the vessel, to any person, for any reason at any time.