Sam Houston Boat Tour

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

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.

Make a Reservation

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.

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.