Frequently Asked Questions
Are babies and infants allowed?
Yes, although the sail is recommended for 5 years old or older, we do allow passengers under the age of 5. Operating as a "head boat" we are limited to the amount of "heads" allowed on board. Every head that boards is considered a passenger and takes a seat so they are charged the same full ticket price as everyone else.
How many passengers can the Capt Kidd take?
Capt Kidd can take a maximum of 28 passengers. Because Capt Kidd conforms to the highest standards of construction and safety set by the Coast Guard (yearly inspections) she is one of only a handful of USCG inspected charter vessels sailing in the Clear Lake/Galveston Bay area. Look for the USCG COI sticker to know you’re on a safe boat and know that’s it’s legal for the boat to carry more than 6 passengers
What is the minimum number of passengers that the boat will sail with?
Our minimum is 4 paid seats. If only 2 people have made reservations, you have the option to pay for the 2 extra seats and we’ll set sail. Capt Kidd reserves the right to cancel any scheduled sail at any time if reservations haven’t been received for that time. It’s advisable to make reservations if you know when you want to sail.
How old is the Capt Kidd?
Capt Kidd was launched in 2000. She’s a 19th Century replica and was built specifically for the charter business.
Why do I have to pay cash when I get to the boat?
We’re able to offer you the lowest price possible by doing away with credit card machines and credit card expenses.
Do I have to bring a life jacket?
No. Adults are not required to wear life jackets. There are adult life jackets on board along with children’s jackets. It’s Texas law that children 12 and under are required to wear life jackets. If your child has a life jacket they are welcome to bring it. Otherwise they can wear one of ours.
Is there dinner or lunch served on board?
We don’t provide any food or drinks. You are encouraged to bring your own with the exception of red wine or red drinks (staining qualities). Adult beverages in either bottles or cans are permitted. We provide a big community cooler with ice so we ask you leave your cooler at home so we have room.
Where can I park?
There’s free parking along Texas Ave. that runs between the Kemah Food Mart and the marina on the west side of the marina. The parking lots are owned by Landry’s. If they’re open, there’s a fee charged.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
If it’s bad weather, your captain will determine if it’s safe to go or not. He is the only one that can cancel the sail. If it’s canceled you won’t pay any money at the boat and your credit card won’t be charged. At that point we’ll just start all over again and you can call when you decide you’d like to go.
Will I get seasick?
We’ll be sailing in Galveston Bay which is considered semi protected waters. The Bay doesn’t have the same motion as offshore where most seasickness occurs. If you have any doubts though, take some preventive seasick medicine several hours before arriving for your trip. Give it some time to get into your system so it can work. Very seldom does anyone get sea sick in the Bay.
How far will we go?
We usually average 4 to 5 miles in an hour. After an hour, we’ll turn around and head back to the dock.
