SS Selma Concreate Shipwreck | Historical WWI Landmark

Explore the Historic SS Selma Shipwreck in Galveston by Sea Kayak

For those interested in Texas history and unique coastal sights, the SS Selma Concreate Shipwreck tour offers an engaging adventure. Priced at $266 per person and lasting around 4 hours, this experience takes place just one mile north of Galveston Island along the Galveston Ship Channel. The tour is led by local expert guides from OAK GeoSciences, LLC, ensuring a safe and informative journey.

This kayaking expedition is suitable for beginners and families, thanks to its small group size and excellent equipment. While the tour provides an opportunity to get close to a WWI-era shipwreck made of concrete reinforced with steel rebar, it’s important to note that Children under 8 years, pregnant women, and people over 250 lbs are advised against participating. The experience emphasizes both history and wildlife, with chances to see surfacing dolphins and flying pelicans during the trip.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $266 and lasts about 4 hours.
• Historic Landmark: You visit the SS Selma, the only prominent shipwreck along the Houston Ship Channel.
• Kayaking Focus: Use specialized sea kayaks designed for challenging sea conditions—ideal for those wanting a more dynamic paddling experience.
• Wildlife and Scenery: Expect dolphin sightings, pelicans, and other coastal wildlife during the trip.
• Family-Friendly: The tour is small group, beginners friendly, with local guides sharing Texas history.
• What’s Included: High-quality kayaking equipment, safety gear, VHF radio, and a first aid kit.

Starting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from the Galveston area, with the group generally kept small for a more personalized experience. You’ll paddle from a designated meeting point, equipped with premium touring kayaks, lightweight paddles, and adjustable lifejackets. The tour’s intimate group size encourages interaction with guides and ensures safety in the sea conditions.

Navigating the SS Selma Shipwreck Close Up

The main highlight of this kayaking adventure is visiting the SS Selma, a WWI-era experimental ship built from concrete reinforced with steel rebar. Resting about 100 years offshore, it’s the only permanent shipwreck along the Houston Ship Channel. The guides explain the history of the ship’s construction and its experimental design, giving you a wealth of knowledge about early 20th-century maritime innovation.

The shipwreck’s location makes it accessible for paddlers capable of handling narrow, fast-moving sea conditions. The experience fosters an appreciation of Texas maritime history and the technological experiments of WWI-era shipbuilding.

Wildlife Encounters and Coastal Views

Besides the shipwreck, the tour offers a chance to observe coastal wildlife in their natural habitat. Surfacing dolphins are a common sight, along with flying pelicans, making the paddle both educational and lively. The coastal environment provides a beautiful backdrop for photography and wildlife spotting, adding extra enjoyment to the kayaking experience.

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Equipment and Safety Measures

Participants benefit from exceptional kayaking gear, including sea touring kayaks, lightweight paddles, and adjustable lifejackets. Access to group equipment like VHF marine radios, a first aid kit, and tow belts enhances safety and communication amid sea conditions.

The dry bag provided allows you to keep small personal items dry, and the equipment is designed to perform well in challenging conditions. The small group size and experienced guides ensure personalized attention and safety throughout the trip.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour typically departs in the morning, with rain or shine being the general rule—except in windy conditions, when the trip may be postponed for safety. Visitors are advised to bring a towel and closed-toe shoes. Participants should avoid wearing jeans, sandals, flip-flops, or oversize luggage.

Seawolf Park charges a $6 per vehicle fee, which is separate from the tour price. The reservation process allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, offering flexibility for changing plans. You can reserve now and pay later, providing added convenience.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The activity is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or people with mobility impairments. The sea kayak paddling requires a reasonable level of physical fitness, especially in sea conditions, making it more appropriate for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

The Guides and Their Expertise

The local guides from OAK GeoSciences bring expertise in both marine environments and Texas history. They are known for their knowledgeable explanations about the shipwreck’s history and safety procedures. Their friendly and professional manner helps make the experience accessible and educational.

Unique Aspects of the SS Selma Tour

What distinguishes this tour is visiting the only permanent shipwreck along the Houston Ship Channel, offering a rare glimpse into WWI maritime experimentation. The sea kayaking element allows for up-close viewing of the shipwreck, blending history, wildlife, and active outdoor fun in a way that few other tours provide.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience, with local guides sharing insights that bring the shipwreck’s story to life. The ability to see dolphins surfacing adds a joyful element that complements the historic focus.

Final Thoughts on the SS Selma Kayaking Tour

This 4-hour sea kayaking trip offers a unique combination of history and wildlife along the Texas coast. It’s a great choice for adventurous beginners, families, or those with a keen interest in maritime history. The high-quality equipment, expert guidance, and wildlife sightings make it a rewarding outing.

However, the sea conditions and physical requirements mean it’s best suited for those comfortable in active outdoor environments. The $6 parking fee at Seawolf Park and the necessity to bring appropriate gear are small considerations for a well-rounded experience.

The SS Selma Concreate Shipwreck tour stands out as an educational and engaging adventure that captures Texas maritime history in a beautiful coastal setting. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore offshore history while enjoying the natural surroundings of Galveston Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 years are not recommended due to physical and safety considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and closed-toe shoes. Avoid jeans, sandals, flip-flops, or oversize luggage.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, usually in the morning.

What equipment is included?
Participants receive premium sea touring kayaks, lightweight paddles, adjustable lifejackets, and a small **dry bag.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are dolphins likely to surface during the trip?
Yes, surfacing dolphins are a common sight, along with other coastal wildlife.

Is the tour offered in multiple languages?
Yes, the guides speak English and Romanian.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Visiting the historic SS Selma shipwreck and learning about early 20th-century maritime experimentation.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, Seawolf Park charges a $6 per vehicle day-use fee that is separate from the tour price.

How physically demanding is this activity?
It requires moderate physical activity, suitable for those comfortable paddling in sea conditions but not for those with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby