Houston Sailing and Catalina 27

ricardoasilva · #1 (**permalink**) 08-18-2006

Hi
I currently live in Portugal, but will be relocated to Houston in October. My relocation will, in principle, last for two years. Besides the fact of having (not that I really want to) to sell my current boat, I'm trying to research sailing options in the Houston area... I've come to the conclusion that Galvestone Bay is a nice place to sail. I've also nailed down the Catalina 27 as a nice small boat at an affordable price (for someone who will probably have to sell her after two years).
I would appreciate any feedback members could provide me on:

1) Sailing Galvestone Bay;
2) Catalina 27s;
3) Sailing clubs in the Houston/Galvestone area. This is something that does not exist where I come from, but which may be an interesting alternative to keep sailing while I'm away from home...

Thanks in advance

PBzeer · #2 (**permalink**) 08-18-2006

Galveston Bay is an interesting, to me, sailing venue. Lots of oil and gas platforms through, The Houston Ship Canal, and many "spoils" areas. You definitely need a chart. There are many marinas here, on Clear Lake, which goes into the Bay. Slip rates seem reasonable, and facilities are good for the most part. Plus, there is no shortage of boats available in the area. If you plan on using a broker, I highy recommend Ed Snyder at Higgins,Smythe,and Hood.

I'm not really familar with the Yacht Clubs in the area, but I do know that Sailtime Fractional Ownership has an office here (which might be a good way to go for a short term boat). A lot depends on how you want to use the boat. Daysailing? Liveaboard? Occasional trips? There are at least a dozen boats for sale at the marina I'm using while doing my refit, that have been for sale for quite a few months, so I'm not sure how easy it would be to sell when it's time for you to leave.

Though July and August can be very hot and humid, all in all, it's not a bad place to be for sailing year round. I've yet to go out and not have wind for any length of time, particularly after 1:00 PM when the seabreeze kicks in.

Good luck on your move,

ricardoasilva · #3 (**permalink**) 08-18-2006

Thanks for the feedback John. The boat will mostly be used for daysailing and weekends. I'm used to year-round sailing, so it seems to be the right spot. Will need to have a good look around once I land in Houston.

PBzeer · #4 (**permalink**) 08-18-2006

Don't know what your housing situation will be, but SouthEast side of Houston puts you closest to the marinas.

ricardoasilva · #5 (**permalink**) 08-18-2006

Luckily, Housing is still open... it's another one of those issues I need to decide on when I fly in. I have considered being near the Bay, but (comming from Europe) I'm slightly "afraid" of the traffic since I'll be working downtown.

PBzeer · #6 (**permalink**) 08-18-2006

Lots of multi-lane highway into downtown from the Bay. Mostly depends on if you want to be near the water, or near your work.

TejasSailer · #7 (**permalink**) 08-18-2006

Although we didn't buy a used boat, we were quite pleased with Dave Jackson at Higgins,Smythe,and Hood.

ricardoasilva · #8 (**permalink**) 08-19-2006

OK. will look into them also.

pigslo · #9 (**permalink**) 08-19-2006

Talk to Glen at Sacketts about joining his charter club.I was a member for many years. Charter is an inexpensive opyion for a short stay. As I am a realtor in Houston, I consider 2 years a short stay in both boats and houses. good luck.