Rockport’s Texas Maritime Museum explores the influence of the ocean on South Texas, from coastal exploration by the French and Spanish to the construction of ships to the search for fuel resources in its depths.
You can climb aboard a life-size ship bridge and explore vintage rescue pods and fishing gear. You also can take a guided tour or take part in a number of educational programs offered by staff.
One of the museum's permanent exhibits and focal points is a scale model of the first French ship to explore the Texas coast in 1684: Robert La Salle’s flagship, La Belle. The importance of this historic flagship lay undiscovered for nearly 300 years until the Texas Historical Commission discovered the shipwrecked La Belle and excavated it from Matagorda Bay. From the excavation, the commission recovered numerous artifacts as well as a deeper understanding of the beginning of Texas maritime history.
When you go, you'll need to know
Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and active military, $3 for children ages 6-12 and free for any kiddos under 6. The Texas Maritime Museum is always closed on Mondays and major holidays.
Rockport is a 30-minute drive north of Corpus Christi on U.S. 181. The museum is located across the street from the Rockport Harbor. For more, visit the museum website. Put the annual Rockport Festival of Wine and Food on your calendar. The festival happens each may at the museum, featuring more than 100 varieties of wine from around the world.
The Texas Maritime Museum is located at 1202 Navigation Circle, Rockport, Texas 78382. Call 361-729-1271 formore information.
Dig the oil drilling exhibits at the Texas Maritime Museum
The Texas Maritime Museum in Rockport is located across the street from the Rockport Harbor.