Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures — Local services in Rockport

Embarking on the Whooping Crane & Coastal Birding Tour with Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures was an unforgettable experience that I wholeheartedly recommend to nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. Departing from Fulton, Texas, this three-hour eco-tour aboard the Skimmer offers an intimate glimpse into the diverse birdlife of the Texas Coastal Bend.

Captain Tommy's extensive knowledge of local bird species and their habitats enriched the journey immensely. His ability to identify and provide insights into the behaviors of the various birds we encountered showcased his deep expertise and passion for avian life. Throughout the tour, we were fortunate to observe a remarkable array of bird species, with sightings typically ranging from 30 to 60 different species, including the majestic whooping cranes.

The Skimmer is thoughtfully designed for wildlife observation. The clean cabin features large windows that open from the seats, allowing for unobstructed viewing and photography. Additionally, the boat boasts observation decks on both the front and top, providing versatile vantage points for spotting birds and other wildlife. The provision of coffee and granola bars during the tour was a considerate touch, enhancing the overall comfort of the experience.

For those seeking to explore the back waterways of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures offers an exceptional opportunity. Their commitment to providing an educational and enjoyable tour is evident in every aspect of the journey. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious traveler, this tour promises a memorable adventure amidst the natural beauty of the Texas coast.

Thomas Corrao Stray...

We went on the Whooping Crane tour on February 1st. It is an excellent tour and worth the cost. Captain Tommy and his mate provided a wonderful experience.

First, the boat is tailored made for the tours. It has a comfortable cabin with padded benches for those who want to remain inside. There is plenty of space on the foredeck and the cabin top for those who want to be outside. Boarding and exiting the boat is easy. There is a ramp that attaches to the bow. There is a small step down from the ramp to the deck. There are 3 or 4 steps down from the foredeck to the cabin. My wife has some mobility issues. She did not have any issues moving about the boat.

The tour itself was very good. It takes a while to get to the Aransas Wildlife Refuge but you see birds along the way. Once in the refuge, we saw quite a few whooping cranes at a distance. On the way back, we saw some within 100 feet of the channel. Twice Tommy was able to but the boat up against the bank to allow us a much closer view of the cranes. Theses extended stops made the tour run about an hour longer. But as no one was in a rush to be somewhere, it was not an issue.

Kyle (?), the mate, looked after the customers very well. He distributed binoculars to those that needed them (Nikon Monarchs) and provided snacks and water. He also helped point out different species of birds on the tour.

On the whole, it was a great time and well worth the cost. We will be going back later this spring for the rookery tour. I can see where this will be an annual...

We toured on New Year's Day 2021 and although chilly in the low 50s it was sunny and nice. The boat is equipped with warm blankets, hot coffee and water. We stayed on the top deck and stood the entire tour, but you could go to the inside cabin downstairs and warm up if needed. We chose to social distance and most everyone wore a mask, even outside. If you go in the winter count on it feeling 20° colder on the boat with the wind chill so dress appropriately. I had long underwear and many layers and I was comfortable all day. We saw lots of good stuff including an up close and personal encounter with the cranes. We also saw both white and brown pelicans, created Cara Cara, loons, oyster catchers as well as multiple other shore birds, numerous osprey, a wild hog, and several dolphins swimming with our boat. All great photo ops. Captain Tommy was informative, but not overbearing and his first mate was very helpful. I...