Corpus Christi, the Sparkling City by the Sea, is a boating lover’s dream destination. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or have never been on a boat, Corpus Christi Bay and the Gulf of Mexico have something for everyone. Good boat ramps are important, as these are the access points between the land and the water. Here are some of the best boat ramps in Corpus Christi, TX.
Importance of Good Boat Ramps
Boat ramps in Corpus Christi, TX, and everywhere else are essential for several reasons besides allowing you to launch and retrieve your boat. Let’s look at a few reasons why boat ramps are important.
Safety
Boat ramps are designed to ensure the safety of people and boats. The gradual slope of boat ramps allows the boat trailer to stay submerged until the boat can launch successfully without damage. Many boat ramps also consider people’s safety, with non-slip surfaces and proper lighting.
Emergency Response
Boat ramps allow emergency response teams to enter and exit the water quickly, allowing quicker response times to save more lives.
Environmental Protection
Boat ramps minimize erosion and protect water quality by incorporating sediment traps and filtration systems if appropriately designed.
Social and Recreational Benefits
Boat ramps contribute to people’s overall well-being and enjoyment by providing a place for families to gather for fun activities and relaxation.
1. Boat Stop Marina
Boat Stop Marina is a private marina in the heart of Corpus Christi on Laguna Shores Road.
Features and Amenities
Boat Stop Marina has many features and amenities, making it one of the best Corpus Christi boat ramps. Some of these features include
- Ultra-wide 45-foot dual launch boat ramp
- On-site boating security 24-hour 4K surveillance
- Easy access to the intercoastal waterway
- Private marina bathrooms and showers
- Family picnic area
They also provide free parking for vehicles and boat trailers and a commercial-grade fish cleaning station for the large fish you haul in.
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
There are at least four bait and tackle shops close to Boat Stop Marina for all your needs, including Roy’s Bait and Tackle, Bait Bucket, Fisherman’s Place, and COS-WAY Fishing Pier Bait and Tackle.
After a long day fishing, the last thing you want to do is cook. That’s where Scuttlebutt’s in Corpus Christi comes in. This restaurant allows you to bring in your cleaned and ready-to-cook catch, and they will cook it for you to eat at their restaurant.
2. Corpus Christi Marina
Corpus Christi Marina is the only major marina in downtown Corpus Christi. Here, you are within walking distance of many restaurants and venues for nightlife fun and entertainment.
Feature and Amenities
Some of the key features and amenities provided by Corpus Christ Marina include a free sanitation pump-out station, private showers and restrooms, laundry facilities, public boat ramps, and more. Corpus Christi Marina also provides wet slips and dry storage facilities for people who need them.
3. Marker 37 Marina LLC
If you want to combine fishing, boating, food, fun events, and live music, Marker 37 Marina in Corpus Christi offers everything you need in one location. Marker 37 offers three private boat ramps, which may require a fee to use. However, you will be protected from the wind and currents. This will help with the easy launch and retrieval of your boat.
Features and Amenities
Marker 37 Marina offers the following features and amenities: chartered fishing trips, professional fish cleaning, live and frozen bait, dock-side high-speed fueling, and more.
4. Packery Channel Boat Ramps
The Packery Channel boat ramps host a four-lane, well-maintained boat ramp with a large paved parking lot. This boat ramp is the closest to the Gulf of Mexico. It is also like a central hub for access to the Upper Laguna Madre and the Intercoast Canal at the opening of Corpus Christi Bay. It is also close to the Texas Sealife Center.
Features and Amenities
The Packery Channel boat ramp features and amenities include family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, piers and docks, picnic area, and more.
Safety Measures at Boat Ramps
It is essential to follow all safety measures at boat ramps at all times. Here are some important safety measures that should be a top priority.
- Clear signage and markings: These signs and markings provide important information, such as speed limits, parking regulations, and safety instructions.
- Designated waiting areas: Pay attention and use waiting areas to get your boat ready for launch when it is your turn and safe.
- Safe access: Safety when entering and exiting your boat is critical. Safety features include non-slip surfaces, stable gangways, stairs, and handrails.
- Clear communication: Cell phones or marine radios are essential for a safe boat launch and retrieval.
Other safety measures at boat ramps include proper lighting, on-site facilities, and boat preparation areas.
Tips for Using Corpus Christi Boat Ramps
Launching a boat can be nerve-racking even for seasoned boaters. There are many tips and tricks for using boat ramps, and we will cover a few of them here.
- Bring a friend so they can hold the boat rope while you park the car.
- Ensure the boat and equipment are ready before launching to avoid backups.
- Ensure you apply the parking brake on your vehicle while launching the boat.
- Watch for children and make sure everyone is at a safe distance before launching or retrieving the boat.
- Do not launch in the middle of a two or more-lane boat ramp. Ensure there is room next to you for another person to launch or retrieve their boat.
You want to ensure you are always polite and considerate to those around you when using boat ramps.
Boat Stop Marina is One of the Best Boat Ramps in Corpus Christi, TX
There are many boat ramp options in Corpus Christi. Using boat ramps in Corpus Christi, TX, can bring a day of fun and relaxation for you and your family. The excitement of fishing and boating is magical, and the memories made last a lifetime.
Boat Stop Marina offers many features and amenities to keep your boat and family safe and secure. Contact us for more information on using our boat ramps. We have your back.