Brazos Belle River Tours and Charter
Captain Mike Leebron
Sometime in the Fall of 2009, the Brazos Belle will be making her debut on the waters of the historical Brazos River from her homeport in East Columbia, Texas. She will be the first paddelwheeled vessel to operate on the river since Captain Travis Smith operated his famous vessel, Hiawatha, under the flag of the Columbia Transportation Company, in the late 1880's.
A Little History
Over 100 years ago, Kate Underwood, the older sister of Laura Underwood, who was said to be the most beautiful girl in Brazoria County, wrote the following:
"About 1845, the first steamboats entered the Brazos. From that time until quite recently, there was good steamboat service on the river with accommodations for both passengers and freight. At present, that is not the case and there is good opening for an enterprise of this character."
(Velasco Courier, 1909.)
The Brazos Belle
The Brazos Belle will offer various historical tours of the river when weather and currents are favorable. She will also be available for charter for social events of all types.
The Brazos Belle is currently in dry-dock at Baron Marine in Freeport, Texas. She has two, new John Deere Tier II engines with 235 horsepower, each. Also, a new, 20KW generator will provide ample electricity for exquisite lighting and entertainment. Presently, the vessel is undergoing complete renovation under the careful eye of the United States Coast Guard, pursuant to Subchapter"T," (Small Passenger Vessels under 100 Gross Tons) of title 46, United States Code. Captain Ned Baron himself is overseeing the extensive work in Freeport's largest ship yard and master-welder, Greg Bryington is busy fabricating the new drive train that will enable the Brazos Belle to safely travel the difficult currents of the Brazos.
Schedule A Charter With Us
If you would like to schedule a trip aboard the "BRAZOS BELLE" or would like more information, please contact us.
Capt. Mike Leebron
Master Officer
USCG# 1072594
