About Us

Capt. Tommy Moore and his dad, Capt. Tom Moore have been in the area for over 27 years. Their love of nature and desire to share this amazing part of the Texas coast with the world has motivated them to establish this unique ecotourism operation.

Our goal at Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures is to provide serious birders with a top-notch vessel and professional operation they can count on, twelve months of the year. The addition of kayak racks and transport service is a natural extension of birding. The kayak allows you to get closer to birds and other wildlife.

Experience the difference between a tour and an adventure!

History of the Skimmer

In 1964, Capt. Brownie started the first birding tour operation in the Rockport area aboard the 65-foot Whooping Crane. Capt. Brownie would take passengers up the Intra-coastal Waterway to see the endangered Whooping Cranes. At that time there were less than 40 of the magnificent birds left in the world.

Capt. Brownie, with his adopted son and first mate Ted Appell made it possible for anyone to catch a glimpse of the rare Whooping Cranes. Ted was drafted and served in Viet Nam until 1971. Ted earned his captain's license upon his return and began to operate the Whooping Crane. Capt. Brownie passed away in 1984 leaving the Whooping Crane tour operation as his legacy.

In 1986, seeing the need for a faster shallow draft boat that would allow the growing number of nature enthusiasts to see more country and birds in less time, Capt. Ted commissioned the building of the Skimmer.

Skimmer was christened February 2, 1987. Designed for birding from Capt. Ted's many years of experience, Skimmer is 38 feet long, has two observation decks, draws only 2.5 feet of water, and carries up to 46 passengers. The Skimmer, operated as Capt. Ted's Whooping Crane Tours, became the world's most famous birding vessel.

Captain Ted retired in April 2001 due to health problems and now owns a Cajun restaurant in Holiday Beach just north of Rockport. Please stop by and see him!