Coast Guard Sets Zones for Massive Crane Transfer in Houston
Published Date: 1/8/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is setting up safety zones around the ship M/V SUOMIGRACHT in the Houston Ship Channel from January 8 to 23, 2026. These zones keep people and boats safe during the transfer of big rubber tire cranes by limiting who can enter the area. If you’re boating nearby, expect restrictions between 5 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily, but no extra costs are involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
100-yard Moving Safety Zone While Vessel Transits
If you are operating a vessel near the M/V SUOMIGRACHT as it moves through the Houston Ship Channel, you may not enter waters within 100 yards of the ship while it is in transit. This moving safety zone is enforced from January 6, 2026 through January 23, 2026 (and the rule is effective January 8–23, 2026) between 5 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily.
25-yard Fixed Safety Zone While Moored
When the M/V SUOMIGRACHT is moored at the Bayport Terminal in Seabrook, Texas, you may not enter waters within 25 yards of the vessel. The fixed safety zone at approximate position 29°36'18.61" N, 095°0'25.12" W is enforced from January 6, 2026 until January 23, 2026 between 5 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day, unless ended earlier.
Permission and Enforcement Details for Mariners
No person or vessel may enter the safety zones without authorization from the Captain of the Port Houston-Galveston (COTP) or a designated representative; to request permission contact the COTP on VHF-FM channel 16 or by telephone at (866) 539-8114. The safety zones are enforced daily from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. between January 6, 2026 and January 23, 2026 (rule effective January 8–23, 2026).
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