cruises from brownsville

AN EXTRAORDINARY PORT CRUISE IN SOUTH PADRE ISLAND AWAITS!

Join breakaway cruises on a port of brownsville tour and shrimp boil.

Has your routine become stale? Do you feel like every day is another day of being stuck in a rut? Then what you need is a grand adventure with Breakaway Cruises Port! See astounding sights and chow down on delicious, authentic Cajun food with one of the best Port of Brownsville boat tours in South Padre Island!

Already curious? Keep reading to learn more about this exciting experience only offered by Breakaway Cruises.

PORT OF BROWNSVILLE BOAT TOUR FAST FACTS

Like the other exciting activities we offer, there are a few basic things you should know before booking your trip:

• Departing from the Breakaway dock, we offer our port cruises and shrimp boil every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at 10 AM and 2 PM, lasting approximately 2 hours.
• In addition to the shrimp boil itself, complimentary water, soda, wine, and beer are included in the ticket price.
• We also provide private tours for corporate and educational cruises.

With real-time availability and instant confirmation, it’s never been easier to book the adventure of a lifetime with Breakaway Cruises’ Port of Brownsville Boat Tour. Rest assured, you’re in good hands with our U.S. Coast Guard certified vessels and highly trained crew.

Get ready to witness South Padre Island and Port Isabel’s various wildlife and fascinating legacy up close!

WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE BOAT TOUR?

Before disembarking, make sure to pack these important items:

• An appetite for tasty food and big adventure

As you can see, you don’t need to bring too much with you – sun protection, an empty stomach, and a camera to capture all the wonderful memories you’ll make on our Port of Brownsville boat tour.

Now, let’s learn more about what exciting things to expect on your port cruise across the Laguna Madre.

THE INCREDIBLE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

As one of the best things to do in South Padre Island, Breakaway Cruises Port of Brownsville boat tours offers clients a variety of amazing things to see and delicious food to enjoy.

We’ve briefly mentioned some of the things you have to look forward to on our journey, so let’s explore these more thoroughly:

• The Rich History of Brownsville Port  – Witness a combination of the past and present! We’ll see both cargo ships being loaded and unloaded with modern freight as well as decommissioned navy ships being dismantled. You may even catch an oil rig being repaired or recent destroyers brought in for maintenance. History and the modern-day come alive at South Padre Island.
• An Authentic Cajun Shrimp Boil – We hope you brought an appetite as big as the Laguna Madre because our shrimp boil is not only delectable but our genuine, Cajun shrimp boil features juicy, fresh shrimp, andouille sausage, buttery corn, and seasoned potatoes all cooked on board. Don’t forget the assorted fresh fruit and bread!
• Birds, Dolphins, and Sharks – Oh My!  – History come-to-life isn’t the only notable thing you’ll see on our Port of Brownsville port cruises. Get your camera ready as various migratory birds fly overhead, bottlenose dolphins leap across the waves, and sharks silently lurk beneath the waters. The wildlife in Laguna Madre put on one great show whether they know it or not!

Can You Hear Adventure calling Your Name? Then Book a Port of Brownsville Boat Tour with Breakaway Cruises Today!

33384 State Park Road 100, South Padre Island, Texas 78597

(956) 761-2212

Get In Touch

© 2023 Breakaway Cruises | USCG Certified Vessels

Now fishing red snapper in state waters. Book now to guarantee a spot.

956-761-6655 (osprey cruises) 956-943-6283 (black dragon pirate cruises).

Go First Class!

The quality of your vacation experience is what’s important to us at Osprey Cruises. With six boats, we offer you and your family choices that range from Deep Sea and Bay fishing excursions and sightseeing nature cruises to Pirate Adventure cruises. Something for everyone in Port Isabel! If you’re looking for fun on the water, you’ll find it here. Welcome aboard.

Want to score the big catch? Choose from our Bay Fishing or Deep Sea Fishing Trips .

Book a Private charter for your special event. Your enjoyment is what counts and outstanding service is our goal!

Fireworks cruises

Our cruises offer the finest in luxury voyages in the Laguna Madre. Complete your romantic getaway with your own fireworks display. Get tickets today.

All ages enjoy our Sea Life Safari cruises. Set out for your adventure on the Laguna Madre today. Get tickets today.

A pirate's life for me

Yo ho! Ahoy there mateys. Join our pirate crew for adventures on the high seas of the Laguna Madre. Yar. Get yer tickets now.

Amberjack season is open

Amberjack season is open and our famous 10 hr deep sea trips are available again. Ask for the amber jack discount when you call!

Charter, Dinner & Fireworks Cruises

Osprey sea life cruises, eco tours, dolphin watch & sunset cruises, the black dragon, pirate adventure cruises, the osprey ii, deep sea fishing, bay fishing, private charters, all vessels in the osprey fleet are available for private charter.

Imagine a sunset cruise on our passenger yacht Osprey for your wedding, corporate meeting, birthday party, or other special occasion. We’ll help you make it magical.

Birthdays Weddings School Field Trips Corporate Charters

Phil Calo, General Manager and Events Coordinator, will be happy to help you with your arrangements. Call him today for your reservation, 956-592 2223.

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The best cruises in South Padre Island

Call 956-761-6655 or 956-943-6283

Osprey Cruises

501 E Maxan St

Port Isabel, TX 78578

Copyright © 2024 Osprey Cruises

Port of Brownsville Fiesta Cruise with Osprey Cruises

It was a while coming but I finally got to go on the Port of Brownsville Fiesta Cruise with Osprey Cruises. I purchased my ticket at the Winter Texan Expo in McAllen way back in January 2020, then everything came to a screeching halt that March. The cruise finally started operating again earlier this year. I watched the weather for what I hoped would be a beautiful day and made a reservation. I was rewarded with an almost perfect day of blue skies, warm but not too hot temperatures, and a mild breeze.

Osprey Cruises

Osprey Cruises may be best known for their fishing trips, both deep sea and bay fishing, but their six boats offer a variety of options.

• Deep sea and bay fishing
• Dolphin watches
• Sightseeing cruises
• Fireworks cruises
• Dinner cruises
• Sunset cruises
• Pirate ship adventures
• Private charters

Port of Brownsville Fiesta Cruise

The seasonal Port of Brownsville Fiesta Cruise is a four-hour tour that takes you from the charming town of Port Isabel to the Port of Brownsville, the shrimp basin and back to Port Isabel.

The recently refurbished Osprey has lots of outdoor seating affording everyone on board great views. A full bar is located in the climate controlled cabin where you can also purchase sodas, water and snacks. It’s also the only place with padded seats!

Departing Port Isabel

Cruising under the Queen Isabella Causeway

As we got further underway and there was a break in the narration, they announced that complimentary ceviche was available in the cabin.

Atlantic bottlenose dolphins followed the boat, riding the wake both at the bow and the stern. I have to admit that it was one of the highlights of the trip for me.

Dolphins following the Osprey

The Port of Brownsville

The Port of Brownsville, which opened in 1936, is a deepwater seaport at the southernmost tip of Texas. The port is connected to the Gulf of Mexico by a 17-mile-long ship channel. It serves South Texas and, via rail connections, much of northeast Mexico.

If you’ve been to a large harbor, you know they are rarely beautiful but often interesting. The Port of Brownsville definitely falls in this category. It is an extremely busy port that provides 51,000 jobs and $3 billion annual economic activity.

Ships are hauled out into drydock for repair, new ships are built here and some come to die here. The famous air craft carrier USS Kitty Hawk is on its way to the Port of Brownsville scrapyard. It was fascinating learning about the process of turning a giant ship into a pile of ground up metal.

A ship that is being dismantled for recycling

A pile of scrap metal that used to be part of a ship

A shrimp boat in dry dock

Two new ships being built for a Hawaiian company

Returning to Port Isabel

On the ride back to Port Isabel, people visited with friends and took advantage of the bar for drinks and snacks. I enjoyed the beautiful day and the tranquility of the water. Would this excursion have been more fun if I had been with a friend? Possibly. Solo travel has its pros and cons. You can read about my thoughts on it in my post about dining solo on my birthday .

The Details

Osprey Cruises had a fire at their Pier 19 location so check in and departure are currently from the Black Dragon office at Pirate’s Landing in Port Isabel.

Check in for all Osprey Cruises is currently at the Black Dragon Cruises office in Port Isabel

This seasonal tour operates January through March historically on the following schedule:

• Mon, Wed and Fri from 9-1 and 2-6
• Tuesday and Thursday from 9-1

Price was discounted this year at $33. It is usually $40 and could increase next year.

Follow the Osprey Cruises Facebook page for up to date information on all their water adventures.

My Final Thoughts on the Port of Brownsville Fiesta Cruise

I love boating and being on the water so the Port of Brownsville Fiesta Cruise was an awesome excursion for me. Based on reactions I observed and bits of conversation I overheard, I think the men especially enjoyed and appreciated it.

I didn’t realize that this seasonal tour ended quite so early in the year. However, if you missed it, Osprey Cruises has many other options. I did the Black Dragon cruise a couple of years ago and I plan to do the eco tour some time soon. Maybe I’ll see you on the water!

Until next time…

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Cruise Planning for Brownsville Residents

Information about ports and upcoming cruises nearest to Brownsville, Texas

Cruise ports closest to Brownsville, tx

• Galveston - (285 miles from Brownsville)
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Texas Bucket List

The Texas Bucket List – Port of Brownsville Boat Tour on South Padre Island

33384 State Park Rd 100 South Padre Island, TX 78597 956-761-2212

https://breakawaycruises.com/port-of-brownsville-cruise-in-spi/

Brownsville – It’s not often you get an extremely foggy day down on South Padre Island but that was exactly the case when I arrived on SPI to take a tour of the Port of Brownsville.  Despite the dense cloud cover, it doesn’t keep James Woodrow Wilson from boiling up some shrimp because he’s busy preparing a feast for a few folks wanting to take a ride on his boat.

Once the crowd is settled, Captain Woody, as he’s called, takes the sightseers on a carefully guided journey through the Port of Brownsville. Woody is the captain of the Breakaway Cruises Port of Brownsville Tour and he has one interesting past, that all starts with his name. “Well, I get a lot of grief about it. And I’m still waiting for my check for Toy Story,” joked Woody. “I was original, boots and all!”

While being a cowboy is every young boy’s dream, being behind the wheel of this ship is where Woody belongs. “Love driving boats. I love being on the water. It’s just been a passion of mine ever since I was little. And just meeting everybody. You meet everyone from all over the world, I’ve met on this boat.”

Shannon Cherrington helps Captain Woody on the tour, making sure things flow smoothly along the waters of the Brownsville ship channel. “There’s so much to see out there and it’s so rich in history,” said Shannon.

While trolling down the port, you’ll see massive offshore oil rig platforms being repaired. There are also ships being built and massive military ships being decommissioned. “This was an old aircraft carrier that, if I’m not mistaken, it was the Bonhomme. It was one that succumbed to arson by one of the crew members. And the damage was worth, basically a total loss.” Oh, wow. “It would cost more for them to repair it than it was worth. And it’s worth more in scrap than it would’ve been for them to repair it,” said Captain Woody.

If space is more your speed, a pass by Space X will light your engines. “Seeing all the rockets, whenever they’re getting ready to launch and all that, sitting out on the launchpad, it’s amazing,” Woody commented. “Watching them take off and being able to land, 40 years ago that would’ve been unheard of. But just seeing technology advance with what they’re doing over here, it’s just mind boggling to me.”

Not only do you get to see some amazing things on the sightseeing tour, but you also get the chance to enjoy some of Captain Woody’s shrimp which is an old family recipe – and it’s delicious.

If taking a unique tour with a unique captain who happens to cook is something you’d like to see, sailing with Captain Woody on the Breakaway Cruises Port of Brownsville Tour is definitely a unique stop on The Texas Bucket List!

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• About this activity

Port Brownsville Half-Day Boat Tour

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation

The Port of Brownsville Tour is a 4-hour narrated cruise from South Padre Island across the Laguna Madre Bay and traveling down the Brownsville Ship Channel. Along the way you will see our native Atlantic bottle-nose dolphins and migratory birds. You will learn about South Texas shrimping industry and their fleets, as you enjoy a taste of our local shrimp. You will hear a little history of the area, see decommissioned vessels being dismantled from the top down, oil rigs being built and repaired, and the Port where shipping vessels from around the world load and unload commodities. Upon your return you will see SpaceX launching site off in the distance. Our Captain and Crew make this an enjoyable and educational tour worth your time. Welcome aboard!

Activity location

• 33256 State Park Road 100
• 78597, South Padre Island, Texas, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Sat, Apr 13 -
• Sun, Apr 14 -
• Mon, Apr 15 $38
• Tue, Apr 16 $38
• Wed, Apr 17 $38
• Thu, Apr 18 $38
• Fri, Apr 19 $38
• Sat, Apr 20 -
• Sun, Apr 21 -
• Mon, Apr 22 $38
• Tue, Apr 23 $38
• Wed, Apr 24 $38
• Thu, Apr 25 $38
• Fri, Apr 26 $38
• Sat, Apr 27 -
• Activity duration is 4 hours 4h 4h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included You may bring your own cooler with any drinks or snacks you may like
• What's included What's included Coffee, donuts & small shrimp cocktail during the tour

Know before you book

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Upon arrival please request wheelchair assistance. Crew will be glad to assist in boarding the boat.
• You are welcome to bring a cooler with your own food and drinks. Please no glass containers.

Activity itinerary

South padre island (pass by), brownsville (pass by), starbase production site (pass by), best deals on things to do, top experiences in south padre island.

• Bay Fishing Trips
• Deep Sea Fishing Full Day
• Miss Mona Private Charters
• Thunderbird Private Charters
• Dolphin Watch Tours
• Fireworks Cruise
• Sunset Dolphin Watching Tour
• The Port of Brownsville Tour
• Contact Page

Port of Brownsville Nature Tour

Enjoy a four-hour narrated tour aboard the Murphy’s Law through the Brownsville Ship Channel and into the Port of Brownsville.

Did you know…. The Port of Brownsville is the only deep-water port located on the U.S.-Mexico Border, with approximately 40,000 acres of land, 17 miles of waterfront, access, and a direct route to international bridge crossings and rail connections.

Along the way, you will see local and migratory birds, and even a chance to see dolphins swimming with the boat. You will see the SpaceX launch site and Starbase city . While in the Port you will see the recently delivered USS Kitty Hawk, plus other vessels, and oil rigs from all over the world. On the way back you will cruise through the Port Isabel Shrimp Basin, which was established in 1953.

The tour includes a FRESH CAUGHT Gulf Shrimp tasting, coffee, and donuts !!

After your cruise, you can opt for a DELICIOUS lunch at an Island hot spot, Tom & Jerry’s Beach Bar & Grill. Special Menu Items include a Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Hamburger, and Shrimp Basket with fries and a drink.

Price: $35.00.

Must be purchased 24 hours before the tour Please call 956.761.4752 if you are unable to book your dolphin watch or eco-tour online.

Tour and Lunch

Price: $47.00.

Please call 956.761.4752 for reservations

*Please book online, but all tickets must be purchased 24 hours before the tour, and we will need your cell phone number. Please call 956.761.4752 if you are unable to book your tour online.

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The Best Mississippi River Cruises to Discover America's Heartland

By Jackie Sheckler Finch

The luxury ships and historic tours are nice, yes. But the real star of Mississippi River cruises has always been the river. There’s nothing quite so Americana as getting to know the many personalities of this 2,350-mile stretch, flowing from northern Minnesota’s Lake Itasca through 10 states until it reaches Louisiana , where the Mississippi River Delta gives way to the Gulf of Mexico.

The slow, meandering journeys of Mississippi River cruises have long proven an ideal way to discover the distinct stories of America’s heartland. In the words of Mark Twain (which no Mississippi River story would be complete without), the towns and cities located on the mighty river's shores are “cheering to the spirit” and “reposeful as a dreamland,” with “nothing to hang a fret or a worry upon.”

The challenge modern travelers now face is when, where, and how to go about this iconic American voyage . Below, see our answers to these frequently asked questions, plus our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024.

Which cruise lines do Mississippi River cruises?

After American Queen Voyages shut down in February, only two Mississippi River cruise lines currently remain in operation.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, American Cruise Lines (ACL) has a fleet of more than 20 American-built ships sailing across the country and remains family-owned and American-crewed. ACL offers a Mississippi River fleet of three luxurious 180-passenger modern riverboats– American Melody , American Symphony , and American Serenade —plus two classic paddlewheel ships, the 180-passenger American Splendor and the 150-passenger American Heritage.

The new kid on the Mississippi is the Viking Mississippi, a 386-passenger, five-deck vessel that first set sail in September 2022. The cutting-edge cruise is Viking’s first foray in the US, adding to their fleet of more than 90 ocean, river, and expedition vessels navigating the world’s seven continents.

What is the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise?

For an 8- or 9-day cruise, the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise is around $4,000 per person in a stateroom. Although prices might seem high initially, many of these cruises include extras that aren’t always complimentary on ocean cruises such as free WiFi, at least one free shore excursion in every port, paid port taxes and fees, and a pre-cruise hotel stay. Viking offers complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner. Meanwhile, American Cruise Lines offers complimentary beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. Gratuities are also included in American Cruise Lines fares.

What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?

Spring (late March through mid-June) and autumn (September through November) are the best times of year to go on a river cruise in the US. Spring blossoms add a colorful touch to the shoreline, and you can never go wrong with autumn foliage. The temperatures are mild, if not pleasantly cool, and passengers are eager to welcome a new spring travel season—or to enjoy one last autumn river adventure before winter arrives.

What month is best for a Mississippi River cruise?

If we had to pick just one, September is the best month for a Mississippi River cruise. The weather is usually mild with less likelihood of rain, and autumn colors are beginning to paint the shoreline. Keep in mind, however, that the Mississippi is the fourth largest river in the world—so temperatures any time of year are not going to be the same in warmer Louisiana as they are in cooler Minnesota.

Below, see our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024, featuring stops in iconic American cities like Nashville , Memphis , and New Orleans .

22-day Mississippi River Odyssey: New Orleans to Red Wing, Minnesota

Enjoy the charms of America’s great river on a journey aboard the Viking Mississippi from New Orleans to Red Wing, departing September 20. Custom built to sail American waters, the vessel features river-facing staterooms with either French or step-out balconies.

Stops include Baton Rouge and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Rosedale in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Paducah in Kentucky; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Burlington, Quad Cities, and Dubuque in Iowa; La Crosse in Wisconsin; and ending in Red Wing, Minnesota.

With so many fascinating shore excursions to choose from, it’s well worth taking time to tour the St. Louis Arch . Opened in 1965, the monument to America’s westward expansion is far more than just a stunning photo by the riverside. Venture underground between the arch legs for a museum. Climb aboard a tram to be transported 630 feet up to the top of America’s tallest monument for some stunning views.

12-day Heart of the Delta: Memphis to New Orleans

The 386-guest Viking Mississippi spans five decks, making it one of the largest passenger vessels on the Mississippi. Inaugurated in 2022, the ship features a modern Scandinavian design with an infinity pool and a two-story Explorers’ Lounge observation area similar to its ocean ships. Directly in front of the Explorer’s Lounge is an expanded outdoor seating area known as The Bow. Three restaurants serve both Southern regional cuisine and international favorites.

The cruise starts in Memphis on November 14 and includes stops in Rosedale, Greenville, Vicksburg, and Natchez in Mississippi as well as St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Darrow in Louisiana, ending in New Orleans. The “Mississippi Sings the Blues” shore excursion visits iconic sites along the Mississippi Blues Trail such as historic Dockery Farms, considered the “birthplace of the blues.”

The tour stops in Clarksdale, the fabled “Crossroads” where legend says blues great Robert Johnson reputedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his guitar prowess. Stops at the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi and the Delta Blues Museum completes this perfect trip for music lovers.

9-day Music Cities Cruise: Nashville to Memphis

Music is the main focus of this cruise offered by American Cruise Lines, which begins in Nashville on July 9 with an unforgettable visit to the legendary Grand Ole Opry and ends in Memphis, where passengers will enjoy live music on Beale Street and a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland . On board the American Splendor, passengers will enjoy spacious cabins and popular rocking chairs. First inaugurated in 2016 and fully redecorated in 2022, this ship offers the nostalgia of a classic paddlewheeler along with the comfort of modern amenities.

While in Nashville, explore the Johnny Cash Museum, then walk upstairs to The Patsy Cline Museum. Nightly entertainment spotlights the musical heritage of this region as the world’s newest paddlewheeler journeys along the river. The itinerary also includes Clarksville and Dover in Tennessee plus Paducah in Kentucky. In Paducah, stroll along the riverfront with more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting Paducah’s past. Stop by Paducah’s National Quilt Museum, the world’s largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

23-day Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Sail 1,393 miles through 10 states on a comprehensive exploration of the mighty Mississippi on the new American Serenade . Inaugurated in 2023, the 91-cabin American Serenade won Best New River Cruise Ship of the Year 2023 by Cruise Critic , the first time an American ship has received this prestigious award.

“With extra-large all-balcony staterooms and suites, trendy interior décor, an innovative hydraulic bow and retractable ramp, and one of the most gorgeous sun decks we’ve seen on a river-going ship, American Serenade sets the bar for domestic US river cruising high,” the award notes.

The epic itinerary beginning July 18, 2024 includes 22 ports of call including Oak Alley, Houmas House, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Tunica in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa; and Winona, Red Wing, and Saint Paul in Minnesota.

CNT Editors

Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

12-day Mississippi River Gateway Cruise: New Orleans to St. Louis

From the French Quarter in New Orleans to the towering Gateway Arch in St. Louis , this American Heritage cruise lives up to its name. Inaugurated in 2015 and totally redecorated in 2022, the 84-cabin American Heritage is the perfect vessel for this interesting itinerary, its design reminiscent of the days when steamboat paddlewheelers plied the Mississippi in the 1800s.

The 12-day voyage departs from New Orleans on July 2. Ports of call along the way include Baton Rouge in Louisiana; Natchez and Vicksburg in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; and Paducah in Kentucky . An onboard expert shares tales of the importance of steam-driven paddlewheels in establishing riverfront communities along the great Mississippi River.

Step ashore in Natchez and enjoy a cold drink at the Under-the-Hill-Saloon, once one of the rowdiest establishments on the Mississippi River in the 1800s. Legend says that Mark Twain stopped here when he was just another riverman named Samuel Clemens.

9-day Lower Mississippi River Cruise: Memphis to New Orleans

This nine-day American Melody cruise departs Memphis on September 8 and features eight ports of call including Vicksburg and Natchez in Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Houmas House in Louisiana. At Vicksburg Military Park, learn how the 101st Airborne Division got its “Screaming Eagles” nickname, plus the tale of its famous soldier, a young guitar player named Jimi Hendrix. At Houmas House, see the bedroom where Bette Davis stayed to film the 1964 movie Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte . Joan Crawford was the intended co-star but Bette and Joan feuded so Joan quit and Olivia de Havilland replaced her.

Launched in 2021, the five-deck American Melody has 91 staterooms, all with private balconies and full-length sliding glass doors. The ship has several spacious lounges, a fitness center, large dining room, café for casual dining, sun deck, library, and an impressive four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship. The ship’s unusual bow opens and lowers a platform for passengers to easily walk ashore.

9-day Upper Mississippi River Cruise: St. Louis to St. Paul

Board the American Symphony cruise ship to visit Mark Twain’s hometown and experience the real-life inspiration behind Life on the Mississippi, the classic memoir chronicling the author's days on the river as a steamboat pilot.

The 91-cabin American Symphony, recently inaugurated in 2022, has 100% private balcony accommodations and a unique bow that opens with a retractable gangway that can be extended for landings virtually anywhere. The ship also features lounges soaring 40 feet above the water with triple the glass of other riverboats for spectacular views. Comfy deck chairs welcome passengers to enjoy the undeveloped countryside, picturesque islands, and fascinating dams and navigation locks.

Departing September 27, this itinerary features seven ports of call including Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa, and Winona and Red Wing in Minnesota. In Hannibal, visit the actual home—with a whitewashed Tom Sawyer fence—where Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) grew up. In Dubuque, see the 1989 “Field of Dreams” movie site known for the famous quote, “If you build it, they will come.”

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Gulf Intracoastal Waterway

Cruising/navigating - the gulf intracoastal waterways, punta rassa, fl to brownsville, tx.

The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GICW/GIWW) provides the mariner with an almost continuous, and protected passage just inside the Gulf of Mexico Coastline. Beginning at Mile Marker (MM "0.0") in San Carlos Bay near Punta Rassa, FL at 26°30.6’ N / 82°01.1’ W, and extending to Brownsville, TX (MM "681.5 WHL") at 25°57.0’ N / 97°24.1’ W.

From its starting point in San Carlos Bay, the GICW runs in a general northerly direction for 150 miles to 28°10.4’ N / 82°49.5’ W; (MM "150.0") located in the vicinity of Anclote Key and the entrance to the Anclote River near Tarpon Springs, FL.

After leaving Anclote Key, it is an ≈140 NM open water passage to the vicinity of Carrabelle, FL where you can again rejoin the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway at (MM "376.0 EHL"). From this point your course will carry you generally west to the Sabine Pass, TX area where your course will then take a gradual turn to the south ending at the Port of Brownsville, TX, (MM "681.5 WHL") very near the U.S. / Mexican Border. The total distance is 1,368.6 statute miles which includes the 140 NM open water passage between Anclote Key and Carrabelle, FL.

Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Page Menu

• Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Introduction
• Florida (West Coast) Intracoastal Waterway
• Florida (Panhandle) Intracoastal Waterway
• Alabama Intracoastal Waterway
• Mississippi Intracoastal Waterway
• Louisiana Intracoastal Waterway
• Texas Intracoastal Waterway

Like the AICW, the GICW/GIWW, is made up of both natural and man-made canals, rivers, dredged channels, bays, and sounds. It is used by both commercial and pleasure craft with many light-draft vessels as well as tugs and tows making use of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway in an effort to avoid long open water passages in the Gulf of Mexico.

The GICW/GIWW is marked much the same as the AICW, with Aids to Navigation displaying yellow triangles or yellow squares to indicate the waterway.

While typically yellow triangles will be found on red markers and yellow squares found on green markers, caution should be exercised and the rule below observed; especially where the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway may intersect or merge with another channel marked by the Lateral Buoyage System.

The rule for GICW/GIWW navigation markers is simple - when proceeding northbound along Florida’s West Coast (Punta Rassa, FL to Anclote Key, FL) and westbound from Carrabelle, FL to Brownsville, TX :

• “ Yellow Squares are ALWAYS kept to port”
• “ Yellow Triangles are ALWAYS kept to starboard”

Regardless of the color of the mark!

Lights and daybeacons should not be passed close aboard because those marking dredged channels are usually placed back from the edge of the channel and others may have riprap mounds around them to protect the structures.

NOAA chart coverage of the GICW/GIWW from Punta Rassa, FL to Brownsville, TX is provided by the charts listed below:

Distances and Mileages

All distances along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway are given in statute miles unless otherwise noted. Statute miles are used in order to conform to the distances shown on the small craft charts typically used along this route.

Like the AICW, the portion of the GICW between Punta Rassa, FL and Anclote Key, FL is measured based on increasing mileage from MM "0.0." Unlike the AICW, mileage on the remainder of the GICW is measured east (EHL) or west (WHL) of Harvey Lock (MM "0.0") which is located very near New Orleans, LA.

The Federal Project Depth for the GICW between MM "0.0" and MM "150.0" is 9 feet. The remainder of the GICW provides for a least depth of 12 feet.

DO NOT confuse "Project Depth" with "Controlling Depth" or for that matter with the actual depth of the water that is available at the time of your transit.

Controlling depths and Project Depths are printed on most charts where an improved channel is shown. They are also published periodically in the Local Notice to Mariners.

While every effort is made to maintain the project depth, the actual controlling depths in the channels may vary due to shoaling reducing the available water depth until maintenance dredging can be accomplished.

Communications

All operating bridges along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway guard either VHF Channel 09 or 13.

All locks on the GIWW guard either VHF Channel 13 or 14.

USCG Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) available on the GICW: Tampa (Tampa Traffic) - 156.600 MHz (Ch. 12) New Orleans (New Orleans Traffic) - 156.700 MHz (Ch.14) Berwick Bay (Berwick Traffic) - 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11) Port Arthur (Sabine Traffic) - 156.650 MHz (Ch. 13) Houston / Galveston (Houston Traffic) - 156.250 MHz (Ch. 1005)

The U.S. Coast Guard advises all vessels to exercise caution in any area where the GICW intersects major shipping channels. A "Security Call" on VHF channel 13 is requested prior to crossing any shipping channels, especially during periods of restricted visibility.

Bridges, Locks, & Overhead Power Lines

At last count (01/01/2019), a total of 80 bridges cross the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway between Punta Rassa, FL and Brownsville, TX. While the fixed bridges generally provide vertical clearances of 65’ or greater, some exceptions do exist.

The minimum overhead clearance of fixed bridges over the GICW is 48’ at the Highway 361 Bridge (MM "533.1 WHL") at Aransas Pass, TX. An alternate channel is available to bypass this bridge.

In the Florida section, (3) fixed bridges with clearances of 50’ are found; the DuPont Bridge near Panama City, FL (MM "295.4 EHL"), the Brooks Bridge near Ft. Walton Beach, FL (MM "223.0 EHL"), and the Navarre Causeway Bridge near Navarre, FL (MM "206.7 EHL"). No alternate routes exist for these bridges. Vessels requiring more than 50’ vertical clearance must leave the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway at St. Joseph Bay via the Gulf County Canal (MM "327.0 EHL") and sailing coastwise, re-enter at the west end of Santa Rosa Island near Pensacola, FL (MM "180.0 EHL").

There are (7) locks along the GICW with (5) being located in Louisiana and (2) in Texas.

Overhead Cable and Power Lines

The minimum authorized clearance of overhead cables crossing the GICW is 61 feet and is also found at Aransas Pass, TX at (MM "533.1 WHL".)

Caution - Many of the overhead cables over the waterway carry high voltage, and an extra margin of safety should be allowed when the weather is threatening.

Tidal ranges are fairly small along the Gulf of Mexico coast. Under normal conditions the mean range of tide varies from 1’ to 3’ between Ft Myers, FL and St George Sound, FL; decreasing to less than 1’ through Alabama and Mississippi. The tidal range then begins increasing slowly through Louisiana and Texas peaking at around 1.5’ at Port Isabel.

Even with these small tidal ranges, the tides are often a major headache for many mariners transiting the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. Some areas of the GICW have diurnal tides with only (1) high and (1) low each day. Some have semidiurnal tides with (2) highs and (2) lows each day, while other areas have mixed tides exhibiting (2) unequal high tides and (2) unequal low tides each day.

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Norwegian Cruise Line cancels more than a dozen upcoming cruises

TAMPA, Fla. ( WFLA ) — Norwegian Cruise Line has canceled more than a dozen cruises for 2025.

A spokesperson from the cruise line told Nexstar’s WFLA that the cancelations were “a result of varied events including the ongoing situation in the Red Sea and Israel, modified dry dock schedules for ship enhancements, a full ship charter, and lastly, to accommodate the demand for shorter close-to-home voyages to the Bahamas.”

The canceled cruises include:

• Norwegian Epic – Feb. 20, 2025, Nov. 1, 2025, Nov. 11, 2025
• Norwegian Jade – Mar. 4, 2025, Mar. 13, 2025, Mar. 24, 2025
• Norwegian Pearl – Apr. 19, 2025, May 5, 2025, May 16, 2025, Oct. 15, 2025
• Norwegian Sky – May 27, 2025, Jun. 5, 2025
• Norwegian Spirit – Jan. 1, 2025, May 17, 2025
• Norwegian Star – May 18, 2025, May 29, 2025, Jun. 9, 2025,
• Norwegian Viva – May 27, 2025, Sep. 20, 2025, Sep. 29, 2025

According to Cruise Industry News , the canceled cruises were set to visit the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Adriatic Sea, the Middle East, the Red Sea, Asia and Northern Europe.

The February Norwegian Epic sailing was set to depart from Port Canaveral. Norwegian’s website shows a new sailing on the Epic is scheduled for Feb. 15 to Feb. 22, 2025.

“We are committed to providing exceptional vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and by taking our guests to some of the most sought-out destinations around the world. While we try to maintain original itineraries as much as possible, at times modifications are made to optimize the itinerary, enhance the guest experience or accommodate certain circumstances,” a spokesperson said.

Norwegian Cruise Line said affected passengers will receive a full refund and a 10 percent discount that can be used on any sailing through Dec. 31, 2025.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KVEO-TV.

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MSC Cruises' Latest Sale Has Voyages Starting at $179 — When to Book

The sale is running until April 18.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is offering monumental savings on sailings to warm weather destinations starting at less than $200 per person.

The sale, which was extended and must be booked by April 18, offers cruises starting at just $179 per person, according to MSC. The sale rate is based on double occupancy and does not include the taxes, fees, or port expenses.

Travelers who take advantage of this deeply-discounted rate can sail on three and four night journeys from Miami for just $179, or from Orlando starting at just $189, MSC shared with Travel + Leisure .

“It’s a great opportunity, whether you’re curious about cruising for the first time or you’re an avid cruiser looking to book your next sailing,” Koreen McNutt, the senior vice president and commercial sales officer for MSC Cruises USA, told T+L. “These quick getaways let guests discover everything we have to offer from world-class onboard entertainment and outstanding family programming to a variety of delicious dining venues and wonderful amenities. Plus, these short cruises all visit our private island in The Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, with beautiful white-sand beaches and pristine water brimming with vibrant marine life.” 

The sale also includes MSC’s cruises from Galveston , which the company plans to introduce as its newest homeport in the United States in 2025. The cruise line expects to sail 7-night trips to Mexico and Central America on the MSC Seascape out of Galveston, which start at just $459 per person during the sale.

In addition, MSC is offering savings on its newest ship, the MSC World America , which the company plans to launch next year complete with a thrilling over-water swing ride, 13 different restaurants, an 11-deck-high dry slide, and more. Cruises on this ship start at just $649 per person as part of the sale.

“Cruising offers an unbeatable value proposition for vacations and we’re offering more itinerary options from a larger selection of embarkation ports than ever before, which makes it even easier for more people to discover what MSC Cruises is all about,” McNutt added.

Beyond the cruise fare, MSC is offering the option for travelers to add a drink package and Wi-FI to their booking starting at just $329.

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'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Cheers broke out on Holland America Line’s Koningsdam ship when the total solar eclipse began on Monday.

Off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, passengers were perched on loungers, reclining on beach towels and lining the railings of Deck 14 with cameras on tripods at the ready. When the sliver of fiery orange that remained of the sun disappeared, a black circle ringed by white light took its place. Passengers applauded the moment they'd been awaiting since the ship departed from San Diego on Friday.

The sunny, 72-degree weather – quintessential cruise weather – gave way to chilly wind and late morning’s best impression of sunset. The horizon line glowed orange in the dusky sky.

Cruise ships can help take guests to the path of totality for eclipses, allowing passengers to get a prime viewing spot and make a vacation of it.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun as it moves between the sun and Earth.

While the sun is about 400 times bigger than the moon, the moon is roughly 400 times closer to Earth. “In the past, the moon was much closer, and in the future, the moon will be much further away,” said Adam Burgasser, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of California, San Diego, and director of the Cool Star Lab, who served as an onboard expert during the cruise. “And so we're in a special time, which, of course, lasts for billions of years, where it's set up just right to block out the sun.”

Total solar eclipses take place about every 18 months on average, but the last one visible from the U.S. was in 2017 .

The phenomenon creates a multi-sensory experience, with a cold front moving in ahead of the eclipse. “You block the sun, and it gets cold,” said Burgasser. “It’s actually just that simple. And it's slow enough that the atmosphere can react.”

Plants and animals respond, too: Birds often begin to chirp, plants may close up, and nocturnal will come out. “It’s kind of an all-around-you experience where it's not just the fact that the sun has been blocked that’s so fascinating, but just the effect it has on the entire environment.” Those effects weren’t easily discernible on Koningsdam, though, which was about 150 miles from shore.

Nicole Chaput, a 57-year-old passenger from Calgary in Canada, said partial and total eclipses are “totally different.”

“I heard someone describe it as being partly pregnant,” she said. “You can’t do it. There’s no comparison.”

What makes a cruise a good place to see an eclipse?

Bad weather can wreck even the best-laid viewing plans. If a city in the path of totality has overcast skies, it can be tough to quickly move to an alternate site.

“If you're on a cruise ship and a little bit farther to the east or a little bit farther to the west along the path, there's clear sky, the ship can move,” said Dan Jarrell, who was on the cruise with his wife, Kay, and friends. The Washington, D.C.-area resident has seen solar eclipses with friends during two other sailings, including on Holland America’s Veendam in 1998.

“If you're on land and there's not a road there, you’d better have a tank,” Jarrell said.

That’s where a cruise ship comes in handy. “Having the ability to map out based on what the current weather is where you can catch the eclipse, and having a range over the course of the ocean where you could chase that a little bit is certainly helpful,” Burgasser added.

Capt. Ane Smit, Master aboard Holland America’s Zaandam for the viewing, said the ship can move at a maximum of 20 knots, so the crew needs to scout out the conditions with enough time to move as needed.

“If it's not good enough, we really need to start finding another spot because we are not the quickest vehicle, of course, to be driving around, but we have the luxury of being able to go in any direction without any restriction,” he said. “It’s a pretty wide highway that we have.”

The view of the horizon also allows passengers to “see that shadow coming in and leaving more so than you can in a topographical area,” said Burgasser. Being in the ocean away from city lights is also helpful for seeing stars and other parts of the sky usually only visible at night.

The cruise line also made the practicalities of watching an eclipse easier: eclipse glasses were distributed to guests’ staterooms and Burgasser guided guests through the event via the ship’s speaker system, before and after totality.

More eclipse cruises on the horizon

If you missed your chance to see it this time or want another go, Holland America has more eclipse-viewing opportunities on the books.

“Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's Vice President of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, said in an email. Details have not yet been released.

Other cruise lines offer similar opportunities as well. Princess Cruises' Emerald Princess was near Koningsdam on Monday.

Chaput, the Canadian passenger, said she’s been “chasing” total solar eclipses since seeing her first one in 1991. Monday’s eclipse marked her seventh viewing and second on a cruise ship.

“I think it’s just such an amazing natural phenomenon,” she said. “It’s seeing science in action.”

Contributing: Josh Rivera, USA TODAY

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Holland America Line. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected]

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Jalen Green has 26 points and Houston cruises to 116-107 win over Portland

The Associated Press

April 13, 2024, 1:26 AM

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PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Jalen Green had 26 points and the Houston Rockets spoiled Portland’s final game at home this season with a 116-107 victory Friday night.

Jock Landale had 20 points and Aaron Holiday came of the bench to score 18 for Houston, which had already been eliminated from playoff contention. Rookie Amen Thompson had 17 points and 15 rebounds for the Rockets, playing the second of a back-to-back.

“I was just trying to go hard, bounce back after last night. I felt the team, we brought the energy today, so it was good,” Thompson said, reflecting on a lackluster loss to the Jazz the night before.

Scoot Henderson had 30 points for the Trail Blazers, who have lost four in a row and 14 of their last 16 with one game left. Portland was second-to-last in the Western Conference.

Houston (40-41) led by 20 points in the third quarter but the Blazers narrowed it to 82-73 on Henderson’s dunk and free throw. Henderson added a step-back jumper to get Portland closer.

Cam Whitmore’s 3-pointer early in the fourth quarter extended Houston’s lead to double digits again and the Rockets cruised the rest of the way.

“It was a little slow to start, but we had a good second quarter,” Rockets coach Ime Udoka said. “A lot of guys stepped up did a lot of good things.”

The Rockets were without Fred VanVleet because of a right hip contusion. VanVleet has averaged 17.4 points with a career-high 8.1 assists. He scored a season-high 42 points Thursday in a 124-121 loss to the Utah Jazz.

Thompson, who also had six assists, helped pick up the slack.

“I love experiences like that, getting to develop in different positions, point guard, everything,” he said.

Portland (21-60) had shut down many of its regular starters earlier this month, including Anfernee Simons (left knee tendonitis), Jerami Grant (right hamstring) and Matisse Thybulle (right ankle). The Blazers were coming off a 100-92 loss to the Warriors the night before.

The game showcased a trio of rookies, Portland’s Henderson and Houston’s Thompson and Whitmore, who finished with 11 points.

“I was happy to see him come in and really dominate the game today and take care of the ball. One turnover. That was my big takeaway for him, especially against a team like that, that pressures and turns you over, and plays physical,” Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said about Henderson.

Henderson’s bank shot gave the Blazers a 16-9 lead in the first quarter but the Rockets closed the gap to 24-23 to start the second.

The Rockets went on a 16-5 run, capped by Thompson’s basket that gave Houston a 41-29 lead. Henderson hit a 3-pointer from midcourt to slow the momentum, but the Rockets led 54-50 at the half.

Dillon Brooks’ 3-pointer gave the Rockets a 62-42 lead in the third quarter. Green got tangled up with Moses Brown, who appeared to inadvertently step on his foot late in the quarter. Green left the court but returned midway through the fourth quarter.

Rockets: Close out the season on the road against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday.

Trail Blazers: Visit Sacramento on Sunday for the final game of the season.

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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Jalen Green has 26 points and Houston cruises to 116-107 win over Portland

Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson, left, drives to the basket against Portland Trail Blazers guard Rayan Rupert, right, during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, April 12, 2024, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Howard Lao)

Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson, right, shoots over Houston Rockets center Jock Landale (2) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, April 12, 2024, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Howard Lao)

Players go for a rebound during the first half of an NBA basketball game between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Houston Rockets in Portland, Ore., Friday, April 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Jenny Kane)

Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson, right, shoots over Houston Rockets guard Aaron Holiday, left, during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, April 12, 2024, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Howard Lao)

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PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Jalen Green had 26 points and the Houston Rockets spoiled Portland’s final game at home this season with a 116-107 victory Friday night.

Jock Landale had 20 points and Aaron Holiday came of the bench to score 18 for Houston, which had already been eliminated from playoff contention. Rookie Amen Thompson had 17 points and 15 rebounds for the Rockets, playing the second of a back-to-back.

“I was just trying to go hard, bounce back after last night. I felt the team, we brought the energy today, so it was good,” Thompson said, reflecting on a lackluster loss to the Jazz the night before.

Scoot Henderson had 30 points for the Trail Blazers, who have lost four in a row and 14 of their last 16 with one game left. Portland was second-to-last in the Western Conference.

Houston (40-41) led by 20 points in the third quarter but the Blazers narrowed it to 82-73 on Henderson’s dunk and free throw. Henderson added a step-back jumper to get Portland closer.

Cam Whitmore’s 3-pointer early in the fourth quarter extended Houston’s lead to double digits again and the Rockets cruised the rest of the way.

“It was a little slow to start, but we had a good second quarter,” Rockets coach Ime Udoka said. “A lot of guys stepped up did a lot of good things.”

The Rockets were without Fred VanVleet because of a right hip contusion. VanVleet has averaged 17.4 points with a career-high 8.1 assists. He scored a season-high 42 points Thursday in a 124-121 loss to the Utah Jazz.

Thompson, who also had six assists, helped pick up the slack.

“I love experiences like that, getting to develop in different positions, point guard, everything,” he said.

Portland (21-60) had shut down many of its regular starters earlier this month, including Anfernee Simons (left knee tendonitis), Jerami Grant (right hamstring) and Matisse Thybulle (right ankle). The Blazers were coming off a 100-92 loss to the Warriors the night before.

The game showcased a trio of rookies, Portland’s Henderson and Houston’s Thompson and Whitmore, who finished with 11 points.

“I was happy to see him come in and really dominate the game today and take care of the ball. One turnover. That was my big takeaway for him, especially against a team like that, that pressures and turns you over, and plays physical,” Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said about Henderson.

Henderson’s bank shot gave the Blazers a 16-9 lead in the first quarter but the Rockets closed the gap to 24-23 to start the second.

The Rockets went on a 16-5 run, capped by Thompson’s basket that gave Houston a 41-29 lead. Henderson hit a 3-pointer from midcourt to slow the momentum, but the Rockets led 54-50 at the half.

Dillon Brooks’ 3-pointer gave the Rockets a 62-42 lead in the third quarter. Green got tangled up with Moses Brown, who appeared to inadvertently step on his foot late in the quarter. Green left the court but returned midway through the fourth quarter.

Rockets: Close out the season on the road against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday.

Trail Blazers: Visit Sacramento on Sunday for the final game of the season.

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA