Ship Island Pass is a significant saltwater pass located in Mississippi Sound, forming the deep-water channel between West Ship Island and East Ship Island. This pass serves as the primary entrance to the Gulfport shipping channel, connecting the open Gulf of Mexico to the mainland ports. For paddlers, this is a dynamic marine environment characterized by substantial boat traffic, including large vessels using the maintained deep-water ship channel. The pass is exposed to the open Gulf, and wave gauge data collected at Ship Island Pass from 1998 to 2005 indicates an average significant wave height within the Sound. The area is historically significant, having been a strategic military and commercial gateway for centuries, from the War of 1812 through World War II, and the surrounding waters are known for maritime archaeology. Paddlers may encounter groups, as one report notes an event with approximately 20 to 30 paddle boarders and kayaks launching from a nearby location. The primary paddling consideration is the presence of the major shipping channel, which requires extreme caution when crossing. The pass is adjacent to the Gulf Islands National Seashore, and kayaking is a documented activity in the region, with thousands of participants annually.