Sunday, March 31, 2024

Guide to Cruises Out of Galveston

galveston tx cruise

Check specific sailing dates, explore intriguing itineraries, and get ready to set sail from the charming port of Galveston. For would-be Galveston cruisers, Carnival Breeze serves as a sort of "test the port" ship. Its short sailings and low pricing mean you're not out a lot in time or money if you don't love the experience. It caters heavily to first-time cruisers, as well as Texas locals and Southerners who can book on short notice and drive to the port for a quickie escape.

MSC Cruises

With renowned cruise lines like Carnival Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruises, Princess Cruises, and NCL docking at Galveston’s port, you’re spoilt for choice. Each cruise offers a unique experience, making Galveston the perfect starting point for both short escapes and extended voyages. Galveston serves as the primary homeport in Texas for major cruise lines, offering convenient embarkation for your journey. Galveston’s proximity to Houston and its well-connected transportation options, including easy access to Houston Airport, make it a gateway to the world.

The 5 best cruises from Galveston for every type of traveler

Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Breeze is the Galveston-based ship to pick when you're looking for a quick and affordable getaway — something that isn't a big commitment and won't break the bank. Disney Magic is also home to multiple pool areas and indoor children's zones that cover almost an entire deck, plus multiple themed restaurants that Disney fans will love. (In Disney Cruise Line tradition, passengers — and their waiters — rotate each night among three main restaurants.) The ship also has a large showroom for nightly Disney-themed shows. Most commonly, cruises from Galveston go to exciting destinations such as Transatlantic, Bahamas, Caribbean - All, Caribbean - Southern, and Caribbean - Western. For us, we would have to save more than $75 per person on a round trip flight to make the extra distance and cost of getting to the port worth our while.

Need Help with Parking? reach us at parking@portofgalveston.com  or 409-766-6163

Read this guide to familiarize yourself with everything from location to transportation, hotels, cruise lines and more. The major difference is getting from Intercontinental to the cruise ships takes considerably more time and money than compared to Houston Hobby. Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean have sailed from the island for years, with Royal Caribbean now homeporting one of its largest Oasis-class ships at the Texas port. Meanwhile, other lines including Norwegian and Princess are also bringing their ships to the port. Starting November 2025, MSC Cruises will call Galveston home when MSC Seascape begins year-round sailings to the Western Caribbean. Get ready to discover new horizons on one of our newest ships as you enjoy award-winning entertainment, world-class dining, and thrilling experiences like Robotron, the only robocoaster at sea.

Royal Caribbean, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, April 20, 2025

Additionally, the 8-day and longer journeys broaden your adventure to include the Bahamas and beyond. These extended itineraries offer insights into the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, plus the Panama Canal. The Port of Galveston, located about 51 miles southeast of Houston, is a crucial gateway for Western Caribbean cruises. Its proximity to Houston, a major city with a significant international airport, makes it an easily accessible starting point for many travelers.

The city is served by Houston Hobby (HOU) and Bush-Intercontinental (IAH). That makes it even more confusing for cruisers who aren’t familiar with the area or the airports to decide which one they should fly into. Disney Cruises bring every child’s imagination to life and provide an opportunity for the entire family to reconnect and unplug from the chaos of everyday life.

galveston tx cruise

Whether you'll have a better time on one of the other seven cruise ships that regularly sail out of Galveston will depend a lot on the type of traveler you are. The best ship for a cruise out of Galveston with your family might not be your top pick for a couple's cruise or girlfriends' getaway. While we live in the area, if we had to fly in for a cruise, then we’d pick Houston Hobby 10 times out of 10. The shorter distance between Hobby and the cruise port makes the airport much more convenient to get to the cruise ship. Also, we like that Hobby is a much smaller airport in general, making it easier to get in and out.

Royal Caribbean, Mini cruise to Mexico from Galveston, April 14, 2025

MSC Cruises Opens Cruises Out of Galveston, Texas - Cruise Hive

MSC Cruises Opens Cruises Out of Galveston, Texas.

Posted: Thu, 11 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Furthermore, the state is home to the natural beauty of Big Bend National Park. This diversity offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. In doing so, you’ll enhance your cruise experience with a seamless blend of coastal beauty and Lone Star allure. Galveston Island offers the ideal opportunity to extend your cruise vacation with a variety of amenities and attractions just minutes from the harbor. Most cruise departures typically occur between 4 PM and 5 PM, allowing you to make the most of your time by enjoying the city's captivating offerings before setting sail.

Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board any of our ships. Princess® returns to Galveston, sailing once again from this city tucked within a quaint Gulf Coast barrier island. Whether you prefer a quick mini cruise or an immersive longer journey, Galveston’s cruise options cater to every preference. Longer itineraries open up the possibility of exploring the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, as well as the iconic Panama Canal. That'll depend on your personal interests and travel style, as there are cruises from Galveston that appeal to everyone, including family travelers, budget travelers and retirees. Looking for a cruise out of Galveston that isn't jammed full of families with children?

Disney Magic sails a mix of four- to six-night voyages from Galveston to Mexico. Shorter voyages typically visit Progreso, Mexico, while longer sailings add a stop in Cozumel. Based seasonally in Galveston from December to April, Disney Magic offers the best cruises out of Galveston for the Disney fan. It is, for the record, the only Disney Cruise Line ship that sails from Galveston. Allure of the Seas sails out of Galveston every Sunday on seven-night voyages to the Western Caribbean. The ship stops at Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico.

Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. For example, the official Carnival shuttle between IAH and the cruise port runs $116 per person round trip, compared to $82 from Houston Hobby. Other services, including taxis will see an even larger price jump between the two airports. Galveston, Texas, is not just a premier starting point for Caribbean cruises; it’s a city pulsating with life and cultural vibrancy throughout the year. With its unique position on Galveston Island, the city showcases an intriguing mix of seasonal weather patterns.

Cruises from Galveston to the Western Caribbean take travelers on a journey through some of the most enchanting destinations in the region. In Mexico, ports like Cozumel, Progreso, and Costa Maya offer a rich tapestry of culture and natural beauty, from ancient Mayan ruins to vibrant coral reefs. The shortest sailings that the 10-year-old Princess Cruises ship operates out of Galveston are seven nights in length. It dates to 1998 and is the oldest cruise ship regularly sailing out of Galveston. Inside Allure of the Seas, you'll find all sorts of family attractions, including counselor-staffed play areas for kids, a teen club and an indoor ice skating rink. Located off the coast of Texas approximately one hour south of Houston, Galveston boasts 32 miles of expansive beaches and numerous historic buildings mingled among unique shops, art galleries and restaurants.

Cruises from Galveston, Texas Norwegian Cruise Line

galveston tx cruise

The journey from Houston to Galveston takes approximately 56 minutes by car, offering a convenient connection for those flying into Houston before embarking on their cruise adventure. This accessibility, combined with the diverse range of cruises offered from Galveston, contributes to the port’s status as a premier departure point for Caribbean voyages. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to discover the incredible attractions that Texas has to offer. Galveston, Texas, offers a relatively wide range of choices for cruise ships and itineraries. Five different cruise lines sail four- to 11-night voyages that visit such Western Caribbean ports as Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

Carnival Jubilee, Mexico & Honduras from Galveston, March 15, 2025

Come ready and raring for Texas-sized Gulf Coast adventure with cruises to Mexico and the Western Caribbean with a Royal Caribbean cruise from Galveston Island. We have the answers so your first  time will be nothing but smooth sailing. Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled. Known for its history, beaches and outdoor adventures, Galveston is truly a gem in Texas.

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel, Mexico from Galveston, April 10, 2025

Your Departure to Adventure is home to some of the most renowned cruise lines and ships, the Port of Galveston offers a range of choices for travelers. Known for its lively, festive, family-friendly fun, it sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. Additionally, consider Royal Caribbean for innovative, adventure-packed voyages.

Need Help with Parking? reach us at parking@portofgalveston.com  or 409-766-6163

Galveston has evolved into a world-class cruising point, attracting millions of residents from the surrounding areas. From the port of Galveston, your cruising options for both 2024 and 2025 are vast and varied, offering a wide array of itineraries and experiences to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether seeking a short getaway or a longer voyage, a cultural exploration or beach relaxation, your journey starts here. Explore Cruises from Galveston, Texas, and set sail on a journey filled with memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re considering a cruise from Galveston, explore this comprehensive guide to Caribbean cruises departing from this island paradise.

galveston tx cruise

Major Differences Between Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

With a wide range of connecting flights and transportation choices, reaching Galveston is incredibly convenient. Consequently, you can access this port from virtually anywhere in the world, making your cruise experience accessible and hassle-free. As is the case with all Princess ships, it's more of a ship geared toward middle-aged and older travelers without kids, including lots of retirees.

As a result, it draws far fewer families than the vessels above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples. Most Carnival Breeze sailings out of Galveston stop at Cozumel, with some adding a stop at Costa Maya, as well. Carnival Breeze also offers a water park with waterslides on its top decks, a miniature golf course, a sports court for basketball and volleyball, and multiple pools. One of three ships in the line's Dream class that date to the late 2000s and early 2010s, the 3,690-passenger Carnival Breeze is no longer the newest or snazziest ship in the Carnival fleet. At around 130,000 tons, it's about 29% smaller than Carnival's newer Excel-class ships and has fewer venues, from bars and restaurants to entertainment spaces. Here we list our top picks for the best cruises from Galveston for five different types of travelers.

Caribbean cruises

Here’s everything you need to know to get to the port and start your vacation. Both airports will offer similar service for transportation, including taxis, cruise line shuttles, car rentals, and independent shuttles to the Port of Galveston. Houston Intercontinental is the city’s largest airport and also offers the most flight service. If you are flying from an international destination, you will likely have no choice but to fly into this airport. In addition, IAH is a United hub, which serves airports around the country and the world. Join our Princess fleet to sail on some of the best cruises from Galveston.

If it's swanky digs you're after (and you have the money to spend), you'll find plenty of options on this ship. Interior venues on Carnival Breeze include a comedy club, piano bar, casino and showroom for big production shows. The dining options are similar to what you'll find on many Carnival ships, including an extra-charge steakhouse and Italian eatery, Cucina Del Capitano, as well as no-extra-charge main restaurants.

Galveston Cruise Parking (Where to Park): Prices, Profiles, & Map

For those looking for a quick getaway, the 4-day and 5-day short cruises offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. These mini cruises are ideal for a short but sweet escape, offering a taste of the vibrant life and culture of the Western Caribbean. For a more in-depth journey, the 6-day and 7-day cruises focus on unveiling the wonders of the Western Caribbean.

Designed specifically to appeal to families, the world's fifth-largest cruise vessel is chock-full of more family-friendly activity zones than just about any other cruise ship at sea. Our Port of Galveston cruise parking allows passengers to reserve a parking spot when sailing out of Port of Galveston cruise terminals. With the pre-paid parking program, the Port is offering parking rates for spots in the Port of Galveston's official parking lots. Cruise passengers can secure a spot in advance through our online service. Given the distance, we would always suggest flying into Houston the day before you sail.

Carnival Jubilee cruise ship rescues 2 men whose boat sank in Gulf of Mexico after departing from Galveston, Texas port - KTRK-TV

Carnival Jubilee cruise ship rescues 2 men whose boat sank in Gulf of Mexico after departing from Galveston, Texas port.

Posted: Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Galveston is located conveniently for short getaways down the Gulf Coast to Mexico or even longer trips to the Caribbean or further; Galveston is a convenient port that is also a worthy destination in and of itself. Enhance your cruise vacation and kick back, relax, and explore the fun, historical and vibrant island of Galveston. Uncover the upcoming departures from Galveston, the gateway to your Caribbean adventure. Browse through our cruise schedule to plan your journey and embark on a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Galveston, situated on Galveston Island, is a charming coastal city in Texas that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Galveston’s unique charm lies in its well-preserved historic districts, its beautiful beaches, and its vibrant cultural scene. Set against the Gulf of Mexico, it offers a rich history and stunning coastal beauty.

Houston Hobby is considerably closer, sitting on the southeast side of Houston, compared to Intercontinental’s location due north of the city. In total, you should allot between 45 minutes (Hobby) to an hour and 15 minutes (Intercontinental), at the very least. To help out those passengers trying to decide which airport is better for their trip, we have all the details about both as it relates to cruising from Galveston. Discover a world of relaxation and exhilaration as you sail toward new adventures on a stylish retreat with Princess Cruises.

Sprinkle in a few museums, amusement parks, attractive beaches and tasty seafood restaurants, and you’ve got a great start to your cruise from Galveston. The Grand Cayman of the Cayman Islands, a gem in the sea, offers luxury and natural splendor with its famous beaches and underwater adventures. Finally, Jamaica, with ports such as Falmouth, Ocho Rios, and Montego Bay, brings the vibrant heartbeat of the Caribbean to life through its rich culture, rhythmic music, and lush, mountainous landscapes. Each of these destinations provides a unique glimpse into the diverse and vibrant life of the Western Caribbean. Galveston, Texas, is a remarkable starting point for your cruise adventures. Its proximity to Houston, the cultural hub of Texas, makes it a convenient choice for travelers.

Super Milk » Hair Treatment » Lush Baltic

Table Of Content Kush Queen Mini Bath Bomb Collection, $39.99 Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024: Best Clean And Organic Self-Care Sets Sign Up Fo...