The Port of Galveston: Texas' Premier Gateway to the Caribbean

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The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Galveston, Texas. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry.

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If you need a ride to the cruise port, then we suggest Uber/Lyft or an independent shuttle for most people (not the shuttles operated by the cruise line). Cruise shuttles offer roundtrip rides between the airports and the cruise terminal for as little as $50 per person. You can read more and get all the details on our Galveston port transportation page. As we’ve mentioned, sailing from Galveston is easy and convenient if you live in the area. If you have to fly in for your cruise, then you’re looking at another 45 to 75-minute ride to get to the cruise port. If you plan to fly to Galveston, you will arrive at either Hobby Airport, HOU, or George Bush International Airport, IAH, you have to rent a car or take a cruise line shuttle.

Galveston is having a cruise growth spurt - Travel Weekly

Galveston is having a cruise growth spurt.

Posted: Mon, 31 Jul 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Hotels in Galveston with Shuttle to Cruise Port

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In 2022, the Port's cruise activities supported ~3500 jobs and generated US$568 million (local business revenue) and US$73,5 million (local purchases by cruise tourists/passengers and crew). The Strand Historical District is the town’s prime shopping spot, where 19th-century storefronts now house a quirky collection of locally owned gift shops and antique stores. Here you can pick up beachwear, whimsical gifts, model ships, used books, Southwestern turquoise jewelry, and Texas-inspired home décor. Oasis Class flavors, thrills and beats go full-throttle on the biggest, boldest ship to ever sail from Texas — Harmony of the Seas®. And when the sun goes down, head to the AquaTheater or experience the Broadway hit Grease. Texas cruises often range from 6-9 nights providing cruisers with a variety of different entertainment and dining options.

Galveston’s Exotic Destinations

The three cruise terminals in Galveston provide passengers with a variety of options and amenities. Whether you are looking for a large, modern terminal or a smaller, more intimate experience, you can find it in Galveston. Royal Caribbean International uses Terminal 10 in Galveston, which is the newest cruise terminal, for its Oasis-class ships. The terminal is designed to be energy-efficient and uses solar panels, bike racks, and electric vehicle charging stations. It also offers a number of amenities for passengers, including mobile check-in, facial recognition, and separate entrances for VIPs.

Here’s everything you need to know about your cruise from Galveston. Known for its lively atmosphere and frequent events, East Beach is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. With live music, festivals, and a vibrant nightlife scene, it’s a dynamic beach experience. A family-friendly destination, Stewart Beach offers a wide expanse of sandy shores, lifeguard stations, and amenities like volleyball courts and a pavilion. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. To make this an easy decision, here are several hotels near the Galveston Cruise Terminal with shuttles to and from the port.

The North Lot is directly next to the terminal, and spots can be booked there for a premium price. The South and Pier 14 Lots are a bit further away but offer guests a free shuttle service to and from the terminal. On a cruise from Galveston to the Western Caribbean, explore the beauty of unspoiled coral reefs and underwater caves as well as visit the ancient Mayan ruins throughout the region. Located near the Galveston Ship Channel, Seawolf Park Beach provides scenic views of passing ships and access to fishing piers. The park also features military exhibits, making it a unique blend of history and recreation. If you have time either before or after your cruise, add a couple of days to explore Galveston’s family-friendly attractions.

Top 10 Cruises to Galveston, Texas

Florida set records for cruise travel, but other states are investing - Palm Beach Post

Florida set records for cruise travel, but other states are investing.

Posted: Wed, 14 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. Starting at just $287, choose the perfect cruise from Texas that fits your traveling desires. Few of us can visit a drilling rig, so the Ocean Star Drilling Rig Museum is a great opportunity to learn about offshore drilling and exploration, seismology and much more. Taxis and buses (book ahead while onboard) will be lined up to take you to your onward destination. Once you have identified and collected your luggage, you will need to produce your passport at immigration to re-enter the USA. If you are importing alcohol and tobacco, dues will be collected by the TABC (Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission) as you pass through the terminal.

Here are a few attractions to tempt you to stay a few nights and enjoy this top resort. On your return to Galveston cruise port, the disembarkation process is highly organized. The ship needs to be thoroughly cleaned and re-stocked with food, water and fuel ready to depart in just a few hours. Consequently, arrival back at Galveston is usually early in the morning.

With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative. Some smaller cruise lines, such as Carnival’s smaller ships, use Cruise Terminal 28, which is a smaller terminal. The terminal is not as large or as well-equipped as Cruise Terminal 25, but it still offers the basic amenities that passengers need. Cruise ShuttlesGiven the distance between Houston and Galveston, an industry of shuttles have popped up that provide rides from the airport to the cruise port.

In 2018, the Port's cruise shipping grew by 13%, resulting in USD 1,5 billion in direct expenditures and supported Texas jobs (with total wages USD 1,75 billion). Galveston is Texas State's only homeport and was accounted for 6,3% of the USA's cruise industry overall spending, 6,2% of the industry's total employment impact, 7,6% of its income impact. In 2018, the port's passenger+crew arrivals were ~1,4 million (estimated USD 115M in ashore spending/goods and services). In 2017 were handled a total of 258 ship calls and ~1,9 million passengers. In 2017, the port reported a record monthly cruise shipping volume (113,488 embarking passengers) on a total of 33 departures in December. Major contributors to the Port's current successful cruise business are Carnival Corporation and RCG-Royal Caribbean Group.

One thing to know is that it can get busy on cruise day, with lots of pedestrians. If you want to avoid this, you can plan to drop off a couple of blocks from the port. Here it is much calmer and still only a short walk to the cruise terminals.

Before getting on a cruise from Galveston, start your vacation with a visit to the city’s museums, historic neighborhoods, and cultural icons. Take a walk along the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, home to family-friendly rides, games, and other attractions. Then relax on one of Galveston’s many iconic beaches and enjoy the 32-miles of coastline. Whether you are traveling with family, a group of friends or your significant other, this laid-back island has something for everyone. These terminals serve as the embarkation point for prestigious cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL).

Depart from the coastal gem of Galveston, Texas, and experience a blend of Texas charm and beachside relaxation. Delight in the city's historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and lively entertainment district before setting sail to exciting destinations aboard your cruise ship. It is the most convenient and secure parking for cruisers, just a short walk or shuttle ride from the cruise check-in.

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