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Cruises from Galveston

An island full of art, architecture, and boutiques.

Princess® returns to Galveston, sailing once again from this city tucked within a quaint Gulf Coast barrier island. Explore the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and grab some local cuisine, or visit Moody Gardens with attractions and entertainment ranging from a world-class aquarium and a living rainforest to the Discovery Museum and Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, before you embark on a cruise to exciting destinations in the Western Caribbean and Mexico such as Costa Maya, Cozumel and Roatan.

Caribbean cruises

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. One moment you can be walking among the vast ruins of this mighty civilization and the next delving into the culture of the Yucatán Peninsula or simply unwinding on beaches that offer some of the best snorkeling in the world.

What to Know About Cruises from Galveston

Known for its history, beaches and outdoor adventures, Galveston is truly a gem in Texas. Here’s everything you need to know about your cruise from Galveston. 

Galveston at a glance

• Language:  English
• Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Time Zone:  Central Time (CT)
• Docking:  Your cruise from Galveston docks at the Port of Galveston located in the city’s historic downtown district.
• Attire:  Galveston’s temperatures throughout the year typically range from 48 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning it’s never too hot or too cold to spend the day at the beach.
• Transportation:  You can get around the island by Uber, Lyft, shuttle, limousine, or rental car. There are also unique transportation options such as surreys along the beachfront and horse-drawn carriages in the historic downtown district.

Things to do in Galveston

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.

Cruise Ship Sailing from Galveston

Join our Princess fleet to sail on some of the best cruises from Galveston. Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board any of our ships. Discover what makes our fleet so unique.

Learn more about: Regal Princess®

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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.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. 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.

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Find a great cruise from galveston, what are the best cruises from galveston.

Several great cruises out of Galveston in 2024 are available, including Royal Caribbean International's , Allure of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas , which travel throughout the Caribbean Sea. On these cruises, you can set sail while enjoying entertainment and Broadway musicals in addition to buffet meals, room service, and spa treatments with stunning views from the deck. Norwegian cruise lines are also quite rewarding, with luxury amenities and plenty of stops along the Mexican coast.

How can I find a cheap cruise out of Galveston?

When you search for budget Galveston cruises in 2024, you can sort your results by price to put the cheapest options at the top of the list. Discounts are already applied in the search prices and you will find attractive cruise deals. Most cheap cruises from Galveston reach ports in the northern Caribbean, such as the Bahamas.

What cruise lines operate from Galveston?

A variety of Galveston cruise lines depart from Galveston port including Carnival , Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian, Princess , Disney , and more. Couples, families or groups can all find options leaving from Galveston. You’ll find luxury, all-inclusive, last-minute or all types of cruises with the cruise lines that operate out of Galveston.

How can I find good cruise deals out of Galveston?

All deals on cruises departing from Galveston will be marked on your search results page with a green box right above the cruise price estimate. Within the green box, you'll see the upper limit of the discount available. Sorting by price is a great way to put these kinds of results at the top of the search page. Additionally, you'll want to consider the perks and amenities you can get for a discounted price, as that can be a great deal compared to a cheaper cruise without any of the extra features on deck.

What should I look out for when booking a cruise from Galveston in 2025?

To get the most out of your cruise out of Galveston, you'll need to find one that offers the kind of experience you'd enjoy most. Consider who you'll be traveling with, as a romantic cruise can be far different from a more family-friendly cruise. Additionally, consider what kind of amenities come with the price of a ticket and what is extra. Fortunately, you can always check the "What's included" section of any cruise to learn more. Since most cruises from Galveston go to the Caribbean or the Mexican coast, be sure to consider which destination is most appealing. Plus, winter travel from Galveston can still take you to warmer shores.

Where are the best places to go on cruises leaving from Galveston?

Several incredible destinations are within cruising distance, with cruises from Galveston to Mexico being particularly popular. Some ports in Mexico include Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Cancun and Cozumel. You may also be interested in cruises to the Bahamas . These cruises traverse over 700 islands with plenty of white beaches and turquoise water to enjoy.

What are some good all-inclusive cruises from Galveston?

All-inclusive cruises from Galveston in 2025 come in many forms, but they all feature an inviting cabin, food, and entertainment such as what you'll find on Norwegian cruises or Princess cruises. Both of these cruise lines may already include quite a bit in the price of a ticket such as spa facilities and room service, check your cruise booking for details.

What are some great family cruises out of Galveston?

Family cruises from Galveston to exciting destinations like Jamaica and Cozumel offer fun for adults and kids alike, and Disney cruises tend to be among the best in that regard. You'll also find youth programs available with Royal Caribbean International and Princess cruises out of Galveston. Royal Caribbean has water slides and zip-lining. Princess cruises have onboard education programs for the kids. Of course, the captain makes sure that family cruises are smooth sailing as well for a relaxing experience.

What are some good adults-only cruises from Galveston?

Adults-only cruises out of Galveston to destinations like the Bahamas or Jamaica let you relax on your journey throughout the sea in 2024 without the noise of kids nearby, and you'll find some alluring options from Carnival cruises and Norwegian cruises. Plus, adults-only cruises often include drinks from the bar in the price of the ticket, which is something that would typically cost extra.

What are some good singles cruises from Galveston?

Singles cruises out of Galveston to destinations like Antigua and Mexico are specifically designed to let adults meet each other, and you'll find plenty of options from Royal Caribbean International along with Princess cruises. The activities and entertainment onboard are geared toward the solo traveler looking to find unforgettable experiences on the waves.

Are there any Christmas cruises from Galveston in 2024?

Yes, you can find Christmas cruises by searching using travel dates around Christmas. Going on a cruise is a popular winter vacation in Galveston for travelers looking to reach warmer shores, so just about every cruise line that's common to the port typically has something available. Most of the cruises visit the Western Caribbean with ports like Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Belize.

What are some great gay cruise lines out of Galveston?

Princess cruises and Royal Caribbean International have several gay cruises from Galveston available offering a variety of experiences, with some being 5-day cruises from Galveston and others lasting nearly 2 weeks. The captains on these cruises can take you throughout the Caribbean, with some having multiple shore excursions in places like Jamaica, Mexico, and the Cayman Islands.

How do I book a cruise from Galveston on Expedia?

To book a cruise out of Galveston, all you have to do is browse our pre-selected deals or set Galveston as your departure destination to see more. You can narrow down the search quite a bit by picking an arrival destination and departure dates as well. Plus, you'll find filters for a variety of cruise aspects such as cabin conditions, cruise lines, cruise ships, and more.

How can I find last-minute cruise deals from Galveston?

To find last-minute cruise deals from Galveston, simply enter your planned departure date, even if it's sometime soon, and available deals will be marked with a green box above the price on the search results page describing how much of a discount you can get. Additionally, you may want to sort your results by departure date to see what's the closest cruise available and get out to sea as soon as possible.

Can I book weekend cruises out of Galveston?

Plenty Galveston weekend cruises are on offer, you just have to find the right one for you. Venturing out of the Galveston port for a weekend is easy when you take advantage of the available search filters. Activate the filter for 3-5 nights in the cruise length section then sort the results by length to find the shortest cruises available. Common weekend destinations from Galveston include the Mexican coast and more ports throughout the Western Caribbean.

Do I need a passport to cruise from Galveston?

Whether you need a passport on a cruise from Galveston depends on where the cruise will return. If it's departing from Galveston and returning at the same port, you won't need a passport even if you anchor in another country like Mexico during the cruise. This is called a closed-loop cruise, and it means that as long as the cruise begins and ends in a US port, you don't need a passport.

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel any cruise booking from your My Trips page or by contacting customer service. How much of a refund you get depends on the cruise line's specific policies and how far in advance of your departure you cancel, so make sure to cancel in advance to get the best deal.

Why should I book a cruise from Galveston with Expedia in 2024?

When you book a cruise out of Galveston, Texas, with Expedia, you can expect a wide variety of options available alongside search tools that make it easy to narrow down results and find the right ship for your cruise vacation.

Galveston Cruise Guide

Galveston, where beautiful shoreline beaches stretch along the Gulf of Mexico, is a port to many major cruise lines including Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean. Since it's a popular Island city to visit by cruisers, a lot of hotels offer hotel parking programs that allow guests complimentary parking and a free shuttle to the cruise port.

If you’re only in Galveston for the morning before embarking on your cruise, make sure to grab breakfast at one of the many local mom-and-pop shops, like Farley Girls Café or the Gumbo Diner. Then take a stroll through historic downtown Galveston for shops, restaurants, museums, and an interactive pirate museum, Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast. If you're around for longer, there’s a variety of live music events that happen all year round, like inside the Moody Mansion, which is one of the many historical buildings found in the city. For animal lovers, try out a dolphin tour, or stop by the Moody Gardens complex which features a botanical garden, a giant aquarium and a live rainforest replica. Lastly, no trip to Galveston would be complete without stopping by the Island Historic Pleasure Pier, the family-oriented amusement park that features 16 rides, games, and a variety of shops and food venues including Texas’ very first Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Pre and Post Cruise Hotels in Galveston

Galveston Beach Hotel

Reviewed on May 15, 2024

Inn at The Waterpark

Reviewed on May 11, 2024

Gaido's Seaside Inn

Reviewed on May 14, 2024

Beachfront Palms Hotel Galveston

Reviewed on May 12, 2024

Wingate by Wyndham Galveston East Beach

Reviewed on May 9, 2024

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Best Cruises from Galveston

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Disney Magic

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet (it first launched in 1998). It was last refurbished in May 2023, when it received updates like a "Soul"-themed lounge, concierge-level upgrades and a new "Encanto" live show. The ship also features family favorites such as the AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique dress-up shop and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.

Disney Magic features diverse entertainment, including live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools and a splash area for children younger than 3. Unique to the Magic is the teens-only Chill Spa. When it comes to dining, the ship offers eight eateries, including an adults-only specialty restaurant and buffet options. Recent cruisers gave the food quality mixed reviews.

In terms of lodging, 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suites include extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Past cruisers noted that the service on this ship is up to Disney's standards, but so is the price tag.

Disney Magic sails from Galveston, Texas ;  San Diego ;  Miami ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New Orleans ; and  San Juan, Puerto Rico . It visits destinations across the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once per sailing, guests are invited to watch Tangled: The Musical in the Walt Disney Theater. This Broadway-style show retells the story of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider with three new original songs, puppets, and beautiful costumes. This show is very popular, so it's best to get to the theater about an hour before the show starts to get a good seat. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Allure of the Seas

The 6,826-passenger Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. There are a whopping 2,054 crew members on board to cater to passengers' needs. Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. The ship underwent a $165 million refurbishment in 2020, which added approximately 50 new staterooms, the Ultimate Abyss (the tallest slide at sea), redesigned kids and teens spaces, new dining venues and more.

Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 19 dining options – and a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

Allure of the Seas departs from Miami, Orlando, Florida, and Galveston , Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean.

Harmony of the Seas

Welcoming up to 6,687 passengers and 2,200 crew members, Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016 and tuned up in 2021, the ship features Royal Caribbean staples like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, as well as innovative amenities like the Ultimate Abyss (a 10-story slide) and three multistory waterslides. Plus, while younger passengers play in the arcade or at age-appropriate clubs, adults can relax at the spa or sip cocktails at multiple bars and lounges.

After working up an appetite, guests can choose from 20 dining options. Past cruisers especially praised the multitude of specialty restaurants, which range from Mexican to Japanese fare and require reservations and an additional fee.

When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of cabin categories, with more than 70% of cabins featuring balconies. While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury should consider upgrading to a Suite, which range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Villa Suites. While all cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars, suites include access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

Harmony of the Seas sails from Miami and Galveston, Texas , to destinations throughout the Caribbean.

Regal Princess

Unique features – including a glass walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship – make Regal Princess stand out among competitors. Guests can expect quality service on the 3,560-passenger, 1,346-crew-member ship, which debuted in 2014 and was most recently updated in 2017.

Regal Princess offers plenty of onboard activities, from an indoor driving range to a photography studio to educational programming through Discovery at SEA events. While adults sip cocktails at one of the onboard lounges, kids and teens can enjoy age-appropriate youth clubs. Come mealtime, the whole gang can choose between the main dining rooms, a number of specialty restaurants (including Sabatini's Italian venue) and multiple laid-back eateries.

All cabins come appointed with minifridges and flat-screen TVs. While Interior cabins measure between 158 and 162 square feet, larger Balcony staterooms occupy 214 to 222 square feet. The ship also features Mini-Suite category cabins, which offer two flat-screen TVs, bathtubs and furnished balconies. Each guest aboard Regal Princess receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Regal Princess sails to Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe and beyond.

Mariner of the Seas

Introduced in 2003 and overhauled in mid-2018, Mariner of the Seas features passenger favorites like the Escape Room, the Izumi Japanese restaurant and a surf simulator. During the ship's refurbishment, Royal Caribbean also added 100 new staterooms, updated cabins and public spaces and added fan-favorite restaurant Jamie's Italian by chef Jamie Oliver.

Though the 4,000-passenger ship features a 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio, recent cruisers said the vessel still maintains a high level of customer service. When it comes to dining, the ship offers 11 venues, including a multilevel main dining room. The ship's 10 bars and lounges and onboard entertainment, which includes Broadway-style shows, earn a consistent nod of approval from past cruisers. Kids have plenty of age-appropriate entertainment, too, including youth programs and teen lounges. Mariner of the Seas touts three pools and six whirlpools. These areas of the ship attract a high concentration of children.

Past travelers were generally complimentary of the staterooms. Similar to its sister ships, Mariner of the Seas offers four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. All staterooms include flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi accessibility. 

Mariner of the Seas departs from  Orlando , Florida, and Galveston, Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the  Bahamas .

Carnival Miracle

Like other Carnival ships, the 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle boasts activities and entertainment geared toward travelers of all ages. Thanks to a renovation in 2020, the ship features upgrades like Guy's Burger Joint, WaterWorks, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and more. The ship also received a minor refresh to interior and exterior spaces in 2022. 

Even with the added venues, a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures service is a priority. And compared to other Carnival ships, Miracle offers a higher percentage of cabins with ocean views. While Interior staterooms provide more wallet-friendly digs, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category cabins offer more space and scenery. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service.

During days at sea, grown-ups can enjoy poolside lounging or the adults-only Serenity Retreat, while kids ages 2 to 17 can play at age-specific programs.  There are also entertainment options like the Punchliner Comedy Club, the SkyBox Sports Bar and the Seuss at Sea program. Once the family works up an appetite, they'll have their pick of the main dining room, the Lido buffet, a specialty steakhouse (for an extra fee) and more.

Carnival Miracle departs from Galveston, Texas ;  Los Angeles  and  San Francisco  to destinations in the Caribbean, the Panama Canal,  Hawaii , Mexico , and Alaska . 

Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima first set sail in October 2022 and can hold 3,099 guests and 1,506 crew members. The latest ship in the fleet includes many of the cruiser-favorite amenities and activities that are standard across Norwegian , plus a few more exciting additions.

Accommodations include Studios (perfect for solo travelers), and Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, Club Balcony Suite and Suite staterooms. The Haven aboard the Norwegian Prima has been redesigned, with more spacious suites, upscale decor and The Haven's private sun deck. Outside their rooms, travelers will find plenty of dining options, including pub fare at The Local Bar & Grill, classic fare at the main dining room Hudson's, fine dining at The Commodore Room, international cuisine at Indulge Food Hall, casual eats at the Surfside Café & Grill and 24-hour room service, in addition to several specialty dining venues.

As far as activities go, cruisers can enjoy mini-golf, a racecar track, the water park and waterslides, plus games like darts, shuffleboard and pickleball. Those looking to relax can snag a lounge chair by the pool or book a treatment at the spa. Other options for fun include a casino, numerous bars and lounges, and a theater to enjoy musicals, concerts and The Price Is Right Live.

This Norwegian ship offers itineraries through the Mediterranean, northern Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean in the coming years.

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape debuted in 2015 and was refurbished in 2022. It carries 4,266 passengers and 1,733 crew members. Highlights include the District Brew House and Norwegian's wine bar, The Cellars. Guests can choose from a total of 18 dining venues, including 11 specialty restaurants.

When it comes to activities, the ship appeals to multiple generations. Children can play in age-appropriate clubs or in the kids aqua park, while adults can sip cocktails or get treatments at the Mandara Spa. Nighttime entertainment includes live musicals, acts at the Headliners Comedy Club and table games at the casino.

Accommodations are just as diverse, ranging from Studio staterooms designed for solo travelers to Inside, Oceanview and Balcony cabins. There are also larger Club Balcony Suites, as well as The Haven (exclusive cabins that offer elite perks like 24-hour butler service and access to a private sundeck). 

Norwegian Escape departs from Miami , Orlando ,  New York City ,  Rome , Barcelona and Venice , Italy for sailings in Bermuda , Canada, the Caribbean and Europe.

Carnival Breeze

The 3,690-passenger Carnival Breeze was introduced in 2012 and last updated in 2017. On board, cruisers will find outdoor activities like a water park and a SportsSquare with games like mini-golf, as well as supervised (and free) age-appropriate programs for kids and teens. While the younger passengers play, adults can relax at the adults-only Serenity retreat, get treatments at the Cloud 9 Spa and sip cocktails at one of the ship's bars. 

As far as dining goes, cruisers can choose between several food options, including sushi, Indian, 24/7 pizza and more. Guy's Burger Joint and Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, in partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, are passenger favorites. Nighttime entertainment ranges from karaoke to shows at the Punchliner Comedy Club.

Carnival Breeze offers a variety of cabin categories, all of which include flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. The ship maintains a nearly 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. While some recent cruisers appreciated the family atmosphere, others were disappointed by long lines and wait times during dinner service. 

Carnival Breeze cruises to the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas . 

Norwegian Jade

The 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade was renovated in 2022. The updated ship is geared toward a diverse set of ages and traveler types. Plus, with 1,037 crew members, the service exceeded recent cruisers' expectations.

Aboard Jade, guests can choose from a spectrum of lodging options. While Inside cabins range from 138 to 278 square feet, the ship's Haven suites and villas measure between 440 and 4,719 square feet. These larger accommodations feature living and dining areas, balconies and private access to an exclusive courtyard.

Norwegian Jade features 13 restaurants (including seven specialty eateries) and a variety of bars, lounges and nightclubs. During the day, guests can take advantage of a wide array of activities, including a variety of sports, a spa and age-appropriate youth clubs. 

Norwegian Jade sails throughout ports in Tampa, Alaska, Europe and Caribbean.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Cheap Cruises from Galveston - Cruises out of Galveston

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5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want a freshly renovated older ship with lots of activities
• You like plenty of open decks and cabins with balconies
• You want a ship that provides fun with a touch of class
• You want a quiet, classically understated cruise experience
• You need diversions like massive waterparks and ziplines

4 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

4 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

• You avoided Carnival's earlier ships because of their wild decor
• You want a big ship with quality amenities designed for kids
• You love nonstop entertainment activities by day and night
• You find crowds, line-ups and organized activities stressful
• You value spacious suites and high-end, designer amenities

7 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want an energetic cruise that's impossibly fun for all
• You love action; the Ultimate Abyss slide is heart-pounding
• You enjoy big, busy ships filled with plenty of dining options
• You prefer a more traditional, laid-back cruise experience
• You love watching the sea; some public rooms lack windows

5 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

6 night cruise to the caribbean.

• You enjoy plenty of diverse restaurant and cuisine options
• You value wide-open deck spaces and hidden nooks and crannies
• You want a big, modern ship with as many amenities as possible
• You dislike big ships where lines and crowds are the norm
• You want adventurous thrills like ziplines and bumper cars
• You prefer subtle evening entertainment to in-your-face fun

9 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You like a more classically styled, big-ship cruise experience
• You like bright, window-lined public rooms and open decks
• You want to go to ports that the bigger ships can't get to
• You want the latest whiz-bang gadgets and onboard features
• You are looking for surfing simulators, ziplines and the like

8 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

14 night cruise to the caribbean.

• You want a sophisticated cruise with some Vegas glitz and glam
• You love having lots of diverse dining options for all tastes
• You're traveling as an extended family and need fun for all
• You like the promenade decks found on other Princess ships
• You want large cabins and balconies; standard ones are small

12 Night Cruise to the Southern Caribbean

8 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You love Disney and want a high-quality family cruise experience
• You are traveling with kids and need excellent kids programs
• You love the grand style of the past transatlantic ocean liners
• You don't want to have your picture taken with Captain Mickey
• You're looking for a quiet, adults-only cruise vacation
• You value diversions like surfing simulators and ziplines

10 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

6 night cruise to the western caribbean, 7 night cruise to the caribbean.

• You are looking for a next-gen "Fun Ship" experience with lots to do at a great value
• You want the greatest selection of dining and entertainment options
• You like a social and party atmosphere with some quieter places to escape to
• You prefer a smaller ship with fewer fellow passengers and more space per guest
• You appreciate a greater destination focus with an observation lounge
• You want even more included without the need to pay for extras

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Located off the coast of Texas approximately one hour south of Houston, Galveston boasts 32 miles of expansive beaches and numerous historic buildings mingled amongst unique shops, art galleries and restaurants. Having hosted pirates and explorers before the island was officially settled in the 1830s, the region has a storied past you can revisit whilst touring local museums and historic districts. Then soak up some relaxation, sunshine and warm sands during a well-deserved beach day or splash the afternoon away on a paddle boarding or kayaking tour.

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Cruise Lines From Galveston, TX

The following cruise lines offer departures from the Port of Galveston.

Just offshore from Galveston, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea becomes your playground. Visit exotic, sun-soaked destinations such as Mexico, Belize, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, the Bahamas, and the Honduran island of Roatan.

• Royal Caribbean

MSC Cruises

Cruising from galveston.

The following cruise lines offer departures from the Port of Galveston:

• Carnival Cruise Lines

Royal Caribbean International

Disney cruise line.

• Princess Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Lines

CLICK HERE FOR THE OFFICIAL PORT OF GALVESTON CRUISE CALENDAR

Carnival Cruise Line

Set sail from a historic jewel along the Gulf of Mexico on Carnival cruises out of Galveston, Texas. Carnival Cruise Line is “The World’s Most Popular Cruise Line©” with several ships operating voyages to the Caribbean and beyond!

Sails To: Western Caribbean Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 2 - 5 Days

Image courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Sails To: Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, Panama Canal Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 6 - 9 Days, 10+ Days

Sails To: Western Caribbean, Transatlantic to Galveston (One-Way) Sails From: Galveston, TX; London (Southampton), England Duration: 6 - 9 Days, 10+ Days

Sails To: Western Caribbean Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 4 - 8 Days

Sails To: Western Caribbean Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 4 - 13 Days

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.

Sails To: Western Caribbean, Mexico Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 6 - 8 Days Image courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Sails To: Western Caribbean Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 9 - 10 Days

Image courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Sails To: Western Caribbean, Mexico Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 4 - 7 Days

Sails To: Western Caribbean, Mexico Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 4 - 6 Days

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and the biggest, boldest adventure has arrived in Galveston. Royal Caribbean International’s new $125 million cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas, opened its doors and welcomed the Lone Star State’s largest cruise ship.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is back to commence cruises from Galveston, Texas! NCL Cruises in Galveston will travel to beautiful ports such as Costa Maya, Roatán, Cozumel and more!

Sails To: Western Caribbean Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 7 Days

Sails To: Western Caribbean & Beyond Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 7 & 14 Days

Sails To: Western Caribbean & Beyond Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 7 Days

Princess Cruises

Discover a world of relaxation and exhilaration as you sail toward new adventures on a stylish retreat with Princess Cruises.

Sails To: Western Caribbean Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 5 - 16 Days

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. Highlights include kids’ pools, Broadway-caliber musicals, a Marvel Superhero Academy, and a range of eating options.

Sails To: Western Caribbean Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 4 - 7 Days

Texas-sized discoveries await. 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.

Sails To: Caribbean & Bahamas Sails From: Galveston, TX Duration: 7 Nights

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7 - Day Western Caribbean from Galveston, TX

Cruise itinerary.

Day 1: Galveston

Day 2: Fun Day at Sea

Day 3: cozumel, day 4: costa maya, day 5: mahogany bay.

Day 6 & 7: Fun Day at Sea

Day 8: galveston.

Get to Know Carnival Jubilee

Onboard activities.

Onboard Dining

change your itinerary

The 5 best cruises from Galveston for every type of traveler

What are the best cruises from Galveston, Texas ? I've been on all the cruise ships that sail out of the fast-growing cruise port (and visited all the places they go), and I know which one I would pick: A seven-night sailing on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Prima.

I'm a big fan of this new Norwegian vessel's stylish design and upscale feel, and I love its luxurious Haven suite complex. It also offers a solid itinerary out of Galveston that visits several of my favorite ports in the Western Caribbean.

That said, a seven-night Norwegian Prima sailing out of Galveston isn't necessarily the best Galveston cruise for you.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

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.

Here we list our top picks for the best cruises from Galveston for five different types of travelers.

Best for families: Allure of the Seas

Looking for the best family cruise from Galveston? It's hard to go wrong with a sailing on Royal Caribbean 's giant Allure of the Seas.

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.

Thanks partly to its enormous size — it's 18 decks high and nearly 1,200 feet long — the 5,484-passenger Allure of the Seas has room for three separate main pool areas, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on its top decks.

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. The ship also offers lots of family-friendly performances, such as ice skating shows at the rink and acrobatic and diving performances at an outdoor "Aquatheater." At the back of the ship, a New Jersey boardwalk-themed fun zone features rock-climbing walls and a hand-carved carousel.

In short, whether you have toddlers in tow or command a troop of teens and tweens, you'll find all sorts of activities to keep them squealing with delight — more than on any other ship that sails out of Galveston, including Disney Cruise Line's family-focused Disney Magic.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cruises

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.

Note that in November 2023, Allure of the Seas will be replaced in Galveston with Royal Caribbean's slightly larger Harmony of the Seas. The two ships, both part of Royal Caribbean's groundbreaking Oasis class of vessels , are similar. However, the newer Harmony of the Seas has a couple more bells and whistles that will get your kids excited — most notably the Ultimate Abyss, a terrifying slide that drops nine decks. (Royal Caribbean says it drops 10 decks, but don't be fooled; the line is counting a nonexistent Deck 13.)

Harmony of the Seas also has a water park area, something that has yet to be added to Allure of the Seas.

If either of those two attractions is a must-have for your next cruise out of Galveston, you'll want to book the Harmony of the Seas sailings that start in November. Harmony of the Seas will operate the same itinerary as Allure of the Seas does now.

In addition, Royal Caribbean operates a second, smaller vessel out of Galveston: The 3,602-passenger Voyager of the Seas. The ship mostly sails four- and five-night trips to Mexico.

Best for Disney fans: Disney Magic

As noted above, our pick for the best family cruises out of Galveston are the sailings available on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas. However, we say that with one big caveat: If your family is a Disney-obsessed family that can't imagine a vacation that isn't infused to the extreme with all things Disney, there is only one choice for your Galveston-based cruise: a voyage on Disney Magic .

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.

Disney Magic isn't a new ship. It dates to 1998 and is the oldest cruise ship regularly sailing out of Galveston. But it still feels modern, thanks to major makeovers in recent years.

One overhaul to Disney Magic not too long ago brought such cutting-edge features as the AquaDunk — a 37-foot-tall body slide that careens over the side of the vessel — and a new outdoor kiddie fun zone called AquaLab.

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.

Like all Disney ships, Disney Magic boasts many cabins with split bathrooms — a boon for families. That's not something you'll find on any of the other Galveston-based cruise vessels.

If you've tried Disney's newer Disney Wish or two Dream-class ships (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream), you will notice that the 1,754-passenger Disney Magic is noticeably smaller — about 42% smaller than Disney Wish and 35% smaller than the Dream-class ships. That results in fewer and smaller attractions than the latter vessels. On the flip side, it has a much more intimate feel on board.

Related: The 3 types of Disney ships, explained

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.

Fares for off-peak sailings on Disney Magic often start around $800 per person for a four-night trip — significantly higher on a per-night basis than the lowest-cost sailings on many of the other ships sailing out of Galveston.

In other words, you'll pay a premium for that Disney magic.

Best for budget travelers: Carnival Breeze

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.

Based in Galveston year-round, the 11-year-old vessel operates short four- and five-night voyages to the Western Caribbean that are often on sale for under $500 per person or less. For off-peak travel, we sometimes see five-night sailings for sale for around $300 per person — or just $60 a night. This is a third of the cost of similar five-night sailings on Disney Magic.

Remember, the rates mentioned for Carnival Breeze above are not just for your room but for meals on the ship, too.

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.

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.

Related: The 8 types of Carnival ships, explained

That said, Carnival Breeze still has a huge amount to offer for all sorts of travelers, from couples to families with kids. The ship was, notably, the first Carnival ship to feature a 4D "thrill theater" and one of the first Carnival ships with a ropes course, both attractions that appeal heavily to teens and tweens.

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.

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. It also has a sushi restaurant and a version of Carnival's Caribbean-inspired watering hole, RedFrog Pub.

Most Carnival Breeze sailings out of Galveston stop at Cozumel, with some adding a stop at Costa Maya, as well.

Carnival has two other vessels based year-round in Galveston: Carnival Vista and Carnival Dream. Both ships operate longer, generally more expensive sailings. Carnival Vista mostly sails seven-night trips out of Galveston, while Carnival Dream alternates between six- and eight-night voyages out of the Texas port.

Best for luxury lovers: Norwegian Prima

There are no luxury-focused cruise lines, such as Silversea Cruises or Seabourn Cruise Line , sailing out of Galveston. Still, you can get a luxury cruise experience on a voyage from Galveston by sailing on the one mainstream vessel based in the city that has a separate "ship-within-a-ship" luxury zone: Norwegian Cruise Line 's new Norwegian Prima .

Hands down, the 3,215-passenger ship offers the best Galveston cruises for luxury lovers.

Unveiled in 2022, Norwegian Prima is the first of a new class of Norwegian vessel that the line has designed to be "elevated," in its words, as compared to earlier Norwegian ships. That is, it's designed to be more upscale.

The upscale turn included loading Norwegian Prima with an unusually large variety of suites (13 categories in all), including what the line says is the largest three-bedroom suites of any recently unveiled cruise vessel. If it's swanky digs you're after (and you have the money to spend), you'll find plenty of options on this ship.

Notably, the entire back of Norwegian Prima is devoted to an upscale luxury enclave for well-heeled travelers called The Haven. Rising eight decks high, it's home to 107 of the aforementioned suites, a sprawling private indoor lounge area, private outdoor lounge and pool areas, and a private restaurant — all exclusively for the use of those who pay up for one of its suites.

Related: The best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Outside of The Haven, the entire ship has a more elegant feel than you'll find on other Norwegian ships. It has more of the feel of the ships you find in the fleets of Norwegian's higher-end sister brands, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises — albeit on a bigger scale.

Alas, Norwegian Prima only is based in Galveston seasonally for the winter, from December to March. It offers seven-night sailings to the Western Caribbean with calls in Roatan, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Harvest Caye, Belize.

Best for retirees: Regal Princess

Looking for a cruise out of Galveston that isn't jammed full of families with children? Look no further than the sailings out of the city on Princess Cruises ' Regal Princess.

Unlike the other major cruise ships that sail out of Galveston each year — operated by family-focused Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian and Disney — Regal Princess wasn't built with families in mind as the core customer. 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.

Notably, the 3,600-passenger Regal Princess lacks nearly all the gee-whiz attractions for families found on the other ships that sail out of Galveston. You won't find big waterslides, kiddie splash zones, zip lines or go-kart tracks on this ship.

For the most part, the top decks of Regal Princess only offer pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for Princess ships. As a result, it draws far fewer families than the vessels above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples.

Related: The best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Regal Princess is based in Galveston on a seasonal basis from November to March. It operates some of the longest sailings from the Texas port, including 10- and 11-night trips to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Honduras, Belize and Mexico. They're the sort of sailings that generally appeal to a retired crowd because these trips require a long time away from home.

The shortest sailings that the 10-year-old Princess Cruises ship operates out of Galveston are seven nights in length.

Bottom line

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.

What is the best cruise from Galveston for you? 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.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 best cabin locations on any cruise ship
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• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Limited-Time Cruises from Texas

Chart a course from galveston, texas to the western caribbean, tropical sailings, 4- and 5-night western caribbean cruises.

Hit the waves with some watersports, explore ancient ruins or sample tasty local delicacies when you drop anchor in the sunny port of either Cozumel or Progreso—or both, depending on your itinerary.

6-Night Western Caribbean Cruises

Set your sights on an endless array of delightful onboard offerings while sailing to such sun-drenched locales as Cozumel and Grand Cayman—where white-sand beaches, balmy weather and adventurous activities await.

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES AWAIT

What’s included in the price of a disney cruise.

From the moment you step on board to your last wave goodbye, your vacation includes almost everything you and your family could hope for—and so much more.

Magic On Deck

Home to the high-speed AquaDunk waterslide, the Disney Magic is awash with dining, entertainment and recreation—including Rapunzel’s Royal Table restaurant and Tangled: The Musical .

Very Merrytime Cruises

Share in a holly-jolly fusion of holiday-themed décor and entertainment—including a towering Christmas tree, Santa Claus sightings and a festive celebration with Disney Characters in holiday attire.

MAGIC FOR EVERY MEMBER OF YOUR CREW

Fun for the entire family.

Delight in unique, family-friendly activities throughout the ship. View More

Just for Kids

Imaginatively themed youth clubs await children of all ages. View More

Just for Adults

Adults enjoy the best of both worlds—time with the kids and time alone. View More

• Extravagant, Broadway-quality live shows and entertainment throughout your cruise
• Unique deck parties starring some of your favorite Characters—including an unforgettable spectacular with fireworks at sea on most itineraries
• First-run movies and Disney classics in state-of-the-art theater venues or family favorites under the stars
• Themed pool areas that include a kids pool, a family pool, a splash zone and a waterslide
• Staterooms tailored especially for families, which include deluxe rooms with expanded space, convenient split bathrooms and premium amenities
• Kids can learn and play in children’s activity spaces fueled by Disney storytelling—including MARVEL’s Avengers Academy
• Tweens ages 11 through 14 are invited to spend time in a youth club all their own—featuring videogames, music, movies, arts and crafts, karaoke and scavenger hunts
• Teens can relax in a fun, parents-free venue with activities like karaoke, video game challenges, trivia showdowns, dance parties and tons more—under the supervision of helpful counselors
• Adult-exclusive dining at Palo , serving classic Northern Italian cooking in an elegant setting
• A tranquil pool and whirlpool spa overflowing with sweeping views and ocean breezes
• Themed nightclubs and lounges, home to exciting live music and dance parties
• A luxurious spa, featuring rejuvenating and beautifying treatments with sweeping sea views
• A fitness center sporting exercise classes, weight machines and cardiovascular equipment

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Best Cruises Out of Galveston (8 Ships Through 2025)

If you’re looking for great cruise options out of Galveston , TX you’re not alone.  The Texas port has seen tremendous growth this year and is expected to break its own records in terms of cruise passengers.

Already the fourth largest cruise port, the Port of Galveston is seeing major cruise lines invest in new terminals.  The port expects to beat last years numbers and see over 1 million passengers in 2023.

Best cruises out of Galveston

What are the best cruises to take out of Galveston?  Besides two Oasis-class ships from Royal Caribbean there are several new cruise ships offering sailings from the port.

Both Carnival Jubilee and Norwegian Prima will start offering cruises out of Galveston starting in December of 2023.

In this article we will highlight cruises on 8 great cruise ships sailing from the port.

Between now and the end of the year there are 235 sailings out of Galveston.  2024 will see 368 sailings, and so far there are 131 sailings on the 2025 schedule with more to be added later.

In random order here are what we think are the best cruises from Port Galveston over the next couple years.

Allure of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas is a 2009 Oasis-class ship that is offering sailings now through the end of October out of Galveston.

These are 7-night cruises that visit ports of call at Roatan , Costa Maya, and Cozumel before returning back to port.  This is the only itinerary for Allure out of Galveston.

Prices start at $646 per person (without taxes and fees) and there are 26 sailing dates to choose from.

Allure of the Seas offers over 20 dining options, Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy acts, fitness and recreation facilities such as a fitness center, jogging track, and water park, a full-service spa, kids and family activities including a kids’ club, mini-golf course, ice-skating rink, carousel, and various shops.

See prices on cruises out of Galveston

Harmony of the Seas

Another Oasis-class cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas was built in 2015.  It is newer than Allure of the Seas and has a few features not on Allure, including a 10-story dry slide on the back of the ship called the Ultimate Abyss.

Cruises on Harmony of the Seas out of Galveston will begin in November of 2023.   78 sailings are currently offered and the ship will visit the Western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Sailings range from 6 to 8 nights and visit ports of call like Costa Maya , Roatan, Cozumel, Nassau, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Only the 8-night sailings visit Royal Caribbean’s private island at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

A majority of the sailings offered on this ship are 7-nighters that stop at Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel.

Carnival Jubilee

One of the most anticipated ships to sail out of Galveston is Carnival Jubilee . The brand new Excel-class cruise ship with a roller coaster will debut in December of 2023.

Sailings on Jubilee out of Galveston will run through April of 2025 right now, so there are plenty of dates to choose from.

This cruise ship will offer 7-day sailings to the Western Caribbean that will visit ports of call like Mahogany Bay Costa Maya, and Cozumel.

Prices start at $564 per person (without taxes and fees).

See prices on Carnival Jubilee here

Carnival Vista

The first Vista-class ship, Carnival Vista is currently sailing out of Galveston and will offer cruises out of the port until the first week of November.

It’s a great ship from Carnival and was voted best new cruise ship in 2016 when it debuted.

There are 6 and 7-night sailings on Vista to the Western Caribbean. Ports of call on some itineraries include Costa Maya, Belize, Cozumel, Mahogany Bay, and Montego Bay.

Prices start at $524 per person (without taxes and fees) and there are 30 sailings to choose from.

See prices on Carnival Vista here

Disney Magic

There are currently 18 cruises on Disney Magic out of Galveston, Texas.    These sailings start in December of 2023 and are available through April of 2024.

Disney Magic was launched in 1997 and is the oldest ship in Disney’s fleet.

This is the only Disney ship that is currently sailing out of Galveston. Prices start at $1,758 for two guests and range from 4-night Western Caribbean cruises to a 7-nighter that stops at Falmouth and Grand Cayman.

Other ports of call visited by Disney Magic will include Progreso, Cozumel, and San Juan.

See prices on Disney Magic

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape is a 2015 Breakaway-class cruise ship that offers sailings from December of 2024 through March of 2025.  (Read my review of this ship at the previous link)

On this ship you can take a 7-day cruise out of Galveston and visit ports of call at Costa Maya, Harvest Caye, Roatan, and Cozumel.

Norwegian also offers some 14-day itineraries on Norwegian Escape in January of 2025. These 2-week sailings will visit the following ports of call: Great Stirrup Cay, St. Thomas, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, Tortola, Puerto Plata, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel.

Prices for the 7-day sailings start at $699 per person (without taxes and fees).

See prices on Norwegian Escape here

Norwegian Prima

Cruisers out of Galveston will be able to sail on Norwegian Prima starting in December of 2023.  There are currently 17 sailings offered out of the Texas port which are mostly 7-day sailings with one 11-day sailing offered in April of 2024.

Related: What to expect on Norwegian Prima

Ports of call will include Costa Maya, Harvest Caye, Roatan, and Cozumel. The April 11-day sailing will stop at the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

Prices for the 7-day sailing start at $729 per person (without taxes and fees) and $1,299 for the 11-day sailing.

See prices on Norwegian Prima cruises here

Regal Princess

Regal Princess will be sailing out of Galveston starting in November of 2023 through March of 2024.

The 2013 Royal-class ship is the 2nd of its class and offers 20 sailings during it’s homeport in Texas.

Starting at $428 per person (without taxes and fees), Regal Princess is offering 7-day sailings that visit ports in Roatan, Belize, and Cozumel.

There is also a 10-day sailing starting at $998 out of Galveston that visits the following ports: Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, Roatan, Belize City, and Costa Maya.

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Complete Guide to Cruising From the Port of Galveston

They say everything is bigger in Texas. And while the cruise port in Galveston may not be the biggest (that title goes to Miami ), cruising from the island seems to get bigger every season. Now with three cruise terminals, more than a million passengers sail from Galveston in a year.

One of the big reasons for that popularity? Passengers sailing from Galveston usually don’t have far to go to get to the cruise port and head out on vacation. The Houston area — home to about 8 million people — is just about an hour away. Meanwhile, other large Texas cities including San Antonio, Dallas, and Austin are only a few hours’ drive.

That proximity to so many people makes it easy to see why Galveston has blossomed into the largest cruise port outside of Florida.

The good news is that with only three terminals and ample parking facilities, it’s fairly simple to get your way around the Port of Galveston. However, many people — especially those flying in for their cruise who are unfamiliar with the area — may have questions about what to expect.

If you’re about to cruise from Galveston, we have this guide to answer everything you would want to know about sailing from the port.

In This Article...

• Distance from Bush-Intercontinental Airport: 75 miles | 75 minutes
• Distance from Houston-Hobby Airport: 45 miles | 50 minutes
• Number of Terminals: 3 
• Passengers Carried Each Year: ~1 million
• Cruise Ship Dockings Each Year: ~300

Port of Galveston Location

Galveston Island sits as a barrier island just off of Texas, attached to the mainland by Interstate 45. If you’re coming from the Houston area, you’ll approach over a short causeway that will bring you just a few miles from the port. Those coming from the east normally take the free ferry between Galveston and the Bolivar Peninsula.

The port itself sits on the northern side of the island, protected from the Gulf of Mexico. Its location makes it a convenient spot to set sail as it only takes 30-45 minutes for the ships to get out to the open water.

What’s not convenient is that the port sits at least 45 minutes from the nearest major airport (Houston Hobby). In other words, if you are flying in for your cruise, then you will need to figure out transportation to the ship (we have full details below.)

Given the location, many people choose to drive in for their cruise. If driving into the port, the address is:

2502 Harborside Dr. Galveston, TX 77550

Galveston Cruise Terminals

While ports in Florida may as well be cities they are so large, Galveston in comparison is much smaller and easier to navigate. With the addition of a new terminal that is home to Royal Caribbean, there are now three cruise terminals on the island.

Cruise Terminal 25 (Formerly Terminal 1) Cruise Terminal 25 is the eastern terminal when facing the port. The terminal primarily serves Carnival ships. It’s right across the street from a number of parking options, making it extremely convenient to get to and from the ship on cruise day.

Cruise Terminal 28 (Formerly Terminal 2) Cruise Terminal 28 was the home to Royal Caribbean ships before they moved to the new terminal. Now it serves other lines. It’s on your left as you face the port. If you’re walking to the terminal, it’s a bit farther than Terminal 25, but if you are taking a shuttle, they will drop you off right at the entrance.

Cruise Terminal 10 With the size and growth of the Port of Galveston, it was only a matter of time until another terminal was built to accommodate more ships and passengers. Cruise Terminal 10 (complete guide here) is the new home to Royal Caribbean and has the ability to handle its largest Oasis-class ships. The terminal sits east of the current facilities, costing more than $130 million to build. It is located about a mile from the other two terminals and features its own parking areas. 

Getting to the Port of Galveston (Transportation)

As we’ve mentioned, sailing from Galveston is easy and convenient if you live in the area. You can simply drive and park at the port. 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. That’s because the nearest major airports are in Houston.

Not to worry, however. We have all the details on the major modes of transportation on our port transportation page . Below we hit the highlights of the major ways to get to the ships.

Driving to the Port One of the reasons that Galveston is such a popular cruise port is that millions live within a few hours’ drive of the port. That makes it convenient to get to the cruise port and not having to deal with airports or flying. As well, having your car means you can get to the port when you want, leave as soon as you get off the ship, and not have to meet anyone else’s schedule.

One good thing about driving to Galveston is that there is ample parking right near the port that’s affordable. See details in the parking section below.

Cruise Shuttles Given the distance between Houston and Galveston, an industry of shuttles have popped up that provide rides from the airport to the cruise port. Typically these shuttles offer shared rides at affordable rates and leave at set times from both locations. There are also private car options available that can give you a ride for a bit more money, but offer direct service and can even make any stops you’d like.

For cruisers flying in, shuttles pick up and drop off at both airports. You can see the details of your options here . Costs run about $50-75 per person, roundtrip.

Uber/Lyft or Taxi Rideshares and taxis are available at the airports to take you to the port. In general, you can expect Uber/Lyft to be less expensive than taxi cabs. Still, given the distance from the airport, the price can add up. For example, Uber/Lyft will cost you about $50 each way from Houston Hobby and $75 each way from Houston Intercontinental. Cabs run about $105 between Hobby and $180 for Intercontinental.

If traveling with a larger group, then these options can be cheaper as they charge by the car while shuttles charge per person.

Parking at the Port of Galveston

One of the best things about cruising from Galveston is that parking is easy, (relatively) cheap, and convenient. The area around the port offers ample parking, with official Port of Galveston parking lots competing alongside independent lots.

We have full details of all your parking options with complete prices here . Below we cover parking for your cruise in general terms. One tip — always reserve a spot ahead of time as there are discounts at each lot for advance payment.

Official Port Parking The Port of Galveston operates ample parking that’s near the cruise terminals. A shuttle will transport you back and forth from your car and the ship for free. The cheapest rates run about $100 for a 7-day cruise and $70 for a 5-day cruise if you book ahead of time. There are also more expensive lots that are covered and/or closer to the terminal.

With the addition of Terminal 3 — located about a mile from the original terminals –passengers also have official parking options at that port, instead of having to shuttle from Terminals 25 & 28. The port accepts cash, traveler’s checks and credit cards. 

Independent Parking Lots As the Port of Galveston has boomed in popularity, nearly a dozen independent parking lots have sprouted up all around the port facility. These lots typically offer cheaper rates than the official port parking, while sometimes being even closer than the port’s parking. There are also a number of options for covered parking. See a list of independent lots here .

Hotels with Cruise Parking As a tourist destination, Galveston offers a lot of hotels for visitors to choose. In the competition for business, these hotels look to provide guests with perks to attract those about to take a cruise.

One popular perk is free parking for the length of your cruise in return for a one-night stay. Some offer cruise parking as part of a package, others just let you leave your car while you cruise. Click here for a full list of hotels with cruise parking .

Dropping Off/ Picking Up Passengers

Are you dropping off or picking up family or friends? The good news is that it’s fairly simple to drop people off in Galveston. Meanwhile, providing a ride to the port saves a lot of money in paying for a shuttle or having to park during the cruise.

To drop off passengers or pick up, head into the port entrance at the intersection of 22nd Street and Harborside Drive. From there, it’s as simple as following the signs to the correct area for passengers to get out.

When it’s time to pick up people at the end of the cruise, you follow the same route for picking up. 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.

Those wanting to drop-off at Cruise Terminal 10 will find signs and lanes for drop-off at that pier itself (don’t drop off at Terminals 25/28). More details about dropping off at this new terminal can be found here .

Security & Check-In

Compared to airports, checking-in and security on a cruise ship is a dream.

For example, instead of the familiar blue-shirted TSA officers, security is done through private companies. You don’t have to take off your shoes or belt, you aren’t restricted to only three ounces of liquids, and you don’t have to take electronics out of your bag.

As you approach the terminal, you’ll see lots of porters ready to assist you with your bags. If you wish to check any luggage, you can leave it with the porters, and it will be delivered to your stateroom later in the evening.

From there, you enter the terminal and check your boarding documents with the cruise staff. Once they ensure you’re in the right spot, you’ll head through security. Here, you place your bags on an x-ray machine and you will walk through a metal detector. Assuming everything checks out, you’ll then head to the check-in station.

We all know that waiting in line to check-in for a flight is mind-numbing. On a cruise, it takes just a couple of minutes. You’ll see dozens of check-in agents working with passengers. Once you are called for your turn, you’ll set up your onboard spending account, get your room keycard and then board the ship.

In total, the security and check-in process shouldn’t take more than about 15-20 minutes. Then you’re ready to start your vacation.

Disembarkation

If you think people are excited to get on the cruise ship, then wait until the ship gets back home. Despite having a great time on the cruise, people are ready to get off the ship. 

The debarkation process actually starts the night before your cruise ends. At that time you will set any large bags you don’t want to carry with you off the ship in the hallway outside your cabin. The crew will pick the bags and they will be transported to the terminal for you to pick up after debarking the ship.

Many people instead choose to carry all their luggage with them as they get off the ship. The advantage is that those carrying all their bags are allowed to debark first. Unfortunately, so many people choose this option that it can cause long lines and still take considerable time to exit.

Once off the ship, you’ll make your way through the terminal and pick up any luggage you set outside your cabin. You’ll then go through customs and immigration to legally enter back into the United States.

One thing to note is that Galveston has moved to facial recognition, meaning you simply take a photo that’s verified instead of having to meet with an agent (if you have a passport). This makes the process of getting off the ship much faster . In some cases, we’ve debarked and barely had to stop before making our way out the terminal.

After immigration, there is one last spot to visit that’s unique to Galveston. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) collects fees for the alcohol and tobacco that you bring back into the country. If bringing these items, you’ll need to stop and pay the duty to TABC to legally bring your items back home.

Hotels Near the Port of Galveston

The bad news? There aren’t a ton of hotels right at the port (but there are a few). The good news? Galveston isn’t that large, so in reality every hotel is just a few minutes away.

The island has a wide variety of places to stay, from historic hotels like the Grand Galvez to modern-day hotel chains that are abundant on Galveston. There are also a few resorts with large pools, restaurants and more. No matter your budget of what you’re looking for, Galveston has something to fit your needs relatively close to the port.

Most Galveston hotels are along the Seawall. After the hurricane of 1900, the entire island was built up, with a protective barrier along the island facing the Gulf of Mexico. Today the main boulevard on the island runs along the Seawall, and hotels next to it offer unfettered views of the water.

There are also hotels on the mainland, just 15-20 minutes from the island. While these don’t offer the views or atmosphere of staying in Galveston, they can be affordable and convenient as they are on the way from Houston.

Galveston Hotels With High Ratings

• Courtyard Galveston Island
• Baymont by Wyndham
• Comfort Suites Galveston
• The Villa Bed & Breakfast
• Grand Galvez

One thing to know is that a number of hotels in the area offer parking at their hotel while you cruise. So stay a night, and you can leave your car there for little or no cost. If you’re driving into the port and plan to stay the night, it’s hard to beat this deal. Click here to see our list of Galveston hotels with cruise parking .

Things to Do Near the Port

Galveston is a Texas tourist hotspot as it offers a lot to do and a completely different atmosphere than the rest of the state. The island isn’t that large (pop. ~50,000) and has a lot to do within just a few minutes of the cruise ship.

Pleasure Pier Jutting out into the water at the site of the old Flagship Hotel, the Pleasure Pier is a 1,000 foot long amusement park. On the pier you’ll find food, shops, rides, and even a roller coaster. Tickets cost about $30 for an all-day pass ($23 for those under 48 inches tall). It’s a great way to spend the day (or evening) if you are traveling with a family.

Galveston to Bolivar Ferry While there is only one main road on/off Galveston (Interstate 45), there is a free ferry that runs back and forth between the Bolivar Peninsula and the island. It’s a fun thing to do as the ride takes only about 15 minutes and gives great views of the bay.

The ferry runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but the line can be backed up during the busy summer months. If you’d like to ride, simply park in the lot next to the ferry and walk aboard instead of driving. It will save you lots of time waiting for the boat. 

Schlitterbahn The famous Texas waterpark with several locations around the state has a park in Galveston. Here you can relax on a lazy river, get extreme on tons of different slides, and even surf a standing wave. There are also a number of options for all ages so whether you have a toddler or a teenager, they will find a lot to do at Schlitterbahn Galveston .

Moody Gardens If coming in from Houston, you’ll see three large pyramids on Galveston as you cross the causeway. This is Moody Gardens. It features a rainforest pyramid and aquarium, as well as other attractions that are all family friendly. It’s one of the major attractions on the island and a must-see if you have kids. ( Read our review of Moody Gardens here .)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Should I Schedule My Flight Home? We suggest people don’t schedule a flight before noon if flying from Houston Hobby and 1 p.m. if flying from Bush-Intercontinental. Cruise ships arrive early (around 6-7 a.m.), but it can take 2-3 hours for everyone to get off the ship. Then there is the time to get to the airport, going through security, etc. Leaving plenty of time before your flight will help you from feeling rushed to get to the airport.

For instance, we recently sailed from Galveston and foggy weather made us arrive late (9 a.m.) to the port. Then it took another hour before people started to get off the ship. We weren’t out of the terminal until close to 11 a.m.

Are There Cruise Parking Discounts? Yes, there are some discounts we’ve heard about and detailed here .

One thing we know is the EZ Cruise Parking offers a sharp discount of $15 off of a week’s cruise parking if you choose to park and walk to the cruise port. Because of access fees that the Port of Galveston charges parking lots to drop off passengers, the parking lots save money if they don’t have to provide shuttle service, and can pass the savings on to you.

What’s the Cheapest Way to Get to the Port? 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 .

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Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 6 easy houston to galveston cruise transport options (uber, shuttles, taxis, & more), galveston cruise parking (where to park): prices, profiles, & map, msc cruises sailing from texas starting 2025, galveston cruise parking discounts, coupons, and promo codes, carnival jubilee arrives in galveston; first new cruise ship to call texas home, ncl makes history with first seasonal sailing from galveston, texas, 22 comments.

I will be dropping my friends at Terminal 28. What is the best street to take to get direct access to the drop-off area?

The entrance is at 23rd and Harborside. Follow signage to Terminal 28 (which is now renamed Terminal 2).

Help- can anyone tell me if I can walk from a nearby hotel in Galveston (1 mile away) directly onto Terminal 10 Royal Caribbean port? Besides the heat and walking a mile (I can do it), are pedestrians allowed to walk to the port and onto the port property? Thank you in advance for any answers!

Sure, you can do that.

We will be doing back to back cruises on both Royal Caribbean Harmony and Princess Regal. What’s the best way to get from Terminal 10 to Terminal 28 for our second cruise? We’re not interested in walking since we will have 2 suitcases. Is there a shuttle of some kind, and is Uber/Lyft interested in such a short trip?

Oh, that’s a tough one. Uber/Lyft will get you there, although it can feel strange taking such a short ride. What you might do since you won’t be able to board right when you get off the first ship is take an Uber/Lyft/taxi to somewhere else on the island (lunch, Seawall, etc.) and then take another when you are ready to board.

Can I do a walkon and buy a ticket in the terminal same day as the cruise or the day before?

No, that’s not possible.

I KNOW ROYAL CARIBBEAN ALLOWS YOU TO BRING ON TO THE SHIP A BOTTLE OF WINE. DOES ROYAL CARIBBEAN ALLOW A 6 PACK OF BEER TO BE BROUGHT ON

Let me know when you update with current info for new Royal terminal parking and that the trolley car will have a extension there also.

I live here and this Guide is pretty comprehensive. But you left out my favorite area that many cruisers love. The Strand Area. We have met many people who are going on a cruise or just came off of one. We have been coming to the Strand since the 1970s. Lots of history and architecture and nice shops.

Absolutely. (I was raised in the area too.) I should mention that and tell people to look for the Hurricane Ike waterline markers.

Will you be bringing the Wedding packages back?

YOU DIDN’T INCLUDE A LIST WITH CONTACT INFO FOR THE PARKING LOTS NEAR THE TERMINAL!!!!! Makes the entire article worthless don’t ya think?!

There is a link included to our parking page with full details:

https://cruzely.com/galveston-cruise-parking-options-prices-and-map/

What Avis car rentals are close to Port and is Uber available from that point to Port.

Looks like the closest Avis is in La Marque, about 25 minutes away. You can get an Uber from there to the cruise port.

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Carnival Cruise Line: 10 Million Guests From Galveston

• May 16, 2024

Carnival Cruise Line announced it has further solidified its position as the market leader in Galveston, Tex., becoming the first cruise operator to embark 10 million guests from the port.

Marsha Taulton of Houston was recognized on the Carnival Breeze as the 10 millionth Carnival guest cruising from Galveston.

Taulton and her husband, Paul, were welcomed aboard by Capt. Isidoro Renda and Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees, and the ship’s team led an impromptu celebration of the landmark embarkation.

“This is an achievement that speaks to the success of our longstanding partnership with the port and the greater Galveston community,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We are grateful to our guests who have sailed with us from Galveston over the past two decades, continually driving the popularity of this homeport forward. The future is certainly bright, as we’re delighted to welcome more guests aboard than ever before from this great city – next stop, 20 million!”

The 10 millionth guest milestone follows an expansion of Carnival service at the port that began with the introduction of the cruise line’s new flagship, Carnival Jubilee, which was the first new cruise ship to be christened in Galveston. The expansion continues in October when Carnival Miracle begins sailing from Galveston and completes a four-ship deployment strategy. At the end of this year, Carnival’s guest capacity in Galveston is expected to increase by 20 percent compared to last year, carrying more than 800,000 guests.

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Carnival Cruise Line Celebrates Sailing 10 Million Passengers From Galveston

Carnival Cruise Line has become the first cruise line to ferry 10 million passengers from Galveston, Texas.

The company achieved the milestone when Marsha Taulton of Houston stepped foot onboard the Carnival Breeze and became the 10 millionth Carnival guest to depart from Galveston. Taulton was traveling with her husband, Paul, and both were welcomed onto the ship by Isidoro Renda, the ship’s captain, and Rodger Rees, the chief executive officer and port director of Galveston Wharves.

“This is an achievement that speaks to the success of our longstanding partnership with the port and the greater Galveston community,” says Christine Duffy , president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We are grateful to our guests who have sailed with us from Galveston over the past two decades, continually driving the popularity of this homeport forward. The future is certainly bright, as we’re delighted to welcome more guests aboard than ever before from this great city—next stop, 20 million!”

Carnival has been sailing year-round from Galveston since 2000. The company recently expanded its footprint there with the addition of Carnival Jubilee in December . And, later this year, Carnival Miracle will begin sailing from Galveston, bringing the total number of Carnival ships homeporting there to four.

By the end of this year, Carnival expects to increase its Galveston capacity by 20 percent compared to last year. The cruise line will carry more than 800,000 guests.

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A special weather statement in effect for Bandera and Bexar Regions

Bridge between galveston and pelican island remains closed after barge crash.

Associated Press

GALVESTON, Texas – The bridge connecting Galveston, Texas, to Pelican Island remained closed Thursday after a barge crashed into a pillar supporting the span, causing it to partially collapse, and a university urged staff and faculty to leave its campus there.

The accident happened Wednesday morning when a tugboat pushing two fuel barges lost control of them and one hit the structure, said David Flores, a bridge superintendent with the Galveston County Navigation District. The bridge provided the only road access between Galveston and the small island.

Oil leaking from the barge led to the closure of about 6.5 miles (10.5 kilometers) of the waterway. The barge, owned by Martin Petroleum, has a 30,000-gallon capacity, but officials have not said how much leaked into the bay.

The Coast Guard did not immediately respond to questions Thursday morning regarding the status of the oil spill.

Meanwhile, the barge remained beside the bridge, weighed in place by debris including rail lines that fell onto the vessel when the crash happened.

Texas A&M University at Galveston recommended temporarily vacating the island.

“Given the rapidly changing conditions and uncertainty regarding the outage of the Pelican Island Bridge, the Galveston Campus administration will be relocating all Texas A&M Pelican Island residents," through at least Sunday, it said in a statement late Wednesday.

Fewer than 200 people related to the school were on the island when the barge hit the bridge, according to the school.

Spokesperson Shantelle Patterson-Swanson said the university would provide transportation and cover the housing costs of those who choose to leave, but underlined that the school has not issued a mandatory evacuation.

Aside from the environmental impact of the oil spill, the region is unlikely to see large economic disruption as a result of the accident, said Marcia Burns, a maritime transportation expert at the University of Houston

The affected area is miles from the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, which sees frequent barge traffic, and the Houston Ship Channel, a large shipping channel for ocean-going vessels.

The accident came weeks after a cargo ship crashed into a support column of the Francis Key Bridge in Baltimore on March 26, killing six construction workers.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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11 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

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Day 1: galveston, texas.

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Day 12: galveston, texas.

Texas A&M Galveston to close for days after barge slams into bridge to island

A barge slammed into a bridge in Galveston, Texas, on Wednesday, spilling oil into the bay, forcing a shutdown of the span and prompting the university on the other side of the bridge to close its campus through the weekend, officials said.

Texas A&M University at Galveston said Wednesday evening that the campus on Pelican Island would be closed Thursday through Sunday , citing an " extended outage of the bridge through the weekend," according to the university announcement.

Aerial images showed that a section of a rail line alongside the bridge appeared to have collapsed, with slabs of concrete piled on the barge.

No injuries were immediately reported at the Pelican Island Causeway after the incident, which unfolded shortly before 10 a.m. CT, the city of Galveston said in a statement .

Two operators were on the barge at the time of the impact, said Spencer Lewis, a spokesperson for the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management.

Lewis said that one of the operators fell into the water but was immediately rescued and that the other remained on the barge and was eventually rescued, as well. The Texas A&M marine unit rescued the operators.

The bridge, which was closed earlier Wednesday, had been reopened as of 7 p.m. CT to slow vehicular traffic, and a large line of cars was trying to exit Pelican Island, Lewis said.

The bridge is open only for outbound traffic, he said.

About 200 people were on the island at the time of the incident, and “substantially more than half” have been evacuated, Lewis said.

About 450 people — most of them students — live full time on Pelican Island. Faculty members and other workers make up the rest of the residents, he said.

Texas A&M University at Galveston is offering accommodations to students and faculty members who live on Pelican Island — which is also home to a fishing pier, a naval museum and other industries — but it also encouraged those who stay on campus to prepare to leave if necessary.

The university, which held its graduation ceremony last week, briefly lost power on campus earlier Wednesday, but it was restored quickly, the school said.

Classes scheduled for Thursday and Friday will either be canceled or held remotely, the school said in its evening update, and it encouraged employees to work at alternative locations. Dining services will remain open until 8 p.m. Wednesday.

The barge that hit the bridge was “carrying a base petroleum product,” the Coast Guard said in a statement .

The city said: “The collision has resulted in an oil spill in the bay. The U.S. Coast Guard is responding and will determine the extent of the spill, as well as initiate the containment and cleanup processes.”

The accident is the latest to plague American bridges and highways.

A container ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on March 6, killing six people .

The Fort Madison Toll Bridge , which turns 97 in July and connects Fort Madison, Iowa, with Niota, Illinois, over the Mississippi River, was struck by a barge Thursday .

Two weeks ago, Interstate 95 in Connecticut was closed after a tanker truck filled with gasoline burst into flames and forced the closure of the one of the Eastern Seaboard's most important thoroughfares.

In late March, a family out fishing on the Arkansas River captured video of a barge hitting a bridge near Sallisaw, Oklahoma. And in April, more than two dozen barges broke loose from moorings and floated down the Ohio River in Pittsburgh, striking the Sewickley Bridge .

Galveston fire spokesperson Marissa Barnett said barges go under the bridge multiple times a day.

She pushed back against any comparisons between the Baltimore bridge collapse and Wednesday's incident.

“People have asked if this is like the Baltimore bridge. This is not that,” she said.

CORRECTION (May 15, 2024, 9:24 p.m. ET): A previous version of this article misstated the last name of the spokesperson for the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management. He is Spencer Lewis, not Jones.

David K. Li is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.

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Barge hits bridge connecting Galveston and Pelican Island, causing partial collapse and oil spill

A barge hit a bridge in Galveston, Texas, spilling oil into surrounding waters and closing the only road to a small island. Officials did not have any immediate information on damage to the bridge or if there were any injuries.

Workers survey the site where a barge crashed into the Pelican Island Bridge, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

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Oil spills into the surrounding waters after a barge hit a bridge in Galveston, Texas, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. A bridge that leads to Pelican Island, located just north of Galveston, was hit by a barge around 9:30 a.m., said Ronnie Varela, with the Galveston’s Office of Emergency Management.(KTRK via AP)

Officials respond after the Pelican Island Bridge was closed when a passing barge struck one of its supports, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. A barge slammed into a bridge pillar on Wednesday, spilling oil into surrounding waters and closing the only road to a smaller and separate island that is home to a university, officials said. (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle via AP)

Officials respond after the Pelican Island Bridge was closed when a passing barge struck one of its supports, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. The accident caused oil to spill into surrounding waters and closing the only road connecting the city to Pelican Island. (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle via AP)

A tugboat works to maneuver a barge away from the Pelican Island Bridge in Galveston, Texas, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, after the barge crashed into the bridge spilling oil into surrounding waters and shutting down the only road access to and from the island. (Jennifer Reynolds/The Galveston County Daily News via AP)

Two workers stand on the barge that struck the Pelican Island Bridge on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. The accident caused oil to spill into surrounding waters and closing the only road to a smaller and separate island that is home to a university, officials said. (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle via AP)

Officials respond after the Pelican Island Bridge was closed when a passing barge struck one of its supports, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. The accident caused oil to spill into surrounding waters and closing the only road to a smaller and separate island that is home to a university, officials said. (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle via AP)

A section of railroad track hangs down from Pelican Island Bridge after a barge crashed into the bridge, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

An spill boom is moved into position to contain a leak from a barge that crashed into the Pelican Island Bridge, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Officials patrol the waters at the site where a bardge crashed into the Pelican Island Bridge Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

GALVESTON, Texas (AP) — A barge slammed into a bridge pillar in Galveston, Texas, on Wednesday, spilling oil into waters near busy shipping channels and closing the only road to a small neighboring island. No injuries were reported.

The impact sent pieces of the bridge, which connects Galveston to Pelican Island, tumbling on top of the barge and shut down a stretch of waterway so crews could clean up the spill. The accident knocked one man off the vessel and into the water, but he was quickly recovered and was not injured, said Galveston County Sheriff’s Office Maj. Ray Nolen.

Ports along the Texas coast are hubs of international trade, but experts said the collision was unlikely to result in serious economic disruptions since it occurred in a lesser-used waterway. The island is on the opposite side of Galveston Island’s beaches that draw millions of tourists each year.

The accident happened shortly before 10 a.m. after a tugboat operator pushing two barges lost control of them, said David Flores, a bridge superintendent with the Galveston County Navigation District.

“The current was very bad, and the tide was high,” Flores said. “He lost it.”

Pelican Island is only a few miles wide and is home to Texas A&M University at Galveston, a large shipyard and industrial facilities. Fewer than 200 people were on the campus when the collision happened, and all were eventually allowed to drive on the bridge to leave. The marine and maritime research institute said it plans to remain closed until at least Friday. Students who live on campus were allowed to remain there, but university officials warned those who live on campus and leave “should be prepared to remain off campus for an unknown period of time.”

The accident came weeks after a cargo ship crashed into a support column of the Francis Key Bridge in Baltimore on March 26, killing six construction workers.

The tugboat in Texas was pushing bunker barges, which are fuel barges for ships, Flores said. The barge, which is owned by Martin Petroleum, has a 30,000-gallon capacity, but it’s not clear how much leaked into the bay, said Galveston County spokesperson Spencer Lewis. He said about 6.5 miles (10.5 kilometers) of the waterway were shut down because of the spill.

The affected area is miles away from the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, which sees frequent barge traffic, and the Houston Ship Channel, a large shipping channel for ocean-going vessels. Aside from the environmental impact of the spill, the region is unlikely to see large economic disruption as a result of the accident, said Marcia Burns, a maritime transportation expert at the University of Houston

“Because Pelican Island is a smaller location, which is not in the heart of commercial events, then the impact is not as devastating,” Burns said. “It’s a relatively smaller impact.”

A barge is grounded next to the Pelican Island Bridge in Galveston, Texas on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, after it collided with the old rail bridge that runs alongside it. The collision shut down the only road access to and from Pelican Island. (Jennifer Reynolds/The Galveston County Daily News via AP)

At the bridge, a large piece of broken concrete and debris from the railroad hung over the side and on top of the barge that rammed into the passageway. Flores said the rail line only serves as protection for the structure and has never been used.

Opened in 1960, the Pelican Island Causeway Bridge was rated as “Poor” according to the Federal Highway Administration’s 2023 National Bridge Inventory released last June.

The overall rating of a bridge is based on whether the condition of any of its individual components — the deck, superstructure, substructure or culvert, if present — is rated poor or below.

In the case of the Pelican Island Causeway Bridge, inspectors rated the deck in “Satisfactory Condition,” the substructure in “Fair Condition” and the superstructure — or the component that absorbs the live traffic load — in “Poor Condition.”

The Texas Department of Transportation had been scheduled in the summer of 2025 to begin construction on a project to replace the bridge with a new one. The project was estimated to cost $194 million. In documents provided during a virtual public meeting last year, the department said the bridge has “reached the end of its design lifespan, and needs to be replaced.” The agency said it has spent over $12 million performing maintenance and repairs on the bridge in the past decade.

The bridge has one main steel span that measures 164 feet (50 meters), and federal data shows it was last inspected in December 2021. It’s unclear from the data if a state inspection took place after the Federal Highway Administration compiled the data.

The bridge had an average daily traffic figure of about 9,100 cars and trucks, according to a 2011 estimate.

Lozano reported from Houston. Associated Press reporters Christopher L. Keller in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Valerie Gonzalez in McAllen, Texas; Acacia Coronado in Austin, Texas; and Ken Miller in Oklahoma City contributed to this report.

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14 warnings in effect for 14 counties in the area

Fuel barge crashes into galveston bridge, spilling oil and causing ‘major disruption’ in road, water traffic, the only way off pelican island right now is by boat. galveston county judge says fuel is still leaking and shipping is shut down for 6.5 miles getting in and out of the port of galveston.

Ahmed Humble , Digital Content Producer

Robert Arnold , Investigative Reporter

Rilwan Balogun , Reporter

Karen Araiza , Digital Content Lead , Houston

GALVESTON, Texas – A barge hit the Pelican Island Bridge Causeway in Galveston this morning, damaging the bridge, causing an oil spill and shutting off the only access on and off the island by car. It also shut down maritime traffic along the Intracoastal Waterway in and out of the Port of Galveston for more than 6 miles.

• LATEST UPDATE: Evacuations halted on Pelican Island Causeway following barge strike

Structural engineers from the Texas Department of Transportation in Houston are assessing damage to help determine if the bridge is safe enough to open up any part to traffic.

• LISTEN: Dispatch audio reveals response after barge strikes Pelican Island Causeway

Just before 10 Wednesday morning, the fuel barge lost control in the outgoing high tide and hit the bridge, according to David Flores, supervisor with Galveston Navigation District 1.

Steel iron beams and tons of cement was being fixed, according to Flores.

BALTIMORE BRIDGE LATEST: Investigation continues into 4 electrical blackouts on ship that caused Baltimore bridge collapse

No one was hurt.

About 200 people are stuck on Pelican Island, Galveston County Judge Mark Henry told KPRC 2′s Rilwan Balogun.

“If we can get everyone off, I do not anticipate an opportunity to return anytime soon,” Henry said. “We don’t anticipate anyone being stranded on Pelican Island for even overnight, much less an extended period of time.”

Between 20 and 25 vehicles are waiting at Pelican Bay to get off the island, and authorities are hoping to open the bridge up to let those folks out this evening.

Galveston officials also tell KPRC 2′s Assignments Editor Terrence Kelly the U.S. Coast Guard has been called to help with the oil spill. The barge holds 30,000 barrels, according to Judge Henry, but he said they don’t know how much fuel was on it, but it was still leaking Wednesday afternoon.

The barge is owned by Martin Petroleum and when it hit the bridge, it knocked out power temporarily. That has since been restored.

No cars are being allowed across the bridge and no boats or barges in the channel.

The Intracoastal Waterway from Mile Marker 350.5 to Mile Marker 357, approximately 6.5 miles, is shut off and a dozen different agencies are onsite.

“It is a significant impact and I can understand their [people’s] concerns. This will be a major disruption to commercial maritime traffic and pleasure,” Judge Henry said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: ‘Couldn’t happen here:’ In light of Baltimore bridge collapse, ship leader says same event wouldn’t happen in Houston

Additionally, Texas A&M has canceled classes for the day, which roughly affected only 30 students because it’s the end of the semester. They’re opening their cafeteria for any students stuck there.

6:30 pm Update: TxDot continues to assess the damage to Pelican Island Bridge. Traffic is no longer exiting Pelican... Posted by Texas A&M University Galveston Campus on  Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Judge Henry characterized this crash as significantly different from the Baltimore crash where a cargo ship took down the Key Bridge.

• Cargo ship that caused Baltimore bridge collapse had power blackouts hours before leaving port

“The bridge did not structurally fail. While portions of the bridge did structurally fail, the entire bridge did not,” Henry said. “We did see pieces of the bridge laying on the bow of the barge, but the size and scope is dramatically different. It’s much, much smaller.”

The Pelican Island Causeway Bridge is a critical part of the one road leading to and from Pelican Island.

Over 2,000 people including faculty, staff and students at Texas A&M in Galveston depend on the bridge, according to the student newspaper.

It’s the last drawbridge of its kind in Texas, called a bascule bridge.

A worker operates the lift so boats and barges can pass through to get in and out of the Port of Galveston.

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About the Authors

Ahmed humble.

Historian, educator, writer, expert on "The Simpsons," amateur photographer, essayist, film & tv reviewer and race/religious identity scholar. Joined KPRC 2 in Spring 2024 but has been featured in various online newspapers and in the Journal of South Texas' Fall 2019 issue.

Robert Arnold

Award winning investigative journalist who joined KPRC 2 in July 2000. Husband and father of the Master of Disaster and Chaos Gremlin. “I don’t drink coffee to wake up, I wake up to drink coffee.”

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