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Galveston Cruise Ship Terminal Port Guide

Located in the heart of Galveston, Texas, the Galveston Cruise Ship Terminal (also called Galveston Cruise Port) on Galveston Island is the gateway to exciting Caribbean cruises and beyond.

Cruises from Galveston are offered year-round and the most frequented ports of call are the Bahamas, Costa Maya or Cozumel in Mexico, Western Caribbean and Central America.

This article will help you to learn more about the Galveston Cruise Port and Terminals plus a handy guide to Galveston to help you make the most of your cruise experience.

Galveston Cruise Ship Terminal: How to Get There

In This Post...

To reach the Galveston Cruise Terminal, one can utilize several transportation options. If arriving by air, the closest major airport is William P. Hobby Airport in Houston (HOU), approximately 42 miles away.

From there, renting a car or utilizing shuttle services are convenient choices. Additionally, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston is another option, situated about 70 miles from Galveston.

Parking at Galveston Cruise Port

For those driving to the port, the official Galveston Cruise Ship Terminal parking facility offers safe and secure parking options. The cost for parking varies but generally ranges from $15 to $20 per day. You should check the current rates before you arrive for your cruise.

You can also reserve and pre-pay for your parking space at the on-site parking lot and structure. This is probably an excellent idea, especially as more of the really big ships move into Galveston.

The Port of Galveston cruise facility is the only one located on port property.

Hotels in Galveston with Shuttle to Cruise Port

We always suggest that you arrive at least one day before your cruise. After all, this being Galveston, there’s so much to see and do.

Even though many of Galveston’s hotels offer free parking for cruise passengers, not all offer shuttle service.

To make this an easy decision, here are several hotels near the Galveston Cruise Terminal with shuttles to and from the port.

• Harbor House Hotel & Marina at Pier 21 Location: 28 Pier 21, Galveston, TX 77550 Check with hotel for shuttle reservations.
• The Tremont House Location: 2300 Ships Mechanic Row, Galveston, TX 77550 Confirm shuttle reservations with hotel.
• San Luis Resort 5222 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 7755 Check with the hotel regarding shuttle options.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton 110 Seawall Blvd. Galveston, TX 77550 Always confirm with hotel for shuttle reservations.

Worth a visit, the historic Grand Galves is a huge part of Galveston’s past. Though this beachfront hotel does not offer shuttle service to the port, they do offer 1 1/2 hour ghost tours through this 1911 haunted hotel!

Family-Friendly Activities in Galveston

If you have time either before or after your cruise, add a couple of days to explore Galveston’s family-friendly attractions. Here are some of the top things to see and do.

1. Moody Gardens

Location: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554

Moody Gardens is a captivating entertainment complex that seamlessly blends education with recreation. The Rainforest Pyramid immerses visitors in a lush and diverse environment, featuring exotic plants, free-roaming wildlife, and even an interactive canopy walk.

The Aquarium Pyramid showcases marine life from the Gulf of Mexico and beyond, with fascinating exhibits and touch tanks. For families, the Discovery Pyramid offers hands-on exhibits exploring science and technology.

Admission prices vary, with combination tickets available for access to multiple attractions.

2. Pleasure Pier

Location: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550

Stepping onto Pleasure Pier feels like a journey back in time to the golden era of amusement parks.

Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, this historic waterfront attraction boasts a variety of thrilling rides, including a roller coaster that extends over the water, classic carousel, and a towering Ferris wheel.

Families can enjoy classic arcade games, indulge in delicious carnival treats, and take in stunning coastal views. Entry to the pier is free, with individual ride tickets or unlimited ride passes available for purchase.

3. Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Location: 2026 Lockheed St, Galveston, TX 77554

Schlitterbahn Waterpark offers a splashing good time for families seeking aquatic adventures. This expansive waterpark features an array of water attractions, including thrilling water slides, lazy rivers for a leisurely float, and wave pools for added excitement.

With areas designed for various age groups, from toddlers to teens, Schlitterbahn ensures a day filled with family fun. Admission prices vary, with discounts often available for online purchases and group bookings.

4. Galveston Island State Park

Location: 14901 FM3005, Galveston, TX 77554

Nature enthusiasts will find solace at Galveston Island State Park, where the Texas Gulf Coast’s beauty takes center stage. Families can explore hiking trails that wind through coastal landscapes, providing opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

The park’s fishing areas and kayak launches invite outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. While entry fees apply per vehicle, the experiences offered, including ranger-led programs, make it a worthwhile investment for a day of outdoor enjoyment.

Discover Galveston Island – A Coastal Gem

A brief history:.

Galveston, located on Galveston Island along the Texas Gulf Coast, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in the early 19th century.

Founded by French pirate and privateer Jean Lafitte, the city quickly grew into a prominent port, earning the nickname “The Wall Street of the South.” Galveston became the principal port for the Republic of Texas and a bustling center for trade, attracting immigrants, businesses, and cultural influences.

One of the most defining moments in Galveston’s history was the devastating Hurricane of 1900, the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history. In response, the city constructed the Galveston Seawall and raised the island’s elevation, fortifying it against future storms.

Today, Galveston stands as a testament to resilience, blending its historic charm with modern attractions.

The Strand Historic District

A National Historic Landmark, The Strand is a downtown district featuring Victorian-era architecture, boutiques, galleries, and vibrant nightlife.

Visitors can explore historic buildings, dine at waterfront restaurants, and shop for unique souvenirs.

Galveston Seawall

Stretching for 10 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, the Galveston Seawall is an iconic structure built after the 1900 hurricane. It provides stunning ocean views, a bustling promenade, and a protective barrier against storm surges.

Bishop’s Palace (Gresham House)

Also known as Gresham House, this Victorian mansion is a marvel of architecture. Built in 1892, it features intricate detailing, stained glass windows, and is recognized as one of the country’s most significant Victorian residences.

Galveston Railroad Museum

Housed in the historic Union Depot, the Galveston Railroad Museum showcases the island’s railroading history. Visitors can explore vintage train cars, locomotives, and interactive exhibits.

The Grand 1894 Opera House

A historic performing arts venue, The Grand Opera House has been entertaining audiences since 1894. With its ornate design and impeccable acoustics, it hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts.

Stewart Beach

A family-friendly destination, Stewart Beach offers a wide expanse of sandy shores, lifeguard stations, and amenities like volleyball courts and a pavilion. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles.

Known for its lively atmosphere and frequent events, East Beach is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. With live music, festivals, and a vibrant nightlife scene, it’s a dynamic beach experience.

Seawolf Park Beach

Located near the Galveston Ship Channel, Seawolf Park Beach provides scenic views of passing ships and access to fishing piers. The park also features military exhibits, making it a unique blend of history and recreation.

Taking a few days before or after your cruise from the Galveston Cruise Ship Terminal reveals the city’s allure. Not only in its historical significance but also in its diverse attractions, lively beaches, and resilient spirit.

Whether strolling through historic districts, enjoying cultural landmarks, or relaxing by the seaside, visitors are sure to find a delightful mix of past and present in this charming coastal city. And the cruise port is so easy to navigate from parking to terminal to ship!

If you are a U.S. citizen and your cruise begins and ends at the same U.S. port (in this case Galveston) then a U.S. government-issued I.D. and a state-issued birth certificate with a raised seal is acceptable on these “closed-loop” cruises.

Carnival, Disney, MSC (soon), Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean. Currently, there are a total of 13 ships and then 14 when MSC Seascape moves to Galveston year-round.

There are two cruise terminals at the port of Galveston.

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Pictured: Galveston Causeway

Causeway & Cruise

When you enter this part of Galveston, you realize that the beginning of the island's magic beyond the beach.

One of the only ways to get to the island is to cross the infamous Galveston Causeway, and this corridor over the bridge has plenty of businesses and lodging options for visitors.

pictured: Galveston Cruise Terminal.

History of the Galveston Causeway

The causeway connects the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and Galveston Bay. Built in 1912, the original causeway served both train and automobile traffic. In 1939, auto traffic was relocated to new causeways built to the west, leaving the historic bridge open to rail traffic.

Causeway & Cruise: Popular Hotels

Causeway & Cruise: Popular Restaurants

Galveston is the fourth busiest homeport in the country, with cruises departing throughout the year. Galveston's cruise industry continues to boom with...

Directions From Causeway to Cruise Terminal

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2450 Louisiana, Suite #400/428 Houston, Texas 77006

2100 Harborside Galveston, Texas 77550

2200 Harborside Dr Galveston, Texas 77550

19 Pier 21 Galveston, Texas 77550

100 Seawolf Park Blvd Galveston, Texas 77554

Galveston, Texas 77550

7509 Broadway St Galveston, Texas 77554

100 Seawolf Park Blvd Galveston, Texas 77550

6303 Broadway St Galveston, Texas 77551

1406 Hayes Street Houston, 77009

200 Seawolf Pkwy Galveston, Texas 77554

2315 Mechanic St, 120 Galveston, Texas 77550

2100 Harborside Dr Galveston, Texas 77550

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Galveston (Texas)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-04-24 19:05

Port Galveston cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Galveston, Texas. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Galveston is a port city spread over Galveston Island and Pelican Island, in Texas USA. The city's land area is approx 208 mi2 (539 km2), with population around 50,000. The city is within the "Greater Houston" metro area (Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land) with total population over 6,5 million.

By annual cruise shipping traffic (~1 million embarking passengers), Port Galveston is currently ranked USA's 4th busiest cruise port - an increase of 126% since 2010, when the homeporting business started.

Port Galveston TX

Port Galveston (locode USGLS) is located on mainland Texas' upper coast and on the island's eastern end. The port is at approx 9 mi (15 km) from the open sea (Gulf of Mexico). The Port Authority company (Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves) is city-owned, self-sustaining and doesn't receive city property taxes.

In 2017, Galveston was ranked the USA's 4th largest cruise port. In 2016, it generated US$58,4M in local passenger spending, plus US$19,1M in port-provided services. Cruise ship operations created 1232 direct local jobs. According to the Port's statistical data, Texas receives from cruise ship operations ~USD 1,42 billion per year (direct spending). The industry generates 25166 state jobs and ~USD 1,62B in income.

In 2022, the Port's cruise activities supported ~3500 jobs and generated US$568 million (local business revenue) and US$73,5 million (local purchases by cruise tourists/passengers and crew).

Bayport Cruise Terminal (Houston) is located in Pasadena Texas. The driving distance between Galveston and Houston is approx 50 mi (80 km), or ~1-hour drive southeast.

Port Galveston was established in October 1825, making it the oldest on the Gulf of Mexico. During the late-19th century, the seaport was considered to be the USA's 2nd busiest - after NYC New York . It exported most of the USA's cotton, also cattle and rice. Unfortunately, on September 8, 1900, the port was devastated by the "1900 Galveston hurricane". The storm (Category 4) had strong winds of up to 145 mph (233 kph) and resulted in 6000-8000 dead - ranking it the USA's deadliest hurricane disaster ever. Although recovered, the seaport's market position was soon overtaken by Houston and other deepwater ports on the US Caribbean coast.

Major contributors to the Port's current successful cruise business are Carnival Corporation and RCG-Royal Caribbean Group . Both are currently ranked the world's largest passenger shipping companies and both homeport here large-capacity liners for year-round roundtrip departures. Today, Port Galveston is one of the most successful Caribbean USA homeports.

• On September 30, 2015, the port celebrated its 15th "cruise business" anniversary.
• On September 30, 2000, the Carnival ship MS Celebration started here its first homeport itinerary.
• In 2000-2015, the seaport handled a total of 2643 cruise ship calls (by 18 different vessels) and 7+ million passengers.
• During season 2017, were handled 33 ship calls (all turnarounds/roundtrips) and 113,488 passengers. Port's previous record year was 2005 (29 ship calls). In December 2017 was welcomed the port's 9 millionth passenger - since Sept 30, 2000, when its cruising business started.
• In 2018, CCL-Carnival Cruise Lines deployed in Galveston 3 boats ( Freedom , Valor , Vista ), with projected annual capacity 650,000+ pax. In 2018, here were also homeported RCI's boats Liberty OTS and Vision OTS .
• On December 5, 2018, the port authority company (Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves) signed with RCG an MoU agreement for the development and concession of a new (Royal Caribbean) "Cruise Terminal 3" at Pier 10. The US$125M project was officially approved on December 11, 2019. The long-term (20-year initial) lease deal could be extended (via 4 consecutive 10-year options) up to 60-year exclusive terminal concession rights . Between 2003-2018, RCI brought to Galveston 2,4+ million tourists (annual economic impact ~USD 65M). Terminal 3 was opened on Nov 9, 2022.

The port also has facilities to handle cargo ships (bulk freighters and container carriers ) and dry dock facilities for marine vessel refurbishments and repairs . The port can handle all types of cargo - containers, dry bulk, liquid bulk, breakbulk, RO-RO (roll-on/roll-off) vessels. There is a terminal switching railroad to facilitate larger cargo movements by rail.

In August 2021, Galveston Wharves signed an MoU with Stabilis Solutions to build and supply LNG bunkering/shore-to-ship fueling facilities in 2021. The deal was signed by Rodger Rees (Galveston Port's Director and CEO) and Jim Reddinger (Stabilis' President and CEO). Galveston is the second (after Corpus Christi) LNG bunkering port served by Stabilis (2013-founded, Houston Texas -based turnkey LNG company, part of LNG Investment Company LLC).

Galveston cruise port

In the period 2000-2016, the port invested USD 85+ million in its cruise terminals.

In 2014, the Port served ~642,000 passengers, in 2015 were handled ~834,000 (28% increase). Galveston was one of the few in the USA with increased passenger shipping traffic in 2015 - the other being Miami , San Juan Puerto Rico , Seattle and San Francisco .

In January 2014, the port signed a 5-year agreement with Royal Caribbean, generating USD 1,86+ million in annual revenues. The agreement required improvements to be made to Cruise Terminal 2 (Terminal 28) to accommodate larger vessels and more tourists. Terminal 2's size was increased to 150,000 ft2 / 13,940 m2 (passenger capacity up to 1000) at the cost of USD 10M.

In February 2015, Carnival added the ship Freedom as its 3rd year-round boat (joining the fleetmates Magic and Triumph ) which increased CCL's year capacity up to 600,000 passengers.

In 2016 were handled 875,000 passengers. In 2017 the number grew to 950,000 (economic impact USD 2,3 billion) supporting 13892 local jobs. Direct spending is USD 1,2+ billion. Generated jobs are 20,000 (paying over USD 1,1 billion in total income). Cruise ship vacation-related spending in Texas is accounted for 6,3% of the industry's direct expenditures, and 5,6% of the industry's nationwide overall spending.

In 2016, Carnival homeported in Galveston 3 ships ( Breeze , Freedom , Liberty ). Royal Caribbean in 2016-2017 homeported year-round 2 ships ( Liberty OTS , Vision OTS ).

In August 2017 (25-27), the port was closed due to Hurricane Harvey's significant rains during the weekend. This affected the schedules of 4 liners (Carnival Breeze, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Valor, Liberty of the Seas). The port was shut down to all shipping traffic (cargo and passenger). Freedom and Valor were relocated to New Orleans , Breeze remained docked overnight in Cozumel, Liberty OTS was diverted to Miami .

In 2017 were handled a total of 258 ship calls and ~1,9 million passengers. In 2017, the port reported a record monthly cruise shipping volume (113,488 embarking passengers) on a total of 33 departures in December. The previous record was 29 turnarounds (December 2005). In Dec 2017, the port also celebrated its 9 millionth passenger.

For 2018, the cruise port had booked 308 ship calls, with estimated 2+ million passengers. In September 2018, Carnival repositioned here Vista - replacing Breeze and joining Valor and Freedom . Seasonally (2018-2019 / October - January) here were homeported 3x Carnival ships (Vista, Valor, Freedom), 2x RCI ships (Liberty OTS, Vision OTS) and Wonder . The Disney ship offers roundtrips in autumn and winter, then relocates (through Panama Canal) to Alaska for the summer.

On December 9, 2018, Port Galveston welcomed its 10 millionth cruise tourist since 2000, when its cruising operations started. The lucky man was Yingtao Liu, who arrived from Norman Oklahoma together with his parents, wife and 3 kids. Upon checking before boarding Carnival Vista , the family (all first-time cruisers) was greeted by Rodger Rees (port's CEO) and Pavol Drimaj (ship's Hotel Director). All family members received gifts, including a 3-night hotel package for Island Bay Resort, a basket with gourmet treats, a CVB-logoed gift bag and a Carnival-logoed beach bag with travel essentials. The cruise company also extended the family's standard onboard amenities with VIP services.

Port's current schedule has two liners leaving on Saturdays, two on Sundays, one on Mondays, one on Thursdays. The Disney ship leaves on Fridays. Every 2 years is conducted ship channel/waterfront dredging to maintain the port's required water depth of 45 ft (14 m). The shipping channel is also regularly deepened to maintain a 150-ft (46-m) wide waterfront marine zone that allows access to piers 10 and 41.

In mid-January 2019, Port Galveston signed an agreement with DCL-Disney Cruise Line extending the company's preferential berthing rights for additional 10 years (until November 1, 2028), with optional 2 renewals for additional 5-year periods. The deal also included building a new/shared cruise terminal with capacity to handle a vessel similarly sized or bigger than Disney's Magic-Wonder boats.

In 2018, the Port's cruise shipping grew by 13%, resulting in USD 1,5 billion in direct expenditures and 26241 supported Texas jobs (with total wages USD 1,75 billion). Galveston is Texas State's only homeport and was accounted for 6,3% of the USA's cruise industry overall spending, 6,2% of the industry's total employment impact, 7,6% of its income impact. In 2018, the port's passenger+crew arrivals were ~1,4 million (estimated USD 115M in ashore spending/goods and services).

In mid-November 2022, Galveston Wharves announced an MoU with Carnival Corporation, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, CenterPoint Energy Inc (USA electric transmission and natural gas services), Shell Trading (UK), and Texas A&M University (College Station City TX) for potential solutions to develop shoreside power connectivity .

In 2022, the Port's cruise business supported 3500 jobs, and generated US$568M in local business revenue plus US$73,5M in purchases by cruise tourists (passengers and crew).

In 2023, the cruise port recorded 362 booked berthings (354 ship calls received) and ~42% increase in passengers (~2,98 million) over 2022. When completed, the newest/4th MSC Cruise Terminal is expected to generate an additional 925 jobs, ~US$177M in revenues, ~US$21M in local purchases.

On December 4, 2019, Port Galveston welcomed its 1-millionth cruiser - Mark Martin (from Mission Viejo CA). He and his wife (Laurie Steele) were booked on Enchantment Of The Seas for a 5-day Western Caribbean itinerary to Mexico (Costa Maya, Cozumel).

As part of the Port Access Program 2019-2020, in mid-July 2020, TxDOT (Texas Department of Transportation) awarded USD 3,75M "Rider 38 Grant" for the USD 5M project for building a new internal roadway between 14th and 20th streets. The balance (USD 1,25M) will come from the cruise port's operating revenue. Works on the project are planned to start in August 2021 and to be completed in 2022-Q4. The new road is a section of an internal roadway running (through the port property) from 14th Street to 53rd Street. In 2018, Galveston Wharves received USD 1+ million from Rider 48 for repaving, widening and installing drainage on OPIR-Old Port Industrial Road (between 29th Str and 33rd Str) as well as for repaving and drainage on 33rd Str (between OPIR and Harborside Drive).

For FY2020 (fiscal year) Port Galveston reported USD 2 million in revenue (despite the Coronavirus crisis) mainly by reducing expenses.

• Grants and investments were USD 29M, expenses ~USD 27M ($11,3M in 2019). Seaport's operating income was USD 27,4M (40% from cargo shipping) including $7,2M from cruises (+parking).
• Revenues also included $6M (lay revenues), $1,9M (real estate leases), $0,8M (other).
• Projections for 2021 were for USD 37,5M (operating revenues) including $3M from cruise ships' lay dockage.
• Suspension of ex-Galveston cruises resulted in huge losses for the state's economy and the cruise shipping industry-related businesses. Based on annual economic statistics, statewide losses in 2020-2021 were estimated at USD 1,2 billion (direct spending), USD 1,6 billion (wages), ~23,000 jobs.

In August 2022 was announced a US$33 million investment in cruise-related infrastructure improvements, including US$22M (pier repairs, site works, utilities, 1800-lots cruise parking) and US$11M (upgrades at Terminal 25 and Terminal 28). Terminal 28 now has 450 cruise parking lots.

In May 2023, Galveston Wharves announced an investment of US$53 million in Terminal 25's expansion in order to accommodate CCL'’s largest ship Carnival Jubilee (max capacity 6630 passengers) which homeporting was scheduled to start in December 2023. The project included adding two new gangways, a new ramp, two elevators, one escalator, new roofing, improvements of facilities (including Customs & Border Protection).

With 3x cruise terminals and increased passenger traffic (7+ million visitors annually), in 2022 Port Galveston started investing in infrastructure upgrades (expanding the interior roadway) to divert some of the traffic (away from Harborside Drive) and technologies like real-time traffic conditions and route updates (via mobile apps), more wayfinding electronic signboards, advance traffic notifications (for tourists with booked cruise parking), car license plate recognition (for automated cruise port parking entry and exit). The ~USD 20 million project also included the restoration and extension of the roads in the Old Port Industrial and Wharf. A direct road connection to highway I-45 can divert most of the cruise-related vehicle traffic directly to the Port.

In October 2023, Galveston Wharves received US$42.3 million in state funding for cargo terminals and road infrastructures.

• A US3.85M (+US$1M port contribution) were allocated for the restoration of the in-port roadway (between streets 33rd and 41st) and reopening of the enclosed pedestrian walkway over Harborside Drive/Texas State Highway 275 (at 25th Street), which provides access to cruise port's terminals 25 and 28, as well as to the Shearn Moody Plaza Garage and downtown Galveston's Strand District. The project also included installing elevators and/or escalators at Terminal 25 and the parking garage.
• US$2.5M (+US$0,655M port contribution) was used for the 4th section of the internal roadway to improve access to the West Port and divert cruise traffic from I-275/Harborside Drive and reduce downtown's congestion.
• In March 2024 started the expansion of the Express Lot (park-and-walk road infrastructure adjacent to cruise terminals 25 and 28) to reduce traffic on Harborside

In November 2023 was announced a US$5.3M contract for engineering and architecture services for a new/fourth terminal at Pier 16.

On November 21, 2023, was adopted Galveston Wharves' 2024 budget, with projected US$37M in net income, US$72,5M in operating revenues (12% over 2023's), US$35,5M in operating expenses, and ~14% increase in cruise tourists (~1,6M).

For FY2023, Galveston Wharves Port reported revenues of US$67,4M (27,5% increase), a net operating income of US$24,5M (55,4% increase), received 1,490532M passengers/embarkations (+43,1%), 210665 cruise cars parked (+46,4%), and handled 3,6M tons of cargo.

Cruise itineraries from Galveston Texas

Follows a list of destinations visited by cruise ships leaving out of Galveston:

• Most departures from Galveston are operated by liners from the fleets of Carnival , RCI-Royal Caribbean and DCL-Disney .
• (Western Caribbean) 7-day to Honduras ( Roatan island ) and Mexico ( Costa Maya and Cozumel ).
• (Western Caribbean) 7-day to Jamaica ( Montego Bay ), Grand Cayman ( George Town ) and Mexico ( Cozumel ). Another port of call could be Belize City .
• (Eastern Caribbean) 7-day to Florida ( Key West ) and Bahamas ( Freeport , and Nassau ). Also can be visited the Bahamian private islands Half Moon Cay (Carnival), Castaway Cay (Disney) and CocoCay (Royal Caribbean).

(Western Caribbean) From Galveston are also offered Mexico-only roundtrips that visit Cozumel (4-days) and Cozumel with Progreso (5-days).

Galveston cruise terminal

The port consists of Pelican Island's southern side, Galveston Island's northern side and Galveston Bay's entrance. The Galveston Ship Channel's authorized min depth is 45 ft (14 m). Its width at the narrowest point is 1200 ft (370 m).

• UN-LOCODE (United Nations location code) - USGLS
• supported by excellent road, rail and air infrastructure
• capability to accommodate 3 vessels at a time
• deep water channel - min depth (45 ft / 13,7 m), narrowest point width (1200 ft / 366 m)
• deep water berths
• sheltered harbor area, direct access to Gulf of Mexico

The Port is accessible the whole year round - 24/7, 365 days a year.

Cruise ships usually arrive in Galveston in the late afternoon (4 or 4:30 PM) and depart from Galveston in the early evening (at 7 or 8 PM). Know that disembarking passengers must pay tax on alcohol and cigarettes imported into Texas (purchased either on the ship or at ports of call).

Port Galveston has 3 passenger terminals, all featuring modern and most efficient customer facilities.

"Cruise Terminal 1" serves vessels of Princess and Carnival .

"Cruise Terminal 2" is utilized by Disney , Celebrity and RCI-Royal Caribbean .

"Cruise Terminal 3" (2022-opened) is exclusive to Royal Caribbean.

Houston-Galveston fly cruisers information

Flight tourists boarding in Galveston fly into one of Houston's two airports - George Bush/Intercontinental (IAH) or the smaller William Hobby (HOU/served mainly by Southwest Airlines).

Galveston cruise port is approx 40 mi / 70 km from Hobby Airport (~60 min drive distance) and approx 70 mi / 110 km from Houston Airport (~90 min drive distance). For fly-cruisers is recommended to use rideshare (larger group travel) services. Lyft is Galveston terminal's exclusive rideshare company (pricing per vehicle /not per person) so Uber is not an option. Most Lyft vehicles fit 4x people (+ the driver). Taxis are also available from both Houston airports, but the prices are significantly higher (~twice) than the rideshare service.

Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer roundtrip shuttle bus services (between Galveston and both airports in Houston) with prices per person / similar to Lyft's. Independent shuttle services are provided by companies like Galveston Express, Galveston Limousine, Island Breeze Shuttle.

If the cruise ship itinerary's arrival time at Port Galveston is 6-7 am (debarkation day), passenger disembarkation is usually completed between 7:30-9 am. So the earliest home flight from Houston is recommended to be booked for 1 pm or later.

Cruise Ship Terminals 1 and 2

• Pier 25/Terminal 1 address - "2502 Harborside Dr., Galveston, TX 77550"
• Pier 27/Terminal 2 address - "2702 Harborside Dr., Galveston, TX 77550"
• At Terminal 1 (pier 25) dock Princess and CCL-Carnival boats.
• At Terminal 2 (pier 27) dock DCL-Disney and RCI-Royal Caribbean boats.
• Embarkation: luggage must be unloaded at the terminal curbside prior to parking. Shuttles don't handle luggage during embarkation.

On November 30, 2016, the port completed a USD 13 million project that expanded the passenger area at "Cruise Terminal 2". Terminal's both buildings are now connected by an enclosed, air-conditioned walkway. The passenger area was increased from around 90,000 to 150,000 ft2 (8360 to 13950 m2). Seating was increased from 500 to 2000 seats, baggage holding-, customs- and waiting areas were expanded, and 16 more check-in booths were installed.

Terminal 2's expansion works started in 2014, financed by Royal Caribbean . However, construction roadblocks delayed the project with roughly a year. The expansion also included longer docking pier with extra bollards (short, vertical posts used for mooring). The dock project cost around USD 3,5M and was completed in 2017. The expanded Terminal 2 now has capacity to handle up to 5,000 passengers at a time.

In 2018, on Terminal 2's channel side were added new mooring structures (bollards) to allow docking of the longer Carnival Vista . The main mooring was upgraded with 200-ton bollards (metal posts for the mooring lines). The port is currently in the conceptual stage (designs) for building a new (3rd) cruise terminal as the demand for large vessels leaving from Galveston on the weekends is constantly growing.

(NEW) "Pier 10" Royal Caribbean Terminal 3

Cruise Terminal 3's address is "1028 Harborside Drive, Galveston, TX 77550"

On December 5, 2018, the port authority company (Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves) signed with RCG-Royal Caribbean Group an MoU agreement for the development and concession of a new ( Royal Caribbean-exclusive ) terminal.

The USD 125 million (~EUR 107M) project was approved on December 11, 2019. This is a long-term (20-year initial) lease deal that could be extended (via 4 consecutive 10-year options) up to 60-year exclusive terminal concession rights.

The new Royal Caribbean terminal is sized 14990 m2 (161300 ft2) and occupies 10 acres (4 hectares / 40500 m2) of land at Pier 10 (port's southeast section).

The design was developed by Bermello Ajamil & Partners Inc - the company that also designed the Royal Caribbean's Terminal A (PortMiami), Cape Liberty Cruise Terminal (New York City) and Terminals 18 & 25 (Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale).

The new passenger terminal has a modern building (height 68 ft/ 21 m) and docking capacity to accommodate even Oasis-class liners (the world's largest ).

Cruise Terminal 3 features dedicated bus parking, taxi ranks, large car parking (1550 lots), facial recognition technology, mobile check-in service.

The construction works on "Terminal 3" were planned to start in April 2020, with scheduled completion in November 2021. However, due to the COVID crisis, in early-March RCG requested a 1-year extension for the construction's start (rescheduled for April 1, 2021). RCG's proposal was approved on April 28, 2020. The initial plans included in 2021 here to be homeported Allure OTS (starting November 10th), but the ship's homeporting was rescheduled for Nov 2022.

Works on Pier 10's Terminal 3 officially started on August 14, 2021. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Rodger Rees (Galveston Port Director and Galveston Wharves' CEO), Joshua Carroll (RCG's VP of Destination Development), Craig Mygatt (Ceres Terminals Inc's CEO), Craig Brown (City Mayor).

The project created ~400 construction jobs and ~400 permanent jobs.

RCI Galveston Terminal was initially scheduled for completion/inauguration on September 1, 2022, but was officially opened on November 9th. The new facility is co-owned (50-50) by RCG and Ceres Terminals Inc (provider of stevedore and terminal management services, part of Ceres Terminal Holdings LLC). Ceres currently provides for RCG similar services at Port Canaveral , Tampa , Port NOLA/New Orleans  and Baltimore .

Terminal 3 has an area dedicated to Suite-booked passengers, accessed via an exclusive entrance. The waiting hall is fitted with comfortable sofas, restrooms, vending machines.

(NEW) MSC Cruise Terminal (Galveston Pier 16)

In late-December 2022, MSC Cruises announced plans for homeporting in Galveston.

In 2023, MSC (world's 3rd-largest cruise shipowner) started negotiations with Galveston Wharves on a fourth/new cruise terminal, signing a non-binding MoU (memorandum of understanding) that outlined a potential terminal development and operation agreement for a new facility to be constructed at Port Galveston's piers 16-18.

The MoU was signed by Ruben Rodriguez (MSC Cruises USA's President) and Rodger Rees (Port Director and CEO).

The announcement made Galveston MSC's 4th American homeport - following Florida's Miami and Port Canaveral/Orlando ), and New York's NYC (since April 2023).

The MSC Cruise Terminal was included in Galveston Port's "20-Year Strategic Master Plan" listing major investments and maintenance projects to maximize assets, optimize all shipping-related business sectors and boost the state's economy with new jobs and more revenues.

In August 2023, the Wharves Board authorized US$673,000 for the proposed MSC Terminal's design and pre-engineering cost estimates.

In 2023, MSC had booked a record of 362 berthings/voyages out of Galveston.

On February 7, 2024, Galveston Wharves and MSC finalized the operating agreement for the new terminal complex. Starting in November 2025, in Galveston MSC inaugurates homeporting operations with the ship MSC Seascape .

The MSC Cruise Terminal complex at Pier 16 comprises a US$100 million terminal facility (docking infrastructure and building/former cargo warehouse), plus a US$42 million parking garage, and an internal roadway. Construction works were scheduled to start in 2024-Q1.

The project (funded with Galveston Wharves' cash reserves and revenue bonds). The terminal building is sized 165000 ft2/15330 m2. MSC will exclusively operate the facility under a 20-year concession agreement (2025 through 2045).

The 20-year terminal concession deal between Galveston Wharves and MSC is inclusive of 4 optional 5-year extensions. MSC was allocated a fixed cruise schedule while the Port retains the prerogative to receive at Pier 16 other cruise vessels, contingent upon availability.

Annually, Galveston's 4th cruise terminal is projected to support 925 new jobs and ~US$177 million in local business revenues (passenger fees and sales tax from parking).

(NEW) Pier 16 Cruise Terminal (4th)

On November 7, 2023, the Wharves Board signed a US$5.3M contract with Bermello Ajamil & Partners Inc (1939-founded engineering and architecture company/subsidiary of BAP Development Inc) for a fourth terminal at Pier 16.

Bermello Ajamil's services included the design of the building, one parking garage, one passenger boarding bridge, marine structure and civil improvements (dock area, access roads, utilities, surface parking).

Galveston's fourth/newest cruise terminal project was unanimously voted at the Board's October 31st meeting and was included in the Port's "20-Year Strategic Master Plan" (2019-adopted). It was also announced that the port and MSC are negotiating an agreement related to the Pier 16 Terminal.

In September 2023 the Board contracted Hensel Phelps Construction Co (1937-founded) for preconstruction services.

Construction works are planned to start in 2025-Q1.

The entire project is estimated to cost ~US$140 million.

Cruise ship terminal directions and parking

From East - take Highway 87. Board a Port Bolivar vehicle ferry. Exit the ferry onto Ferry Road (Highway 87). Turn right onto Harborside Drive, then continue to Kempner (22nd Street) - some 20 city blocks. Turn right onto Kempner (22nd Street) and follow the signs to the terminal (Pier 25 or 27).

From North or West - take Interstate 45 South, then Exit 1C, Follow the feeder road to Harborside Drive (Highway 275), then turn left onto Harborside Drive and for ~5 mi / 8 km to Kempner (22nd Street). Turn left onto Kempner (22nd Street) and follow the signs to the terminal (Pier 25 or 27).

Cruise Parking Rates (subject to change) - USD 45 (on 4-day cruises), USD 50 (on 5-day cruises), USD 70 (on 7-day cruises). Parking is guarded and lighted, with 24-hour surveillance and police patrol. The garage's phone number is 409 766-6100.

Debarkation: go directly to the Parking Lot to retrieve your car (without luggage). Then pick up passengers and luggage at the terminal curbside. Depart the terminal via shuttles. The service is provided only in parking lots with luggage drop-off signs.

If you plan to fly to Galveston, you will arrive at either Hobby Airport, HOU, or George Bush International Airport, IAH, you have to rent a car or take a cruise line shuttle. There is no public transportation to Galveston from the airports in Huston. Galveston Limousine offers service to Galveston cruise ship terminal for USD 30. Taxi fares are USD 100 from George Bush Intercontinental and USD 75 from Hobby Airport.

The port's cruise parking rate is US$11.25 per day (subject to change). Payment options are cash, VISA / MasterCard or to pay in advance on the port's website. Four-day cruise parking costs US$45, 5-day - US$ 46.25, and 1-week/7-day – US$78.75.

Royal Caribbean's new Cruise Terminal 3's parking lots (, South, and Pier 14) are priced US$22/day (North Lot) and US$20 per day (at South Lot and Pier 14 Lot).

independently owned/operated parking lots near Port Galveston are located near Terminals 1 and 2, but relatively far away from Terminal 3. Most lots are at ~10-min drive/30-min walk distance from the Port. Near the cruise port are the lots of EZ Cruise Parking, Galveston Park N Cruise, Falstaff Cruise Parking, Discount Cruise Parking.

Best-rated hotels near Port Galveston include Baymont by Wyndham, Springhill Suites by Marriott, Holiday Inn Express & Suites.

During you stay, Galveston can offer plenty of activities for any age. You can enjoy tropical rainforest adventure or rest at the sunny beach. If you prefer, you can visit amusement places near the Galveston cruise port terminal like:

• Texas Seaport Museum
• the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum
• the Moody Gardens
• the Bishop’s Palace
• the Stewart Beach Park

Galveston tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Live from the Harbor House on Pier 21

2100 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX ( Directions )

The Cruise Cam is located on the Harbor House at Pier 21 .  The hotel’s stellar location at Pier 21 – just steps from the Strand Historic District – makes it easy to explore countless shops, seafood restaurants, and popular attractions.

Webcam views include the Texas Seaport Museum , Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum , Willie G's , and the marina where dolphin and harbor tours depart.  The cam provides excellent views of cruise ships arriving and departing the cruise terminal.

All Aboard!

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Dash Beardsley's Ghost Tours of Galveston

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Galveston Port Transportation

Last updated on January 31st, 2024 at 04:08 pm

Convenient shuttle services and taxis are available to transport passengers to the Galveston cruise terminal from nearby airports and hotels. Local transportation options, such as rental cars and rideshare services, provide easy access to explore the city's attractions and reach the cruise port hassle-free.

What is the closest airport to the Galveston Cruise Port?

Car rentals in galveston texas, galveston cruise shuttles, galveston disembarkation tips, have a flight late in the day, cruise planning at this port.

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6 Easy Houston to Galveston Cruise Transport Options (Uber, Shuttles, Taxis, & More)

Heading from Houston to Galveston for a cruise? You’re not alone.

Roughly two decades ago Galveston wasn’t even a cruise port. It served only as an industrial port. Today it’s the busiest port for cruise traffic outside of Florida. Now, each year more than a million passengers embark from the island.

Many of those people fly into Houston from all around the United States to set sail. What surprises many of them is that Galveston is actually quite far from the Houston airports.

Considering that other ports such as Miami or Fort Lauderdale are just a few miles from the nearby airports, passengers often think it would be the same situation in Galveston.

In fact, the cruise port is about 40 miles from Houston Hobby (HOU) and about 70 miles from Bush Intercontinental (IAH) . Depending on traffic, it can take 1-2 hours to get from the airport to the cruise port.

The good news is that a number of services offer transportation between the airport and the cruise port.

The bad news? There’s no “cheap” way to get back and forth. Plan to spend at least $100 round-trip, depending on how large your group is and which airport you fly into.

We’ve outlined all your options below.

In This Article...

Houston to Galveston Cruise Transportation Options

So which method of getting to the port is right for you? Here is more information and our suggestions.

Rideshare | Uber & Lyft (Recommended)

For most people, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft makes the most sense on getting to Galveston. You can request a car when you arrive at the airport, and it’s a fast, easy way to make your way to the island. It’s also one of your cheapest options, unless you are traveling solo.

Estimated fares from Hobby are in the $50 range, each way. If you are flying into Bush Intercontinental on the north side of Houston, the estimated fare is $75 each way. The price you pay (and the length of your ride) will often depend on traffic along I-45 to Galveston.

Keep in mind that this price is for up to four people in a single car — not per person. There are also larger cars available if traveling with a larger group or if you have a lot of luggage. Uber and Lyft serve both of the Houston airports and can drop-off/pick-up at the Galveston cruise terminals, so you can be let out and picked up right at the ship.

Note : If you are new to Uber or Lyft and plan to use them, you should download the app before you leave home for the cruise port. There is some account setup that you’ll need to do, and you don’t want to try to do this at the airport after you arrive.

Independent Shuttles (Recommended)

Seeing a need in the market, a number of shuttle services have popped up that provide rides to and from the Houston airports and the Galveston cruise port. While other options are cheaper for most parties, if you are traveling with a larger group then the shuttles can be a deal.

Expect to pay around $60 to $90 round trip, per person . It’s obviously a little more expensive to get to Galveston from Intercontinental compared to Hobby given the greater distance.

Galveston Express : Offers both shared or private service between the airports and the cruise ship. The cheapest option is shared service, costing $65 per person round trip from Houston Hobby and $75 round trip from Bush Intercontinental. There is a $5 discount if you are a senior (55+) or for children under 10 years old.

Galveston Limousine : This company has limousine in the name, but does offer shared service from the airports to Galveston, departing roughly every hour. Book online ahead of time and the rate is $50 round trip per person from Hobby and $60 per person from Bush Intercontinental (normal rates are $100/$120). That discounted rate makes this company the cheapest among the independent shuttles.

Island Breeze Shuttle : Another shuttle service with rates of $150 round trip for two passengers between Hobby and the cruise ship. Additional passengers cost extra. Rates run $190 for two passengers needing transport from Intercontinental on the north side of Houston. Want to save a little money? The company has discounts for seniors ($5 off) and for military (10%).

Traditional taxi cabs are widely available at Houston airports. Estimated rates for a round trip between Bush Intercontinental Airport is between $275 and $350. If you fly into Houston Hobby, which is considerably closer to Galveston, the rates is about $170 to $225 round trip.

These rates are higher than many other services but keep in mind that several people can ride for that price. This can make taxi cabs cheaper than some shuttles on a per-person basis. As well, you have the flexibility to make stops on the way to the port to pick up any last-minute items you might have forgot. You also don’t have to wait for a shuttle to fill up or share your ride with anyone else.

Cruise Line Transfer Shuttles

Some cruise passengers prefer to let the cruise line take care of transportation. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney will all pick you up at the airport and take you to the cruise ship (and vice versa when it’s time to go home).

The benefit is that you are in no danger of missing the ship. If there is traffic or a breakdown, the cruise ship won’t leave without the passengers taking its cruise transfer service. Still, it’s rare that the issue ever comes up, and in our opinion isn’t worth taking a cruise line transfer to the port.

Transfers provided by the cruise line are restrictive and expensive. For one, they only leave at certain times. You may have to wait on the bus at the airport until it’s ready to depart. As well, it’s a direct ride to the cruise port. If you need to stop off on the way to the ship to get some last-minute items, that’s not possible.

In addition, rides are available only on the day of your cruise. If you fly in a day early for your cruise, then you’ll need to find other transportation.

Finally, there is the cost. For example, Carnival charges $41/$58 each way between Hobby/Intercontinental. Other cruise lines charge similar rates. A family of four traveling back and forth between Intercontinental and the Galveston cruise port will spend $464 just getting to and from their cruise from Bush-Intercontinental.

For that reason, we suggest other modes of transportation from to Galveston, unless you are traveling in a small group .

If you still want to know about transfers from your cruise line, simply click on the name of your line to see their options:   Carnival | Royal Caribbean | Disney

Other Services (Car Rentals | Private Cars)

Car Rentals: Want to have the freedom to explore Galveston on your own? A car rental is a good idea. This way you always have transportation — including from the airport to the Galveston cruise port.

Only Enterprise has a lot on the island, so you will need to rent with them if you plan to drop the car off in Galveston. However, sometimes they won’t allow one-way rentals from the airport (it still doesn’t hurt to check).

Every major car rental company is at the Houston airports. If you can find a decent rate, it’s possible to rent the car for the entire length of your cruise and just pay to park during your trip ( parking costs around $100 per week ).

You can search for rental cars to the island below:

There are dozens of services that provide private cars, and costs can range from $150 round trip to several hundred dollars , depending on the car you wish to use. While the headline price may be higher, it is often cheaper to go this route when dealing with larger parties.

We can’t list all of the private services, but what follows are some of the more popular ones. If you search around, you might find others that have lower prices for the specific level of service you’re looking for.

Companies offering transfers from Houston airports to the Galveston terminal: Galveston Shuttle , Karr Limousine ,  Elite Limousines , Elite Town Car Services .

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get from the airports to the Galveston cruise port? As we mentioned above, both Intercontinental (IAH) and Houston Hobby (HOU) are a considerable distance from Galveston. In good conditions it takes about 1.5 hours to get from Intercontinental to the island and 45 minutes from Hobby to the cruise port.

We suggest allowing at least two hours and one hour in travel time between the two airports and the cruise port, respectively, to allow for traffic.

What’s the cheapest way to get from Houston to Galveston? The absolute cheapest way to get from Houston to Galveston depends on the number of people you are traveling with. If traveling solo, then taking an independent shuttle that charges per person will be the least expensive way between the airport and cruise port.

However, most people travel with between 2-4 people. In that case, Uber or Lyft will offer the lowest rates as they charge by the car, not by the person. You can fit several people in the same car for the same price. They also have the advantage of being available on call, instead of waiting for a shuttle to depart.

Is there public transportation between Houston and the Galveston cruise port? While the Houston/Galveston metro area is home to millions, public transportation options are practically non-existent. There is no viable public option to get from the airports to the cruise ships and vice versa. You’ll need to use a service like those listed above to get to your cruise.

More on Cruising From Galveston

Galveston Cruise Parking   —  Driving to the port? Not sure where to park? We prices and profiles of all the lots near the cruise terminal.

Galveston Park & Cruise Hotels — Getting in late? Leaving early? Simply need a place to rest your head? We’ve rounded up the options for places to stay near the port, including those with park and cruise packages.

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Hello, We are sailing on March 31 and arriving at IAH on March 30th. We are a family of four with 17 year old boy/girl twins plus one is bringing a friend for a grand total of 5. We arrive at IAH at 11:00pm. Considering the late arrival we thought it would be best to stay near the airport and travel to Galveston in the AM. We are looking for a hotel that has a shuttle from the airport to the hotel after 11:30pm (many indicate that the last shuttle is 11 or 11:30 which I don’t think we will make in time). We also don’t know if we should get two rooms (1 for the 3 boys (guys) and one for the two girls (ladies)). We don’t have a budget but want a reasonable price. It would be nice if it had a pool but not necessary since we will likely only sleep there for a few hours and leave. Decent beds and cleanliness is a must. Any hotel recommendations? Secondly, we are hoping to take an uber or lyft from the hotel to the port. Do you think we will find transportation that will fit 5 people with 5 full size suitcases and at least 3 carryons? Thank you!

There is a hotel at IAH (Marriott) if you can’t find a hotel with shuttle at that time of night. Honestly, there are so many hotels around IAH that someone has to have a 24-hour shuttle if you call around.

Regarding Uber/Lyft, five people is no issue with the “XL” services, but 8 bags is a lot to bring. I don’t know that even a large SUV would carry that much. I’d suggest breaking that into two different cars. There are also the shuttle services that might make things easier. You’ll have to catch them from the airport, but if you end up staying at the onsite hotel, that’s no big deal.

We will arrive to Houston early. We will plan to Uber/Lyft with our family of 5. We will have lots of bags for a 1 week cruise. I am curious if it’s possible to leave our luggage somewhere and go enjoy the pier area at Galveston while waiting to board our ship? Has anyone ever done this? Would this require another Uber back to the cruise port after we’ve enjoyed the pier area or is it walking distance? Thanks.

There is a spot where you can store bags by the port called The Cruise Stop ( https://thecruisestoponline.com/ ). Not sure what you’re calling the “pier area” as there is the Strand which is near the cruise piers. The Cruise Stop is right there as well.

There’s also the Pleasure Pier on the Seawall, which is across the island. In that case, you would need an Uber to get back and forth.

It was Pleasure Pier I was thinking of. I was thinking we could Uber from the airport, drop our bags at the Cruise Stop then have the Uber take us down to Pleasure Pier until closer to time to board the ship. Then we’d need to Uber back to the ship. That would be pretty cheap from Pleasure Pier correct? Please let me know if I’m understanding correctly as that’s likely what we will do. Thanks of your reply!

Yes, sounds good. Should not be much to get across to the Pleasure Pier. It’s a short ride but too far to walk.

We are planning to arrive in Houston and rent a car to drive to Galveston the day before our cruise. We are planning to take Uber from the hotel to the port and when we return from the cruise we were planning to take Uber to a rental car place and drive back to Houston or take Uber from the port to the airport. Does that sound reasonable or do you have a better idea? Thanks

Just depends on the cost you’re paying for the rentals. If it’s less than an Uber from Houston to Galveston, then good idea (or if you are going to used a rental car for exploring a bit).

If the cost is similar and you’re just going straight to/from the port, we’d prefer to just Uber or take a shuttle so that you don’t have to worry about dealing with a rental or driving.

I arrive at Houston international on Nov. 26 with my wife. Our cruise leaves on Nov.27. We have a hotel reserved in Galveston. Best opition traveling from airport to our hotel the night before. Would like to spend less than $100 for a one way trip. Any ideas

One of the shuttle companies that provides rides to hotels or Uber/Lyft is what I’d suggest.

What do you think the chances are of making a flight departure time of 10:18 AM out of IAH from a Cruise that is supposed to end at 7AM? Thanks.

I think that’s cutting it too close. It’s at least 90 minutes to the airport given the distance. And just because the ship returns at 7 a.m. doesn’t mean that people are allowed to disembark at that time.

Thanks. And I suppose it be about the opposite of “stress free” even if one was able to somehow pull it off.

I read your “Galveston Cruise Terminal 10 Sailing Guide” (very helpful). In it you said: “You should know that Lyft is allowed to pick up at the terminal, but Uber is not.”

Based on your response to Pamela, is this still the case or has that changed?

That’s my understanding!

Basic shuttle transfer.

IAH to terminal 3 Sunday 4th December

Return to IAH 11th December for 2 adults

Hi! My boyfriend and I are leaving for our cruise with RC in two days. We booked our flight through the cruise line and it comes with complimentary shuttle service. Do you know what terminal that royal shuttle service uses at the Houston (IAH) airport? Our flight gets to Texas at 10:56 AM so we want to make sure we know where we are going and are quick!

Not sure on that one. Did the cruise line not send some information regarding transportation or a phone number to call when you arrive?

Arriving at IAH airport the day before the cruise. We would like to be stay in Galveston the night before the cruise to be close. any suggestions for a reasonable hotel for 6 people. 3 REAL adults, and 3 teenage grandkids,

Check out our hotel pages for Galveston. Not sure of your budget but keep in mind that rates are higher on most weekends!

My husband and I will be cruising in Feb. 2022 from Galveston. I have very limited mobility in my left hip and use a walker to help me get around. We are spending the night before the cruise in a hotel in Galveston where we can also leave our car during the cruise. I need to know if Uber and/or Lyft can pick us up at the hotel and take us to the area at cruise Terminal 2 where the Porters can take our luggage. I’ve researched the shuttles hotels use and they drop you off at certain places and then you have to manage getting your luggage to the area where the Porters are. That won’t work for us because my husband can’t handle getting all the luggage to the Porter area by himself. Thank you for assisting us with your answer.

Yes, Uber/Lyft should be able to drop you off right at the terminal. Many shuttles are charged by the port for access, meaning it costs money to drop you off right at the terminal. To our knowledge this doesn’t apply to rideshare or personal vehicles.

Thank you so much for the time you took to list all of the very useful information. Just one quick question. We fly in a day early, are there any hotels close around you would recommend? Thank you, Kristina and Bobby

Flying in early is always a good idea. Not sure of your budget, but any of the name-brand hotels on the island should be fine. If you want something high-end, look at the Tremont House (right by the cruise port) or Hotel Galvez (Seawall). Both are historic local hotels that many people love.

Your prices are off. Shuttle to Galveston around $30 per person vice $60

Hi! What company did you use that was $30.00 per person?

Would you share what company you used?

I would like to use Uber or Lyft from Hobby airport to Galveston for cruise. I have an original I phone and it won’t let me download their apps. What else can I do?

Unfortunately you have to download the app. Are you traveling with another person? Can they download on their phone?

Thanks for sharing this. Any updates on using Uber here? I know sometimes the dropoff at the Houston airport is challenging because they’d rather give the space to the cabs. Curious if the dropoff is any better?

how do i request a uber to pick me up from ship ahead of time , so i know who is picking me up and what they drive

For rideshare, you can request a ride ahead of time. Directions for Uber are here: https://help.uber.com/h/63165ec1-0910-409e-972f-0b8d8df1a605

Directions for Lyft are here: https://help.lyft.com/hc/en-us/articles/115013078668-Scheduled-rides-for-passengers

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Cruise from Galveston, Texas

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GOOD TIMES IN GALVESTON 

Galveston Island is a gem for Texas tourism — and it’s easy to see why. Fascinating history, well-preserved 18th century architecture, gorgeous beaches and thrilling outdoor adventures. Experience all this and cruise out of Galveston with Travel Weekly’s Best Cruise Line Overall 19 years running.

Go Bold From Galveston

Unlock the shores of the western Caribbean on some fan favorites from our award-winning fleet. Wander through ancient Mayan ruins in Puerto Costa Maya, snorkel in Cozumel’s dramatic tropical reefs and zipline across lush rainforests in Roatán. Choose from a 7-night adventure onboard Harmony of the Seas®. Or go long on thrills with a quick getaway on Mariner of the Seas®. Or go long on thrills with a quick getaway on Voyager of the Seas®

ADVENTURE JUST GOT BIGGER IN TEXAS

Oasis Class flavors, thrills and beats go full-throttle on the biggest, boldest ship to ever sail from Texas — Harmony of the Seas®. Twist, shout and let it all out down the tallest slide at sea. Over 20 dining venues take you from Italy to Wonderland. And when the sun goes down, head to the AquaTheater or experience the Broadway hit Grease. All while maxing out memories onshore in Mexico and Roatán .

EXPLORE HARMONY OF THE SEAS

TROPIC HOPS FROM TEXAS

Get ready for memory-maxing onboard Voyager of the Seas ® . Here, adventure reaches new heights with a rock-climbing wall 40 feet above deck. Tastes buds go globetrotting with mouthwatering dishes from Italy to Japan. And big thrills are always on the forecast with the Perfect Storm ℠   — the boldest waterslides at sea.

EXPLORE VOYAGER OF THE SEAS

Galveston Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in galveston.

SALTWATER STALWARTS

Gulf Beach, Galveston, Texas

Unwind along Galveston’s 32 miles of sun-drenched shoreline at one of the many county beach parks lining the Gulf of Mexico. Galveston Island State Park offers quiet seclusion and Stewart Beach is a great family-friendly option, while East Beach is a popular gathering space for livelier beach crowds.

HEAD TO THE PIER

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier in Galveston, Texas

Say hello to the thrills and excitement of the massive amusement park at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. Galveston cruises give the opportunity to experience all that the pier has to offer. Enjoy the rides before playing all of the classic carnival games — there's even a roller coaster on Pleasure Pier!

BUILDING BLOCKS

Stroll past well-preserved Victorian-era buildings in the old Strand District during your Galveston cruise. Once called the “Wall Street of the South”, this charming commercial hub, along with the neighboring East End Historic District, is home to mansions-turned-museums, the Grand 1894 Opera House, plus loads of unique shops and cozy cafés.

LOCAL CUISINE

Seafood is king on Galveston Island— Gulf shrimp, blue crabs, snapper and grouper come fresh off the boat. But the signature Tex-Mex cuisine equally impresses with sizzling fajitas and tequila-laced margaritas. Old Strand Emporium scoops out ice-cream parlor charm, while La King’s Confectionary is where local candy makers craft saltwater taffy in-house. Don’t miss a drive-through daiquiri stand for a frozen cocktail on-the-go.

The Strand Historical District is the town’s prime shopping spot, where 19th-century storefronts now house a quirky collection of locally owned gift shops and antique stores. Here you can pick up beachwear, whimsical gifts, model ships, used books, Southwestern turquoise jewelry, and Texas-inspired home décor.

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11 Reason To Sail on Cruises From Galveston

I n no uncertain terms, a cruise port makes all the difference regarding your entire vacation. After all, the location of your departure sets the tone for your trip moving forward, determining which destinations you’ll reach once you’re on the high seas.

While specific destinations like Miami or Canaveral boast unique strengths, something might also be said for the Port of Galveston, Texas. A smaller port overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston may not be the largest or busiest destination from which to depart. Yet, there are plenty of amicable reasons to look into this idyllic Texan island for your next cruise-going experience.

1. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Offer Cruises From Galveston

Looking at it plainly, Galveston has three cruise terminals making up its port. In contrast, far larger alternatives, like the Port of Miami, have eleven terminals. Because of this, Galveston unfortunately cannot house many of the industry’s prestigious cruise lines. However, the port’s terminals support several large-scale cruise corporations, with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian, MSC, and Disney Cruises departing from Galveston regularly.

2. The Nearby Cruise Destinations Are Well Worth It

Admittedly, inevitable drawbacks are attached to cruises from Galveston. Considering how much farther west it is than ports in Florida or along the East Coast, most cruise lines out of Galveston cannot travel to their company’s private islands as many are in the Eastern Caribbean. However, Galveston’s location along the Gulf of Mexico has its distinct perks, including ready access to the Western Caribbean and parts of South and Central America. Though some guests might regret losing a chance at CocoCay, it’s hard to be upset when trekking along the shores of Mexico, Honduras, or Belize.

3. It’s Easier To Navigate Than Larger Ports

There’s no simple answer when it comes to determining the total cost of cruises from Galveston over any other port in the U.S. Like most ports, the final cost of the cruise depends on numerous factors, including the time of year you’re sailing, the location of your cabin, and the cruise line you plan on traveling with. However, the convenience of navigating the port itself makes Galveston a perfect option for anyone new to cruise vacations. Avoiding the large-scale crowds and tedious boarding lines as other major ports, Galveston remains a hassle-free destination for most novice travelers out there.

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4. galveston is conveniently located in the central u.s..

Given Galveston’s distinct location in eastern Texas , it’s one of the most readily accessible ports for travelers across the U.S. Located in the heart of America, travelers from the Western U.S. will have just as easy time reaching it as vacationers from the Midwest or East Coast. After all, who wants to sit on a lengthy plane ride to reach their port of call? Also, Galveston lacks the same high value of traffic as Miami or other popular ports, making it relatively hassle-free to reach.

5. The Port Terminal Is Reasonably Close to the Airport

Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport is the closest airport to Galveston. Roughly 41 miles northwest of the port, travelers can easily navigate from the airport to their cruise terminal in under an hour. Galveston is also close to several major cities, making it an option, albeit a farther one, for anyone flying into Austin or Dallas. However, given Houston’s short driving distance to Galveston, William P. Hobby Airport is your best bet for air travel.

6. The Boarding Process Is Quick and Seamless

As mentioned above, Galveston doesn’t have the same volume of passengers flooding through its port as Miami, Canaveral, or Port Everglades. As a result, boarding a ship is comparatively tamer—especially since the port opened up its third and latest terminal in 2022. Having been constructed in the past two decades and carefully refurbished, these terminals are in fantastic shape, making the onboarding process much more efficient for vacationers. The terminals also come equipped with innovative new features, with Terminal 3 offering mobile check-in and state-of-the-art facial recognition devices.

7. There Are Plenty of Hotels Nearby

Another notable feature of Galveston is the number of hotels near the port. (Because let’s face it: what’s more accessible than simply waking up, hopping in your car, and practically walking onto the ship without worrying about losing track of time?) What’s more, many of the hotels in the Galveston area have special offers for anyone traveling onboard a cruise ship. These offers include free or discounted parking rates and a helpful shuttle that ferry passengers back and forth from the hotel to the ship. While several hotels in Galveston have these amenities, some of the best include the Hilton Galveston Island Resort and the San Luis Resort .

8. Parking Is Easy

Don’t let Galveston’s size fool you—the port itself has plenty of options when it comes to parking. As previously suggested, anyone staying at a nearby hotel might want to consider leaving their car parked there and taking a shuttle, taxi, or Uber over to their terminal. Additionally, travelers can reserve a space in the port’s parking lot ahead of their trip. These parking spaces are safe and secure, and port employees will assist with any luggage brought aboard on cruises from Galveston.

9. Galveston Itself Is a Beautiful Place To Visit

The main reason we believe you should depart from Galveston on your next cruise is the opportunity you’ll have to see what it has to offer. Like most major cities, there’s plenty to do and see around town, with every prospective sight catering to travelers’ interests. For those interested in shopping, the Strand Historical District has plenty of independently owned stores that feature everything from odd tchotchkes to essential beach items. Galveston’s famous Moody Gardens is an educational park built around natural wonders such as exotic sea life, immaculate flowers, roaming monkeys, and sloths.

10. You’re Bound To Find Some Great Last-Minute Deals

As previously mentioned, Galveston is a more scaled-down port than Miami or Port Canaveral, but its three terminals still receive cruise ships constantly. Because of this constantly moving schedule, most travelers will find it incredibly easy to find last-minute deals on select cruises from Galveston—often days before the ship is booked to leave. Sure, it may not be practical for those traveling from longer distances to book something last-minute. Yet these last-minute deals are well worth it for anyone within a short distance of Galveston.

11. Galveston Is Steeped in Rich Maritime History

Galveston is a city rich in history, having first been settled by Indigenous Natives of the Akokisa and Karankawa tribes before the Europeans arrived in the 1600s. Over the next several centuries, Galveston became a hub for maritime trade, eventually attracting such notable figures as French buccaneer Jean Lafitte. All that being said, history buffs will delight at the chance to visit Galveston, taking in some of the numerous historical sights around town—like Lafitte’s personal hideaway at Maison Rouge or the Michael B. Menard House, named after one of Galveston’s original American settlers. Even those who don’t care for history will find these areas fascinating.

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Port of Galveston Wins Award for $53 Million Cruise Terminal Project

• April 16, 2024

The Houston Business Journal (HBJ) honored the Galveston Wharves with the 2024 Landmark Award for its $53 million Cruise Terminal 25 renovation and expansion project.

The port won in the publication’s Special Projects category which recognizes the best real estate projects in the greater Houston region, the port said in a statement. The annual ceremony was held in Houston on April 11, with over 500 attendees.

The project, completed in 2023, included berth and mooring updates, the addition of a second boarding bridge, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility that meets new federal standards and an interior redesign.

  Terminal project partners included tenant Carnival Cruise Line, general contractor Hensel Phelps, architect Bermello Ajamil & Partners and Texas Gulf Construction Co.

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