princess cruise from galveston

Cruises from Galveston, Texas: Gateway to Caribbean Adventures

Discover the best times to cruise from Galveston in 2024 with our month-by-month weather guide. Plan your ideal Western Caribbean voyage with ease.

Princess Cruises from Galveston

Elegant journeys to the western and southern caribbean.

Elegant Journeys to the Western and Southern Caribbean .Embark on an elegant journey with Princess Cruises, setting sail from Galveston, Texas, with the majestic Regal Princess. With around 30 departures and four distinct itineraries, Princess Cruises invites you to experience the warmth and splendor of the Western and Southern Caribbean. Choose from 7-day and 12-day cruises to explore a tapestry of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and tranquil beaches. Before your voyage, explore the alluring Galveston Island , a destination rich in history and beauty, perfect for starting your elegant cruise experience. Your journey begins at the sophisticated Port of Galveston , where the blend of luxury and efficiency sets the stage for your Princess Cruises adventure.

Regal Princess: Your Palace on the Seas

Regal princess.

A Regal Caribbean Voyage Awaits . With the Regal Princess, Princess Cruises brings a touch of sophistication and luxury to your voyage from Galveston. This vessel, renowned for its refined elegance, offers a serene atmosphere, world-class dining, and an array of enriching activities. Set sail on a 7-day or 12-day cruise and indulge in the exquisite experiences that await on board.

Western Caribbean Wonders with Princess Cruises

Cozumel and costa maya.

Mexico’s Coastal Jewels . Princess Cruises takes you to Cozumel and Costa Maya , where the essence of Mexico ‘s vibrant spirit and natural beauty unfolds. Delight in the pristine beaches, dive into the rich Mayan heritage, and embrace the lively Mexican culture.

Belize and Roatan

Discover the Western Caribbean’s Natural Wonders . Journey to Belize and Roatan with Princess Cruises for an adventure through lush jungles and the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders and vibrant underwater life that make these destinations a must-visit on your Western Caribbean cruise.

George Town and Montego Bay

Gems of the Caribbean Sea . George Town and Montego Bay await with their own unique blend of luxury, adventure, and cultural experiences. From the famous Seven Mile Beach to the rhythmic reggae beats, Princess Cruises offers a gateway to the heart of the Caribbean’s soul.

Southern Caribbean and Beyond: A Princess Cruise Spectacle

Aruba and curacao.

Dutch Caribbean Delights . Sail away to the Dutch Caribbean’s enchanting islands of Aruba and Curacao. With Princess Cruises, uncover the colorful architecture, inviting beaches, and vibrant street life that these islands are celebrated for.

Cartagena and Panama Canal

A Journey Through History and Innovation . Explore the historical streets of Cartagena and traverse the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal. Princess Cruises from Galveston offers an opportunity to witness the fusion of colonial charm and modern marvels.

Exotic Retreats

Puntarenas and Tortola’s Serene Escapes . Venture to the serene shores of Puntarenas and the tranquil beauty of Tortola. These less-traveled paths provide a peaceful retreat into the heart of the Southern Caribbean’s laid-back lifestyle and natural splendor.

Princess Cruises Itinerary: Your Ticket to Caribbean Elegance

Princess Cruises from Galveston is your ticket to an elegant and unforgettable Caribbean adventure. With meticulously curated 7-day and 12-day itineraries, Princess Cruises promises a journey filled with luxurious relaxation, cultural explorations, and unparalleled natural beauty.

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, March 9, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: March 9, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, March 2, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: March 2, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, February 23, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: February 23, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, February 16, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: February 16, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, February 9, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: February 9, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, February 2, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: February 2, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, January 26, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: January 26, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, January 19, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: January 19, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, January 12, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: January 12, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras cruise from Galveston, January 5, 2025

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel with Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: January 5, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras New Year Cruise from Galveston, December 29, 2024

7-day Holiday Cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: December 29, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, […]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras Christmas Cruise from Galveston, December 22, 2024

7-day Holiday Cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: December 22, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, […]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras from Galveston, December 15, 2024

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: December 15, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico & Honduras from Galveston, December 8, 2024

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: December 8, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, December 1, 2024

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: December 1, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, November 24, 2024

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: November 24, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, November 17, 2024

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: November 17, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, November 10, 2024

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: November 10, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, November 3, 2024

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: November 3, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Regal Princess, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, October 27, 2024

7-day cruise to Costa Maya, Roatan and Cozumel on board Princess Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: October 27, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Princess Cruises; Cruise Ship: Regal Princess; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

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12 Night Caribbean - Southern Cruise

Best known for the Pacific Princess on the Love Boat, Princess Cruises has been a leading name in cruising and visits a wide range of destinations.

Get in touch with the island cultures, ecosystems, and delicious tropical cuisine of a gorgeous region with a Southern Caribbean cruise.

Indulge in the local flavor with fresh Gulf shrimp, Galveston Bay oysters and pristine Gulf coast beaches as you relax in southern comfort in Galveston, Texas.

• Regal Princess - Passenger Capacity: 3,560 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2014 Last Refurbished:  2017

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

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Regal Princess

Departing From

Galveston, Texas

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Southern Caribbean

Ports of Call

Galveston, Texas , Cozumel, Mexico , Port of Oranjestad, Aruba, Caribbean , Curacao, Caribbean , Antigua, Antigua & Barbuda , Road Town, Tortola, B.V.I. , Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

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12 Night Caribbean - Southern Cruise sailing on the Regal Princess

Departure dates: mar 2025 - mar 2026, stateroom prices for mar. 23, 2025.

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*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

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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:

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Galveston, TX

Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston is a relaxed beach town with a rich history. Magnificent homes on Broadway, many now museums, recall Galveston's era of wealth and prosperity in the late 1800s, and The Strand entices visitors with its restaurants, bars, galleries and stores housed in picturesque Victorian-era buildings. La King's Confectionery, a 1920s-style ice cream parlor and candy shop, also awaits. Pier 21 is a jumping-off point for boat excursions, dolphin-spotting cruises and the adrenaline-pumping Jet Boat Thrill Ride. At the Texas Seaport Museum, you might search for ancestors in its database, which contains the names of about 130,000 immigrants who entered the U.S. at Galveston from 1846 to 1948, or climb aboard its 1877 tall ship Elissa. Other top sites include the family-friendly amusement park at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens, with aquarium and rainforest attractions, a private beach, ropes course and more.

Port of Galveston - Texas Cruise Ship Terminal Pier #25 2502 Harborside Drive Galveston, Texas 77550

The Texas Cruise Ship Terminal on Galveston Island is located 42 miles from the Houston Hobby International Airport and 70 miles from the Houston Intercontinental Airport. Parking is $16 per day (rates subject to change by the Port Authority).

Take I-45 South to Exit 1C - Harborside Drive (Highway 275). Turn left (East) onto Harborside Drive. Continue approximately 4.7 miles to Kempner/22nd Street. Turn left onto Kempner/22nd Street. Proceed to Cruise Terminal - Pier #25.

Port of Galveston - Pier 10 (for Royal Caribbean) 1402 Harborside Drive Galveston, TX 77550

From Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport: Keep left onto John F Kennedy Blvd then merge onto Beltway 8 East towards US-59. Take exit onto I-69 south, US-59 south towards Houston. Keep right to merge onto I-69 south. Take exit to merge onto I-610 east. Take exit 32 A to merge onto I-45 south. Take exit 1C towards Harborside Drive/Hwy 275. Turn left onto Harborside Drive. Continue on Harborside until you turn left into Royal Caribbean Way to Pier 10.

From William P. Hobby Airport: Keep left towards airport exit Beltway 8. Take slight right turn onto Terminal Loop towards airport exit Beltway 8. Take another slight right onto Airport Blvd. Turn right onto Gulf Freeway Frontage Road. Keep left to merge onto I-45 south. Take exit 1C towards Harborside Drive/Hwy 275. Turn left onto Harborside Drive. Continue on Harborside until you left into Royal Caribbean Way to Pier 10.

Galveston, Texas

Description.

Named after Spain's Count of Gálvez, Galveston was the capital of the former Republic of Texas and originated many of the state's firsts, including the first telephone, post office and naval base. Today, this serene island resort city draws visitors to its charming historic districts, which highlight the area's celebrated Victorian architecture, from elaborate homes to ornate churches and other prominent structures. Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston also offers niche boutiques, restaurants and entertainment that's suitable for the whole family. But it's Galveston's close proximity to Houston-a mere 45 miles-that makes it a prime gateway for exploring the largest Texas city's finest attractions. Disembarkation tours in Galveston may be pre-reserved through your personalizer. Luggage is stowed on the transportation during your disembarkation tour. Disembarkation tours end only at the George Bush Intercontinental Airport; therefore passengers who have post-cruise packages at local hotels must disembark at the airport. Passengers will then be responsible for their transportation to the hotel.

Points of Interest

• Space Center Houston
• Strand Historical District
• Hermann Park

More about Galveston, Texas Points of Interest

This incredible NASA attraction features interactive exhibits that offer a taste of life in outer space, from rocket simulations to zero gravity demonstrations, plus a tour of astronaut training facilities.

This charming area is the site of spectacular 19th- and 20th-century architecture, trendy shops and restaurants that make an excellent backdrop for the numerous festivals held here each year.

A sprawling haven for nature lovers, Hermann Park is home to a golf course, a scenic railroad, two museums and over 4,500 exotic animals that live within the Houston Zoo!

2 Excursions

Strand historical district, houston scenic drive & airport transfer.

Wheelchair Accessible, Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From $ 99.95

Space Center Houston & Airport Transfer

From $ 129.95

• Princess Cruises

Princess Transfers to/from Galveston

By lx200gps , February 4, 2023 in Princess Cruises

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We're looking at a trip this coming November out of Galveston on one of our favorite ships, the Regal. Ordinarily, we stay away from Princess transfers and do our own arrangements, but given the 70 mile distance between IAH and the port, we are considering Princess xfers this time. We had used them successfully on our only other trip out of Galveston many years ago. Has anyone used Princess transfers recently in Houston,  how much was the per person charge, and what was the earliest available pickup at the airport? We would probably be arriving at IAH very late in the day and would rather stay at the airport Marriot and take the Princess shuttle the morning of the cruise.  Thanks in advance....

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Honolulu Blue

20 minutes ago, lx200gps said: We're looking at a trip this coming November out of Galveston on one of our favorite ships, the Regal. Ordinarily, we stay away from Princess transfers and do our own arrangements, but given the 70 mile distance between IAH and the port, we are considering Princess xfers this time. We had used them successfully on our only other trip out of Galveston many years ago. Has anyone used Princess transfers recently in Houston,  how much was the per person charge, and what was the earliest available pickup at the airport? We would probably be arriving at IAH very late in the day and would rather stay at the airport Marriot and take the Princess shuttle the morning of the cruise.  Thanks in advance....

I'm in a similar position - coming into IAH the morning of a cruise on the Ruby in April.  I booked a transfer on Princess because the other options were either far more expensive, take up too much time, or both.  It was $29 for me each way.  I trust Princess to make this work.   🙏   So any comments you get are likely to help both of us.

1 hour ago, Honolulu Blue said: I'm in a similar position - coming into IAH the morning of a cruise on the Ruby in April.  I booked a transfer on Princess because the other options were either far more expensive, take up too much time, or both.  It was $29 for me each way.  I trust Princess to make this work.   🙏   So any comments you get are likely to help both of us.

Thanks for the data point. $58 for the two of us each way isn't bad at all given the distance. I realize Princess shuttles involve some waiting while the bus fills up, so they aren't the best possible option if one is pressed for time, but for sheer convenience, meeting the rep with the Princess sign in the baggage claim area and getting on a bus isn't that bad. And for $58 each way for two, I think it's a great deal. Any chance you know the pickup schedule, when the first buses leave IAH?  How did you book the shuttle, it isn't very obvious on the Princess site.

We are booked on the Regal Princess out of Galveston for March 2024 and this is what is shown in my Cruise Personalizer for transfer from IAH to Ship per person:

22 minutes ago, lx200gps said: Thanks for the data point. $58 for the two of us each way isn't bad at all given the distance. I realize Princess shuttles involve some waiting while the bus fills up, so they aren't the best possible option if one is pressed for time, but for sheer convenience, meeting the rep with the Princess sign in the baggage claim area and getting on a bus isn't that bad. And for $58 each way for two, I think it's a great deal. Any chance you know the pickup schedule, when the first buses leave IAH?  How did you book the shuttle, it isn't very obvious on the Princess site.

Here's how I got to the option of booking my shuttles:

• Fire up the computer and go to "My Account"
• Click on the green "Manage This Booking" button
• Click on the blue "Travel" button on top
• On the bottom of the screen you'll see a "Transfers" section.  On the left is for Pre-Cruise, on the right is for Post-Cruise
• Click on the appropriate drop down button for the shuttles you want.  There should be an option for IAH and HOU.  Make sure you choose the right one(s).
• If you choose to get a shuttle, be sure to go back up and look at the "Provide Independent Air Section".  Click on the "Select" button and fill in the information for your flight(s).

I didn't see any pickup schedule.

4 minutes ago, bagney said: We are booked on the Regal Princess out of Galveston for March 2024 and this is what is shown in my Cruise Personalizer for transfer from IAH to Ship per person:

Very interesting.  When I was looking for the transfers, I noticed that my price for a transfer to HOU - not IAH - was the price you're showing here.  Maybe they raised the prices after I booked?

My Cruise Personalizer shows the same price from IAH or HOU. Same for transfers back, ship to IAH or HOU.

We flew into IAH the day before our January 15 cruise on the Ruby. We stayed at the airport Marriott. The transfer instructions from Princess instructed all passengers who were not arriving at IAH the day of the cruise to meet the Princess rep at terminal C at 10AM on the day of the sailing. We took the IAH Subway directly from the hotel to the terminal where Princess had a desk set up. After we checked in we waited around 45 minutes to an hour before boarding the bus. The transfers were $54/pp one way.

We took the transfer from Galveston to IAH. It was "interesting". The bus driver drove with his elbows part of the time while he fiddled with his phone.  He went "slightly" off the edge of the road at one point and caused a huge bump. One man hit his head on the overhead at that point. The driver was erratic and went well over the speed limit. When we arrived at the airport he told everybody to get off. Then he started pulling out luggage. When asked if this was the proper terminal for our flights he had no idea. A couple of the other passengers said this was definitely not the terminal for United so half of us had to get back on the bus. Some had to tell him to put their luggage back in the compartment. When we finally got to the proper terminal the driver was confused as to what to do and finally had to be directed by someone in the lot who seemed pretty unhappy with the driver.

Yes, we got to the airport on time and didn't have to deal with booking private transportation but the Princess transfer was definitely botched big time. It was like they just snagged some random driver who had no clue at all what he was doing and who was a terrible (and dangerous) driver.

PescadoAmarillo

My husband has happily used Galveston Express twice this winter and will use it again. The fares differ from Hobby and IAH, but from Hobby it’s just $30 for a senior. Princess charges the same for either airport and it’s $54. 

20 minutes ago, PescadoAmarillo said: My husband has happily used Galveston Express twice this winter and will use it again. The fares differ from Hobby and IAH, but from Hobby it’s just $30 for a senior. Princess charges the same for either airport and it’s $54. 

When we sailed in December we were told that Princess didn't offer a transfer to Hobby.

1 hour ago, Thrak said:   When we sailed in December we were told that Princess didn't offer a transfer to Hobby.

They didn’t until the second or third cruise out of Galveston. Now they do, but it’s the same price as the transfer to Bush. But your experience doesn’t make it sound very attractive.

If you can really get the Princess transfer for $29 per person, grab it and don’t look back. But I don’t think that is the current going rate. 

2 hours ago, JimmyVWine said: If you can really get the Princess transfer for $29 per person, grab it and don’t look back. But I don’t think that is the current going rate. 

I did, and increasingly it's looking like they changed the rate since I booked a few weeks ago.

I hope I haven't confused the OP too much.

10 hours ago, Thrak said: We took the transfer from Galveston to IAH. It was "interesting". The bus driver drove with his elbows part of the time while he fiddled with his phone.  He went "slightly" off the edge of the road at one point and caused a huge bump. One man hit his head on the overhead at that point. The driver was erratic and went well over the speed limit. When we arrived at the airport he told everybody to get off. Then he started pulling out luggage. When asked if this was the proper terminal for our flights he had no idea. A couple of the other passengers said this was definitely not the terminal for United so half of us had to get back on the bus. Some had to tell him to put their luggage back in the compartment. When we finally got to the proper terminal the driver was confused as to what to do and finally had to be directed by someone in the lot who seemed pretty unhappy with the driver.   Yes, we got to the airport on time and didn't have to deal with booking private transportation but the Princess transfer was definitely botched big time. It was like they just snagged some random driver who had no clue at all what he was doing and who was a terrible (and dangerous) driver.

Princess contracts with a company and that company selects the bus and driver.

Often the bus companies get drivers from out of town who are very unfamiliar with Houston and the airports.

This is not limited to cruise lines. Houston has a big rodeo over several weeks each year. There are park and ride lots that a bus then takes people to the Rodeo and later back to the parking lot.

Often the drivers are from out of the area and truly have no idea how to get from point A to point B. I have been on more than one Park & Ride bus where the passengers had to tell the driver the route back to the lot.

OP here, thanks for all the feedback. Unfortunately. we don't yet have the cruise booked, we're only still in the research phase. That's why I can't see the option to select transfers, it's probably only available under "Manage My Booking" once you have a cruise formally booked.

Although there are cheaper options than Princess, if we're going to use transfers, I'd still rather opt for the cruise line, for the all-important "guaranteed arrival", i.e. little to no danger of the ship leaving without you on Embarkation Day.  What about the return to IAH from the port? We are looking at a 12:30 flight home, though the best flights are at 7:30AM which would require an overnight stay until the next day. Do Princess also "guarantee" your safe arrival at  IAH in time to connect with your flight, and if so, would a 12:30PM flight qualify or is it too early? Thanks again for all the inputs.

1 hour ago, lx200gps said: OP here, thanks for all the feedback. Unfortunately. we don't yet have the cruise booked, we're only still in the research phase. That's why I can't see the option to select transfers, it's probably only available under "Manage My Booking" once you have a cruise formally booked.   Although there are cheaper options than Princess, if we're going to use transfers, I'd still rather opt for the cruise line, for the all-important "guaranteed arrival", i.e. little to no danger of the ship leaving without you on Embarkation Day.  What about the return to IAH from the port? We are looking at a 12:30 flight home, though the best flights are at 7:30AM which would require an overnight stay until the next day. Do Princess also "guarantee" your safe arrival at  IAH in time to connect with your flight, and if so, would a 12:30PM flight qualify or is it too early? Thanks again for all the inputs.

Yeah, I don't think you'll be able to see the transfer options until you actually book.

Keep in mind that it takes about 1 1/2 hours to get from the port to IAH - add to it if there's heavy traffic and/or construction.  I don't think Princess formally guarantees an on-time arrival to the airport.

Let's assume you're scheduled to arrive at 7 (which happens to be the return time for my cruise).  Assuming there's no fog (a hazard in Galveston, depending on the time of year) and not too many delays otherwise, you should be at IAH between 10 and 11.  It's a little risky, but it would be a risk that I would accept.  Others may feel differently.  I wouldn't schedule a flight out of IAH before noon with a 7 AM scheduled arrival.  

I have copied directly from my Cruise Personalizer (under Travel Itinerary tab) for our Regal Princess cruise from Galveston in March 2024:

AIR FLIGHT GUIDELINES

If you have purchased independent air arrangements, please ensure your air schedule falls within these guidelines as Princess is not responsible for making any alternate arrangements or for any out of pocket expenses that may arise should you miss your cruise or cruisetour and/or return flight. The times listed below are subject to change. Embarkation: Galveston - Latest flight arrival: Houston (IAH) - 4 hours before the ship's departure. Houston (HOU) - 3 hours, 30 minutes before the ship's departure. Disembarkation: Galveston - Earliest flight departure: Houston (IAH & HOU) - 6 hours, 30 minutes after the ship's arrival.

We took the Princess transfer from the port to IAH following our Ruby cruise on Jan 21. The bus left the port somewhere between 8:30  and 9. On both the IAH to the port transfer and again the other way, we were told to expect a 90 minute ride. It was just over 60 minutes each time; these were Sundays and traffic was light. Our flight was also at 12:30 and we made it easily. 

travellingnana

We took the Princess transfer from IAH in January.  $29 each, and the transfer worked well.  We were told to be at the terminal by 10AM (we had gotten into Houston a couple of days before), we got there early and were on the bus by 10.  Took it back to IAH after the cruise.  Were told to book flight 6.5 hrs after the ships arrival  Got back to IAH by around 10AM...had a long wait at the airport until our flight left at 2.

• 8 months later...

seeing how the last post was 8 months ago, contact them directly.

1 hour ago, matt266507 said: Hi.  Do you have any info re: schedules for the shuttle both departing IAH to Galveston and Departing Galveston to IAH?  Thanks!

I was quoting prices Princess Cruises website in my Cruise Personalizer. For Princess transfers, there is no set schedule that I am aware of - the motor coaches leave when they are full or when they decide to go.

Anyone know what terminal in IAH they depart from?

My son and I were just talking about this same issue (getting airline tickets too) for the 8 of us for our February trip. We are thinking at this time to book the Princess transfer to get us from the ship, back to the airport ON TIME!!! I just emailed my PVP, and ASK her if Princess GUARANTEES that we will arrive at the airport in plenty of time to get our flight.

On 11/6/2023 at 1:45 PM, beshears said: My son and I were just talking about this same issue (getting airline tickets too) for the 8 of us for our February trip. We are thinking at this time to book the Princess transfer to get us from the ship, back to the airport ON TIME!!! I just emailed my PVP, and ASK her if Princess GUARANTEES that we will arrive at the airport in plenty of time to get our flight.

Please note a previous post in this thread:

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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.

Baby, It's Cold Outside! 12 Warm Destinations to Escape to This Winter

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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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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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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