2 night cruises from galveston

• Cruise From

Galveston, TX

• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Legend
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Set sail from a historic jewel in the Gulf of Mexico on Carnival cruises out of Galveston, Texas. Perched on the Gulf Coast, Galveston was a major commercial port in the late 1800s and has the restored architecture and proud history to show for it. Galveston’s long seawall stretches from beach to beach and offers gulf views the whole way. Sprinkle in a few museums, amusement parks, attractive beaches and tasty seafood restaurants, and you’ve got a great start to your cruise from Galveston.

• Shop for antiques in the historic Strand District, near where Carnival cruises from Galveston dock.
• Hear the sounds of a Central American rainforest at the gardens.
• Treat yourself to spa day at a historical hotel.
• Bike the length of the mural-adorned Seawall.

See it all from Galveston.

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Find a great cruise from Galveston

What are the best cruises from galveston.

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

How can I find a cheap cruise out of Galveston?

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

What cruise lines operate from Galveston?

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

How can I find good cruise deals out of Galveston?

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

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

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

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

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

What are some good all-inclusive cruises from Galveston?

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

What are some great family cruises out of Galveston?

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

What are some good adults-only cruises from Galveston?

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

What are some good singles cruises from Galveston?

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

Are there any Christmas cruises from Galveston in 2024?

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

What are some great gay cruise lines out of Galveston?

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

How do I book a cruise from Galveston on Expedia?

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

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

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

Can I book weekend cruises out of Galveston?

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

Do I need a passport to cruise from Galveston?

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

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

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

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

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

Galveston Cruise Guide

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

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

Pre and Post Cruise Hotels in Galveston

Galveston Beach Hotel

Reviewed on May 9, 2024

Inn at The Waterpark

Reviewed on May 8, 2024

Gaido's Seaside Inn

Beachfront Palms Hotel Galveston

Wingate by Wyndham Galveston East Beach

Reviewed on May 5, 2024

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Cruises from Galveston

An island full of art, architecture, and boutiques.

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

Caribbean cruises

On a cruise from Galveston to the Western Caribbean, explore the beauty of unspoiled coral reefs and underwater caves as well as visit the ancient Mayan ruins throughout the region. One moment you can be walking among the vast ruins of this mighty civilization and the next delving into the culture of the Yucatán Peninsula or simply unwinding on beaches that offer some of the best snorkeling in the world.

What to Know About Cruises from Galveston

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

Galveston at a glance

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

Things to do in Galveston

Before getting on a cruise from Galveston, start your vacation with a visit to the city’s museums, historic neighborhoods, and cultural icons. Take a walk along the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, home to family-friendly rides, games, and other attractions. Then relax on one of Galveston’s many iconic beaches and enjoy the 32-miles of coastline. Whether you are traveling with family, a group of friends or your significant other, this laid-back island has something for everyone.

Cruise Ship Sailing from Galveston

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

Learn more about: Regal Princess®

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Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

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

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

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Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Cruises from Galveston

A Gateway to the Caribbean and Mexico

Sail to ports in the Caribbean and Mexico.

Texas serves as a gateway to the Caribbean and Mexico with sailing from Galveston, a launching point for cruise adventures to ports like Cozumel, Roatan, Belize and more. Discover the luxury of pampered days at sea with nothing pressing but choosing your deckchair or meal preference. Do as much or as little as you wish!

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5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

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

4 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

5 night cruise to the caribbean.

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

4 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

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

• You love Disney and want a high-quality family cruise experience
• You are traveling with kids and need excellent kids programs
• You love the grand style of the past transatlantic ocean liners
• You don't want to have your picture taken with Captain Mickey
• You're looking for a quiet, adults-only cruise vacation
• You value diversions like surfing simulators and ziplines
• You're looking for a Carnival cruise aboard a more relaxed ship
• You value ships with wide-open decks for scenic cruising
• You typically book balcony staterooms and value plenty of choice
• You dislike wall-to-wall organized activities or zany diversions
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• You want crazy onboard features, even a real merry-go-round
• You are traveling with kids and want everyone to be entertained
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• You're looking for a more traditional ocean cruise experience

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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:

• The 5 best cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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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Plan Your Trip to Galveston

Plan your vacation in Galveston, TX with tips on the best restaurants, activities, and more!

Our team at Visit Galveston's passion is helping you discover the best experiences across our island community. Our team of destination experts has the local connections and insider information to make sure you find the best restaurants, places to stay, and things to do that will make your trip memorable for the entire family.

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Galveston sits at the south end of Interstate 45 (I-45) and this is the route most drivers will use to get to the port area. Only if you are coming in from around Freeport will it make more sense to enter along the Blue Water Highway.

Driving times from nearby major cities are:

• Austin: 3.5 hours (220 miles)
• Dallas/Fort Worth: 4.5 hours (290 miles)
• Houston: 1 hour (50 miles)
• San Antonio: 4 hours (250 miles)

Click more options , once your route is displayed, to open google maps in a new window

The nearest city to Galveston is Houston, TX which as two primary airports:

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (Code: IAH)

The main airport in Houston and a United Airlines hub, George Bush Intercontinental is located 70 miles north of Galveston and 20 miles north of Houston.

Hobby Airport (Code: HOU)

Located 42 miles north-west of Galveston and 11 miles south-west of Houston, Hobby Airport caters to internal flights from the major US airlines, as well as the low-cost carriers such as Southwest Airlines.

With both airports located a distance from the port, a taxi will be an expensive option and we advise smaller groups of cruise passengers to use one of the cheaper options available. However, if you are a larger group prices can be competitive with other options. If you want the luxury of a private transfer, the companies below can all accommodate you.

• Offering everything from town cars for three people to coaches for 55, Elite Limo Houston should be able to meet your transport needs.
• If your group is at least eight people, then Aim Limousine can offer private transfers at a competitive rate.
• Z Limousine can provide private transfers for between one and 20 cruise passengers.

READ MORE: Looking for more information to plan your visit to Galveston? Check it out here!

Uber and Lyft will cost between $75 and $100 for a transfer from George Bush to the Port of Galveston and between $45 and $60 for a transfer from Hobby  to the Port of Galveston for the standard Uber X or standard Lyft. 

For a discount on your first ride click for UBER or LYFT

Galveston has plenty of choices for shuttles from the two airports to the cruise terminal. The table below shows prices for each airport, per person, return. Because these prices are per person return, whereas private car prices are per car, a couple can save money this way; however, a family could be better off with an Uber or Lyft, which also means you aren’t sharing the vehicle with other cruisers.

Renting a car for just a few hours is our favourite way to get to the cruise terminal from the airport. As long as you don’t mind driving, possibly on the “wrong” side of the road for you, it gives you a private transfer that departs on your schedule and can be surprisingly competitive with other transportation options.

Unfortunately, Galveston is limited in car rental places with Enterprise being the only option at present and they don’t always offer one-way rentals for a sensible price at this location. If available expect to pay around $50-$60 for a rental of a standard car for less than a day.

It can be an easy option if available though as IAH has a dedicated car rental centre just outside the airport and dedicated rental car buses for all the major agencies run from each terminal to the centre. Once there, you head to your chosen provider.

Hobby Airport is the old system of each company having its own buses and off-site location, so you’ll need to find the bus for the agency you are using.

CRUISE COMPANY TRANSFER

Paying the cruise company to get from the airport to the ship is rarely good value, especially if more than one or two people need a transfer. For example, Carnival prices as of Feb 2018 are – IAH $46.99/ HOU $36.99 (one way), so you will invariably be better off using one of the alternatives above.

Looking for more information to plan your visit to Galveston?

You may find these articles helpful..

Galveston Cruise Port Guide Where to Stay in Galveston with ‘Park & Cruise’ Deals Galveston Cruise Parking Options Things to See and Do in Galveston

The map below shows the nearest main airports to Galveston in relation to the cruise terminal.

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Jill Biden tells Arizona college graduates to tune out people who tell them what they 'can't' do

First lady Jill Biden is telling graduates of an Arizona community college to tune out the people who tell them what they can't do

Jill Biden on Saturday told Arizona community college graduates to tune out the people who like to tell them what they can't do.

The first lady shared with graduates of Mesa Community College how her high school guidance counselor told her she wasn't college material and shouldn't waste her time going. She didn't listen and got her college degree.

Then she got three more, including two master's degrees and, at age 55, a doctorate in educational leadership. She went to school at night while raising three children and working full-time.

The first lady has been a teacher for more than 30 years, and since 2009 has taught English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College.

She encouraged the graduates to “drown out” the voices that say “can't” and to remember the challenges they overcame to get to wear a cap and gown on Saturday.

“You’ve met life’s challenges before. And you know that on the other side of ‘can’t’ lies the beauty and joy and surprise of life, the adventure that changes us for the better,” she said. “And you are ready for it.”

Biden said the graduates should remember that they are strong and resilient, and shouldn't be afraid to face the unknown.

“Expect anything and everything. Take risks that scare you. Don’t hesitate when you see the chance for joy. Share your stories, too. Be kinder. Love harder. Dream bigger. Find your adventure and keep your courage and say ‘yes,'" she said.

To the Class of 2024, she said, “Let the world feel your thunder!" The college mascot is the thunderbird and ”feel the thunder" is the school slogan.

“And the next time someone tells you that you ‘can’t,’ you’re going to say, ‘Oh yeah? Watch me,’” Biden said.

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