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The previous home of Royal Caribbean, it now hosts both Disney and Norwegian Cruise Lines. It is a slightly farther walk from parking options than Terminal 25 is, but is still convenient to get to (especially if you are taking a taxi or shuttle). While it has grown exponentially in recent years, compared to other major cruise ports, the Port of Galveston is much smaller and easier to navigate. In the 1960s, the port began to see the potential for growth in the cruise industry and started to invest in infrastructure to accommodate cruise ships. From there, renting a car or utilizing shuttle services are convenient choices. Additionally, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston is another option, situated about 70 miles from Galveston.
Cruise itineraries from Galveston Texas
That proximity to so many people makes it easy to see why Galveston has blossomed into the largest cruise port outside of Florida. Galveston's fourth/newest cruise terminal project was unanimously voted at the Board's October 31st meeting and was included in the Port's "20-Year Strategic Master Plan" (2019-adopted). It was also announced that the port and MSC are negotiating an agreement related to the Pier 16 Terminal. In 2018, on Terminal 2's channel side were added new mooring structures (bollards) to allow docking of the longer Carnival Vista.
Where is Galveston Cruise Port?
MSC Cruises Confirms Galveston Home Port as Texas Continues Cruise Growth - The Maritime Executive
MSC Cruises Confirms Galveston Home Port as Texas Continues Cruise Growth.
Posted: Fri, 12 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
In 2017 the number grew to 950,000 (economic impact USD 2,3 billion) supporting local jobs. Generated jobs are 20,000 (paying over USD 1,1 billion in total income). Cruise ship vacation-related spending in Texas is accounted for 6,3% of the industry's direct expenditures, and 5,6% of the industry's nationwide overall spending. The port also has facilities to handle cargo ships (bulk freighters and container carriers) and dry dock facilities for marine vessel refurbishments and repairs.
Things To Do in Galveston
Bishop’s Palace is an ornate 19th century home that sits six minutes from the port by car. Moody Mansion is another historic building in Galveston, located three minutes from the port by car (or a 15-minute walk). For $15 per person per house (children ages 5 and under can tour for free).
Where to Find the Best Texas BBQ Royal Caribbean Cruises
The Aquarium Pyramid showcases marine life from the Gulf of Mexico and beyond, with fascinating exhibits and touch tanks. For families, the Discovery Pyramid offers hands-on exhibits exploring science and technology. We always suggest that you arrive at least one day before your cruise. This article will help you to learn more about the Galveston Cruise Port and Terminals plus a handy guide to Galveston to help you make the most of your cruise experience. Located in the heart of Galveston, Texas, the Galveston Cruise Ship Terminal (also called Galveston Cruise Port) on Galveston Island is the gateway to exciting Caribbean cruises and beyond.
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Both terminals offer a variety of amenities, including check-in desks, baggage handling, and security screening. They also have a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a number of bars and lounges. These include comfortable waiting areas, efficient check-in counters, and various retail and dining options.
Hotels with Cruise ParkingAs a tourist destination, Galveston offers a lot of hotels for visitors to choose. In the competition for business, these hotels look to provide guests with perks to attract those about to take a cruise. Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer roundtrip shuttle bus services (between Galveston and both airports in Houston) with prices per person / similar to Lyft's. Independent shuttle services are provided by companies like Galveston Express, Galveston Limousine, Island Breeze Shuttle. In 2016, it generated US$58,4M in local passenger spending, plus US$19,1M in port-provided services.
If you are driving to Galveston cruise port from the north, take I-10 east from Houston to Baytown. Continue 4.7 miles to Kempner/22nd St and follow signs into the cruise port. Galveston cruise port is the fourth busiest in the USA after Miami, Port Canaveral and Port Everglades, Florida.
Royal Caribbean, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, March 9, 2025
The agreement required improvements to be made to Cruise Terminal 2 (Terminal 28) to accommodate larger vessels and more tourists. Terminal 2's size was increased to 150,000 ft2 / 13,940 m2 (passenger capacity up to 1000) at the cost of USD 10M. The driving distance between Galveston and Houston is approx 50 mi (80 km), or ~1-hour drive southeast.
It is well positioned for cruises with an estimated 30 million people living within a 300-mile radius. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean. Overall, travelers planning a Texas cruise vacation should consider the driving distance to the port, choose a hotel near the port, and book shore excursions to make the most of their trip. From Corpus Christi, you can sail to destinations in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. To fully enjoy Corpus Christi, a visit to the Texas State Aquarium, USS Lexington Museum, and a beach relaxation are highly recommended. With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation.
Otherwise, the shuttles provide an affordable and easy way to get to your ship. Service departs from the Houston Station and the drop-off in Galveston is the Moody Railroad Museum (on 25th and Strand). This would then require booking a taxi or rideshare service to get to the port. However, if you are traveling with a larger group (whose luggage fits in a standard car!), this option might work out to be more cost-effective than a shuttle. Porters will be available at each terminal to assist with baggage on embarkation day.
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. Discover the best times to cruise from Galveston in 2024 with our month-by-month weather guide. Carnival, Disney, MSC (soon), Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean.
To reach the Galveston Cruise Terminal, one can utilize several transportation options. If arriving by air, the closest major airport is William P. Hobby Airport in Houston (HOU), approximately 42 miles away. For instance, we recently sailed from Galveston and foggy weather made us arrive late (9 a.m.) to the port. Then it took another hour before people started to get off the ship. There are also hotels on the mainland, just minutes from the island.
They offer a range of itineraries from Texas, including trips to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. Their ships are known for their luxurious accommodations and excellent service. The Port of Houston is one of the busiest ports in the United States and serves as a major hub for shipping and commerce.
There are many ways to get to the Port of Galveston from both Houston-area airports, including cruise shuttles, rideshare services/taxis, and public transit. Regardless of where you choose to park, drivers should drop off passengers and luggage before heading to the parking lot to reduce difficulty when boarding your ship. If you’re going to be one of the many cruise passengers who will sail out of Galveston this year, this guide is for you.
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