A complete guide to cruising from Galveston, Texas, your starting point for unforgettable sailings.

The Port of Galveston ranks as the fourth-busiest cruise terminal in the U.S., welcoming 1.49 million passengers in 2023.

While Galveston’s numbers are smaller compared to major Florida ports like Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades, it’s steadily expanding. With larger ships, new itineraries, and MSC Cruises launching year-round sailings from Galveston aboard the MSC Seascape starting in 2025, the port is set for even more growth. In 2024, there are 388 scheduled ship calls.

Most cruises from Galveston explore the Western Caribbean, including popular stops like Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Belize; Jamaica; and Grand Cayman. For those seeking something different, Carnival Cruise Line offers extended sailings (up to 14 days) to Eastern and Southern Caribbean destinations.

Galveston itself is a must-visit beach destination, perfect for a pre- or post-cruise stay. The city offers a wide range of accommodations from budget-friendly to luxurious and historic. Families will find plenty of activities, and adults can enjoy Galveston’s lively nightlife scene.

An overview of the Galveston cruise port.

Details about the Port of Galveston cruise terminal.

Terminal Addresses:

Terminals 25 and 28: 2502 Harborside Drive, Galveston, TX 77550

Terminal 10: 1028 Harborside Drive, Galveston, TX 77550

Terminal 16: 1401 Harborside Drive, Galveston, TX 77550 (subject to change)

Total Terminals: Four (projected for 2025)

Cruise lines departing from the Port of Galveston

Terminal 10

Royal Caribbean operates three ships from Galveston, offering a variety of itineraries including eight-night Bahamas cruises featuring a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, as well as shorter four- to eight-night Western Caribbean sailings.

Terminal 16 (set to open in November 2025)

MSC Cruises will operate the MSC Seascape year-round from a newly built terminal in Galveston, offering sailings to the Western Caribbean with stops at Cozumel, Roatan, and Costa Maya in Mexico.

Terminals 25 and 28

Terminals 25 and 28 are shared by several cruise lines. Carnival operates a fleet of four ships year-round from Galveston, including its Texas flagship, Carnival Jubilee. The itineraries include four- to 14-night cruises to Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas.

Princess Cruises operates seasonally from Galveston, offering four- to 11-night Caribbean and Bahamian cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of ships seasonally from Galveston, with seven- to 14-night Caribbean cruises, including stops at their private island, Harvest Caye, in Belize. Norwegian also occasionally offers one-way cruises to Central and South America.

Disney Magic sails seasonally from Galveston, offering itineraries ranging from four to six nights to the Western Caribbean.

Visit the port's website for full sailing calendars.

Nearest airports to the Galveston cruise port

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is located in northern Houston, about 71 miles from the Port of Galveston. Airlines flying into IAH include United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier, and Alaska Airlines. Delta passengers can enjoy savings through the airline's annual companion certificate with American Express credit cards.

IAH serves as a major United Airlines hub, featuring airline-branded lounges across four of its five terminals, including a Polaris Lounge in Terminal E. Additionally, Terminal D boasts an Amex Centurion Lounge, accessible for holders of the The Platinum Card® from American Express.

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is located closer to the Port of Galveston (41 miles away), but it has a smaller selection of airlines. You can find flights with Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, American, and Delta. Southwest offers the benefit of the Southwest Companion Pass for a two-for-one travel experience.

While Houston Hobby lacks upscale lounges, it does feature a Gameway gaming lounge. Priority Pass members can access it through select credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

How to reach the Port of Galveston

Cruisers have a variety of transportation options to the Port of Galveston, including:

By Car

The Port of Galveston is located on a coastal barrier island to the south of Houston. The primary route into the port is via Interstate 45. While you can also reach Galveston from the east via the Port Bolivar car ferry, the risk of delays often makes driving around the bay and crossing via the I-45 bridge a more efficient option.

Car rentals between IAH or HOU and Galveston

Currently, Enterprise is the only rental company that offers drop-off locations in Galveston. With one-way fees and fuel costs, renting a midsize car or SUV for a one-night stay may run around $200. This option is ideal if your group plans to explore the area before or after the cruise, though you'll need to arrange additional transportation to the port, which is about miles away from the Enterprise office.

Cruise line airport transfers

You can arrange transfers from either Houston airport to the Port of Galveston on embarkation day by purchasing them in advance from the cruise line. These transfers are typically available to passengers who book their flights through the cruise line, though independent travelers can also contact the cruise line to purchase them.

Carnival provides online instructions for booking transfers from Houston airports, including guidelines on flight timing. The current cost is $58.99 per person from IAH and $41.99 per person from HOU. Return transfers are similarly priced.

Independent airport shuttle services from Houston to the cruise port

Several local companies operate shuttle services between both Houston airports and Galveston, with destinations including the cruise port and local hotels. Galveston Express offers shared van rides starting at $40 per person each way.

Private van or car services

Several companies provide private car services from the airports to either the cruise terminal or a Galveston hotel. SuperShuttle offers private transfers to the port starting at $80 per person. Blacklane provides chauffeured cars, typically around $200 for up to three passengers and two bags. For larger groups, a Mercedes van for up to five passengers is available for about $250.

Hotel shuttle services

About half of Galveston’s hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to the cruise terminal. However, hotels outside of Galveston generally do not provide shuttles to the port.

Taxis and ride-sharing services

While you can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get from a Galveston hotel to the port, it might not always be the most efficient option. On busy days with multiple ships departing, long wait times for pickups and surge pricing can make the ride more costly and time-consuming than expected.

Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available at both Houston airports. Metered taxis typically cost around $165 from IAH. For ride-hailing, simply follow the signs and use your app to find the designated pickup points. We checked a prebooked Uber from IAH and saw an estimated fare of $98.

Public transportation

Galveston does not provide public transportation directly to the cruise port. The Galveston Island Trolley operates bus and rail routes that connect pre- and post-cruise hotels with local attractions, but its routes do not extend to the port.

Port of Galveston parking

Many Galveston cruise passengers drive to the port, so there are numerous parking options available, including both official Port of Galveston facilities and private lots. For those not staying in a Galveston hotel, private lots tend to offer the most affordable rates. If you’re staying at a hotel that provides a parking package, it is likely to be cheaper than parking closer to the port. It's highly recommended to book parking in advance.

On-site parking

Parking for terminals 25 and 28 is spread out, with some lots offering shuttle service and others being accessible only by foot. The walk to the terminal can be up to two blocks. Parking options include both covered and uncovered spaces, with prices ranging from $22 to $26 per day.

Parking at the new Royal Caribbean Terminal 10 offers shuttle services for all lots. However, all parking at this terminal is uncovered. Daily parking rates range from $22 to $25.

Private parking facilities

There are several private parking lots near the terminals offering both indoor and covered parking, all with shuttle service. Some lots only serve terminals 25 and 28, while others also include Terminal 10. If your cruise ship or sailing date isn't listed on the reservation form, it means the lot doesn't service your terminal.

Private parking prices are typically lower than official port rates. For example, Lighthouse Parking offers covered parking for about $20 per day, with shuttle service to all terminals, making it a more affordable alternative to the official port lots.

Some parking lots, such as Galveston Park N Cruise, offer discounts if you prepay. This lot serves only terminals 25 and 28 (Carnival and Princess) and doesn't provide a shuttle since it's located just across the street. Prepaid rates for indoor parking start at $18.50 per day for a seven-night cruise.

Park-and-cruise

For those staying overnight in Galveston, the most affordable parking option is usually a hotel with a parking package. Many hotels offer parking for guests who stay before or after their cruise. Some hotels provide free parking, while others charge a fee. The ideal scenario is finding a hotel that offers both parking and shuttle service to the port.

There are numerous hotels located near the Galveston cruise port, all within a 10-mile radius. Since Galveston is both a small port town and a popular vacation spot, hotel rates and room availability can vary greatly. Whether you're looking for a quick one-night stay close to the port or planning an extended visit to explore this delightful beach town, you'll find plenty of options to suit your needs.

Galveston offers a wide range of hotels, all situated within 10 miles of the cruise port. Given its status as both a port town and a vacation destination, hotel rates and room availability can fluctuate significantly. Whether you're in need of a convenient one-night stay near the port or a longer stay to explore this charming beach town, there are plenty of hotels to choose from.

Hilton properties near the Port of Galveston

If you're just looking for a quick overnight stay before your cruise, the DoubleTree is a solid option. It offers rooms ranging from 32,000 to 168,000 Hilton Honors points per night, a pool, free Wi-Fi, and is conveniently located across the street from the beach. The hotel also has parking packages available.

For a more resort-like experience, consider staying at the Hilton Galveston Island Resort. With rates ranging from 32,000 to 338,000 Hilton Honors points per night, the resort is within walking distance of the beach and offers convenient parking and shuttle services.

Marriott hotels near the Port of Galveston

If you're looking for an affordable beachside stay, the Courtyard Galveston Island offers rooms starting at 30,000 to 59,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. Enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant or explore the island's famed seafood spots by foot or via the island's trolley. Bonvoy members can enjoy free Wi-Fi during their stay.

The Grand Galvez, a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel, is Galveston's iconic landmark. Originally opened in 1911 as the Hotel Galvez, it's the only historic beachfront hotel on Texas's entire coastline. A stay here (starting at 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) offers a luxurious beginning to your cruise getaway.

For a luxurious stay even closer to the pier and the vibrant downtown Strand, The Tremont House offers rooms from 55,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. Located in the Tribute Portfolio, this upscale hotel features Blum & Co. bistro and wine bar, serving meals throughout the day and evening. The Tremont House offers park-and-sail packages and transportation to the terminal.

Hyatt hotels near the Port of Galveston

The closest Hyatt to the port is the Hyatt Regency Baytown, a Category 3 hotel with rates starting from 9,000 World of Hyatt points per night. Located an hour's drive from Galveston, it's also near attractions like Space Center Houston and the Kemah Boardwalk—perfect if you’re looking to explore before or after your cruise.

Non-points hotels near the Port of Galveston

For a family-friendly stay, Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa, and Convention Center is a top pick. Featuring an aquarium, rainforest, and discovery museum, the property also offers a water park, lazy river, and dinner cruises on a paddlewheel boat. The hotel provides parking and shuttle services to the cruise port for a fee.

If you're seeking a more adult-focused getaway, The San Luis Resort, Spa and Conference Center offers ocean-view rooms and suites, four restaurants, and a luxury spa. While it has family-friendly amenities, its quieter atmosphere and lack of children’s attractions make it ideal for couples or singles. A perfect place to unwind before or after your cruise.

Restaurants near Galveston cruise port

Galveston boasts a diverse food scene, offering everything from Texas-style fish and chips (think bacon-wrapped and topped with jalapenos) to upscale steakhouses and seafood spots. Dining options can be found along Seawall Boulevard, the Strand Historic District, and the Pier 21 area.

While seafood is the main attraction, visitors can also enjoy local barbecue and Tex-Mex specialties.

Things to do in and around Galveston before or after your cruise

The beach is the No. 1 reason people visit Galveston. It stretches for 32 miles, with more than 10 miles protected by a seawall and promenade. Along the shore, you'll find fishing piers, souvenir shops perched over the water, and the lively Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park. Best of all, many of the island's hotels and restaurants are just across the street from the beach.

The bar scene along the seawall has a little something for everyone. Enjoy rooftop seating at places like Pelican and The Shark at the 61st Street Fishing Pier, or grab a drink at the iconic Poop Deck, overlooking the beach. Over on The Strand, you'll find a mix of wine bars, trendy spots, and classic dive bars.

Beyond the beach, you can visit unique attractions like Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Moody Gardens. Moody Gardens features three distinct pyramids, each offering different experiences: one is an aquarium with penguins and seals, another is a lush rainforest home to exotic plants and animals, and the third houses a discovery museum with hands-on exhibits and animal encounters.

Shopping near the Port of Galveston

If you need last-minute cruise gear, head to the Tanger Outlets located about 20 miles north of Galveston in Texas City, off I-45. Right next door is the famous Buc-ee's, a massive gas station and store offering Texas souvenirs, unique snacks, drinks, and even some tasty BBQ, all served alongside incredibly clean bathrooms.

If you're in need of last-minute essentials like snacks, bottled water, soda, or even wine (where permitted), both Walmart and Target in Galveston are easy to find and well-stocked for your cruise needs.

For unique beachwear, sunglasses, hats, and Galveston-themed souvenirs, check out Dolphin World and the Mermaid Pier – two of the island's top spots for coastal finds.