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Galveston Island has a wide variety of places to spend the night, from historic hotels to modern chains and resorts. Most hotels in Galveston are along the Seawall, about seven minutes from the port, offering affordable stays with beautiful views of the ocean. However, there are some hotels closer to the port that can provide a unique pre-cruise experience. Galveston is also home to the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa, a 19th century ship that was designated a historical landmark in 1990. Elissa is featured as a part of the Galveston Historic Seaport, which is a three-minute drive from the cruise port.
Weathering the Caribbean: A Guide from Galveston
Pleasure PierJutting out into the water at the site of the old Flagship Hotel, the Pleasure Pier is a 1,000 foot long amusement park. On the pier you’ll find food, shops, rides, and even a roller coaster. Tickets cost about $30 for an all-day pass ($23 for those under 48 inches tall). It’s a great way to spend the day (or evening) if you are traveling with a family. The island has a wide variety of places to stay, from historic hotels like the Grand Galvez to modern-day hotel chains that are abundant on Galveston. There are also a few resorts with large pools, restaurants and more.
Galveston Cruise Port: Essential Guide for Your Cruise
Galveston isn’t that large, so in reality every hotel is just a few minutes away. One thing to note is that Galveston has moved to facial recognition, meaning you simply take a photo that’s verified instead of having to meet with an agent (if you have a passport). In some cases, we’ve debarked and barely had to stop before making our way out the terminal. Once off the ship, you’ll make your way through the terminal and pick up any luggage you set outside your cabin.
Galveston to Caribbean Weekend Getaways
Its proximity to Houston, a major city with a significant international airport, makes it an easily accessible starting point for many travelers. The journey from Houston to Galveston takes approximately 56 minutes by car, offering a convenient connection for those flying into Houston before embarking on their cruise adventure. This accessibility, combined with the diverse range of cruises offered from Galveston, contributes to the port’s status as a premier departure point for Caribbean voyages. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to discover the incredible attractions that Texas has to offer. When it’s time to pick up people at the end of the cruise, you follow the same route for picking up.
Norwegian
Panama is a popular Central American destination for many cruises departing from Texas. Visitors can explore the Panama Canal, one of the world's most impressive engineering feats, or visit the country's beautiful beaches and rainforests. Honduras is another popular Central American destination, with beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage. Roatan, one of Honduras' Bay Islands, is known for its stunning coral reefs and world-class diving opportunities. Windstar is a smaller cruise line that offers a more intimate and personalized experience for passengers.
The night before, you will be given colored luggage tags, a meeting point and a specific time for disembarkation. The above article also covers a good range of hotels offering Stay, Park and Cruise packages which can be the best priced options. They also allow cruisers the chance to relax before or after their cruise and enjoy sightseeing on Galveston Island. Another option for getting to Galveston Island is by taxi, Uber or by hiring a private car service. If you are cruising as a family or group, these options can sometimes work out cheaper than paying a price per person for the shuttle.
MSC Cruises Announces New U.S. Homeport in 2025 - Travel + Leisure
MSC Cruises Announces New U.S. Homeport in 2025.
Posted: Thu, 11 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Dropping Off/ Picking Up Passengers
No matter your budget of what you’re looking for, Galveston has something to fit your needs relatively close to the port. We have full details of all your parking options with complete prices here. One tip — always reserve a spot ahead of time as there are discounts at each lot for advance payment. For cruisers flying in, shuttles pick up and drop off at both airports. Cruise Terminal 28 (Formerly Terminal 2)Cruise Terminal 28 was the home to Royal Caribbean ships before they moved to the new terminal. If you’re walking to the terminal, it’s a bit farther than Terminal 25, but if you are taking a shuttle, they will drop you off right at the entrance.
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Texas is famous for its slow-smoked meats, which are cooked over wood for hours to create a mouth-watering flavor. Many Texas cruises offer barbecue excursions, where guests can sample some of the best barbecue in the state. Visit well-known barbecue spots such as Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Lexington's Snow's BBQ, and Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The Seawall is generally a seven-to-ten-minute drive from the Port of Galveston, so you will need to take a taxi or rideshare if you plan to visit this area.
According to the Port's statistical data, Texas receives from cruise ship operations ~USD 1,42 billion per year (direct spending). However, much of this is used solely for cargo and commercial shipping. The cruise port has 2 terminals (Piers 23-28) with a third 10-acre cruise terminal due for completion late 2022. The new 161,300 square-foot terminal will cover 10 acres at Pier 10.
There are also more expensive lots that are covered and/or closer to the terminal. The ~USD 20 million project also included the restoration and extension of the roads in the Old Port Industrial and Wharf. A direct road connection to highway I-45 can divert most of the cruise-related vehicle traffic directly to the Port. Texas is home to several major ports that serve as departure points for cruise ships. These ports offer a variety of itineraries, ranging from short weekend getaways to longer voyages to the Caribbean and beyond.
It began its inaugural cruise season on Nov 8, 2021, embarking on a 5-day Western Caribbean cruise itinerary. It made history as the first Voyager-class ship to home port in Texas. RCI in conjunction with Galveston cruise port is currently developing a larger third terminal.
Whether seeking a short escape or a longer voyage, Galveston is the perfect starting point for a memorable sea adventure in 2024 and 2025. One thing to know is that a number of hotels in the area offer parking at their hotel while you cruise. So stay a night, and you can leave your car there for little or no cost. If you’re driving into the port and plan to stay the night, it’s hard to beat this deal.
Did you know the Lone Star State is a gateway to top-rated shores in the Caribbean and Mexico? We’ve put together a guide to some of the best destinations you can visit on a cruise from Texas. Both airports host rideshares and taxis that can take you to the Port of Galveston. These are available to book upon arrival to the airport, so you do not have to worry so much about timing. Prices start as low as $65 for a five-day cruise and $70 for a seven-day cruise.
Once your prepaid reservation is complete, you will have a reserved parking spot on the official parking lot or in the port garage. The cruise terminals (1 and 2) currently cover an area of 220,000 sq. Ft. and include onsite cruise parking on open parking lots and in a parking garage. Galveston cruise terminals are within walking distance of the historic downtown attractions and hotels on The Strand. It’s also less than a mile from the pier and sandy beaches lining Galveston Seawall which runs along the Gulf-facing side of the narrow island. Galveston is a coastal gem that offers a blend of Texas charm and beachside relaxation.
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