Before You Leave The United States
Make sure to plan ahead:
- You tested positive for COVID-19.
- Do not travel until a full 10 days after your symptoms started or the date your positive test was taken if you had no symptoms.
If you had close contact with a person with COVID-19 but are NOT recommended to quarantine
If You Stay At Harbor House You Get A Close View Of Ships
If you stay at Harbor House, you get a close view of ships from around the world as the travel into the Port. Bring binoculars to see more of the ships. There is also a good vantage point to see ships on the far East point of Galveston island. Take Seawall Blvd East until the road ends, then park and watch.
1. Scottish Inns Galveston
The classical facade places this two-story budget friendly hotel amongst the most elegant properties in Galveston. Inside, there are beautiful tiled floors, modern art paintings and a lounge with bright, contemporary decor. Each of the forty-five rooms is tastefully presented and features round windows on either side of the front door.
Outside, theres a patio and pool. Theres free parking during your cruise vacation and on the weekends the hotel provides a complimentary one-way shuttle transfer.
Shuttle & Parking
1. Inn at the Waterpark
If your cruise vacation involves the kids, then this is the perfect place to stay as the Inn at the Waterpark is located right next to the Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Families can also enjoy a round or two of the hotels mini-golf.
Take advantage of the Inn at the Waterparks free long-term parking. If you are a guest of the hotel you may leave your vehicle parked at the property for the duration of your cruise. Just confirm vehicle parking with the Front Desk. On the day of embarkation, taxi and ride share are available for transportation to and from the cruise terminal.
- Free Cruise Parking
- No shuttle service
The Cruise Port Of Galveston Tx
The port of Galveston has two terminals and is used by several cruise lines including Carnival, Disney, Princess, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean. Interstate 10, Highway 146, and Interstate 45 link Galveston to mainland Texas and there is ample parking at the port with a guaranteed place for every cruise passenger who requires it.
The Port of Galveston is 45-minutes from Houston Hobby Airport and 75-minutes from Houston Intercontinental Airport.
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Tremont House Wyndham Grand
The luxury Tremont House Wyndham Grand Hotelis in the heart of Galvestons Historic Strand district and conveniently close to the cruise port. Air-conditioned rooms in this historic 1839 building are elegantly furnished. Cruisers will love the Rooftop Bar for views of the cruise ships. Theres also a cafe and upscale restaurant to start your cruise in style.
- Distance from port: 0.5 miles
- Address: 2300 Ships Mechanic Row
- Phone number: 763-0300
Homewood Suites By Hilton
Homewood Suites by Hilton is another well-located hotel for cruisers with lots of added benefits including rooms with kitchenette, microwave and refrigerator. Guests have free parking and a tasty breakfast as well as childrens activities. Theres a fitness center, pool and shuttle bus service and its just steps from the sandy beach. Beat that!
- Distance from port: 2.1 miles
- Address: 110 Seawall Blvd
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Free Galveston Cruise Shuttle & Parking
If you are cruising out from Galveston Texas, the fourth busiest cruise port in the U.S, and you decide to come a day earlier to the island to avoid bad surprises if you fly on the same day as the embarkation or if you just decide to come spend couple of days to explore the islands many attractions and take advantage of the beautiful golf beaches and coastline before your big cruise trip, or If youre looking to enhance your cruise vacation from Galveston and save some moneies you probably wonder which hotels offer free shuttle ride to the cruise port, or which one offer free parking with one night stay. There is a wide selection of hotel in Galveston Island, and many of them offer complimentary parking as well as a free shuttle to the port.
I accumulated this list of hotels and categorized them based on free shuttle, free parking or both. And I also listed other hotels that does not offer the free shuttle, just for extra selection and information. Do not forget that the other hotel may offer a better rate, so look for the saving. I will update this list as soon as I called all the hotels to check if there are any changes.
Free Galveston Cruise Shuttle & Free Galveston Cruise Parking
Minimal Charge Galveston Cruise Shuttle & Galveston Cruise Parking
Hotels with no Free Shuttle or Free Parking:
Port Of Galveston Travel Tips
If you plan to drive to Galveston Island for your cruise or rent a car at the airport for the duration of your trip parking is readily available at the Port of Galveston. Rates start at $55 for a four-day cruise and go up from there, but you can get a $5 discount when you book online and pre-pay for the space.
The cost of car rentals and parking prices can add up quickly, but luckily there are other ways to get to the port. Many hotels on Galveston Island offer paid or complimentary shuttle services to Port Galveston to their guests. Use this list to book a hotel with one or call your accommodation to ask about their shuttle services. If none are available, download the Uber or Lyft apps to request a car to the port when youre ready to go.
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Closest Hotels To The Port Of Galveston
Galveston is an interesting city to explore, but at the end of the day, this trip is all about your cruise. If convenience if your number one concern when booking your pre-departure stay, these are the closest hotels to the Port of Galveston:
- The Tremont House 0.1 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Harbor House Hotel and Marina at Pier 21 0.4 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Shaefer Haus 0.8 miles from the Port of Galveston
- The Villa Bed and Breakfast 1 mile from the Port of Galveston
- Coppersmith Inn B& B 1.1 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Avenue O Bed and Breakfast 1.2 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Carr Mansion 1.2 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Rosenberg Motel 1.2 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Lasker Inn Bed and Breakfast 1.2 from the Port of Galveston
- Lost Bayou Guest House B& B 1.3 from the Port of Galveston
- Four Points by SheratonGalveston 1.5 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson 1.6 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Knights Inn Galveston 1.7 miles from the Port of Galveston
- La Quinta Inn 1.7 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Ocean Inn 1.8 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Hotel Galvez and Spa 1.8 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Pearl Inn 1.9 miles from the Port of Galveston
- DoubleTree by Hilton 1.9 from the Port of Galveston
- Condo di Cocco 2 miles from the Port of Galveston
What Are The Best Hotels Near Houston George Bush International Airport
If your flight arrives late in the evening you can opt to stay in Houston near George Bush International Airport.
If you are in early you can already make your way to Galveston. The island is a tourist destination where you could stay at least a day before or after your cruise vacation.
1. Houston Airport Marriott at George Bush Intercontinental
Located on John F Kennedy Boulevard, Houston, Texas, this 4-star hotel is connected to the George Bush Intercontinental Airport by a free airport tram shuttle system. The Houston Airport Marriot has 565 comfortably elegant studios, suites, and family rooms. The popular steakhouse/bar is great for meeting friends for a drink or evening dining, and an American Grill serves breakfasts and lunch.
Other amenities include an outdoor saltwater pool, fitness center, and 24-hour business center. The Houston Marriot is the closest hotel to Houston Airport.
Why Stay Here
- One of best hotels near Houston Airport
- Easy to get to/from terminal by free train-shuttle
3. Courtyard by Marriott Houston Intercontinental Airport
This 3-star hotel just a few minutes from George Bush International Airport that benefits from a free airport shuttle. The 127 letting units comprise rooms or suites, and all have the usual amenities, including private bathrooms.
Why Stay Here
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Things To Keep In Mind
Although Galveston is geared toward welcoming visitors and has many hotel rooms to choose from, we recommend you make your reservations in advance, especially during the busy periods for cruises or during festivals when hotels might be booked up. This will help ensure you are able to get your preferred hotel and room type.
We also recommend you call the hotel you are interested in to check the availability of their Park & Cruise packages as there may be a limited number of rooms available with this offer and some hotels may only offer this option if you make the reservation directly with them.
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San Luis Hotel & Conference Center
5222 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551 | 800-392-5937 | Hotel 7 on Map Below | Read Reviews of this 4-Star Hotel | Back to Table
Discover unparalleled luxury at the San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center, a 32-acre, beachfront hotel and spa resort on beautiful Galveston Island. Recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award since 1999, the San Luis Resort offers the perfect Galveston hotel and resort experience with lavish accommodations and personalized service.
Some of the amenities included in your stay include Molton Brown toiletries, a Keurig coffee maker in your room, fitness centre access, and a private balcony with outdoor seating for breathtaking Gulf views.
DISTANCE TO PORT: < 10-minute drive
PARKING: Duration of cruise
CHECK-IN/OUT: 4 PM / 11 AM
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Staying Close To Galveston Port
While both George Bush and Hobby offer the typical array of airport accommodations, Cruise Critic members recommend staying on Galveston Island, where you don’t need to worry about traffic, and the cruise port is just a few minutes away.
Traveling from Idaho, planned on arriving a day early, to enjoy the pleasures of the coast. “We are staying at Gaidos — we will get there in the dark but hoping for a beautiful sunrise on departure day, right on the Gulf.” Houston-based geofeo approves of that choice. “Gaidos is nice. Right across from the beach. Eat at the restaurant, very good.” The hotel, full-name Gaidos Seaside Inn, offers a cruise ship special when booked directly with them, which includes free parking for the duration of your cruise as well as complimentary transportation to the port. Texas Tillie agrees, about the restaurant, noting its long legacy, calling it a “local institution.” He writes that Gaidos “has been serving seafood in Galveston since the earth cooled!”
New Jersey-based fdthird likes Harbor House Hotel and Marina, and notes that it’s close to everything that matters, including the historic heart of Galveston. “Good hotel, right next to port, great restaurants in walking distance, and a block from the Strand!” The hotel is located on the water, with views of the harbor, and at Pier 21, which is home to museums, shops, places to eat and the three-masted tall ship Elissa. Guests can park in their garage during their cruise for $12 per night.
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Harbor House Hotel & Marina
No 28 Pier 21, Galveston, TX 77550 | 409-763-3321 | Hotel 6 on Map Below | Read Reviews of this 3-Star Hotel | Back to Table
Start your nautical adventures a little early with a pre-cruise stay in one of the stylishly decorated rooms or suites on the waterfront at Harbor House Hotel. Located on Pier 21 this hotel is just a few minutes walk to the cruise terminal and offers views of the harbour . If youre up early the morning of your cruise you may even catch your ship coming back to port to get ready to welcome you.
Before boarding your ship you can make the most of your stay by visiting several attractions, like the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa and Seaport Museum, or the many shops and restaurants just a few minutes walk away in the Strand Historic District.
DISTANCE TO PORT: 5-minute walk
PARKING: $10 per day
POOL: No Access to Hotel Galvez pool for guests
CHECK-IN/OUT: 4 PM / 12 NOON
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Hilton Galveston Island Resort
5400 Seawall Boulevard, Galveston, Galveston Island, TX 77551 | 855-271-3621
Enjoy your pre-cruise stay at the Hilton Galveston Island Resort. With their Park and Go Package, you receive parking for 7 nights and a round-trip shuttle to the port. This AAA 4 Diamond rated hotel is full of wonderful amenities and is located within walking distance of shopping, restaurants and is just steps from the gorgeous beach.
This 32 acre resort boasts 10 restaurants and bars including Rainforest Cafe and IHOP, heated outdoor swimming pool with swim-up bar and pool-side cabanas and fitness center. You can also treat yourself to a day of fun at the nearby Pleasure Pier, Galvestons historic amusement park. Your elegantly appointed room offers amazing Gulf views, some with private balcony.
Port Transfer : Yes with Park and Go Package
Long-Term Parking : Yes with Park and Go Package
Breakfast : $
Four Points By Sheraton
Overlooking the gulf, the Four Points by Sheraton pampers guests with a lounge bar, business center, pool and beachfront location. Air-conditioned rooms have quality linens, tea/coffee makers and ocean views. They also offer competitively priced cruise packages including a nights stay and parking for the duration of your cruise.
- Distance from port: 1.6 miles
- Address: 2300 Seawall Blvd
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Hotels With Cruise Parking
With amenities and attractions minutes from the harbor, its no surprise many Galveston hotels offer free cruise parking and/or transportation to the terminal. Some offer parking for your vehicle while you are cruising from Galveston while others offer shuttles to the cruise terminal. Some are complimentary while others charge a fee. Click the website links for a list of options.
Which Houston Airport Is More Convenient To Galveston
While we live in the area, if we had to fly in for a cruise, then wed pick Houston Hobby 10 times out of 10. The shorter distance between Hobby and the cruise port makes the airport much more convenient to get to the cruise ship. Also, we like that Hobby is a much smaller airport in general, making it easier to get in and out.
The only hang-up is that Bush-Intercontinental features many more flights. That means cruisers flying to sail from Galveston might find a cheaper flight into Intercontinental or one that better meets their schedule.
For us, we would have to save more than $100 per person on a round trip flight to make the extra distance and cost of getting to the port worth our while. That said, its smart to search for flights into both, just to make sure youre getting the best price and time for your trip.
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Cruise Critic Members Share Galveston Vacation Tips
Sponsored by Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau
With a long and storied history, bountiful beaches and so much to eat and drink , Galveston has a lot to offer for your pre- or post-cruise pleasure. The fourth-busiest U.S. cruise port is a great drive-to spot, but its also near two major airports, making it convenient for those flying in from parts elsewhere. Here, the ultimate experts — that is, your fellow cruisers, who have been there — recommend their favorites, so you can try them, too.
The Perfect Places To Visit And Tour Pre
A popular vacation destination in its own right, Galvestons coastal pleasures mix with a long and rich history, with a wide array of attractions. Your challenge: finding enough time. Member ryndam, from nearby Houston, says that “Moody Gardens can occupy an entire day.” Or even more, really — with three iconic pyramids, Moody includes a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium, zip lines, a high-ropes course, scientific and cultural exhibits and a small waterpark. Oh, and a fully immersive rainforest experience, too.
Local Host Kat, from just across the Causeway in La Marque, Texas, lists a half-dozen recommendations. “If you ever wondered how an offshore oil rig works, check out the Ocean Star.” Accessed by a foot bridge off Pier 19, right across from the cruise port, this unique museum is a retired, refurbished jack-up drilling rig, and you can tour through three levels, learning about geological exploration and oil and gas production, experiencing the actual tools of the trade. Host Kat also recommends harbor and dolphin tours, the local railroad museum, and Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast. The latter is a family-friendly, interactive experience that takes you across the deck of a pirate ship and into the captain’s cabin, with actors bringing the lives of Jean and Pierre Lafitte to life. Yes — yarrr gonna love it.
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