Ships Sailing In October 2021
- Freedom of the Seas from Miami, Florida
- Anthem of the Seas from Southampton, England
- Jewel of the Seas from Limassol, Cyprus
- Odyssey of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Allure of the Seas from Port Canaveral
- Ovation of the Seas from Seattle, Washington
- Symphony of the Seas from Miami, Florida
- Independence of the Seas from Galveston, Texas
- Harmony of the Seas from Barcelona and Rome
- Oasis of the Seas from Cape Liberty, New Jersey
- Liberty of the Seas from Galveston, Texas
- Serenade of the Seas from Tampa, Florida
- Adventure of the Seas from Galveston, Texas
- Quantum of the Seas from Singapore
The major change this month is Liberty of the Seas will restart cruises in the beginning of the month from Galveston.
In addition, Serenade moves from Seattle to Tampa, marking the first Royal Caribbean ship to resume cruises from the Port of Tampa.
Adventure of the Seas wrapped up her summer season in Nassau, Bahamas, and will undergo a quick refurbishment before sailing again from Galveston at the end of the month.
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.
More On Cruising From Galveston
Getting to the Port of Galveston Need transportation options from airports and the Galveston area to the cruise port? Heres everything you need to know to get to the port and start your vacation.
Galveston Cruise Guide Sailing from the island for the first time? Read this guide to familiarize yourself with everything from location to transportation, hotels, cruise lines and more.
Galveston Hotels with Cruise Shuttle Need a ride to the port? Weve rounded up the options for places to stay near the port that also have shuttle service on cruise day.
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Cruise Lines That Stop At The Port
The Port of Galveston recently announced that starting in the Fall of 2013, Royal Caribbeans Navigator of the Seas will sail year-round out of the Port of Galveston. The Navigator of the Seas will be the largest ship ever home ported in Galveston.
In addition, Disney Cruise Lines and Princess Cruise Lines also now sail from the Port to destinations in the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Disney Cruise Lines sails the Disney Magic from the Port in the fall and winter seasons. Princess Cruises sailed the 951-foot Crown Princess to the western Caribbean from January to April 2013. Later in 2014, Princess will sail from the Houston Bayport Terminal, via the Caribbean Princess.
What Carnival Ships Are Sailing This Summer
More Carnival cruises are set to take off soon, according to the statement:
- Carnival Horizon, is set to depart from PortMiami on Sunday.
- Carnival Breeze is set to sail from Galveston on July 15.
- Carnival Miracle is set to sail from Seattle for Alaska on July 27.
Additional Carnival ships will resume service in August.
While the cruise industry was an early victim in the pandemic, things are starting to turn around. Carnival Corp. executives said last month that the company lost more than $2 billion in its latest quarter, but bookings for next year are running ahead of 2019s pace.
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What To Expect For Carnival Breeze
After the successful cruises onboard Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon, expectations are high for Carnival Breeze. Carnival Vista sailed on July 3 from Galveston and concluded her first cruise, the same counts for Carnival Horizon, which concluded her first voyage from Miami just days ago.
The third Carnival ship to resume sailings will be setting off on July 15 on a 4-day itinerary that will see her sail from Galveston with a call in Cozumel and two fun days at sea. Carnival Breezes season will see her sail on 4- and 5-day voyages from Galveston. The 5-day itinerary also includes a call in Costa Maya or Progreso, Yucatan.
As weve seen with both Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon, the ship will be sailing under a fully vaccinated pathway, which means that 95% of the guests and 98% of the crew members must be vaccinated. Cruises on the Dream-class vessel will not be fully booked though Carnival is sailing her vessels at 70% capacity.
For guests not vaccinated, there will be a surcharge of $150 to do mandatory testing during and before the end of the voyage. Although this will put a damper on the excitement for those unvaccinated guests as the charge also applies to all children not vaccinated. Brand Ambassador John Heald made the announcement last week saying:
We know that this puts an expense on the cruise that you probably didnt account for when you booked the cruise, but we have to keep everybody safe.
Looking For Cruises From Galveston Texas To Cozumel Mexico
The Port of Galveston, Texas welcomes many cruise ships throughout the year at Galvestons cruise terminals offering best itineraries to the port of Cozumel, Mexico. Cozumel is the most popular cruise destination in the Western Caribbean area, noted for its tropical weather, fishing, abundant diving and snorkeling opportunities and Mayan ruins.
The island of Cozumel is a place fit for the gods, with its dazzling white-sand beaches, ruined Mayan temples, exotic jungle wildlife, crystalline waters teeming with tropical fish, snorkeling and diving opportunities. With over 3 million cruise passengers visiting the island each year, you can bet that there are fun things to do in Cozumel. Sail to Cozumel and relax on the beautiful sandy beaches, go snorkeling off the coast line in Caribbean blue waters or go fishing.
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Galveston Tours Shore Excursions Hotels
City Tours and Shore Excursions
During you stay, Galveston can offer plenty of activities for any age. You can enjoy tropical rainforest adventure or rest at the sunny beach. If you prefer, you can visit amusement places near the Galveston cruise port terminal like:
- Texas Seaport Museum
- the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum
- the Moody Gardens
What Is The Dress Code On Regular Nights On A Norwegian Cruise Line Cruise
Norwegian have the most relaxed dress code of any cruise line that Ive ever cruised with. Jeans are acceptable at all times in the main dining room as long as they are not too ripped/faded.
Realistically as long as you are dressed and clean you wont be turned away from the main dining room on a Norwegian cruise.
Norwegians website says the following:
Dress cruise casual anytime during the day, in the buffet and in most speciality restaurants. For women, it includes summer and casual dresses, skirts, regular or capri pants, shorts, jeans and tops. Khakis, jeans, shorts and casual shirts are fine for men. Swimwear is acceptable at the buffet and outdoor restaurant, but a shirt or a cover-up and footwear are required.
Posted by H-Town Connection Team | May 13, 2021 | Entertainment, Travel | 0
As the cruise industry prepares a post-COVID comeback, a new face will appear in Galvestons cruise port. Norwegian Cruise Line has added Galveston to its portfolio. NCL will bring its mega Norwegian Prima ship to the Lone Star State. This new ship will be the first of a new class that NCL is establishing.
Norwegian Cruise Line joins Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line. This brings all of the Big 4 cruise lines in North America to Galveston and Texas. Currently listed on their website are itineraries taking you to Aruba and Cozumel.
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Norwegian Sky Embarkation In Miami
We have previously posted about the embarkation process for Royal Caribbean in Galveston and for Carnival in Puerto Rico. Today, I want to describe the process of embarking on the Norwegian Sky in Miami. I will talk about some of the key things you want to be sure to do within your first few hours on board. Over the next several days, please follow us for more details on the excellent ship and trip. In summary, though, Norwegian Sky embarkation in Miami is really easy. Lets talk about boarding time, lunch the first day, and business to take care of as soon as you board.
I selected an arrival time of 10-10:30. I dont have any kind of elite status on Norwegian, and I was not staying in a suite. Not wanting to get caught in long line, and wanting to board ASAP, I selected the first time available. It turns out I didnt need to do that. I caught an Uber from the Hilton to the port, and I quickly found a luggage porter. I then went to a dude checking that I was at the right terminal, a security check, and immediately to a check-in counter all without slowing down.
When I reached the top of the escalator, I was given a boarding card:
As far as I could tell, the group numbers were assigned randomly. They later called suite guests first, so I am sure they were able to ask for a higher priority card. However, if that applies to you then you should definitely ask. When I had that, I began the rather long process of sitting.
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Enchantment Of The Seas
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
This romantically named cruise leaves Galveston Port to make 3-day cruises and 4-day cruises to Miami and the Bahamas.
Cruises packages include a movie screen thats right by the poolside, a video game arena, a rock climbing wall and live shows inspired by Broadway.
The splash deck and other age-appropriate programs keep children occupied, while adults can unwind in one of the seven lounges and bars, or the casino.
There are six restaurants onboard Enchantment of the Seas.
2,730 passengers are catered to by 852 crew members.
True to its name, this Royal Caribbean International ship offers an enchanting cruise itinerary.
Size of Ship: Large
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Cruise Ship Terminals 1 And 2
- Terminal 1 address 2502 Harborside Dr., Galveston, TX 77550
- Terminal 2 address 2702 Harborside Dr., Galveston, TX 77550
- Terminal 1 is for docking of Princess and Carnival ships.
- Terminal 2 is for docking of Disney and Royal Caribbean ships.
- location some 40 mi / 70 km from Houston Hobby International Airport , some 70 mi / 110 km from Houston Intercontinental Airport
- GPS coordinates – pending
- Embarkation: luggage must be unloaded at the terminal curbside prior to parking. Shuttles dont handle luggage during embarkation.
On November 30, 2016, the port completed a USD 13 million project that expanded the passenger area at Cruise Terminal 2. Terminals both buildings are now connected by an enclosed, air-conditioned walkway. The passenger area was increased from around 90,000 to 150,000 ft2 . Seating was increased from 500 to 2000 seats, baggage holding-, customs- and waiting areas were expanded, and 16 more check-in booths were installed.
Terminal 2s expansion works started in 2014, financed by Royal Caribbean. However, construction roadblocks delayed the project with roughly a year. The expansion also included longer docking pier with extra bollards . The dock project cost around USD 3,5 million and was completed in 2017. The expanded Terminal 2 now has capacity to handle up to 5,000 passengers at a time.
Top 5 Pros Of Cruising From The Port Of Galveston
Lucky for you, there are plenty of pros to consider whencruising from the Port of Galveston. The island holds a lot of history andoffers guests everything they could want from easy parking, attractions,beaches, dining opportunities, shopping, and lodging.
Lets discuss in detail the advantages that Galveston has tooffer, should you choose to cruise from there.
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An Adventure Of Texas
Book now and discover larger-than-life thrills.
Vaccination, Testing and Travel Document Requirements
Travel requirements and health protocols are constantly evolving and vary by port of departure. We will continue to publish more protocols as they are developed. Booked guests will be advised of their specific requirements before setting sail. See more details by ship and homeport.
CHASE BIGGER THRILLS
Fun-filled Galveston is the starting point for your next unforgettable Caribbean getaway. Dig into Texass world-famous BBQ then wander along the picturesque Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier before sailing to stunning sun-soaked isles onboard Liberty of the Seas®.
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Airline Service For Houston Airports
There is no doubt that Houston Hobbys location makes it much more convenient for passengers headed to Galveston. Unfortunately, Hobby is considerably smaller in terms of airlines servicing the airport when compared to Intercontinental.
Houston Hobby is primarily a Southwest destination. The airline dominates service from the airport. However, there are flights from Delta, American Airlines, and Allegiant.
Houston Intercontinental is the citys largest airport and also offers the most flight service. Here youll find nearly every airline available, including Southwest. If you are flying from an international destination, you will likely have no choice but to fly into this airport. In addition, IAH is a United hub, which serves airports around the country and the world.
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Best Cruises From Galveston Texas
On the Gulf Coast of Texas in the USA sits the historic port city of Galveston.
Galveston Port was once a commercial port but now caters mainly to cruises.
From some of the top cruises in the world to more affordable cruises, Galveston has something to offer all lovers of the sea.
Here is our list of the best cruises departing from Galveston, Texas.
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Carnival Cruise Lines New Ship Headed To Galveston In 2023
Carnival Cruise Line announced its newest cruise ship, Carnival Jubilee, will be delivered to and based out of Galveston starting in 2023. Carnival Jubilee is the third Excel-class ship from the line joining sister ships , currently sailing from Port Canaveral, and Carnival Celebration, which will be delivered and based in Miami starting late 2022.
The lines Excel-class ships utilize a liquefied natural gas technology platform. The Carnival Corporation pioneered the introduction of LNG fuel in the passenger cruise sector as part of the companys efforts in sustainability and compliance throughout its global operations.
Carnival was the first cruise line to offer year-round cruising from Galveston in 2000, and we have continued to grow our presence and support of the Port of Galvestons expansion, so we are thrilled to bring our brand-new Carnival Jubilee to Texas and the greater southwest region, said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. This beautiful, innovative ship will bring an entirely new cruise experience to our guests, and weve got some great surprises to fun it up in ways we know they are going to love.
Carnival Jubilee will offer a range of 7-night Caribbean itineraries. Sailings will open for sale in early 2022.
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Norwegian Prima Will Have Largest Racetrack On The Ocean
GALVESTON, Texas A new Norwegian Cruise ship with the largest racetrack on the ocean is going to be sailing from Galveston in late 2023.
The Norwegian Prima is the first of six ships in the Norwegian Cruise Lines Prima Class and its set to embark on its maiden voyage next summer.
The massive boat is 965 feet long and can accommodate 3,215 guests at double occupancy, according to a press release.
In addition to the ships three-level racetrack, there will also be a 10-story, freefall dry slide called The Drop where guests will reach the highest G-forces of any cruise line, NCL officials said.
Two escape rooms, a Topgolf Swing Suite, mini-golf course, aqua park with Tidal Wave waterslide and infinity hot tubs will also be featured on the Norwegian Prima.
NCL officials report that the Norwegian Prima will be the only vessel offering 7-day voyages to the Western Caribbean out of Galveston during the winter 2023-2024 season.
Ports of call for the Galveston voyages include Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, Harvest Caye in Belize and Roatan in the Bay Islands.
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Carnival Vista Is First Ship To Cruise Out Of Galveston Since The Pandemic Shutdown
GALVESTON, Texas Cruising is back! Carnival Vista cruised out of Galveston Saturday at 70 percent capacity and is headed to the Caribbean.
Carnival Vista was the first ship leaving out of Galveston and only the second ship to leave from the U.S. since the pandemic shutdown.
The first cruise ship that left the U.S. last week was a Royal Caribbean cruise ship Celebrity Edge that sailed out of Ft. Lauderdale.
There were only about 1,200 passengers on the ship that normally holds more than double that.
All of the adults onboard were vaccinated, and the children who accompanied them were tested for COVID since vaccines arent required for them.
Travelers had to show proof when checking in.
For those who boarded the ship and those who live on the island and benefit from cruises, the voyage is a symbol of things going back to normal.
Allan Debowsky and his family are on board.
Weve been waiting and waiting. Were so excited, Debowsky said.
For the last 16 months, cruise ships have been docked because of COVID-19.
Every time that we thought about going on vacation, we always thought about a cruise, and we couldnt do that, Patricia Debowsky said.
Avid cruisers like the Debowsky family have been waiting for the chance to be allowed back.
Hes been cruising since he was nine months old, Patricia Debowsky said about her son Zachary. He would rather cruise, out of his words, than go to Disney when he was a kid.
Carnival said UTMB provided vaccines for all of its crew.
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