Cruise From Galveston Texas
The Galveston, Texas cruise port is home to both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines. Both lines offer year-round cruise options from Galveston. Royal Caribbean cruise ships offer a range of 6 to 9-night Caribbean cruise vacations. For travelers in need of a shorter vacation, Carnival Cruise Line provides anywhere from 4 to 10-night Caribbean cruise options.
Heavy Investments In Health And Safety Upgrades
Cruise ships are not alone in making upgrades to accommodate the CDCs demands on the various factors that make a cruise a success. As such, the Port of Galveston has invested more than $100,000 in health and safety measures. It is also reviewing the necessary changes required to port terminals, parking areas, and other operations.
As with the cruise lines, the various ports in the United States are waiting for updates from the CDC on what is expected of them, something that is taking far longer than anyone in the industry expected, Rodger Rees:
To date, weve voluntarily invested $100,000 in health and safety upgrades in our cruise terminals. We continuously monitor updates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop the guidelines that ports will follow for cruise terminal, parking and other operations.
Perhaps against better judgement, the Port aims to have everything ready for a return of cruising by July. However, Rees clarifies that the current expectation is cruising to resume by the end of the summer or early fall of this year. Something that is hurting the local economy, as it has done in Florida and Alaska.
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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Carnival Jubilee will share features from her sister ships that guests know and love, including the award-winning and pulse-racing BOLT roller coaster, expanded dining options, more than 20 different stateroom categories and multiple levels of spacious and luxurious suites, and a stunning, three-deck atrium.
Day/4 Night Cruises Out Of Galveston Texas
| Are you looking for 4 day cruises that leave from Galveston, TX? As of today – January 25, 2022 – there are 60 such cruise options. These cruise options are offered by two cruise lines – Carnival and Royal Caribbean .In the following table you can see all 4 day cruises that depart from Galveston sorted by departure date. |
| Departure |
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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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Royal Caribbean International Voyager Of The Seas
The Royal Caribbean International ship Voyager of the Seas offers seasonal seven-day cruises from Galveston. Voyager of the Seas set sail every week for seasonal seven-and 14-day cruises. The seven-day cruises travel to Mexico and the Caribbean. Fourteen-day cruises take passengers to Spain.
Voyager of the Seas features restaurants, bars and lounges, a casino, fitness center and spa. The ship’s sports recreation offerings include a full basketball court, ice-skating rink, rock-climbing wall, golf simulator and 9-hole miniature golf course.
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Norwegian Cruise Line To Bring Its Prima Ship To Galveston
Amanda Cochran, Digital Special Projects Manager
GALVESTON, Texas Norwegian Cruise Line is bringing its newest ship to Galveston with cruises starting in 2022.
The ship called the Norwegian Prima will begin with two roundtrip western Caribbean voyages from Galveston: a three-day cruise on Oct. 27, 2022, and a four-day cruise on Oct. 31, 2022 — part of the new ships inaugural year sailing bucket-list itineraries, Houston Business Journal reported, citing Norwegian.
Starting in the winter season 2023 and 2024, the ship will homeport out of Galveston, offering seven-day voyages to the western Caribbean out of Galveston. The ship will call to Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico Harvest Caye, a private island in Belize and Roatan Island, Honduras.
The ship is 965 feet long, more than 142,000 gross tons and able to accommodate 3,215 guests at double occupancy, according to the cruise line.
The company touted its entertainment options onboard in a news release about the ship, including a three-level go-kart racetrack called Prima Speedway.
The ship will sail on its maiden voyage on Aug. 17, 2022, on an itinerary from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, to Reykjavik, Iceland, with stops in Zeebrugge, Bergen, and Geiranger in Norway, and Akureyri and Isafjordur in Iceland, according to Cruise Hive.
Take a look at the ship through these promotional photos from the cruise line.
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Carnival Jubilee Bookings Open For 2023 Galveston Departures
Today marks the first day of a new era for the Port of Galveston, as Carnival Cruise Line has opened up reservations for its much-anticipated LNP power shop Carnival Jubilee.
The Galveston departures for the Carnival Jubilee will begin on November 18 2023, when the ship will offer seven-day Western Caribbean itineraries from its homeport on Galveston Island, Texas.
Once at her home port, Carnival Jubilee will visit Mexcian port that includes Cozumel and Costa Maya, as well as Mahogany Bay , Honduras.
Prior to her US arrival and inaugural season from Galveston, Carnival Jubilee will depart on October 30, 2023, from London on an 18-day transatlantic voyage.
During her 18 voyage, Jubilee will visit the Port of Vigo in Spain, Las Palmas and Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Funchal in Portugal and Grand Turk, before arriving in Texas.
Carnival Jubilee will join her sisters, Mardi Gras, sailing from Port Canaveral since mid-2021, and Carnival Celebration, which will be based in Miami beginning later this year.
All 3 ships will run on LNG, better known as the liquefied natural gas technology platform. Carnival Corporation pioneered the introduction of LNG fuel in the passenger cruise sector as part of the companys ongoing commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction.
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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
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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Cruise News Update: January 15 2022
Cruise news update with all the latest developments as the CDC’s Conditional Sailing Order ends and more ship cancellations.
There have been lots of new developments in the cruise industry over the past week as more cruise ships cancel sailings or have itinerary changes, but cruising continues for thousands of guests and the CDCs Conditional Sailing Order moves into a voluntary program.
Cruise Ship Terminal Directions And Parking
From East take Highway 87. Board a Port Bolivar vehicle ferry. Exit the ferry onto Ferry Road . Turn right onto Harborside Drive, then continue to Kempner some 20 city blocks. Turn right onto Kempner and follow the signs to the terminal .
From North or West take Interstate 45 South, then Exit 1C, Follow the feeder road to Harborside Drive , then turn left onto Harborside Drive and for ~5 mi / 8 km to Kempner . Turn left onto Kempner and follow the signs to the terminal .
Cruise Parking Rates USD 45 , USD 50 , USD 70 . Parking is guarded, lighted, with 24-hour surveillance and police patrol. Phone number 409 766-6100.
Debarkation: go directly to the Parking Lot to retrieve your car . Then pick up passengers and luggage at the terminal curbside. Depart the terminal via shuttles. The service is provided only in parking lots with luggage drop-off signs.
If you plan to fly to Galveston, you will arrive at either Hobby Airport, HOU, or George Bush International Airport, IAH, you have to rent a car or take a cruise line shuttle. There is no public transportation to Galveston from the airports in Huston. Galveston Limousine offers service to Galveston cruise ship terminal for USD 30. Taxi fares are USD 100 from George Bush Intercontinental and USD 75 from Hobby Airport.
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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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Thousands Of Texans Benefit From The Port Of Galveston
The cruise industry is a significant contributor to the local economy in Galveston. Thousands of families depend on the cruise industry and the tens of thousands of cruise ship guests that drive or fly down to Galveston each year.
Suspension of cruising from Galveston has resulted in enormous losses for the Texas economy and families who rely on this industry. Based on historical economic impact annual statistics, losses are estimated at $1.2 billion in direct spending, 23,000 jobs, and $1.6 billion in wages statewide.
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Although other major ports in the United States often rely solely on cruise ships, the Port of Galveston is fortunate to have a more diverse business mix, including cargo and commercial operations.
The port authorities have joined the many stakeholders that have called for the CDC to lift the conditional sail order as soon as possible,
Were also involved in regular discussions with cruise industry leaders to raise awareness among elected officials, the CDC and other decision-makers about the critical importance of getting the U.S. cruise industry sailing again.
The Port will want to see cruising return as soon as possible to accommodate Allure of the Seas from the new terminal 3 Royal Caribbean is planning to build.
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The 5 Best Cruises Out Of Galveston
Nothing beats getting away on the water in a magnificent ship with good food, drinks, and tons of entertainment. These are the 5 best cruise lines out of Galveston.
1. Carnival Breeze 5-Day Western Caribbean
Starting at about $250, this 5-day 4-night cruise from Galveston, TX, has the appeal of a quick getaway with all the luxury of a longer sailing vacation at sea. The ship departs from Galveston in the afternoon on your first day, and youll spend the evening exploring the ship, settling in, and dining on great food.
Day 2 passengers will experience all the Carnival Breeze has to offer from sunup to sundown. Day 3 is spent at Yucatan with many offshore adventures from 7 am to 4 pm. Day 4 will be at the pristine Cozumel, Mexico, from 8 am to 5 pm, which is plenty of time for a Jeep excursion, snorkeling, or Dolphin encounter. Day 5 is aboard the ship where guests can party all night long, returning to Galveston Port at 8:00 am on Day 6.
This shorter cruise is the best out of Galveston for its price point, ship amenities, and destination ports. If youre looking for the best cruise out of Galveston, look no further than the Carnival Breeze 5-day Western Caribbean Cruise.
2. Carnival Vista 7-Day Western Caribbean
Destinations for this cruise include:
- Montego Bay
- Grand Cayman
- Cozumel
This trip also includes four days at sea to enjoy all of the amenities that the Vista has to offer, most of which are included in your base price.
3. Disney Wonder 6-Night Bahamian Cruise
Port Of Galveston Will Be Ready If Cruises Resume By July
The Port of Galveston, Texas will be ready if cruises resume by July and preparations are underway to welcome back guests safely.
No one knows precisely when cruise ships will sail again from the Port of Galveston however, Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director, and chief executive officer released an update on the state of the Port and reiterated the Port would be ready to sail as soon as there is permission from the CDC.
Although the Port is often overlooked as an essential homeport for ships, Galveston is the fourth largest cruise port in the United States. As such, it plays a vital role in the resumption of cruises.
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Independence Of The Seas Cancellations
Independence of the Seas is not departing its homeport of Port Canaveral as the cruise line has canceled three sailings. The January 14 eight-day SuperCruise charter, a short two-night voyage departing January 22, and another five-day charter K-Love Cruise departing January 24, 2022, will no longer go ahead due to COVID-related issues.
Well keep you updated on all the latest developments when it comes to cancellations over on the website, so do make sure you keep checking.
The 5 Best Cruise Lines Out Of Galveston
Anyone planning to cruise from Galveston, Texas, needs to check out all of the five best cruise lines setting sail this season. Many of the ships are resuming their normal itineraries after taking a long break because of Covid-19. With new safety measures in place, passengers can now enjoy all the fun, food, and relaxation that are unique to the cruise lines of Galveston.
The 5 Best cruise lines out of Galveston are Royal Caribbeans Independence of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas, Carnival Breeze and Carnival Vista, and Disneys Wonder. These ships offer their travelers a variety of amenities and stop to suit all different interests.
If youll be cruising from Texas, youll want to get the details about these 5 cruise lines. Theyre sure to have you and your loved ones having a great time together on the best cruise lines the Port of Galveston has to offer.
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Cruising From Houston Or Galveston: Bottom Line
When selecting whether you want to cruise out of Galveston or Houston, you’ll need to decide what is most important to you.
For the most cruise line and itinerary choices, both in terms of destination and cruise length, choose Galveston.
If you’re flying in, want to get on your cruise ship as soon as possible upon arrival and don’t mind waiting for some of the ship’s venues to open, you’ll want to sail from Houston. If, instead, you really want all the ship’s services to open up as near to sailaway as possible and don’t mind two hours of transport to the ship, choose Galveston.
Also note that both Galveston and Houston are subject to fog, which can severely affect the start or end times of a cruise sailing — sometimes by as much as a day. In a typical year, a handful of cruises will be affected by heavy fog resulting in some people getting back later from their cruise or ending up with a shorter cruise than anticipated. The ports are equally impacted, so weather is not a reason to choose one port over the other.