Sunday, April 14, 2024

What Is The Best Cruise Line Out Of Galveston

Don't Miss

What Is The Dress Code On Regular Nights On A Norwegian Cruise Line Cruise

Best Galveston Hotel for Before YOUR CRUISE, Harbor House Hotel & Marina At Pier 21

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.

First Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Restarts Operations From Galveston Texas

Independence of the Seas becomes the first Royal Caribbean cruise ship to resume operations out of Galveston, Texas.

Just in time for her first cruise, Royal Caribbeans Independence of the Seas received her conditional sailing certificate from the Centers for Disease Control last week. The cruise ship has now started cruising from her home port of Galveston, Texas.

Independence of the Seas became the first Royal Caribbean cruise ship to set sail from Galveston since the pause in operations in March of 2020. After starting up an additional 4 ships from Friday to Sunday, Royal Caribbean now has twelve cruise ships in operation worldwide.

Cruises From Galveston: The Pros And Cons

Find out the pros and cons for cruises from Galveston, Texas. This should make your decision easier and what to expect when cruising from the port.

Youre planning on taking a cruise and youre not sure whichport you want to ship out from. Between Louisiana, Florida, Texas, and variousother states, the options are endless. Which one do you choose, and why?

For the purpose of this article, we will discuss everythingyou need to know about cruising from the Port of Galveston, on Galveston Islandin Texas. Well cover the pros as well as the cons, so you can make awell-informed choice of whether to go to Galveston or look for something else.

Also Check: What Is Included In Seabourn Cruises

Go Bold From Galveston

YWith its postcard-pretty pier, stately Victorian architecture, thriving arts scene and famous Texan cuisine, Galveston is a great city to kick off your next cruise vacation. Rent a kayak and paddle out onto Galveston Bay, hit the Moody Gardens Golf Course, or join a ghost tour the opportunities to fill a few days are endless.

Read Also: Cost Of An Alaska Cruise

Disco Entertainment: Donna Summer Musical

Carnival cruises from Galveston, Texas

Over the past several years NCL has made a name bringing big-production Broadway-style shows to sea. On Prima, passengers will be treated to Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. The show tells the story of Donna Summers rise in the disco scene, and NCL says the theater will convert into a full disco where guests can dance to the music of more than 20 of her hits, including Hot Stuff.

Recommended Reading: Msc Cruises Dress Code

About The Galveston Cruise Port

The Port of Galveston is located on the upper Texas coast at the mouth of beautiful Galveston Bay, just 30 minutes steaming time from the open sea. The two closest airports to the Port of Galveston are Houston Hobby International Airport and George Bush Intercontinental .

The nearest airport to Port of Galveston is Houston Hobby International Airport .The distance between them is 42 miles and the trip takes about 30 minutes. A taxi will cost approximately $85 a carload and the shared shuttle about $45 per person.

An alternative airport is George Bush Intercontinental, located on the north side of Houston, but its about 70 miles from the port and the ride can take about 1 ý hours. Taking a taxi will cost approximately $135 a carload and the shared shuttle $55.

If youre driving to the port the parking lots available to passengers are located 1/2 mile from the cruise ship Terminal. The parking lots are safe and secure. Gates will be locked upon vessel departure and no entry will be available on non-cruise days. Lots are to be monitored by Port police every two hours.

Drop off passengers and luggage at the cruise terminal before heading to the parking lot. Porters will assist you with your baggage and Police Officers will direct the driver to the appropriate parking lot for that day. There are shuttles running continuously to take passengers from the lot to the terminal for check-in.

Read Also: Do Cruise Ships Go Through The Panama Canal

Royal Caribbeans Hong Kong Restart Delayed

Royal Caribbeans Spectrum of the Seas scheduled restart for October 5 from Hong Kong has been cancelled along with the two following sailings. It means the October 5th, 8th, and 10th departures will no longer occur, and the first cruise is now set to begin on October 14.

The cancellations came after the Hong Kong Government elevated restrictions and increased rules for passengers from Europe, North America, and Asia. It results in difficulty for crew members from their home countries to travel to the vessel.

Spectrum of the Seas is only sailing short four and three-night getaway cruises to nowhere out of Hong Kong. From January 12, 2022, the Quantum Ultra class cruise ship will begin offering international cruises with a call to Japan.

The cruises from Hong Kong are for residents only, and guests must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure. A negative test result must also be shown before being allowed on board. The protocols are in place as required by authorities in Hong Kong, and the details may differ from other countries such as the U.S.

Read Also: Nyc Cruise Terminals

Airport Distance From The Port Of Galveston

Both Houston Hobby and Intercontinental are located far from the port. Houston Hobby is considerably closer, sitting on the southeast side of Houston, compared to Intercontinentals location due north of the city. In total, you should allot between 45 minutes to an hour and 15 minutes , at the very least.

Houston Hobby41 miles from Port of Galveston45-minute ride without traffic

70 miles from Port of Galveston75-minute ride without traffic

One thing to keep in mind is that Houston is notorious for its traffic thanks to road construction. Thats why we suggest allowing up to double the non-traffic time just to give yourself plenty of time to get to the ship.

Given the distance, we would always suggest flying into Houston the day before you sail. If your flight arrives early enough on the morning of your cruise, you should have enough time to make it to the port. However, any delays could mean you risk missing the ship on cruise day.

Can I Bring Bottles Of Wine On Board

Carnival Cruise Ships EMOTIONAL Return to Port of Galveston!

Yes! While guests are not allowed to bring other types of alcohol, soda or water on board, they can bring corked, sealed bottles of wine or champagne. At embarkation, passengers are charged a corkage fee for each bottle, whether the intent is to consume the wine in a restaurant or in the guests stateroom. The corkage fee is $15 for 750 ml bottles and $30 for 1,500 ml Magnums.

Wines gifted to passengers, whether by friends who arrange to have a bottle left in their stateroom or travel agents, is also subject to the same fee. The one exception to the no bottled water rule is in regard to factory-sealed purified water needed for medical devices or baby formula.

Also Check: What Is The Best Mississippi River Cruise

Don’t Miss: Cruise Port In Amsterdam

The 8 Best Carnival Cruise Ships Of 2021

  • Pin
  • Email

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the bestproducts youcan learn more about ourreview process here.We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

Runner-Up, Best Overall: Carnival Vista

“Has a large amount of repeat Carnival cruisers and offers nonstop action onboard.”

Best New Ship: Carnival Sunrise

“Every cabin on Sunrise is remodeled with fresh new furnishings, and dining and beverage additions.”

Best Accommodations: Carnival Horizon

“Accommodations include the Family Harbor, dedicated family staterooms with their own lounge and concierge, and the Cloud 9 spa staterooms.”

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®.

You May Like: How Much Should I Budget For An Alaskan Cruise

Cruises From Houston Or Galveston: Which Should You Choose

Editors note: As of April 2016, Houston is no longer an active cruise port.

When deciding whether you want to cruise from Houston or Galveston, youll need to weigh the pros and cons of each port city. How easy is each one to get to? How many cruise lines offer sailings from each port? Whats difficult about sailing from each city? If youre trying to decide between cruising from Galveston or cruising from Houston, read on for the key differentiators.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Carnival Cruises from Galveston to resume in August  The ...

Adventure of the Seas – First sailing November 8, 2021Royal Caribbean International’s Adventure of the Seas offers four and five-night Western Caribbean cruises seasonally including Cozumel, Puerto Costa Maya, and the Yucatan as ports of call.

Independence of the Seas – First sailing August 15, 2021Royal Caribbean International’s Independence of the Seas offers four and five-night Western Caribbean cruises seasonally including Cozumel, Puerto Costa Maya, and the Yucatan as ports of call.

Liberty of the Seas – Sailings suspended through the end of August 2021.Royal Caribbean International’s Liberty of the Seas offers seven-night Western Caribbean cruises year round including Isla Roatan, Honduras Belize City Belize Cozumel, Mexico Falmouth, Jamaica Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands Montego Bay, Jamaica and Costa Maya, Mexico as ports of call.

Also Check: What Is Aqua Class On Celebrity Cruises

Best Overall: Carnival Glory

Built in 2003, the 2,980-passenger Carnival Glory is one of Carnivals older but well-loved ships, and while parts of Glory show its age, refurbishments have helped maintain its appeal. The majority of dining options on Glory are bundled into the fare including some of the cruise lines newer venues like Blue Iguana Cantina and Guys Burger Joint. All-inclusive dining used to be the norm on other mainstream cruises, but as newer vessels launch so do added a la carte options. As Glory sails from New Orleans to the Western Caribbean theres plenty to do onboard like comedy shows, dive-in movies , and the Waterworks playground. Glory is also one of the fleets more affordable ships, which is why it’s our best overall pick.

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.

Also Check: How Much Are 7 Day Cruises

Carnival Glory Cruise Cancelled

With Hurricane Ida having a huge impact on New Orleans, Carnival Cruise Line has canceled Carnival Glorys September 5th departure. The main reason was at the time, the city was still under emergency management and the channel leading towards the cruise terminal remained closed.

Carnival Glorys first return cruise from New Orleans was scheduled to depart on September 5 on a seven-day voyage, including calls at Bimini, Freeport, and Nassau, all in the Bahamas. The ship will now restart from the Port of New Orleans on Sunday, September 12.

Carnival is allowing impacted guests to transfer to the Carnival Vista sailing departing the Port of Galveston in Texas on Saturday, September 4, 2021. Guests will have to be fully vaccinated to be allowed to transfer. Unfortunately, those under the vaccine exemption wont be allowed to transfer their booking to the Carnival Vista but are being asked to contact Carnival about their options.

Since the cancellation was first announced, the Carnival Glory has already returned to the port and is currently making preparations for its restart on September 12. That cruise will be a seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary with stops at Mahogany Bay, Belize, and Cozumel, along with three sea days. The Conquest-class vessel will become the ninth ship in the fleet to resume operations and the first out of New Orleans since suspensions first began in March 2020.

Best Galveston Cruise Port Hotels

Carnival Cruise Line Sends 3rd Ship to Galveston – Norwegian Prima Itineraries Announced #Carnival

If youre cruising from Galveston, chances are youll want a place to stay the night before you depart, or perhaps you want to check out the area after your cruise.

Galveston might not be on your radar as a great place to visit, but there is plenty to see.

Check out all these unique attractions while youre in Galveston.

Once you realize what a great place Galveston is, heres our top picks for the best Galveston cruise port hotels.

You May Like: Are Msc Cruises Good

Royal Caribbean Breaks Ground On New Cruise Terminal Announces Fall 2022 Sail Dates Out Of Galveston

Royal Caribbean recently broke ground on a new cruise terminal slated to debut next fall in Galveston.

The opening of the new, $125 million cruise terminal comes just in time for the new fall 2022 sail dates out of the Texas port announced by the cruise line.

According to CultureMap, the terminal will serve as the homeport for Royal Caribbeans Allure of the Seas, which will sail seven-night western Caribbean itineraries starting November 2022.

Currently, Galveston, the sole cruise port in Texas, houses Royal Caribbeans Independence and Liberty of the Seas.

This new cruise terminal is a game-changer, said Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO, according to CultureMap. This much-anticipated project will bring 800 new jobs, $1.4 billion in local business services revenue, $5.6 million in state and local taxes, and incredible business development opportunities.

According to CultureMap, the new cruise terminal will boast modern technological features such as mobile check-in and facial recognition.

About the Author:

Dont Worry So Much About What To Wear

As we were packing for the cruise, I was really daunted by all the different dress codes I was expected to be prepared for casual,smart casual and formal. Just how formal is formal? What does smart casual mean? Luckily, the internet is full of information about what each of these mean for different cruise lines. Since we didnt have to limit our baggage, I packed 3 dressed that could pass for Royal Caribbeans Formal Night standards.

We quickly realized once on board that these dress codes are to be taken very loosely. Some people were in tuxes and ball gowns, but the majority of women wore cocktail dresses or dress pants. No one was turned away and no one really cared if you walked in wearing shorts and a t-shirt.

I only ended up wearing 4 types of shoes: flip flops for poolside, heels for formal night, sneakers for the gym and excursions, and a pair of slip-ons for walking around the ship.

Dan had one pair of vans, dress shoes and flip flops for his feet with t-shirts, polos and a suit. He mostly wore anything with a collar to dinner and pants until later in the cruise he wore shorts one night and did not feel out of place.

Recommended Reading: What Cruise Lines Leave From Mobile Alabama

More articles

Popular Articles