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.
Galveston Cruise Parking Options
Galveston cruise port has its own onsite cruise parking. It is the most convenient and secure parking for cruisers, just a short walk or shuttle ride from the cruise check-in. Cruisers are advised to book ahead as parking is limited. Once your prepaid reservation is complete, you will have a reserved parking spot on the official parking lot or in the port garage.
Prices for parking at Galveston cruise port start at around $85 for 7 nights if you book ahead. The price rises to $90 if you turn up without a reservation. Garage parking at the port is around $115 for 7 days. It is in a secure covered parking lot a short walk from the ship.
There are several other cruise parking companies that operate off-site and include free shuttle transport between the port and the parking area. They are more competitively priced. Expect to pay around $50 for 7 days cruise parking with Discount Cruise Parkingor $69.55 plus tax with Cruise Park.
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.
Checking In For Your Cruise
Checking in for your cruise is much easier than checking in at an airport. While security remains a top priority, youll find cruise terminals are well staffed with knowledgeable and helpful personnel who will assist you at every step.
On arrival at your ship, drop your check-in luggage and it will be taken directly to your stateroom and left outside the door. Dont worry if it hasnt arrived as you sail away staff have to transport thousands of suitcases around the ship and it may take time. However, it will certainly be delivered well before you need to dress for dinner.
Keep paperwork, passports, medication and other items of value with you in your hand luggage as you board. If youre keen to get out on deck, you might want to keep your swimsuit or change of clothing handy so you dont miss a moments fun.
Place your hand luggage on the conveyor belt for scanning and then walk through a security scanner/checkpoint. After that, you may have to wait in the lounge area until boarding begins. There are usually drinks available . There will also be toilets nearby.
At the check-in desk, you will need to present your passport and ticket info, along with any visa/ESTA required. You will also be asked to provide a credit card for the settlement of your account during or at the end of your cruise.
Recommended Reading: Best Time For An Alaskan Cruise
The Port Of Galveston
The Port of Galveston is the busiest cruise port in Texas. Whats more amazing is that just over a decade ago, no cruises called the port home.
Today hundreds of thousands of passengers sail from the port every year, and the worlds largest cruise lines including Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer cruises aboard a wide variety of ships.
While most cruises head to the western Caribbean for exotic ports of call like Cozumel, Roatan, Belize, and Jamaica, you can cruise all the way to Europe from Galveston. And with each passing year, cruising from the island becomes even better. It has transformed itself into a world-class cruising point, much to the enjoyment of the millions living within a few hours drive to the port.
Galveston Cruise Port: Essential Guide For Your Cruise
The ultimate guide to Galveston Cruise Port, covering all aspects of cruising from the Port of Galveston for a cruise vacation.
Galveston cruise port is the fourth busiest in the USA after Miami, Port Canaveral and Port Everglades, Florida. It is well positioned for cruises with an estimated 30 million people living within a 300-mile radius.
Galveston cruise port has many benefits for those living in Texas, Louisiana and the central and northern states. It is convenient, easy to reach, and offers a wide range of cruise itineraries with four major cruise lines.
Despite being on an island, the port is within an hours drive of Houston , which has two international airports for cruisers to fly into. Regular shuttle transport, limos or private taxis complete the smooth transfer to Galveston Island in about one hour.
For those who prefer to drive, there are many affordable hotels and cruise parking options around Galveston cruise terminals.
Galveston cruise terminals currently serve 2.2 million cruise passengers annually. Ambitious plans are already underway to create a third terminal at the port. This is expected to double the number of cruisers departing from the port from late 2022.
If youre thinking of cruising out of Galveston, read on to find out more about the port facilities, cruise parking option, airport transfers and terminal info. We also offer an insight into hotels and things to do in Galveston before or after your cruise. But first
You May Like: Cruise Ship From San Diego To Hawaii
Galveston Cruise Terminals Overview
Port of Galveston covers 840 acres and serves cargo, cruise and commercial shipping operations. It has been in business since 1825, when Texas was part of Mexico, and remains one of the oldest ports in the Gulf of Mexico. It is now the 4th busiest cruise port in North America, serving over 1.7 million cruisers in 2018.
This busy port currently has two cruise terminals with a third one under construction. Read full details in the sections below.
Which Airport Should You Fly Into For Your Galveston Cruise
While no one would mistake Galveston with Miami, the truth is that it has quickly grown into one of the busiest cruise ports outside of Florida. Today both Carnival and Royal Caribbean sail from the island, with Royal Caribbean homeporting one of its largest Oasis-class ships at the Texas port.
For tens of millions of Texans, the port is within a few hours drive. But as Galveston grows as a port, its only natural that more people fly in for their cruise.
The only real complaint about cruising from Galveston is that getting to the cruise terminal can more difficult if you need to fly in for your cruise. Unlike cities like Miami or Tampa, which have nearby airports, Galveston is a considerable distance from the closest major airport.
For most people, the option is to fly into one of Houstons two airports. The city is served by Houston Hobby and Bush-Intercontinental . That makes it even more confusing for cruisers who arent familiar with the area or the airports to decide which one they should fly into.
To help out those passengers trying to decide which airport is better for their trip, we have all the details about both as it relates to cruising from Galveston.
Read Also: Cost Of Alaskan Cruise Excursions
Port Of Galveston Commences Construction Of $125m Cruise Terminal
The 161,300ft2 terminal will include mobile check-in and facial recognition solutions.
The Port of Galveston in Texas, the US has commenced the construction of Royal Caribbean Internationals new $125m Oasis-class cruise terminal.
To mark the occasion, a ground-breaking ceremony was held at the port.
In December 2019, the Port of Galveston and Royal Caribbean signed a long-term contract for the new terminal.
Under the public-private partnership, Royal Caribbean will build the 161,300ft² terminal and then lease it from the port for the initial period of 20 years with four ten-year options.
Related
The new terminal will extend up to ten acres at Pier 10 in the easternmost region of the port on Galveston Island.
As agreed, the port will build and run a 1,800-space cruise parking lot at the terminal.
The new cruise terminal will be managed by Ceres Terminals Holdings.
Ceres Terminals will also provide services such as stevedoring, passenger luggage services, and ship provisioning.
For an improved guest arrival experience, the facility will include mobile check-in and facial recognition solutions.
The terminal will be developed in line with the global Leadership in Energy and Environmental health, efficiency, and sustainability standards.
The new facility, which will be the ports third cruise terminal, is expected to be completed late next year and will homeport Royal Caribbeans Oasis Class ship, Allure of the Seas.
Related Companies
Where To Stay Near Cruise Port Of Galveston In Texas
You can easily find Galveston cheap motels and affordable or more luxurious hotels in different parts of town, and most of them are situated close to the cruise ship terminals. Stay within easy walking distance, or a short distance away right on the beach . Some hotels will shuttle you for free to the port and offer free car parking.
If you want to stay close to the port, nearest hotels are located within walking distance of both terminals. Closest properties are The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. Both hotels are 5 minutes drive from Galveston Beach, as well as the dining and shopping options of the Strand Historic District.
Some Galveston hotels offer a free shuttle to the port, as well as free car parking such as the Holiday Inn Resort, and Inn at the Waterpark. Very reasonable is the La Quinta Inn & Suites.
Also Check: Cruise Ship To Hawaii From California
What Our Clients Are Saying
-
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE! Awesome service with a dedicated smile! I used this company to store my rented vehicle before an 8-night cruise out of the Port of Galveston. These guys are quick, organized and professional. My wait on both ends was less than 2 mins!! Though my interactions were brief, both on departure and return, I was so pleased I tipped double!
Moni M.
-
We used this parking service AGAIN this year for our 7 day cruise! Again this year, they were more than happy to help, they were all kind, and polite! Waited about 10 minutes in each direction for the shuttle to leave, and we were able to completely avoid the crazy port traffic!!! We will definitely use them again!
Marie S.
8115 Harborside Dr | Galveston TX 77551
What Is The Closest Airport To The Galveston Cruise Port
William P. Hobby airport is located 42 miles northwest of Galveston. It is a smaller airport and is serviced by only 4 major airlines American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue and Southwest.
George Bush is located 69 miles from Galveston, on the north side of Houston.
The major US airlines which fly into IAH are American Airlines, Delta, Spirit, United and US Airways, in addition to many international airlines such as Air Canada and British Airways.
You May Like: Carnival Cruises Out Of Norfolk Va
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.
Where To Stay On Galveston Island
Galveston Island is a popular vacation destination. It has many hotels and resorts to choose from if you want to extend your cruise with a few nights at the beach. Check out our recommendations for Hotels Near Galveston Cruise Port With Shuttle. If you want a hotel close to the beach on Galveston Island, here are more ideas 15 Galveston Hotels on Seawall Blvd for Cruise Passengers.
Recommended Reading: Dialysisatsea
Port Of Galveston History & Faqs
The Port of Galveston is located adjacent to the city of Galveston, Texas, on the upper Texas Gulf Coast. The Port holds the distinction of being the oldest Gulf of Mexico shipping port west of New Orleans. The port is located on the eastern end of Galveston Island, 9.3 miles from the open ocean, generally about 30 minutes of sailing time.
Continuously upgraded over its history, The Port of Galveston can accommodate all types of cargo including containers, dry and liquid bulk, break bulk, Roll On/Roll Off, refrigerated, and project cargoes. The Galveston Railroads terminal switching facilities then move cargo inland by rail.
Of course, one of the Ports most visible and profitable uses is as a hub for multiple cruise lines.
Safe Secure & Convenient
No need to worry about your car while on vacation. We provide secured parking with cameras and an attendant every day of the week. Convenient fuel pumps and Exxon store on site. The property is elevated with good drainage. Get affordable full service cruise parking for Galveston cruise passengers sailing on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Cruise lines!
You May Like: Royal Caribbean Price Per Person
The Official Cruise Parking Galveston
Port of Galveston cruise parking offers the most convenient and secure parkingfacilities for the cruise ship passengers.It is the only parking facility located on Port property.
The official Port of Galveston parking offers all cruise passengers the convenience of reserving a parking spot in advance when sailingfrom the Galveston cruise port. With our real-time, prepaid parking reservations system, the Port is offering reserved parking spots in the Port of Galveston’s official parking lots and parking garage.
Where Is The Port Located
Located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, the Port of Galveston operates from Galveston Island, an offshore barrier island. The port is on the sheltered side of the island in Galveston Bay/West Bay, at the start of the Houston Ship Channel.
Galveston cruise terminal is at the east end of the 27-mile long barrier island which is connected to the mainland via the I-45 and the San Luis Pass toll bridge.
Port of Galveston has two cruise terminals between Piers 23 and 28. Both terminals have 2000-foot berths to accommodate larger cruise ships to a depth of 30 feet. The terminals cover an area 220,000 sq.ft and include onsite cruise parking on open parking lots and in a parking garage. A third terminal is currently under construction, due for completion Fall 2022.
Also Check: Ncl Hawaii Cruise 2018
Port Of Galveston Location
Galveston Island sits as a barrier island just off of Texas, attached to the mainland by Interstate 45. If youre coming from the Houston area, youll approach over a short causeway that will bring you just a few miles from the port. Those coming from the east normally take the free ferry between Galveston and the Bolivar Peninsula.
The port itself sits on the northern side of the island, protected from the Gulf of Mexico. Its location makes it a convenient spot to set sail as it only takes 30-45 minutes for the ships to get out to the open water.
Whats not convenient is that the port sits at least 45 minutes from the nearest major airport . In other words, if you are flying in for your cruise, then you will need to figure out transportation to the ship
Given the location, many people choose to drive in for their cruise. If driving into the port, the address is:
2502 Harborside Dr.Galveston, TX 77550
Galveston Cruise Terminal 3
In December 2018, Royal Caribbean signed an agreement with Port of Galveston to build a third cruise terminal on Galveston Island. This will enable them to accommodate many more passengers and cruise ships, which will also bring the port more revenue.
Plans for the Galveston cruise terminal are for a new 200,000 sq. ft. complex on 10 acres of land at Pier 10. It is on the southern side of the port, just east of the existing terminals.
The new Terminal 3 is scheduled for completion in late 2022 after being delayed by Covid. It will accommodate the largest Oasis-class cruise ships which carry over 5,000 passengers. The new terminal is expected to double the number of cruises and passengers using Galveston cruise terminals each year.
Royal Caribbean will build the 161,300ft² terminal and then lease it from the port for the initial period of 20 years with four ten-year options. The port will also build and operate a new 1800 space parking lot, as well as bus and taxi areas.
The project has an estimated cost of $125 million and will provide a state-of-the-art cruise terminal in Galveston. It will be the home port for Royal Caribbeans Allure of the Seas, which will sail on 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries starting November 2022.
This expansion is anticipated to create 800 new jobs and will net the Port of Galveston $1.4 billion in local business revenue as well as contributing $5.6 million in state and local taxes.
Don’t Miss: How Much Do Cruises Typically Cost
Window On The Waterfront
The excellent Window on the Waterfront has a collection of attractions close to Galveston cruise port. It has many unusual maritime attractions and museums that may interest cruise visitors including:
The Elissa
The Elissa is a 141-foot long sailing ship built in 1877. It is now permanently docked at Pier 21 as a maritime museum attraction. Tour the decks and imagine life as a sailor 150 years ago.
Built by Henry Fowler-Watt, the Elissa was named after a Phoenician princess. After many years transporting cargo, she was brought to Galveston to be restored. This fully-functional antique vessel makes for a popular and interesting attraction.
Pier 21 Theater
If you want to escape the heat or chilly wind, there are several theaters and art galleries including Pier 21 Theater. It shows three movies about Galveston Island history. These include The Great Storm about the hurricane that hit Galveston in 1900.
Another movie tells the story of The Pirate Island of Jean Lafitte and finally, Galveston Gateway on the Gulf, a movie about the immigrants who arrived in Galveston to start a new life.
Texas Seaport Museum
Ocean Star Drilling Rig Museum
Few of us can visit a drilling rig, so the Ocean Star Drilling Rig Museum is a great opportunity to learn about offshore drilling and exploration, seismology and much more.
With so much going on around Galveston cruise port, you might want to seriously consider Galveston for your next cruise.