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Windward SeaVenture

Sailing & charter company in kemah texas.

Get away for the day on Galveston Bay with Windward SeaVenture! We are a sailboat charter company providing bareboat and captained sailing charters to the Houston, Clear Lake, Kemah and Galveston areas.  We are an ASA certified sailing school with top instructors in the industry that provide beginning through advanced sailing lessons.  We offer corporate team building & events, dinner cruises, special ceremonies, sailing abroad & much more!

Check out the links below to find out more information:

Asa sailing school, bareboat & captained charters, charter management, team building & corporate events, windward's wayward pub, windward sailing club, private dinner cruises, sail on air inflatables, windward racing team, sailventure charters, group practice sails, youth summer sailing camp, weddings with windward, windward apparel, upcoming events:, don't wait another year - learn to sail in 2024 check out our lessons calendar., new this sailing season is the opportunity to join in as crew on a multihull race team. we are joining in the hyc multihull rally. learn more here., looking for a caribbean sailing adventure check out our sister company- sailventure charters & their upcoming schedule for trips throughout the caribbean in 2024, windward's wayward pub, join us for a race watch party aboard the wayward pub for the wednesday night races on clear lake..

Available for Sunset Happy Hours, Race Watch Parties & More! Click here to learn more!

Who is windward seaventure.

SailVenture: Grenada & the Grenadines

Team Building with Windward

SailVenture: Guadeloupe & Dominica

SailVenture 2018: Guadeloupe & Dominica

Follow Windward SeaVenture on Instagram!

Windwardseaventure.

A sailboat charter company and sailing school in the Houston/Galveston/Kemah TX area! #sailboatcharters #sailinglessons #thingstodoinhouston #sailing

Questions? Call us: 281-467-2279

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As an island city on the Gulf Coast of Texas, Galveston is home to some of the best offshore sailing and fishing spots in the United States. Stewart Beach and East Beach are on Galveston's eastern end, giving locals and visitors alike the opportunity to experience their own Margaritaville without blowing out a flip flop.

It's no secret that Galveston has a lot of offer as an island city. Whether you're looking to go on your next fishing adventure in the Gulf or you're ready to relax and unwind on the water, Sailo offers an amazing choice for you to charter one of our boats for a memorable experience with family or friends. 

When you're ready to hit the water in Galveston by boat charter on Sailo, whether to take an afternoon bay and jetty trip or to relax on a party boat rental in Galveston , TX, here are some key spots for you to explore this amazing place.

Galveston Yacht Basin

Sightseeing Cruise - Pier 21

If you're looking to take in the sights while you're out on the water, Pier 21 is where to go. Pier 21 is the historic working harbor. While you're on a Galveston sailing trip along the area, you'll see cruise ships and hard-working shrimp boats. You might spot a dolphin, too, and other local marine wildlife, which are frequent visitors of Pier 21. When you're done soaking up the sun while you're out on the water, you can treat yourself to some of the great restaurants and museums the pier has to offer in this historic seaport.

Suggested Boats

Stealthy Flats Boat for Serious Flounder Fishing Galveston, TX

Sailing from the marina on jamaica beach.

Jamaica Beach is another one of Galveston's historic premier communities. Located on the West end of the island, Jamaica Beach offers sailors a gorgeous view of the canal and sunrise. The marina is best for casual sailors rather than those with a need for speed as the area has a speed limit of 10 mph out on the water. Jamaica Beach gets sailors some space away from the more-crowded Seawall, but still keeps you close to the island attractions when you're ready to tie up your boat for the day.

Cruise the Gulf of Mexico on this Beautiful Hunter 430 Seabrook, TX

A beautiful racer! Seabrook, TX

Come Sail on the European Yacht of the Year! Clear Shores, TX

Fishing in the gulf of mexico.

One of the best parts about Galveston is that it's right by the Gulf of Mexico. For sailors who love to fish, this is the prime spot to go boating for the day. Within just 30 miles offshore, Captain Shane will be your best fishing guide if you ‘re looking to catch a kingfish, tuna, snapper, and even shark. Just be sure to release the sharks you catch after you take your photo-op to keep the waters good, healthy and ready for your next Galveston sailing adventure.

Enjoy the Best Fishing in the Gulf Galveston, TX

Catch the Big Fish on this Comfortable Bertram Flybridge Galveston, TX

Head Offshore Fishing in Comfort on this Large Hatteras Galveston, TX

Galveston bay - family trip.

Galveston Bay is good for an old-fashioned cruise along the water. Unlike Trinity Bay where sailors need to be on the lookout for big cruise liners and harsher waves, this area offers calmer waters. Sandy bottom sites and local beaches along also make the area a great spot for a Galveston sailing trip for the family. If you're interested in fishing while you're out on the water, you can find yourself catching flounder, speckled trout, reddish, and more.

Enjoy a Day of Coastal Fishing on this Sportfisher Galveston, TX

Take this Beneteau for a spin! Seabrook, TX

Seawall boulevard - sailing cruise.

Galveston's seawall, built after the Great Storm of 1900, is 17 feet high and over 10 miles long. Not only is the Seawall Galveston's longest continuing sidewalk for runners, cyclists, and skaters but it's also the world's longest mural. Seawall Boulevard offers boaters the chance to sail along 32 miles of beaches that stretch from relaxing fishing piers to the more vibrant Port Arkansas.

Take this Moonlight out! Seabrook, TX

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THE BEST Galveston Island Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in galveston island.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Baywatch Dolphin Tour

2. Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide

3. Private Sailing Charter and Guided Tour

4. Burial at Sea Celebration of Life Charter

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

2-Hour Houston Pedal Party Barge with a Licensed Captain

Houston Sunset Skyline Kayaking Tour

Private Sailing Experience on Galveston Bay

2-Hour Houston Skyline Tour

What travelers are saying.

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Boating in Galveston

Enjoy all the boating Galveston, TX has to offer.

From dolphin tours and harbor tours to sunset cruises and fishing, there's something for everyone. Rent a boat or launch your own in Galveston.

pictured: Finney Boat & Watersport Rentals

Boat Launches

Have your own boat and need a place to launch? Here’s our pick of the local favorites.

Regatta Basin Public Boat Ramp

If you’re looking to explore the canals, Jamaica Beach, or even further into West Bay, this could be your ideal boat launch. It features a single, stabilized, paved boat ramp, limited parking, and a seating area.

Lee & Joe Jamail Bay Park

This nicely refurbished, family-friendly park provides a range of facilities including free boat launch, electrical outlets, covered picnic tables, barbecues, and free truck and trailer parking. It is open 24/7.

San Luis Pass Boat Ramp

This boat ramp is situated in the county park with the same name, just west of the Brazoria-Galveston County toll bridge. Facilities include a pavilion, restrooms, playground, fish cleaning stations, and paved parking.

Jones Bay Boat Ramp

Located around 17 miles north of Wilbur, this quiet public boat launch provides a paved ramp, docks, parking area, toilets, and an information kiosk.

Galveston Yacht Basin

Want to be smack dab in the hub of the city? Need more facilities? Head to Galveston Yacht Basin . You’ll find everything you need to get on the water, plus yacht and boat storage, wet and dry stack options, boat rental and repair, a restaurant, bar, grill, pool, and clubhouse. *Note: Marine liability insurance is required to use the Galveston Yacht Basin facilities.

If you’d prefer to let someone else do the work so you can sit back and enjoy the sights, sign up for one of the popular island boating tours. You can get up close and personal with the wildlife, discover more about the local history, or enjoy a romantic sunset cruise.

Fun, informative and affordable, Baywatch Dolphin Tours allow you to experience the joy of dolphins for yourself. Tours leave every hour.

Galveston Duck Tour

Embark on a land and water sightseeing adventure and tour 15 miles of Galveston Island. Discover some of the most famous Galveston landmarks and have plenty of laughs along the way by taking an unforgettable Galveston Duck Tour .

Historic Harbor Tour and Dolphin Watch

Hop aboard the comfortable Seagull II to learn about the city’s past and perhaps see a few dolphins along the way. Drinks, including bottled water, are available on deck.

Boat Rentals

Even if you don’t own a boat, you can tour the city waters in style by renting one . There are numerous options for couples, families and small groups and prices are reasonable.

Galveston Island Boat Rentals

With a huge range of boats to choose from including pontoon boats, deck harbor boats, center console V-hull fishing boats, and Jon boats, Galveston Island Boat Rentals are ideal for sunrise to sunset adventures. Find them at the Galveston RV Resort and Marina .

Finney Boat and Watersport Rentals

Keep it simple and have fun by hiring a Hurricane Sundeck, Hurricane FunDeck, Fish Master Center Console, or kayak from Finney Boat and Watersport Rentals . Previous boating experience is required.

Tidewater Boat Rentals

Offering space for up to 11 passengers and with Bimini tops for ½ shade, the pontoon boats available from Tidewater Boat Rentals are perfect for families and groups in the mood for some on-the-water adventure and exploration.

Pier 21 galveston, Texas 77550

Pier 19, Slip 8W Galveston, Texas 77550

715 N Holiday Dr. Galveston, Texas 77550

715 N. Holiday Dr Galveston, Texas 77550

19 Pier 21 Galveston, Texas 77550

6310 Heards Lane Galveston, Texas 77550

715 N. Holiday Dr, Slip A-31 Galveston, Texas 77550

2100 Harborside Drive Galveston, TX Galveston, Texas 77550

14302 Stewart Rd. Galveston, Texas 77554

7819 Broadway St. Galveston, Texas 77550

715 Holiday Dr Galveston, Texas 77550

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Rent the best Galveston luxury yacht charters of 2024

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Top Galveston luxury yacht charters

Seabrook, TX

Be one with Tranquility

Don't Just Dream It, Sail It: Embrace the Adventure on Galveston Bay!

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 44 Deck Salon

How to rent a luxury yacht charters in galveston, find the perfect boat.

Enter your desired location and date to explore our fleet of luxury yacht charterss.

Select a captain

Choose to drive yourself or select a USCG licensed captain.

Book with ease

Connect with your boat owner and complete your booking online.

Enjoy your day on the water with friends and family!

Why Boatsetter?

As the global leader in peer-to-peer boat rentals, Boatsetter offers an easy, safe and accessible way to experience on-the-water adventure. With boat rentals in 600+ locations, finding a boat is easy and with the option to tap into the largest network of USCG licensed captains, boating experience is not required.

Get out on the water worry-free, knowing our insurance covers every boating trip

Choosing the right boat rental platform is essential to your peace of mind while on the water. That's why we've gone the extra mile to focus on safety through our exclusive partnership with GEICO Marine and BoatUS. As the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer rental, you are protected during all rentals with insurance coverage and on-water assistance through TowBoatUS.

Got questions?

Frequently asked questions

What makes Boatsetter different from other boat rental platforms?

What makes Boatsetter different is peace of mind. Boatsetter is the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer boat rental. We know choosing the right boat rental platform is essential to your experience while on the water. That's why we've gone the extra mile to focus on safety through our exclusive partnership with GEICO Marine and BoatUS. As the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer rental, you are protected during all rentals with insurance coverage and on-water assistance through TowBoatUS.

How to rent a boat on Boatsetter?

At Boatsetter, our mission is to make getting out on the water as easy as possible. With our intuitive booking system, you can rent a boat as soon as today. -First, you must determine your budget and the type of boat you want to rent. -Next, decide where you would like to boat and the kind of boat you would like to spend the day on. -Finally, determine if you will be needing a boat captain and reach out to the boat owner. That’s it! You’re officially on your way to a fantastic day out on the water.

How much does it cost to rent a boat?

The cost to rent a boat depends on whether you are renting for a half-day or a full day, the boat features and the boat size can impact your boat rental price. Rental prices can range from $200 to $1,000 plus depending on the boat rental itself and the length of time of the rental.

How many people can fit on the boat rental?

The number of people who can fit on boat rental largely depends on the boat’s size and how many life jackets are on board. Currently the coast guard allows a maximum of 10-12 people on a Boatsetter boat rental.

How much does it cost to rent a yacht?

The cost of renting a yacht depends on the boat’s size and the amount of time you’ll use the yacht. The onboard amenities and luxurious accommodations also dictate the price. You can contact our yacht specialists for a custom quote by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

How old do you have to be to rent a boat?

You must be 18 years old to rent a captained boat and 25 years old if you would like to rent a bareboat charter.

Do I need a boating license to rent a boat?

Boating license requirements vary from state to state. As a renter, you are responsible for understanding local state requirements.

Can you rent a yacht for the day?

Boatsetter allows you to rent a yacht for the day. Single-day yacht rentals are available for a select number of yachts. To chat with a yacht specialist please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

Can you rent a yacht for the week?

Boatsetter allows its customers to rent a yacht for the week. Renting a yacht for a week gives you more access to the wide range of yachts available on our platform. You can either book a rental directly through the site or connect with one of our charter specialists to plan your trip here: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

Can you rent a yacht for the month?

Booking a month-long yacht rental is a detailed and hands-off process when working with our team of yacht charter specialists. We tailor each yacht charter to our client's specific wants and needs. Our luxury yacht charter specialists can be reached at (954) 715-4114 or by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

How to rent a private yacht?

Renting a private yacht is a very detailed experience that caters to your exact needs while onboard one of our luxury yachts. To plan your private yacht rentals experience please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

How much does it cost to rent a pontoon boat?

The cost of renting a pontoon boat depends on the size, location, and rental time of the boat. Prices can range anywhere from $200 for a half-day rental or just under a $1,000 for longer rentals.

How much does it cost to charter a yacht?

The cost to charter a yacht varies depending on the boat size and the length of the charter. Prices typically range from less than $1,000 to $5,000 plus if you’re wanting to charter the yacht overnight.

How much does it cost to rent a boat for the day?

The cost of renting a boat for the day on average ranges from $200 to $1200. The cost to rent a boat varies depending on the size of the boat and the length of time that you will be using the boat.

How does the boat insurance work?

Boat insurance typically covers loss caused by things such as fire, sinking, storms, and collisions. The extent of the coverage varies depending on the policy.

Do I need my own insurance to rent a boat?

You do not need boat insurance when renting with Boatsetter. Coverage is provided under the Peer-to-Peer Boat Rental Policy, which is underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. The policy was written from the ground up as a stand-alone recreational boat rental insurance policy covering the period of time that the boat is being rented and is available for all non-commercially insured boats.

Does Boatsetter screen renters?

Yes. We use a system called Cognito to ensure that payment information matches the renter's identity. We also require renters taking out a captained boat to be at least 18 years old and on a bareboat to be at least 25 years old.

Is listing my boat on Boatsetter free?

Yes! Listing a boat is completely free. We only take a commission when your boat is rented. We only make money when you do!

What if I'm not comfortable having a renter drive my boat?

If you are not comfortable having a renter drive your boat, we have an expansive network of licensed and experienced captains. Once your boat is listed, you can filter through our network of captains and favorite captains in your area that you would like to operate your boat.

Top destinations for luxury yacht charters

Top luxury yacht charters reviews in Galveston, TX

Don't Just Dream...

Awesome Experience. Will be booking another trip in the near future. If you want to learn a little about...

Jeanneau Sun...

This is a beautiful boat. Whether your 1st or 101st, U couldn’t ask for a better boat to charter a sail. Both Roberts...

This was an amazing day! We were celebrating my son's 30th birthday and wanted to make it special. This trip was the...

Both Roberts were fantastic. It was a fun ride. I would recommend them to anyone and would do it again myself.

Had a great experience with Captain Robert! His team was informative and fun and made sure our entire party was...

Another good day on the water. While the wind was not as cooperative as it could have been, a good time was had by...

This rental was for a video and Robert was beyond amazing. The whole experience was amazing and definitely exceeded...

This was my first time sailing. Robert and Robert where the best. They have a great boat and are great fun to go...

Luxury Yacht Charters in Galveston, TX

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2024 ELISSA Day Sails

J oin us for a one of a kind outdoor adventure aboard the 1877 Iron Barque ELISSA ! 2024 sees the Official Tall Ship of Texas return to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico for her annual day sail series. As one of the oldest, and longest continuously sailed vessels in the world, the annual day sails keep her where she works best, with her sails down, sailing in the Gulf waters. 2024 dates are April 5 through 19.

ELISSA DAY SAILS!

GHF is able to offer a limited number of ELISSA day sail spots on board as a sail training student. As a sail training student, participants will experience what life was like as a 19th-century sailor. The program includes both hands-on and lecture learning, focusing on setting sails and maneuvering the 146-year-old ship through the Gulf of Mexico. Come with us on this journey through the past and experience your own piece of history. Reservations are $300 per person. Please read below for requirements and more information.

Sail Trainees must be:

• Ages 10 and older. Children ages 10-17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Ambulatory without aids and comfortable with outdoor exposure for up to 6 hours. Trainees with disabilities must advise prior to the sailing date.

What is included:

• 6-hour sail aboard the 1877 Iron Barque ELISSA
• A course of instruction on how to sail a square-rigged ship
• Water and soda

Please Note:

• Due to the historic nature of the ship, ELISSA is non-ADA accessible.
• Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. All trainees must sign a waiver of release in order to sail.
• Smoking, vaping, and alcoholic beverages are not allowed on board ELISSA.
• Should weather force cancellation of that day’s sail, we will try to honor your reservation on another day as space permits.
• If the sail dates are canceled, GHF will hold your ticket and reschedule your RSVP on the next approved sail date.

DEPARTURE AND RETURN SCHEDULE: The time schedule for check-in and sailing is very important! You should arrive at Galveston Historic Seaport, Pier 22, by 9:00 a.m. (8 a.m. for the 4/19 sail) to check in and sign a release. We will board the ELISSA and leave the dock promptly at 10:00 a.m. (9 a.m. for the 4/19 sail), then proceed down the Galveston Channel. Soft drinks and bottled water will be available at all times. A light lunch will be provided. The ship will return to the Galveston Historic Seaport pier at approximately 4:00 p.m. (3:00 p.m. for the 4/19 sail)

ATTIRE: Dress comfortably for the weather of the day, with clothing that can be added or taken off as needed. If there is the remotest possibility of rain, bring an appropriate rain jacket (no umbrellas, please as many sailors consider them bad luck, and they can be dangerous even in moderate seas). Wear flat, rubber-soled, closed-toed shoes. Hats and sunscreen are always a good idea. So is a refillable water bottle. If you are concerned about motion sickness, check with your physician or pharmacist about medication and test the effects prior to the day of sail. You must bring your own medication, as we cannot dispense it.

CELL PHONES AND PAGES: Since a ringing cell phone or beeper sounds very similar to some of our electronic alarms, please help us avoid confusion by placing these devices in the “vibrate” mode.

PARKING: The closest parking is in the lot off Harborside Drive; enter at 21st Street. Additional parking lots are available in the lot behind Starbucks at 22nd and Harborside, and the parking garage at 21st and Market. GHF doesn’t operate these lots, and they are paid parking. Please allow ample time for parking. ELISSA cannot wait for late attendees.

If the above information does not answer all your questions, please call or email Valerie Smith at 409-765-3432 or email at [email protected] .

ABOUT THE 1877 TALL SHIP ELISSA

Galveston Historical Foundation brought ELISSA, an 1877 square-rigged iron barque, from a scrap yard in Piraeus Harbor, Greece, to Galveston to begin restoration work in 1978. By 1982, GHF staff and volunteers completed restoration and transformed this rare, historic vessel into a floating museum that would actively sail. Today, ELISSA is one of only three ships of her kind in the world to still actively sail and welcomes over 40,000 visitors annually. She also serves as the Official Tall Ship of Texas, a National Historic Landmark, and a symbol of the Gulf Coast’s historic beginnings as a sea port and active waterfront.

ABOUT GALVESTON HISTORICAL FOUNDATION

GHF was formed as the Galveston Historical Society in 1871 and merged with a new organization formed in 1954 as a non-profit entity devoted to historic preservation and history in Galveston County. Over the last sixty years, GHF has expanded its mission to encompass community redevelopment, historic preservation advocacy, maritime preservation, coastal resiliency, and stewardship of historic properties. GHF embraces a broader vision of history and architecture that encompasses advancements in environmental and natural sciences and their intersection with historic buildings and coastal life and conceives of history as an engaging story of individual lives and experiences on Galveston Island from the 19th century to the present day.

What’s the price to sail ⛵️

8 am – 3 pm sail on April 19 at $300 each or is there a different cost for non adults? Also is the 19th the only sail date?

Hi LynnEtta, the price is a per-person ticket however we are sold out for the 2024 series. We will announce 2025 dates later this year.

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WELCOME TO GALVESTON’S

BAYWATCH DOLPHIN TOURS

Call 832-859-4557

Baywatch Dolphin Tours

Winner of galveston.com’s, 2023 best of the island awards – galveston, tx.

Our Dolphin tours take you three miles though Galveston Harbor. The narrated tours give historical facts of the harbor and interesting facts about our Common & local Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.

The tours depart every 30 minutes and check in is 30 minutes prior to departure time.

We are unable to offer refunds or exchanges without a 24-hour advanced notice.

NewsetGET TO KNOW US BETTER

Baywatch Dolphin Tours has been operating out of Galveston Harbor for over a decade. Our goal is to offer affordable fun for all ages on our 45-minute Dolphin watching excursion.

We’re located at Pier 21 in front of Harbor House Hotel. Just two blocks from the historic Strand District in downtown Galveston.

We have four vessels in our fleet that were built with Dolphin Tours, Burials at Sea, and private events in mind. We are now offering enclosed and heated tours, with a 360° view for the ideal dolphin watching experience.

We also offer “Galveston Party Boats” for your special occasion!

Our Newest Boat Addition

Our Address

2100 Harborside Drive

832-859-4557

Business Hours:

Open 7 days a week

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Seasonal and weather permitting

Sunset Tours on sceduled date

The boat leaves every half hour so be there 30 minutes early to guarantee your choice of seating

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 Copyright © 2022 – 2023 Baywatch Dolphin Tours CAC Entertainment Group, Inc.

All rights reserved. unless noted otherwise.

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11 Reason To Sail on Cruises From Galveston

I n no uncertain terms, a cruise port makes all the difference regarding your entire vacation. After all, the location of your departure sets the tone for your trip moving forward, determining which destinations you’ll reach once you’re on the high seas.

While specific destinations like Miami or Canaveral boast unique strengths, something might also be said for the Port of Galveston, Texas. A smaller port overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston may not be the largest or busiest destination from which to depart. Yet, there are plenty of amicable reasons to look into this idyllic Texan island for your next cruise-going experience.

1. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Offer Cruises From Galveston

Looking at it plainly, Galveston has three cruise terminals making up its port. In contrast, far larger alternatives, like the Port of Miami, have eleven terminals. Because of this, Galveston unfortunately cannot house many of the industry’s prestigious cruise lines. However, the port’s terminals support several large-scale cruise corporations, with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian, MSC, and Disney Cruises departing from Galveston regularly.

2. The Nearby Cruise Destinations Are Well Worth It

Admittedly, inevitable drawbacks are attached to cruises from Galveston. Considering how much farther west it is than ports in Florida or along the East Coast, most cruise lines out of Galveston cannot travel to their company’s private islands as many are in the Eastern Caribbean. However, Galveston’s location along the Gulf of Mexico has its distinct perks, including ready access to the Western Caribbean and parts of South and Central America. Though some guests might regret losing a chance at CocoCay, it’s hard to be upset when trekking along the shores of Mexico, Honduras, or Belize.

3. It’s Easier To Navigate Than Larger Ports

There’s no simple answer when it comes to determining the total cost of cruises from Galveston over any other port in the U.S. Like most ports, the final cost of the cruise depends on numerous factors, including the time of year you’re sailing, the location of your cabin, and the cruise line you plan on traveling with. However, the convenience of navigating the port itself makes Galveston a perfect option for anyone new to cruise vacations. Avoiding the large-scale crowds and tedious boarding lines as other major ports, Galveston remains a hassle-free destination for most novice travelers out there.

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4. galveston is conveniently located in the central u.s..

Given Galveston’s distinct location in eastern Texas , it’s one of the most readily accessible ports for travelers across the U.S. Located in the heart of America, travelers from the Western U.S. will have just as easy time reaching it as vacationers from the Midwest or East Coast. After all, who wants to sit on a lengthy plane ride to reach their port of call? Also, Galveston lacks the same high value of traffic as Miami or other popular ports, making it relatively hassle-free to reach.

5. The Port Terminal Is Reasonably Close to the Airport

Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport is the closest airport to Galveston. Roughly 41 miles northwest of the port, travelers can easily navigate from the airport to their cruise terminal in under an hour. Galveston is also close to several major cities, making it an option, albeit a farther one, for anyone flying into Austin or Dallas. However, given Houston’s short driving distance to Galveston, William P. Hobby Airport is your best bet for air travel.

6. The Boarding Process Is Quick and Seamless

As mentioned above, Galveston doesn’t have the same volume of passengers flooding through its port as Miami, Canaveral, or Port Everglades. As a result, boarding a ship is comparatively tamer—especially since the port opened up its third and latest terminal in 2022. Having been constructed in the past two decades and carefully refurbished, these terminals are in fantastic shape, making the onboarding process much more efficient for vacationers. The terminals also come equipped with innovative new features, with Terminal 3 offering mobile check-in and state-of-the-art facial recognition devices.

7. There Are Plenty of Hotels Nearby

Another notable feature of Galveston is the number of hotels near the port. (Because let’s face it: what’s more accessible than simply waking up, hopping in your car, and practically walking onto the ship without worrying about losing track of time?) What’s more, many of the hotels in the Galveston area have special offers for anyone traveling onboard a cruise ship. These offers include free or discounted parking rates and a helpful shuttle that ferry passengers back and forth from the hotel to the ship. While several hotels in Galveston have these amenities, some of the best include the Hilton Galveston Island Resort and the San Luis Resort .

8. Parking Is Easy

Don’t let Galveston’s size fool you—the port itself has plenty of options when it comes to parking. As previously suggested, anyone staying at a nearby hotel might want to consider leaving their car parked there and taking a shuttle, taxi, or Uber over to their terminal. Additionally, travelers can reserve a space in the port’s parking lot ahead of their trip. These parking spaces are safe and secure, and port employees will assist with any luggage brought aboard on cruises from Galveston.

9. Galveston Itself Is a Beautiful Place To Visit

The main reason we believe you should depart from Galveston on your next cruise is the opportunity you’ll have to see what it has to offer. Like most major cities, there’s plenty to do and see around town, with every prospective sight catering to travelers’ interests. For those interested in shopping, the Strand Historical District has plenty of independently owned stores that feature everything from odd tchotchkes to essential beach items. Galveston’s famous Moody Gardens is an educational park built around natural wonders such as exotic sea life, immaculate flowers, roaming monkeys, and sloths.

10. You’re Bound To Find Some Great Last-Minute Deals

As previously mentioned, Galveston is a more scaled-down port than Miami or Port Canaveral, but its three terminals still receive cruise ships constantly. Because of this constantly moving schedule, most travelers will find it incredibly easy to find last-minute deals on select cruises from Galveston—often days before the ship is booked to leave. Sure, it may not be practical for those traveling from longer distances to book something last-minute. Yet these last-minute deals are well worth it for anyone within a short distance of Galveston.

11. Galveston Is Steeped in Rich Maritime History

Galveston is a city rich in history, having first been settled by Indigenous Natives of the Akokisa and Karankawa tribes before the Europeans arrived in the 1600s. Over the next several centuries, Galveston became a hub for maritime trade, eventually attracting such notable figures as French buccaneer Jean Lafitte. All that being said, history buffs will delight at the chance to visit Galveston, taking in some of the numerous historical sights around town—like Lafitte’s personal hideaway at Maison Rouge or the Michael B. Menard House, named after one of Galveston’s original American settlers. Even those who don’t care for history will find these areas fascinating.

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Jet Boat Thrill ride

Suntime jetboat thrill ride.

Jet Boat Ride FAQs

Hours vary seasonally. Click here to check availability.   

The minimum age is 4 years old. Women who are expecting should not ride. People with a history of neck and/or back injuries should not ride. The jet boat is not handicapped accessible but we are able to make exceptions on a case by case bases. Any guests under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to participate. Passengers will be required to sign a waiver.

11 passengers

Wear comfortable clothing that you wouldn’t mind getting wet. If you have somewhere else to go afterwards, we’d suggest bringing a change of clothes. Depending on the weather conditions, and where you sit, chances are that you’ll get a little spray. Don’t wear your Sunday’s best. You will be required to remove shoes at the dock before boarding the jet boat barefooted.

BYOB is not allowed on the jet boat tours. Any guests under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to participate.

• Sunset Cruises

DOLPHIN TOURS

Private charters, we're hiring, email [email protected] for more info.

• 409-276-6116
• Dolphin Tours
• Jet Boat Rides
• Private Events