cruises to bahamas leaving from galveston tx

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Bahamas Cruises from Galveston, Texas

Want to see the Bahamas but don’t want to travel all the way to Florida? Cruises departing from Galveston, Texas get you there and back in seven days’ time.

For years, Carnival Cruises maintained this route, taking travelers along the Gulf Coast to Key West, before departing for the Bahamas. More recently, Disney Cruises starting offering similar seven-day trips that include a stop to their own private island, Castaway Cay.

Cruise Lines

As of 2016, two companies offer Bahamas cruises from Galveston: • Carnival Cruise Lines • Disney Cruises

Both offer multiple stops in the Bahamas and spend time in Key West.

You’ll have a choice of two basic itineraries: Galveston to Key West and then to the Bahamas, or Galveston directly to the Bahamas with a stop going back in Key West. Generally, you spend three days on the water and one day in each port.

Freeport: Located on Grand Bahama Island, Freeport is best known for its soft white sands and many outdoor activities. Those seeking nightlife in the country’s northernmost city head toward the hotels, restaurants, and casinos, but Freeport’s equally known for its natural destinations. If this describes you, make sure to include an excursion to Lucayan National Park or to the beach, where you’ll get to swim with the dolphins, kayak, or snorkel.

Nassau: Nassau’s the Bahamas’ most busiest port. For one, this capital city, characterized by pastel-colored buildings, is the country’s population center and home to multiple resorts, casinos, and duty-free shopping areas. But while the city sits on New Providence Island, it’s not far from Paradise Island, so you’ll have an opportunity to explore the country’s outdoor attractions – Predator Lagoon and Blackbeard’s Cay, for starters – and take in its pastiche of European, Caribbean, and African cultural influences.

When you want to take a cruise starting closer to home, schedule your next trip to the Bahamas from Galveston. To find the right itinerary and start planning your vacation, browse Direct Line Cruises today.

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Best Bahamas Cruise From Galveston

Find the Best Bahamas Cruise From Galveston with our cruise search. Save even more when you activate free price alerts and use our price prediction on your Bahamas cruise departing from Galveston.

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16 Night Transatlantic

Galveston; Nassau, Bahamas; Cadiz & Seville; Malaga; Cartagena, Spain; Valencia, Spain; Barcelona

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8 Night Caribbean

Galveston; Key West, Florida; Freeport, Bahamas; Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (Private Island); N... Galveston

8 Night Caribbean Western

Galveston; Cozumel, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Galveston

9 Night Caribbean

Galveston; Key West, Florida; Freeport, Bahamas; Nassau, Bahamas; Bimini, Bahamas; Galveston

GALVESTONCRUISES.COM: Nassau, Bahamas : Port of Call

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Cruises from Galveston

An island full of art, architecture, and boutiques.

Princess® returns to Galveston, sailing once again from this city tucked within a quaint Gulf Coast barrier island. Explore the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and grab some local cuisine, or visit Moody Gardens with attractions and entertainment ranging from a world-class aquarium and a living rainforest to the Discovery Museum and Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, before you embark on a cruise to exciting destinations in the Western Caribbean and Mexico such as Costa Maya, Cozumel and Roatan.

Caribbean cruises

On a cruise from Galveston to the Western Caribbean, explore the beauty of unspoiled coral reefs and underwater caves as well as visit the ancient Mayan ruins throughout the region. One moment you can be walking among the vast ruins of this mighty civilization and the next delving into the culture of the Yucatán Peninsula or simply unwinding on beaches that offer some of the best snorkeling in the world.

What to Know About Cruises from Galveston

Known for its history, beaches and outdoor adventures, Galveston is truly a gem in Texas. Here’s everything you need to know about your cruise from Galveston. 

Galveston at a glance

• Language:  English
• Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Time Zone:  Central Time (CT)
• Docking:  Your cruise from Galveston docks at the Port of Galveston located in the city’s historic downtown district.
• Attire:  Galveston’s temperatures throughout the year typically range from 48 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning it’s never too hot or too cold to spend the day at the beach.
• Transportation:  You can get around the island by Uber, Lyft, shuttle, limousine, or rental car. There are also unique transportation options such as surreys along the beachfront and horse-drawn carriages in the historic downtown district.

Things to do in Galveston

Before getting on a cruise from Galveston, start your vacation with a visit to the city’s museums, historic neighborhoods, and cultural icons. Take a walk along the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, home to family-friendly rides, games, and other attractions. Then relax on one of Galveston’s many iconic beaches and enjoy the 32-miles of coastline. Whether you are traveling with family, a group of friends or your significant other, this laid-back island has something for everyone.

Cruise Ship Sailing from Galveston

Join our Princess fleet to sail on some of the best cruises from Galveston. Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board any of our ships. Discover what makes our fleet so unique.

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Galveston, TX

• Carnival Breeze
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* Coming Soon

Set sail from a historic jewel in the Gulf of Mexico on Carnival cruises out of Galveston, Texas. Perched on the Gulf Coast, Galveston was a major commercial port in the late 1800s and has the restored architecture and proud history to show for it. Galveston’s long seawall stretches from beach to beach and offers gulf views the whole way. Sprinkle in a few museums, amusement parks, attractive beaches and tasty seafood restaurants, and you’ve got a great start to your cruise from Galveston.

• Shop for antiques in the historic Strand District, near where Carnival cruises from Galveston dock.
• Hear the sounds of a Central American rainforest at the gardens.
• Treat yourself to spa day at a historical hotel.
• Bike the length of the mural-adorned Seawall.

See it all from Galveston.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

Cruises from Galveston to the Bahamas

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $157 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $171 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $181 pp not included.

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Limited-Time Cruises from Texas

Chart a course from galveston, texas to the western caribbean, tropical sailings, 4- and 5-night western caribbean cruises.

Hit the waves with some watersports, explore ancient ruins or sample tasty local delicacies when you drop anchor in the sunny port of either Cozumel or Progreso—or both, depending on your itinerary.

6-Night Western Caribbean Cruises

Set your sights on an endless array of delightful onboard offerings while sailing to such sun-drenched locales as Cozumel and Grand Cayman—where white-sand beaches, balmy weather and adventurous activities await.

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES AWAIT

What’s included in the price of a disney cruise.

From the moment you step on board to your last wave goodbye, your vacation includes almost everything you and your family could hope for—and so much more.

Magic On Deck

Home to the high-speed AquaDunk waterslide, the Disney Magic is awash with dining, entertainment and recreation—including Rapunzel’s Royal Table restaurant and Tangled: The Musical .

Very Merrytime Cruises

Share in a holly-jolly fusion of holiday-themed décor and entertainment—including a towering Christmas tree, Santa Claus sightings and a festive celebration with Disney Characters in holiday attire.

MAGIC FOR EVERY MEMBER OF YOUR CREW

Fun for the entire family.

Delight in unique, family-friendly activities throughout the ship. View More

Just for Kids

Imaginatively themed youth clubs await children of all ages. View More

Just for Adults

Adults enjoy the best of both worlds—time with the kids and time alone. View More

• Extravagant, Broadway-quality live shows and entertainment throughout your cruise
• Unique deck parties starring some of your favorite Characters—including an unforgettable spectacular with fireworks at sea on most itineraries
• First-run movies and Disney classics in state-of-the-art theater venues or family favorites under the stars
• Themed pool areas that include a kids pool, a family pool, a splash zone and a waterslide
• Staterooms tailored especially for families, which include deluxe rooms with expanded space, convenient split bathrooms and premium amenities
• Kids can learn and play in children’s activity spaces fueled by Disney storytelling—including MARVEL’s Avengers Academy
• Tweens ages 11 through 14 are invited to spend time in a youth club all their own—featuring videogames, music, movies, arts and crafts, karaoke and scavenger hunts
• Teens can relax in a fun, parents-free venue with activities like karaoke, video game challenges, trivia showdowns, dance parties and tons more—under the supervision of helpful counselors
• Adult-exclusive dining at Palo , serving classic Northern Italian cooking in an elegant setting
• A tranquil pool and whirlpool spa overflowing with sweeping views and ocean breezes
• Themed nightclubs and lounges, home to exciting live music and dance parties
• A luxurious spa, featuring rejuvenating and beautifying treatments with sweeping sea views
• A fitness center sporting exercise classes, weight machines and cardiovascular equipment

Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Galveston luggage storage post-cruise - Houston Forum

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Cruises from Galveston, Texas: Gateway to Caribbean Adventures

Discover the best times to cruise from Galveston in 2024 with our month-by-month weather guide. Plan your ideal Western Caribbean voyage with ease.

Category: Cruises from Galveston, Texas

A Portal to Diverse Cruising Adventures

Discover the Western Caribbean and Beyond from Galveston

As one of the oldest ports on the Gulf Coast, Galveston stands out with its rich history and convenient location. The city, situated on the picturesque Galveston Island , serves as the lone homeport in Texas for major cruise lines, making it a central point for embarkation on your next sea adventure. Home to some of the most well-known cruise lines, the Port of Galveston offers a range of choices for travelers. Embark on a cruise with industry giants like Carnival Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean , Disney Cruise Line , Princess Cruises , and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) , each offering their unique take on the cruising experience.

Galveston’s Cruising Evolution

Explore Exotic Ports of Call

Vibrant destinations awaiting discovery.

Galveston Cruise Weather Guide

A Year-Round Guide to Western Caribbean Weather

Discover a Range of Cruise Options

Explore various cruise lengths tailored to your preferences. From brief getaways to extended adventures, our cruise options cater to diverse tastes. Delve into short and sweet mini cruises or opt for immersive voyages that uncover the heart of the Caribbean. Each length promises a unique blend of relaxation, excitement, and cultural exploration. Find the perfect cruise for your ideal getaway.

Short and Sweet: 4-Day and 5-Day Mini Cruises

For those looking for a quick getaway, the 4-day and 5-day short cruises offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. These mini cruises are ideal for a short but sweet escape, offering a taste of the vibrant life and culture of the Western Caribbean.

Immerse Deeper: 6-Day, 7-Day, and 8-Day Voyages

For a more comprehensive experience, the 6-day , 7-day , and 8-day cruises provide an opportunity to deeply explore the wonders of the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas. These longer voyages allow ample time to enjoy diverse cultures, stunning natural landscapes, and a wide range of onboard activities.

Extended Exploration: 9-Day to 16-Day Cruises

Embark on an extended adventure with 9-day , 10-day , 11-day, 12-day, 13-day, 14-day, 15-day, and 16-day cruises out of Galveston, perfect for those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the Caribbean’s allure. These longer itineraries expand your horizons to include the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, as well as the captivating Panama Canal.

Upcoming Departures from Galveston

Uncover the upcoming departures from Galveston, the gateway to your Caribbean adventure. Browse through our cruise schedule to plan your journey and embark on a seamless and unforgettable experience. Check specific sailing dates, explore intriguing itineraries, and get ready to set sail from the charming port of Galveston.

Royal Caribbean, Mini cruise to Mexico from Galveston, April 28, 2025

5-day mini cruise to Costa Maya and Cozumel on board Mariner of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 28, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Mariner of the Seas; Ports of Call: Galveston,[…]

Carnival Dream, Mexico & Belize from Galveston, April 27, 2025

6-day mini cruise Belize, Costa Maya & Cozumel with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 27, 2025; Duration: 6-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Dream; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Belize, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Carnival Jubilee, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, April 26, 2025

7-day cruise to Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya and Cozumel with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 26, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Jubilee; Ports of Call: Galveston, Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya,[…]

Carnival Breeze, Mini cruise to Progreso and Cozumel from Galveston, April 26, 2025

5-day Western caribbean cruise to Mexico with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 26, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Breeze; Ports of Call: Galveston, Cozumel, Yucatan (Progreso), Galveston; Enjoy magnificent scenery[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel, Mexico from Galveston, April 24, 2025

4-day Western Caribbean mini cruise on board Mariner of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 24, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Mariner of the Seas; Ports of Call: Galveston, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Carnival Breeze, Mexico Mini Cruise from Galveston, April 21, 2025

5-day Western Caribbean cruise to Cozumel & Costa Maya with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 21, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Breeze; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Royal Caribbean, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, April 20, 2025

7-day cruise to Roatan, Costa Maya and Cozumel on board Harmony of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 20, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Harmony of the Seas; Ports of Call: Galveston, Roatan,[…]

Carnival Jubilee, Mexico & Honduras from Galveston, April 19, 2025

7-day cruise to Cozumel, Costa Maya and Mahogany Bay with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 19, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Jubilee; Ports of Call: Galveston, Cozumel, Costa Maya, Mahogany[…]

Carnival Dream, The Bahamas & Key West from Galveston, April 19, 2025

8-day Eastern Caribbean cruise to Freeport, Half Moon Cay, Nassau & Key West with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 19, 2025; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Dream; Ports of Call: Galveston,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Mini cruise to Mexico from Galveston, April 19, 2025

5-day mini cruise to Costa Maya and Cozumel on board Mariner of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 19, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Mariner of the Seas; Ports of Call: Galveston,[…]

Royal Caribbean, Mini cruise to Mexico from Galveston, April 14, 2025

5-day mini cruise to Costa Maya and Cozumel on board Mariner of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 14, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Mariner of the Seas; Ports of Call: Galveston,[…]

Carnival Dream, Mexico & Honduras from Galveston, April 13, 2025

6-day mini cruise to Cozumel, Costa Maya & Mahogany Bay with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 13, 2025; Duration: 6-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Dream; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Mahogany[…]

Royal Caribbean, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, April 13, 2025

7-day cruise to Roatan, Costa Maya and Cozumel on board Harmony of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 13, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Harmony of the Seas; Ports of Call: Galveston, Roatan,[…]

Carnival Jubilee, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, April 12, 2025

7-day cruise to Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya and Cozumel with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 12, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Jubilee; Ports of Call: Galveston, Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya,[…]

Carnival Breeze, Mexico Mini Cruise from Galveston, April 12, 2025

5-day Western Caribbean cruise to Cozumel & Costa Maya with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 12, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Breeze; Ports of Call: Galveston, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Galveston;[…]

Royal Caribbean, Cozumel, Mexico from Galveston, April 10, 2025

4-day Western Caribbean mini cruise on board Mariner of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 10, 2025; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Mariner of the Seas; Ports of Call: Galveston, Cozumel, Galveston; Enjoy[…]

Royal Caribbean, Grand Cayman, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, April 7, 2025

10-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Costa Maya, Roatan and George Town on board Jewel of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 7, 2025; Duration: 10-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Jewel of the Seas; Ports of[…]

Carnival Breeze, Mini cruise to Progreso and Cozumel from Galveston, April 7, 2025

5-day Western caribbean cruise to Mexico with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 7, 2025; Duration: 5-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Breeze; Ports of Call: Galveston, Cozumel, Yucatan (Progreso), Galveston; Enjoy magnificent scenery[…]

Royal Caribbean, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, April 6, 2025

7-day cruise to Roatan, Costa Maya and Cozumel on board Harmony of the Seas Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 6, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Harmony of the Seas; Ports of Call: Galveston, Roatan,[…]

Carnival Jubilee, Honduras & Mexico from Galveston, April 5, 2025

7-day cruise to Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya and Cozumel with Carnival Cruises Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: April 5, 2025; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Jubilee; Ports of Call: Galveston, Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya,[…]

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Is a weeklong cruise vacation to Mexico from Galveston cheaper than flying to a resort?

Mexican cruises may be the way to go for Texas families who are looking to travel over the summer without breaking the bank.

Imagine visiting multiple ports, keeping all your luggage in one place, and no flying. Alyssa Maisano, travel agent and owner of Picture It Travel Co., recommends cruising out of Galveston . The city is located on the southern coast of Texas. From Fort Worth, it’s about a four-and-a-half-hour drive . Note that when you drive to the port, you will need to account for parking your car for a week. This will cost $25 a day if you book through the port of Galveston, for a total of $200 for the week.

Even with parking, a cruise would still be cheaper than a family vacation to Mexico that includes cost of airfare. Overall, an affordable weeklong cruise with parking will cost a family of four $5,000. Traveling to Cancun, Cozumel, or Puerto Vallarta, are cheaper options among tropical vacations but not as cheap as an all-inclusive cruise. Right now, for a family of four to fly to Mexico, airfare would cost around $1,200 alone. An all-inclusive resort for a week would cost a minimum of $5,000 — what an entire cruise costs.

Galveston often offers large cruise ships with seven- to eight-day itineraries . Masiano’s recommended cruise line is Royal Caribbean.

“Royal Caribbean out of Galveston is my go-to for families because the ship is always new and it accommodates all generations,” said Maisano.

Norwegian Cruise lines is more directed at teenagers and adults . Where Carnival is good for younger kids and families, but can have the rep of being “the party boat.” If you go on Carnival, Maisano stresses that you should choose a newer ship. Maisano recommends the Jubilee or Mardi Gras ships when cruising with Carnival.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Royal Caribbean International (@royalcaribbean)

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Maisano has a few rules of thumb when it comes to booking a cruise. Here’s what you need to know:

Never take an old ship. Old ships can have sewage, smoke, and creaks at all times. Maisano recommends not booking ships older than ten years. Always take note of how new your ship is and when it’s last refurbishment was done before booking.

The cheapest rooms are often the ones without windows. A detail that may be important to note for those who have a tendency to get sea sick.

Always show up the day before your ship takes off. If you are cruising out of Galveston on June 5, you need to be in Galveston by June 4 in a hotel so you do not risk missing take off.

Always book travel insurance . If you happen to miss the ship at one of the ports, or experience delays and cancellations, insurance will cover you.

If taking excursions booked with a third party that is not the cruise line, check with the third party to make sure their times are correct and are strictly enforced to prohibit delays. Otherwise your ship may sail off without you.

Booking Galveston often gives you seven- to eight-day travel options whereas booking out of Port Canaveral or Miami, Florida, gives you shorter (five days) options.

To book the most affordable cruise, book almost a year in advance. Right now, some cruise lines even have itineraries up for 2026.

Out of Galveston, here are the Mexico cruises to book with Royal Caribbean.

Lowest prices to Puerto Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, January 2025.

Lowest prices to Cozumel and Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico, and Roatan, Honduras, November 2024.

Lowest prices for Cozumel and Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico, Belize City, Belize, and Roatan, Honduras, November to December 2024.

Maisano specializes in Disney cruises and North Texas family travel . She can accommodate travel needs for airfare, cruising, hotel and resort stays.

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WILD WEST ADVENTURE

Cruises out of texas.

Sparkling skylines, dreamy deserts, balmy beaches — everything's bigger in Texas.

On your Texas cruise vacation, you can have it all. Start your day trip before or after your cruise gazing up at sparkling skyscrapers, and end it with sunset cocktails on the beach. Have an urban adventure exploring food trucks and art museums, then head out to a cattle ranch and trade your baseball cap for a cowboy hat. Whatever you do, make sure to come with an empty stomach. From meaty Texas BBQ and steaks to sumptuous Tex-Mex favorites, the only thing bigger than the Lone Star State itself is the appetite you'll need to savor all its flavors. Cruises out of Texas set sail from Galveston to discover the western Caribbean, from Mexico's famed Riviera Maya to Central American treasure troves like Belize and Honduras.

THE BEST AND BOLDEST SHIPS FROM TEXAS

The only thing better than the exciting destinations you can reach from Galveston is the world-class cruise ship that takes you there.

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Things to do in the Lone Star State

In a state as big as Texas, planning an adventure is guaranteed — and so is assortment on things to do. Cruise travelers visiting will love the energy of Austin and the art museums of Dallas-Fort Worth, while the true western enthusiasts can look forward to riding toward the setting sun. After all west Texas has more desert than most other states have total land!

The Best of Both Worlds

The volume of things to do in Texas is certainly one of the best reasons to take a cruise vacation getaway from Texas. Begin your travels in the heart of Space City learning the history of NASA at Space Center Houston, then explore the Museum District for exhibits at the Museum of Fine Arts or Children's Museum.

Double Take on Texas Culture

Enjoy the best Texas has to offer to cruise travelers. Immerse yourself in the history of The Alamo or experience the culture of downtown San Antonio River Walk before exploring a whole different side of history with a walking tour of the most haunted places in Austin.

An Entire Other (Hill) Country

Drive into the Hill Country, and take a dip in the otherworldly Hamilton Pool Preserve. Have more time? Continue all the way southwestward and camp in Big Bend National Park, the finest exemplar of desert majesty Texas has to offer.

Game changing OASIS CLASS MEETS TEXAS PRIDE

Texas is the perfect jumping-off point to the top-rated shores of the Western Caribbean . Wander to places like Mexico , the Bahamas , and even Honduras . All on 7-night adventures  onboard Harmony of the Seas®.

Caribbean Dreams

It's hard to say goodbye to Texas — and harder to choose just where you'll sail to when you leave. Book cruises from Texas to Mexico, and dock at captivating ports like Cozumel and Puerto Costa Maya, as well as stop in postcard-worthy Roatán, Honduras.

Explore CRUISES TO WESTERN CARIBBEAN

BEST CRUISES FOR TEXAS GETAWAYS

It’s time to reset adventure to a whole new level on the biggest, boldest ship to ever sail from Texas — Harmony of the Seas® . Twist, shout and let it all out down the tallest slide at sea. And when the sun goes down, the night heats up with AquaTheater spectaculars and the Broadway hit Grease. All while unlocking luxurious Western Caribbean destinations onboard this unmatched Oasis Class ship .

Explore Cruises from Galveston

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO An insider's Guide to Texas Day Trips

The Texas tourism board wasn't kidding when they said the Lone Star State was "like a whole other country." Enjoy award-winning art museums and mouth-watering meals in dynamic cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. Before your cruise take a walk on Texas' wild side, whether you camp on the beach in Galveston Island State Park, create a cowboy experience at a cattle ranch, or sunbathe along its hundreds-of-miles-long coastline.

If you do happen to plan your Texas vacation during the "winter" (a term that's relative around these parts) months of January and February, just pack a jacket — and an umbrella. While temperatures in Texas rarely fall below freezing — especially not in coastal Galveston — you never know when a scattered shower will pass. Likewise, make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and drink lots of water during Texas' long summer, which can begin setting in as early as April and can linger until October or November.

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Best Cruises From Texas

Royal Caribbean offers plenty of great itineraries to choose from if you’re looking for an unforgettable cruise from Texas. Keep reading to discover the best spots.

Texas Vacation | Cathedral Architecture

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Best Restaurants in Galveston

Enjoy this handy guide on the best local restaurants in Galveston when seeking the top places to eat on your visit to this Texas beach town.

If you're in Texas in March, don't miss the beautiful bluebonnet flowers that line just about every road in the state.

Thrill the kids at theme parks like Six Flags Over Texas in Dallas and Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio.

Stop for a Kolache , a Czech-inspired fruit pie that's Texas' ultimate roadside pick-me-up.

Bold Flavors Tastes of Texas

Texas is a foodie paradise, no matter what you're craving or how big your appetite is. Tear into tender barbecue, test your taste buds with dangerously spicy Tex-Mex or eat a steak the size of your plate.

The Beauty of Brisket

Barbecue can tie together your Texas travel, if you let it. Make sure to enjoy at least one plate of brisket, slow-smoked beef breast meat as famous for its melt-in-your-mouth texture as it is for the crispy layer of skin. Trim your meal with authentic Texas Fixin's like fried okra and baked beans, then wash it all down with a towering glass of sweet tea, and finish it off with a slice of pecan pie à la mode.

Queso Cravings

Order chile con queso cheese on your trip, but try not to think of it as a mere appetizer. With spicy pico de gallo and crumbly chorizo mixed into its creamy cheese, queso is a meal in itself and maybe even its own food group. Other Tex-Mex classics include burritos, chimichangas and breakfast tacos (in case you can't wait until lunch or dinner to get your fix).

Two Takes on Steak

You simply can't eat too much meat on your Texas getaway. Stick your fork into a juicy T-bone, a tender and flavorful loin steak that's rightly the claim to fame of the Texas steak world. Not a purist, or just seeking something more decadent? Order chicken-fried steak, which is exactly as over-the-top as it sounds.

RELATED PORTS

As hard as it'll be to say farewell to Texas, your next adventure is waiting onboard your vacation cruise. Board cruises from Texas to the Caribbean, for example, to head toward the glimmering ports of Belize City, Belize and Falmouth, Jamaica. Or consider Panama Canal cruises from Texas, stopping at the paradise beaches of Yucatan, Cozumel, Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico, or at Honduras' hidden gem of Roatán.

Roatan, Honduras

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

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George Town, Grand Cayman

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

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Huatulco, Mexico

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Manzanillo, Mexico

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Photo Shoot: Farewell to a maritime friend

Many Cape Codders fall in love with their boats, from kayaks to yachts. I set my sights on 540 feet of sleek steel. Built in 1967, she was in middle age by the time we met back in December 1999. That was when the freighter named Cape Bon arrived at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy to become their training ship. I was smitten. Since then I have been lucky to roam just about every inch of the freighter turned training ship, from shaft alley to the engine room, and cadet berthing to the bridge.

In 2008, when reporter Hilary Russ and I headed to sea with the crew and cadets on their training cruise, the ship had been renamed, Enterprise. Leaving campus on the traditional coldest day of early January heading south with a transit through the Panama Canal. Technology made the trip possible, ship to shore internet service allowed us to transmit back photos and a story every day. It was a training cruise for the cadets, but also the media. I learned the proper way to tie a bowline knot and almost perfected the monkey’s fist. At night I would wander up to the top decks and watch upper-class students work on celestial navigation using sextants, way too much math in that skill set. Transit through the Panama Canal took place at night which added to the mystique of the voyage.

A change of name in 2009

The ship changed names again in 2009 to the Kennedy, in honor of the Kennedy family. In 2010 it went into drydock at the Brooklyn Navy Yard for upgrades and repairs. It was there I finally got a good look at her great lines. Standing at ground level looking up it was quite a sight as the photo shows.

Like any long-term relationship the years pass ever quicker with age, photographing its coming and goings. The school will be getting a new ship now under construction in Philadelphia, arriving later this year. The TS Kennedy has been transferred into service at Texas A&M Maritime in Galveston. So it was wearing that school’s colors when it steamed out of the Cape Cod Canal last week for its last training cruise for MMA.

It was a fitting day for departure, cold and damp, the promise of warm days on every cadet’s mind. I did a final walk around from the bridge to the stern for old time’s sake. Slack tide arrived at 8 a.m. and all but one line had been cast off. But the fog grew too thick for a safe departure. The ship was tied back to the pier, it would be six more hours before it left. But deadlines are hard and fast, one last photo of my long-time companion enveloped in fog for old time’s sake.

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