Galveston has much more to offer for your vacation than beachfront lounging. The Battle of Galveston reenactment, the Chili Quest & Beer Quest, Mardi Gras, July 4th Fireworks, and Dickens on The Strand are just a few of the exciting events Galveston has to offer throughout the year! And now you have also found the ultimate resource for Galveston cruises! We feature insider secrets and helpful tips that will guarantee you find the perfect cruise from Galveston.
Galveston Cruise Lines
We feature both major cruise lines that sail from Galveston: Carnival Cruises and Royal Caribbean. and we make it easy for you to comparison shop across cruise lines for your perfect cruise from Galveston. Below is an overview of the cruise lines sailing from Galveston, including some quick facts that may help make it easier for you to choose the cruise line that best suits your needs.
Carnival Cruises from Galveston
Carnival Cruises offers fun, affordability, and cruises ranging in length from 4 to 8 days departing from Galveston.
You’ll cruise to amazing destinations in the paradise that is the Caribbean, such as the Bahamas, Belize, and Mexico! Carnival’s Funships feature a selection of exciting itineraries and offer the same promise Carnival Cruises has always offered: premier luxury at a rate that most anyone can afford!
Highlights of Carnival Cruises from Galveston include excellent children’s programs and wonderful adult-only escapes. Also, the Carnival Cruises Fun Ships feature larger family cabins, providing even more space for families sharing a cabin.
- Cruise Season: Year-Round
- Itineraries: 4-8 night Western Caribbean, 7 Night Eastern Caribbean
- Highlights: Very good prices; great Western Caribbean itineraries; very good food; outstanding kids program; good adults-only areas.
- Drawbacks: Can be very crowded in high-seasonal.
Royal Caribbean from Galveston
Royal Caribbean is one of the major cruise lines routinely departing from Galveston on a year-round basis.
- Cruise Season: Year-Round
- Itineraries: 6-9 night Western Caribbean, 14-night Transatlantic Eastbound Cruise
- Highlights: Good prices; Highly regarded Adventure Ocean kid’s program, including (since December 2010), featured characters from DreamWorks (Madagascar, Shrek & Kung Fu Panda movies).
- Drawbacks: Crowded and slow when embarking
Galveston Cruise Destinations
Galveston is conveniently located on the east coast of Texas, making it easy to sail from Galveston to the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas. Finding a cruise departing from Galveston that calls on a specific port is easy — check out cruises from Galveston to destinations including Belize, Cozumel, Key West, and Roatan!
Caribbean
Cruises from Galveston to the Caribbean
Royal Caribbean and Carnival cruises from Galveston to the Caribbean are some of the most popular sailings ever. Western Caribbean sailings from Galveston to the Caribbean. Eastern Caribbean cruises are also offered. There are cruises from Galveston year-round with stops in magnificent ports such as Roatan, Belize City, Cozumel, and George Town.
Why Sail from Galveston to the Caribbean?
The Caribbean will enchant you. Grand Cayman’s 7 miles of beach, Yucatan’s Mayan ruins, Jamaica’s waterfalls, and famous black sand beaches, Roatan’s coral reefs, St. Thomas, St. Maarten… Whether you’re exploring the Eastern or Western Caribbean, you’re going to feel welcomed by island people and sense the charm unique to each alluring port of call. With some of the nicest ships available from Galveston to the Caribbean, you also have some fantastic options for a vacation to this paradise on Earth!
When is the best time to Sail to the Caribbean from Galveston?
From a weather perspective, the best time to sail to the Caribbean is from late November to late April. From June through November, the weather in the Caribbean tends to be more hot and humid, and there are frequent, short rain showers (much like Hawaii) on most days. While “hurricane season” (June through November) can feature some good prices and often good weather, it is “buyer beware.” Cruise ships will steer clear of hurricanes and tropical storms, and if the water in the port is too rough for the ship to safely dock or anchor, the port call may get canceled and you will have an extra “sea day.”
Cruises from Galveston to Roatan
Carnival Cruises from Galveston to Roatan are definitely popular Western Caribbean sailings! Additionally, Royal Caribbean offers even more 7 to 9-night cruise choices from Galveston to Roatan. A best-kept secret among SCUBA divers and beach lovers for years, Roatan’s natural beaches and friendly island charm are just two of the reasons this island port has become internationally recognized. After all, the second-largest coral reef in the world is nestled near her shore. Recognized as a port since the days of Columbus, Roatan’s folklore, including tales of “duppy” ghosts, is uniquely interesting. If you’re cruising to Roatan aboard the Carnival Magic, you’ll be visiting other enchanting Western Caribbean ports on one of the most beautiful cruise ships to set sail! What a way to experience Caribbean paradise!
Carnival Cruise Lines offers an 8-day Western Caribbean sailing from Galveston to Roatan. Royal Caribbean offers many more 7 to 9-night cruises.
When is the best time to Sail to Roatan from Galveston?
From a weather perspective, the best time to sail to Roatan is from late November to late April. From June through November, the weather in Roatan tends to be more hot and humid, and there are frequent, short rain showers (much like Hawaii) on most days. While “hurricane season” (June through November) can feature some good prices, and often good weather, it is “buyer beware.” Cruise ships will steer clear of hurricanes and tropical storms, and if the water in the port is too rough for the ship to safely dock or anchor, the port call may get canceled and you will have an extra “sea day.”
Prices tend to be highest when kids are out of school. Christmas, Summer, and Spring Break often have peak pricing.
Cruises from Galveston to Belize
Cruises from Galveston to Belize are among the most popular cruise selections from this port! Royal Caribbean features 7- night Western Caribbean cruise sailings to Belize from Galveston. The Carnival also offers an 8-day Western Caribbean cruise to Belize. Belize is a hot-spot of eco-tourism, boasting beautiful beaches, great snorkeling and SCUBA, ancient Mayan Ruins, and rain forests. You’ll find one of Carnival’s newest ships sails from Galveston to Belize, and the other ports along your 7-night Western Caribbean cruise are fascinating as well.
Carnival Cruise Lines offer 8-day Western Caribbean sailings from Galveston to Belize in December. Royal Caribbean’s 7-night Western Caribbean cruises from Galveston feature Belize.
When is the best time to Sail to Belize from Galveston?
From a weather perspective, the best time to sail to Belize is from late November to late April. From June through November, the weather in Belize tends to be more hot and humid, and there are frequent, short rain showers (much like Hawaii) on most days. While hurricane season (June through November) can feature some good prices and often good weather, it is “buyer beware.” Cruise ships will steer clear of hurricanes and tropical storms. If the water in the port is too rough for the ship to safely dock or anchor, the port call may get canceled and you will have an extra day at sea.
From a price perspective, when kids are out of school is when the prices tend to be highest. Christmas, Summer, and Spring Break often have peak pricing.
Mexico
Cruises from Galveston to Mexico
Carnival Cruises and Royal Caribbean offer cruises from Galveston to Mexico on Western Caribbean itineraries. Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Progreso, Yucatan, Mexico are popular ports of call on these itineraries. Western Caribbean sailings from Galveston to Mexico. The majority of these are cruises to the Western Caribbean also offer a few cruise vacations to the Eastern Caribbean.
Why Sail from Galveston to Mexico?
Beaches of white sand, the coral reefs near Cozumel, and a culture that stretches back to pre-Columbian Mayan civilizations define awesome. Imagine SCUBA from Cozumel, and seeing underwater coral gardens Jacque Cousteau loved. -Or visiting the less known and less excavated Mayan ruins of Chacchoben and Kohunlich, nearby Costa Maya, and experiencing the breath-taking beauty of these archaic cities and pyramids. Only an hour or so away from Progreso, witness the Mayan splendor of Dzibilchaltan and Uxmal. Then there’s a raft of activities, such as para-sailing, zip-lining, horseback riding, fishing… and, just because it can feel so amazing, lounging on a beautiful beach for a little R&R by the deep azure sea!
When is the best time to Sail to Mexico from Galveston?
From a weather perspective, the best time to sail to Mexico is from late November to late April. From June through November, the weather in Mexico tends to be more hot and humid, and there are frequent, short rain showers (much like Hawaii) on most days. While hurricane season (June through November) can feature some good prices and often good weather, it is “buyer beware.” Cruise ships will steer clear of hurricanes and tropical storms, and if the water in the port is too rough for the ship to safely dock or anchor, the port call may get canceled and you will have an extra sea day.
Prices tend to be highest when kids are out of school. Christmas, Summer, and Spring Break often have peak pricing.
Bahamas
Cruises from Galveston to the Bahamas
Extremely popular cruises from Galveston are to the Bahamas. Many people will combine the 7-day cruises with a visit to Galveston’s Moody Gardens or to Galveston’s 32 miles of Gulf Shore beach for an unforgettable vacation. Stroll through forts, plantations, and remote villages. Cool off in caves. Stand before The Fountain Of Youth. See the endangered Bahamas parrot and rare flower species! Visit museums such as The Bahamas Historical Society, depicting Bahamas history from pre-Columbus to the present, and another honoring the Pirates of Nassau. Enjoy the quaint shops on historic streets, and watch the changing of the guard outside the Government House. And of course, there’s always time for R& R on those famous Bahamas sparkling white beaches!
What Ports are featured on Bahamas Cruises from Galveston?
The following ports are featured on the 7-night cruises out of Galveston to the Bahamas:
- Nassau — head to Paradise Island (home of the Atlantis Resort & Casino) for great beaches and lots of activities. Bay Street features tax-free bargains on designer clothing and watches. There’s also great snorkeling from the beaches and glass-bottom boat tours for those who don’t want to get wet.
- Freeport — Freeport is known for great shopping at the International Bazaar (over 100 shops) and the Goombay Park Straw Market (plenty of arts and local crafts). For an unusual treat, have lunch at Freeport’s Pier One restaurant where you can watch shark feeding from your table. Beaches (snorkeling) and ecotourism (try a tour by sea kayak) are popular in Freeport.
When is the Best Time to Sail to the Bahamas?
From a weather perspective, the best time to sail to the Bahamas is from late November to late April. From May until late October, the weather tends to be hot and humid.
From a price perspective, when kids are out of school is when the prices tend to be highest.
Cozumel
Cruises from Galveston to Cozumel
When you’re aboard a Western Caribbean cruise from Galveston to Cozumel, you’ll be experiencing one of the most exciting and alluring ports of call in Mexico. With beautiful beaches, fantastic coral reefs for snorkeling and SCUBA, and ancient Mayan Ruins, you’ll enjoy every second of Cozumel! Relax on Playa Mia Beach, communicate with dolphins at Chankanaab National Park, or indulge in a Mexican feast. You’ll discover it’s no wonder why so many Western Caribbean cruises visit this magical port of call! Other ports along your 7-day Western Caribbean cruise are fascinating as well.
When is the best time to Sail to Cozumel from Galveston?
From a weather perspective, the best time to sail to Cozumel is from late November to late April. From June through November, the weather in Cozumel tends to be more hot and humid, and there are frequent, short rain showers on most days. While hurricane season (June through November) can feature some good prices and often good weather, it is “buyer beware.” Cruise ships will steer clear of hurricanes and tropical storms, and if the water in the port is too rough for the ship to safely dock or anchor, the port call may get canceled and you will have an extra sea day.
Prices tend to be highest when kids are out of school. Christmas, summer, and spring break often have peak pricing.
Cayman Islands
Cruises from Galveston to Cayman Islands
Cayman Island cruises from Galveston are extremely popular. Royal Caribbean as well as Carnival all offer a Cayman Islands stop on multiple cruises from Galveston. The magnificent beauty of the Cayman Islands includes spectacular beaches and amazing sunsets. One of Grand Cayman’s main attractions is Seven Mile Beach, on which a number of the island’s hotels and resorts are located. Historical sites in the Cayman Islands, such as Pedro St. James Castle in BoddenTown, also attract visitors.
Tourists also visit the Sister Islands, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac. This island paradise is beloved by many who are called to her beautiful beaches and warm people. All three islands offer scuba diving, and the Caymans are home to several snorkeling locations, where tourists can swim with stingrays (including Stingray City, Grand Cayman). There are two shipwrecks off the shores of Cayman Brac, including the MV Keith Tibbetts. So get ready for a rocking great time – Cayman Islands style!
When is the best time to Sail to Cayman Islands from Galveston?
September, October, and November are typically the most stormy in the Caribbean. This is when storms tend to form in the southern Caribbean and move north. From June through November, the weather in the Cayman Islands tends to be more hot and humid, and there are frequent short rain showers.
While hurricane season (June through November) can feature some good prices and often good weather, it is “buyer beware.” Cruise ships will steer clear of hurricanes and tropical storms, and if the water in the port is too rough for the ship to safely dock or anchor, the port call may get canceled and you will have an extra sea day. Prices tend to be highest when kids are out of school. Christmas, Summer, and Spring Break often have peak pricing.
Key West
Cruises from Galveston to Key West
Carnival cruises from Galveston to Key West are some of the most popular cruises sailing from Galveston. Known for sunset celebrations every evening from Mallory Square, it isn’t any wonder that Key West happens to have one of the lowest rates of depression in the United States. Some attribute that to a diet which includes conch, a fish you’ll find in fritters and on salads. Her Old Town charm includes a wealth of architecture and history, where you’ll find 19th-century mansions and wonderful places for dining and drinks along Duvall Street. Key West was Hemingway’s home for several years, where he wrote, fished, and even presided over boxing matches. With great food, wonderful people, and natural beaches, you’ll fall in love with this fascinating port!
When is the best time to Sail to Key West from Galveston?
From a weather perspective, the best time to sail to Key West is from November through June. Beginning in June and through November, the weather in Key West tends to be more hot and humid, and there are frequent, short rain showers (much like Hawaii) on most days. While hurricane season (June through November) can feature some good prices and often good weather, it is “buyer beware.” Cruise ships will steer clear of hurricanes and tropical storms, and if the water in the port is too rough for the ship to safely dock or anchor, the port call may get canceled and you will have an extra sea day.
Prices tend to be highest when kids are out of school. Christmas, Summer, and Spring Break often have peak pricing.
Galveston Cruise Experts On-Call
When it comes to planning a cruise from Galveston, you are not alone. While we provide great online research on cruises, our cruise experts are standing ready to help you on the phone, via e-mail, or through our live chat system. If you are planning a Houston visit, plus a cruise, we can be especially helpful! Touch base with us and make your Galveston Cruise vacation planning a breeze!
Money-Saving Advice when Buying a Cruise from Galveston
- The best advice we can give: the earlier you book, the better. Prices for early bookers tend to be lower, and, the best cabins out of Galveston may sell out early.
- High season for cruises from Galveston is “whenever the kids” are out of school. Christmas, Spring Break, Thanksgiving, and Summer are when the prices tend to be highest. Lower prices prevail in September (when kids go back to school), right after Thanksgiving, and in January thru February when the kids return to school.
- We show all discounts. Rest assured, when you search for cruises on our site, we will ask questions that will qualify you for the best available rate – are you over 55, active or retired military, past passenger, where you live all to help search out any promotional rates for which you may be eligible.