Symphony of the Seas
39% offsuite
U.S.U.S. - Southeast
Galveston Cruise Port
Galveston, Texas
Galveston, Texas is a coastal city located on the Gulf of Mexico.
Ships in port today
- Breeze8:00A — 3:30P
Safety rank
#29
of 37 ports in the U.S.
Today · high / low
91° / 42°
October normals
U.S. - Southeast
Galveston, Texas
// Galveston cruise port overview
The cruise port in Galveston,
explained
Lat: 29.3°NLong: 94.8°WTimezone: America/ChicagoINTN code: GAL
Galveston, Texas is a coastal city located on the Gulf of Mexico. It is the county seat of Galveston County and is the second-largest city in the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metropolitan area.
Galveston is known for its beaches, historic downtown, and its many attractions, including the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, Moody Gardens, and Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark. The city is also home to the University of Texas Medical Branch, the oldest medical school in Texas.
Galveston is a popular tourist destination, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The city is also home to a number of historic sites, including the Galveston Seawall, the Galveston Railroad Museum, and the Bishop's Palace.
Galveston is a vibrant city with a rich history and a bright future.
Ships visiting
7 lines
15 ships call at Galveston
Peak passenger day
24,298
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$20
per person · 17 tours
Most ships dock at
8:00 AM
arrival for 48% of calls
Average port time
8h
alongside, typical call
Excursions in Galveston start at $20.
Browse Galveston excursions// Galveston Cruise Deals
Price drops on cruises to Galveston
993 cruises stop here in Galveston during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Galveston cruise's 90-day average.
Prices refreshed daily
Symphony of the Seas
35% offsuite
Symphony of the Seas
28% offsuite
Carnival Breeze
28% offsuite
Norwegian Viva
27% offbalcony
Norwegian Viva
27% offinside
Disney Magic
25% offsuite
Liberty of the Seas
23% offsuite
// Galveston Cruise Port location
Where is Galveston Cruise Port?
Galveston, Texas cruise port is located on the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 50 miles southeast of Houston. It is situated on the eastern end of Galveston Island, which is connected to the mainland by two bridges. The port is easily accessible by car, bus, and train. It is also within a short drive of Houston's two major airports.
- General location
- U.S.
- Category
- U.S. - Southeast
- Coordinates
- 29.31°N, 94.80°W
- Time zone
- America/Chicago
Cruise port · 29.31°N, 94.80°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Galveston cruise port guide
What to do in Galveston
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Your day ashore
You'll have about 8 hours in Galveston. Most ships dock around 8:00 AM.
Median across 494 scheduled calls
Ways to spend the day
3 themesTheme 1
Beach Activities
Galveston is home to some of the best beaches in Texas. Cruise passengers can enjoy a variety of beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and fishing. There are also plenty of beachside restaurants and bars to explore. Cruise passengers can also take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands and bays.
Theme 2
Historical Sites
Galveston is home to a variety of historical sites, including the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, the Bishop's Palace, and the Moody Mansion. Cruise passengers can explore these sites to learn more about the city's history and culture. There are also a number of museums and art galleries to explore, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants.
Theme 3
Outdoor Adventures
Galveston is home to a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Cruise passengers can also explore the nearby nature trails and parks. There are also a number of boat tours and charters available, allowing passengers to explore the nearby islands and bays. Cruise passengers can also take a ferry ride to explore the nearby beaches and islands.
Galveston cruise port beaches
3 in our guideE
East Beach
East Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Galveston, Texas cruise port. It is a wide, sandy beach with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, and fishing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for a fun night out.
K
Kemah Boardwalk Beach
Kemah Boardwalk Beach is a popular beach near Galveston, Texas cruise port. It is a wide, sandy beach with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, and fishing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for a fun night out. Kemah Boardwalk Beach also has a boardwalk with rides, shops, and restaurants for a fun day out.
S
Stewart Beach
Stewart Beach is another popular beach near Galveston, Texas cruise port. It is a wide, sandy beach with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, and fishing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for a fun night out. Stewart Beach also has a playground and a pavilion for picnics and other activities.
// Galveston fun facts
Galveston Island State Park
Galveston Island State Park is a 2,000-acre park located on Galveston Island, Texas. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and birds. The park also features a variety of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and swimming. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens is a popular tourist destination located in Galveston, Texas. It is home to a variety of attractions, including a rainforest pyramid, an aquarium, a 3D theater, and a golf course. Moody Gardens also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations.
The Strand Historic District
The Strand Historic District is a historic district located in Galveston, Texas. It is a National Historic Landmark District and is home to many of the city's most historic buildings, including the 1877 Ashton Villa, the 1859 Bishop's Palace, and the 1878 St. Joseph's Church. The Strand is also home to many restaurants, shops, and galleries, making it a popular tourist destination.
Galveston cruise port shopping
3 in our guideP
Pier 21
Pier 21 is a great shopping option near the Galveston cruise port. It is a large shopping center with a variety of stores, restaurants, and attractions. You can find everything from souvenirs to clothing to jewelry and more. It is a great place to find something special to take home with you from your cruise.
T
The Grand 1894 Opera House
The Grand 1894 Opera House is a great place to find souvenirs in Galveston. It is a historic theater located in downtown Galveston, and it is full of unique shops, restaurants, and attractions. You can find everything from antiques to jewelry to clothing and more. It is a great place to find something special to take home with you from your cruise.
T
The Strand Historic District
The Strand Historic District is a great place to find souvenirs in Galveston. It is a historic district located in the heart of downtown Galveston, and it is full of unique shops, restaurants, and attractions. You can find everything from antiques to jewelry to clothing and more. It is a great place to find something special to take home with you from your cruise.
// Galveston Cruise Port Terminals
Which Galveston cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
4 piers in Galveston
Pier 1 of 4
Cruise Terminal 10
1402 Harborside Drive, Galveston, TX 77550, USACruise lines sailing from this terminal: Royal Caribbean International.
Parking: Official lots on Royal Caribbean Way: North Lot and North Premium Lot (1152), South Lot (1201; free shuttle or covered walkway), Pier 10 Lot and Pier 12 Lot (walk). Terminal 16 Garage also serves it by free shuttle.
Terminal assignments can change between sailings, so confirm yours in your cruise documents.
Pier 2 of 4
Cruise Terminal 16
1602 Harborside Drive, Galveston, TX 77550, USACruise lines sailing from this terminal: MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.
Parking: Cruise Terminal 16 Parking Garage (7-story, 1,600+ spaces), VIP Indoor Garage, VIP Lot, and Lots 1 and 2 (short walk, no shuttle).
Terminal assignments can change between sailings, so confirm yours in your cruise documents.
Pier 3 of 4
Cruise Terminal 25
2502 Harborside Drive, Galveston, TX 77550, USACruise lines sailing from this terminal: Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises.
Parking: Shared with Terminal 28: Express Lot (2702 Harborside, walk), SMP Garage (150 Rosenberg/25th St., covered, walk), Economy Lots A (160 33rd St.) and B (224 33rd St.) with free shuttle.
Terminal assignments can change between sailings, so confirm yours in your cruise documents.
Pier 4 of 4
Cruise Terminal 28
2702 Harborside Drive, Galveston, TX 77550, USACruise lines sailing from this terminal: Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruises.
Parking: Shared with Terminal 25: Express Lot (steps from Terminal 28), SMP Garage (walk), Economy Lots A and B with free shuttle.
Terminal assignments can change between sailings, so confirm yours in your cruise documents.
Wi-Fi
The Galveston Cruise Terminal offers free wifi access to all passengers. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes in the area that offer free wifi access.
Safety
Galveston, Texas is generally considered a safe cruise port. The city has a low crime rate and is well-patrolled by the Galveston Police Department. The port is also equipped with security cameras and other safety measures.
Port address
2502 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550
Galveston cruise port car rental
Enterprise Rent-A-CarHertzAvisBudgetThrifty
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
// Galveston, Texas cruise port excursions
Most Popular Galveston Cruise Port Tours
17 excursions · book direct with the operator
Independent shore excursions in Galveston, Texas, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.
Best Galveston shore tours
Curated from 17 · not a search result
Worry-free4.6(40)$122
Private Tour of Galveston
4.3(14)$27
Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour
2hHistorical Tours
View Details for Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour (opens in a new tab)
5.0(3)$29
Island Dolphin Tours
5.0(2)$20
Galveston - The League-Kempner House Restoration In-Depth Tour
5.0(1)$700
Group Shuttle: Galveston to Houston Airports & Hotels
5.0(1)$40
Galveston History and Architecture Tour
5.0(1)$375
Private SUV Transfer Galveston to Hobby Airport for 6 People
5.0(1)$595
Private Shuttle Galveston to Hobby Airport (HOU) For 10 Travelers
// Weather
Galveston Cruise Port Weather
U.S. - Southeast·30-year historical averages
Oct averages · Galveston
73°
Avg · °F
Hot, frequent showers
- High
- 91°F
- Low
- 42°F
- Rain
- 5.7 in
// Year-round in Galveston
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// Galveston cruise ship schedule
Galveston Cruise Port Traffic Today
One cruise ship is docked in Galveston today, Thursday, October 15, 2026, bringing an estimated 6,110 passengers and crew ashore across the port's 4 piers — Cruise Terminal 16, Cruise Terminal 25, Cruise Terminal 10 and Cruise Terminal 28. Arrival and departure times below show how long each ship stays alongside, so you can judge how crowded Galveston will be while you're in port.
Schedule updated
Total port traffic
6,110
- Passengers
- 4,724
- Crew
- 1,386
- Ships
- 1
How busy is it?
Quiet
6,110 passengers and crew — 29% quieter than a typical Galveston port day.
QuietTypical · 8,598Peak
5 AM8 AM11 AM2 PM5 PM8 PM11 PM
5 AM to midnight · solid bar = hours alongside · faded = arrival only, departure not published
Planning around the crowds?
- Galveston cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
- Slowest & busiest day analysis
- Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
// Traveler photos
Galveston photos, from our community
Shared by actual cruise passengers through our Cruise Quest mobile app and Gangwaze community. Every photo is reviewed before it appears here.
10 photos·2 cruisers
Been to Galveston?
Add a photo from your day ashore. We review every upload before it appears.
// Keep exploring
Also on your cruise
92% of Galveston cruises also call at one of these.
// Questions
Galveston cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Galveston.
Where is Galveston cruise port located?
Galveston, Texas cruise port is located in U.S.. Galveston, Texas cruise port is located on the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 50 miles southeast of Houston. It is situated on the eastern end of Galveston Island, which is connected to the mainland by two bridges. The port is easily accessible by car, bus, and train. It is also within a short drive of Houston's two major airports.
Is Galveston a good cruise port to visit?
Yes, Galveston, Texas is a great cruise port. It is the busiest cruise port in Texas and the fourth busiest in the United States. It is home to several major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line. The port offers a variety of itineraries, including Caribbean cruises, Mexican Riviera cruises, and Bahamas cruises.
How safe is Galveston cruise port for passengers?
Galveston cruise port has a safety score of 6.8 out of 10, ranking #29 of 37 ports in U.S.. Galveston, Texas is generally considered a safe cruise port. The city has a low crime rate and is well-patrolled by the Galveston Police Department. The port is also equipped with security cameras and other safety measures.
What is the weather like at Galveston cruise port in October?
In October, Galveston cruise port has average high temperatures of 91°F (33°C) and average lows of 42°F (6°C).
How many excursions are available at Galveston cruise port?
There are currently 17 excursions and tours available at Galveston cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
What are the top things to do at Galveston cruise port?
Galveston cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Beach Activities, Historical Sites, Outdoor Adventures. Galveston, Texas is known for its many attractions and activities. From the beach to the historic downtown area, there is something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, and sailing. There are also plenty of shopping and dining options, as well as a vibrant nightlife. The city also offers a variety of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting night out, Galveston has something for everyone.
Can I rent a car at Galveston cruise port?
1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers car rental services near the Galveston cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.2. Hertz: Hertz offers car rental services near the Galveston cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.3. Avis: Avis offers car rental services near the Galveston cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.4. Budget: Budget offers car rental services near the Galveston cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.5. Thrifty: Thrifty offers car rental services near the Galveston cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.
What is the WiFi situation at Galveston cruise port?
The Galveston Cruise Terminal offers free wifi access to all passengers. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes in the area that offer free wifi access.
Where is the cruise terminal at Galveston cruise port?
The address of the Galveston, Texas cruise port is 2502 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550.
What is the Galveston Cruise Port cruise schedule?
Today there is 1 cruise ship in Galveston: Breeze — bringing an estimated 6,110 passengers and crew to port. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Galveston on any date.