Top 2024 Galveston Cruise Options: Luxury & Family Fun

Table Of Content

• Cruises out of Galveston
• Night Mexico Cruise December 4, 2020 $333 Adventure of the Seas
• The Essential Documents for Cruising on Carnival
• Caribbean
• Full List: Galveston Hotels with Cruise Shuttles to the Port
• Galveston, Texas

There are many entertainment options to keep children and young adults busy all day, while their parents can relax in an adults-only environment. From some of the top cruises in the world to more affordable cruises, Galveston has something to offer all lovers of the sea. Best of all, this trip is only a few hundred bucks per person, right at the time that winter is starting to hit Texas. If this trip doesn’t meet your schedule, there are other regular sailings of the route. On the upper decks of Regal Princess, you'll typically find pools, whirlpools, and sunning areas, in line with the typical Princess ship offerings. Consequently, it tends to attract fewer families and leans more towards an older crowd, predominantly couples.

Cruises out of Galveston

However, in 2013, this cruise sailing from Galveston changed its name and underwent renovation. One of the cheap cruises that depart from Galveston, the Vision can house 2,514 passengers. Vision of the Seas has ports of call in diverse destinations like Europe, Canada, and the ever popular Caribbean. Cruises packages include a movie screen that’s right by the poolside, a video game arena, a rock climbing wall and live shows inspired by Broadway.

Night Mexico Cruise December 4, 2020 $333 Adventure of the Seas

It offers a convenient departure point for travelers who want to embark on a cruise vacation without having to fly long distances or deal with extensive travel logistics. Although the location of the closest commercial airport is in Houston, nearly an hour away, Galveston offers the Southern cruise market an appealing drive-to option bordering the Gulf of Mexico. According to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce, Galveston is the fourth most popular cruise port in North America, following the busy cruise ports of Florida. So, it’s not a bad idea to consider spending a few days here before or after your cruise. In addition to more vacation time, some hotels accommodate secure, long-term parking.

The Essential Documents for Cruising on Carnival

I’ve taken you through the best that Galveston cruises have to offer in 2024. With itineraries spanning from the Western Caribbean to the Panama Canal, every traveler can find their ideal getaway. The onboard experiences—be it adrenaline-fueled activities, Broadway shows, or serene spa days—are tailored to make your voyage unforgettable.

Carnival Breeze

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. Many cruise ships are decorated with festive decorations, and there are often special events and activities planned to celebrate the season. Keep in mind that these holiday cruises tend to be popular, so booking well in advance is advisable.

Caribbean

Its short sailings and low pricing mean you're not out a lot in time or money if you don't love the experience. It caters heavily to first-time cruisers, as well as Texas locals and Southerners who can book on short notice and drive to the port for a quickie escape. Disney Magic sails a mix of four- to six-night voyages from Galveston to Mexico. Shorter voyages typically visit Progreso, Mexico, while longer sailings add a stop in Cozumel. Allure of the Seas sails out of Galveston every Sunday on seven-night voyages to the Western Caribbean.

There are separate entertainment and relaxation areas for children and adults, ensuring a cruise itinerary that satisfies the entire family. A comedy club, a seaside theatre, a sports bar, live stage performances— Carnival Liberty packs a lot of punch while remaining one of the most affordable cruises that sail from Galveston. Pack your cruise itinerary with diverse entertainment like children’s clubs, retreats for adults, water parks, an iMAX theatre, a library inspired by Dr Seuss and a suspended bike course. CocoCay is the cruise line’s private island that was completely revamped with a $250 million makeover. Today it boasts the largest pool in the Caribbean, the tallest waterslide in North America, and is earning strong reviews from visitors (including the staff of Cruzely).

Galveston, Texas

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Prices during this time are often more affordable, and you may find fewer crowds both on the ship and at the destinations. However, be aware that the weather can be cooler, and there is a slightly higher chance of encountering rougher seas. During these months, the weather is typically pleasant, with milder temperatures and lower humidity compared to the peak summer months. It’s a great time to enjoy outdoor activities both on the ship and at the destinations. Have you cruised or considered cruising out of the Galveston Cruise Port? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences taking a cruise from Galveston, TX.

Cruises from Galveston

They’re sure to have you and your loved ones having a great time together on the best cruise lines the Port of Galveston has to offer. On the other hand, Regent Seven Seas takes all-inclusive to another level. Their fares typically include everything from flights to fine dining, free unlimited shore excursions to gratuities. Their fleet departing from Galveston offers all-suite, all-balcony accommodations, providing a private retreat of comfort and elegance.

The best ship for a cruise out of Galveston with your family might not be your top pick for a couple's cruise or girlfriends' getaway. The 2013 Royal-class ship is the 2nd of its class and offers 20 sailings during it’s homeport in Texas. In this article we will highlight cruises on 8 great cruise ships sailing from the port.

Tuck into some incredible eats at any of the various restaurants on board. The Independence also includes plenty of water attractions, including pools and slides. ‘This trip also includes four days at sea to enjoy all of the amenities that the Vista has to offer, most of which are included in your base price. Whether you are leaving on a romantic getaway for two or have all of your youngsters in tow, this port offers something for everyone. Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas offers a more relaxed cruise experience with amenities geared towards comfort and tranquility, perfect for guests looking to unwind.

And with numerous dining venues, entertainment options, and relaxation spaces, customization of your sea-going experience has never been easier. Whether you’re weaving through the Caribbean or docking in the Bahamas, these ships ensure that the journey is as memorable as the destination. I’ll guide you through the latest cruise offerings, from family-friendly adventures to luxury getaways.

With new safety measures in place, passengers can now enjoy all the fun, food, and relaxation that are unique to the cruise lines of Galveston. Picking the best ship for your 2024 Galveston cruise depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation – be it family-oriented fun, luxury indulgence, or a mix of both. Each vessel offers unique perks, amenities, and atmospheres, ensuring that whatever your cruising style, you’ll find a ship that feels like it was made just for you. For families, having a variety of age-appropriate activities is crucial, and these ships deliver.

Here, shore excursions range from snorkeling alongside vibrant sea life to exploring ancient Mayan ruins. Imagine basking in the sun on the famous Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman or riding horseback along the shores of Jamaica—these experiences are easily within reach. Galveston has established itself as a premier cruise port, enticing travelers with its blend of Southern charm and strategic location. I’ve seen Galveston’s port grow over the years, enhancing its facilities to ensure every passenger’s experience is seamless and enjoyable before they embark on their sea voyage. Your cruise itinerary will be filled with visits to the restaurants, sports bars, mini golf course and the water parks. Unlike the other prominent cruise lines that depart from Galveston, the Regal Princess primarily caters to a different demographic.

Another popular 7-day route that runs regularly throughout the year, this cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas stops in three major cruise ports that are popular with passengers. This cruise takes you from Galveston to Costa Maya, Mexico and then to Cozumel aboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas. These are two fun ports that have a lot to do, particularly for families. As well, Adventure of the Seas is an upgrade over the smaller second ship that used to be ported by Royal Caribbean in Galveston. This upscale approach is evident in the ship's impressive variety of suites, totaling 13 categories, including the largest three-bedroom suites on any recently unveiled cruise vessel. If you're looking for lavish accommodations and have the budget to match, Norwegian Prima offers numerous options.

Best Cruise Ships: Discover Our Top Rated Ships

Table Of Content

• What Are The Top 5 Royal Caribbean Ships?
• Vision of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Rhapsody of the Seas

Also, the entertainment has room for improvement, different guests asked for more diverse options and some more engaging entertainment alternatives. In the end, this ship features a mix of traditional and upgraded amenities, often compensated by the great helpfulness of the on-board staff. Adventure of the Seas still delivers quite a good cruising experience despite being an older ship. On the other hand, some passengers think that the Serenade is a bit too small and its offerings are somewhat outdated considering that it was last renovated in 2012.

What Are The Top 5 Royal Caribbean Ships?

For a different kind of thrill, try the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, which gives you the sensation of free falling. The other Voyager Class ships move around a bit more, offering cruises around the world. Adventure of the Seas will sail from Galveston and Bayonne in the winter, in addition to cruises in Europe from Copenhagen and Stockholm in the summer. There are plenty of other additions to both vessels, including hibachi on Mariner and Hooked Seafood specialty restaurant on Navigator.

Vision of the Seas

A few guests said that too many rooms have limited balcony views and that their TV had sound quality problems. For families, this ship provides some very good age-appropriate activities and areas. For example, for kids ranging from 6 months to 17 years old, there’s a Science Lab for hands-on experiments and exclusive teen areas like The Living Room and Fuel Teen Disco.

Oasis of the Seas

While the ship is overwhelmingly popular in reviews, there are a couple of negative comments that mention a lack of organisation – long waits for tables or bar service, and poor communication. These are in the minority, and for the most part, Royal seems to handle the staffing of this massive ship well. Instead, I’ve looked at the reviews of all the ships from three of the biggest independent cruise websites – Cruise Critic, Cruiseline.com and TripAdvisor.

Rhapsody of the Seas

In this article, we’re going to look at the best and worst Royal Caribbean ships. Be sure to join my email list for my best cruise tips and handpicked deals each week. Remember that there isn’t really a single ‘best’ ship because that depends on what you want from your cruise. So there you have it – every current Royal Caribbean ship ranked, and recommendations for the best ship depending on what you’re looking for from your cruise. She has been refurbished, but there are still signs she’s an older ship – particularly in the lack of modern soundproofing, which means engine noises can be heard more throughout the ship. Rooms could do with some quality updates, including things we take for granted now like USB ports, while the shows are a little more traditional and could be better.

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If the Music Hall is too noisy for chatting up other solos, head to the sometimes quieter Schooner Bar. Explorer of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship launched by Royal Caribbean in 2000. It offers a variety of activities and experiences suited for every generation, therefore I think it could be a good choice for people looking for fun and relaxation at the same time. She may be one of the better Royal Caribbean ships for adults, though many still prefer the bars and restaurants on newer ships too. One of the most versatile cruise ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet, the Freedom Class vessels combine large size with lots to do onboard. In fact, the Freedom Class ships have been upgraded in the last few years with waterslides and other new features onboard.

Jewel of the Seas

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It was launched only in 2022 and is one of the newest and largest ships in the entire fleet. Despite its many amenities, the Navigator of the Seas isn’t without its drawbacks. While the ship includes some modern features like virtual balconies in inside cabins, it lacks quieter, more peaceful spaces, like spacious adult-only areas. Some passengers said that the embarkation process was a bit too slow and a few of them recommended adding The Key program which offers early boarding among other benefits.

Odyssey of the Seas

Spectrum of the Seas mostly sails in the Asia-Pacific region, offering departures from Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Singapore to various destinations in Asia. Moreover, it may show some signs of aging but I personally like the diverse destinations that this ship offers. Some feedback indicates the ship could feel full, especially when traveling with many children, and that this can affect the enjoyment of amenities like pools and hot tubs. It can accommodate a bit more than 3,800 guests and has a gross tonnage of 138,194 tons.

Royal Caribbean Ships Ranked From Best To Worst

It is an old ship (launched in 2002) but the entertainment and the activities that are included make it feel like a modern cruise ship. Families particularly enjoyed the wide range of activities available, and many reviewers recommend taking advantage of the drink packages offered by Royal Caribbean for a better experience with kids. The only downside I found was that the food that was a bit too repetitive, and there were not enough varieties of pasta (but this is from an Italian’s point of view). However, like the previous one, some passengers note the ship’s size can make it feel crowded at times, and a few people also mentioned that the bathrooms are a bit too small in certain cabins.

Moreover, many passengers were disappointed by the absence of an Izumi restaurant, as this Japanese specialty dining option is a favorite on many other Royal Caribbean ships. As you can imagine, Icon of the Seas is packed with thrilling attractions and entertainment options. Mariner focuses primarily on Caribbean destinations so it offers only limited ports and short cruises. Like the previous ships, most of the critics talk about the level of crowdedness. A few guests said that it may ruin the experience for guests looking for a more intimate atmosphere. Allure is also considered one of the best ships for families thanks to the children’s programs and family-friendly activities.

Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas sail to Alaska in the summer, and then spend the other part of the year in Australia. Royal Caribbean is positioning Icon of the Seas to be a game changer for families, and it has enough onboard to rival any land resort. Narrowing down the best ship means finding the right ship for you, depending on your personal tastes, budget and who is cruising with you.

She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays. The nicest Royal Caribbean ship depends on your definition of “nice”, which is absolutely subjective. The most modern, and therefore the ship in the best condition, is currently Icon of the Seas. Mariner of the Seas could also be the nicest – it combines the fun Royal Caribbean experience with a calmer atmosphere.

Symphony of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship and scores highly thanks to the amazing range of activities on offer, including some that are more musically themed in the spirit of the ship’s name. So let’s find out – here are the Royal Caribbean cruise ships ranked from best to worst, which isn’t necessarily the same ranking as the newest Royal Caribbean ships to the oldest. Harmony of the Seas sets sail from Galveston and Miami, taking cruisers to the Caribbean on four- to eight-night sailings.

Since it’s very modern, a lot of the guests are fascinated by the innovative experiences such as the North Star, which lifts guests over 300 feet above sea level, and Ripcord by iFly, a skydiving simulator. Very positive reviews also for Broadway-style musicals like CATS and Grease and all the entertainment options in general. Well, a lot of passengers love that it is divided into neighborhoods like Central Park and the Boardwalk because it provides a unique experience while at sea. Moreover, the quality of food and variety of options have received high marks from passengers. Most of the guests liked the big selection of restaurants and cafes, which satisfy all tastes. Looking at the reviews, the reason it scored lower seems to be some recurring ship problems leading to cancelled excursions – and with Quantum sailing Alaska, the excursions play a huge part in the experience.