Caribbean Cruising from Galveston, Texas

Cruise Lines Departing from Galveston 🚢

The Port of Galveston is home to several world-class cruise lines, each offering exciting itineraries for every type of traveler:

Whether you’re cruising for three nights or ten, Galveston’s port offers easy parking, efficient check-in, and pre-cruise excitement just minutes from our front door.

🌴 Popular Galveston Cruise Destinations

Most Galveston cruises explore the Western Caribbean — sun-soaked stops known for beaches, reefs, and cultural charm:

• Cozumel, Mexico: Crystal-clear snorkeling, shopping, and authentic tacos.
• Costa Maya: Mayan ruins and relaxing beach clubs.
• Roatán, Honduras: Pristine reefs and jungle adventures.
• Belize City: Cave tubing, ziplining, and local cuisine.

A few itineraries extend to Jamaica or the Cayman Islands — ideal for longer sailings.

Facebook Groups for Galveston Cruise Prep

Joining a Facebook group for your specific ship or sailing date is one of the best ways to prepare. Guests share tips, excursions, and even organize meetups. Search for:

• “Mariner of the Seas Cruise Group” (look for your sailing date)
• “Carnival Jubilee Cruisers 2025/2026”
• “Disney Magic Cruisers from Galveston”
• “Royal Caribbean Cruise Tips and Tricks”

These groups are friendly, informative, and a great place to meet fellow travelers long before embarkation day.

🧴 Ultimate Galveston Cruise Packing List

Whether you’re sailing to the Caribbean, Mexico, or beyond, this all-in-one cruise packing checklist will help you stay organized, relaxed, and ready for adventure out of Galveston!

Travel Essentials

• Passport or birth certificate and government-issued photo ID
• Cruise documents and luggage tags
• Travel insurance details
• Boarding passes (printed or mobile)
• Credit cards, small bills, and gratuity cash
• Health insurance card and emergency contacts
• Luggage locks and luggage tag holders
• Reusable water bottle and small day bag

Clothing

• Casual daytime outfits (shorts, tanks, sundresses, tees)
• Evening outfits for dinners or shows
• Formal or semi-formal attire for one ‘dress night’
• Light jacket or cardigan (ships can get cool inside)
• Sleepwear and undergarments
• Swimwear (2–3 suits) and cover-ups
• Flip-flops, sandals, and comfortable walking shoes
• Hat, sunglasses, and lightweight scarf

Toiletries & Health

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash
• Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Razor and shaving cream
• Deodorant, perfume/cologne
• Hairbrush, hair ties, and styling products
• Makeup and skincare essentials
• Sunscreen (reef-safe) and aloe vera gel
• Motion sickness meds (Dramamine, patches, etc.)
• Pain reliever, allergy meds, and first-aid kit

Beach & Pool Gear

• Beach bag and towel clips
• Snorkel gear (optional)
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Sun hat and rash guard
• Portable fan or cooling towel
• Book, Kindle, or magazine

Electronics & Accessories

• Phone and charger
• Portable power bank
• Camera and memory card
• Cruise-approved power strip (no surge protector)
• Headphones or earbuds
• Nightlight for cabin
• Travel alarm clock or smartwatch

Cabin Comforts

• Magnetic hooks for wall storage
• Over-the-door shoe organizer for toiletries
• Laundry bag or pop-up hamper
• Ziploc bags for wet clothes
• Air freshener or fabric spray
• Refillable mug or tumbler

Optional Items

• Binoculars for ocean views
• Travel games or cards
• Reusable straw or cutlery
• Small backpack or crossbody bag for excursions
• Light snacks for travel days
• Copy of itinerary and emergency contacts

Pro tip: Pack a small “embarkation day” bag with swimwear, sunscreen, and valuables — checked luggage can take several hours to reach your cabin.

🚗 Galveston Cruise Port Transportation

If you’re flying into Houston, Hobby Airport (HOU) is the closest — about an hour away — with several direct cruise shuttles. George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is about 90 minutes away.

The Galveston Cruise Terminal is conveniently located about 10 minutes from White Magnolia Galveston. Guests often:

• Take a short Uber or Lyft ride to the port.
• Use Island Breeze or Galveston Express shuttle services.
• Park in long-term lots near Harborside Drive (reserve early for best rates).
• Park by White Magnolia . While White Magnolia does not have private, secured parking there is free street level public parking next to the property. Normal safety precautions apply including locked car doors and keeping no valuables in the vehicle.

🏡 Stay at White Magnolia Before or After Your Cruise

Make your cruise even more relaxing by arriving in Galveston a day early. White Magnolia Galveston offers spacious accommodations, on property parking (during your stay), and a peaceful retreat just minutes from the terminal. Guests enjoy complimentary treats from our in-house White Magnolia Bread Company and the comfort of home before or after their sailing.

Skip the stress of early travel — book your pre- or post-cruise stay directly on our site for the best rates and the most personalized experience.