In 2024, more than 1.5 million cruise passengers sailed through the Port of Galveston. Although it isn't the world's busiest cruise port, it continues to see steady growth in passenger traffic and will even welcome a mega Icon Class ship in 2027.
However, unlike Miami or Fort Lauderdale, the closest airport isn't a few minutes down the road. Consequently, those who are flying to Texas to cruise out of Galveston must plan for a longer transfer.
Two airports are within 75 miles of the Port of Galveston: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). While the George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is the largest with the most flight options, it is not the closest airport to Galveston, Texas.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about the Port of Galveston, from the nearby airports to convenient hotels, parking, and more.
What cruise lines sail out of Galveston?
Six cruise lines call Galveston, Texas, home:
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean International
- Disney Cruise Line
- Princess Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- MSC Cruises
Many ships that sail from Galveston are newer, including Carnival Jubilee, Norwegian Viva, and MSC Seascape. That said, one of the most exciting additions to Galveston's lineup is Icon of the Seas in 2027. It will be the first time an Icon Class ship has ever homeported in the U.S. outside of Florida.
Most voyages from Galveston sail to the Western Caribbean. However, you can also find select cruises to The Bahamas. For example, Carnival Dream frequently sails to The Bahamas, calling at ports like Celebration Key, Nassau, Half Moon Cay, and even Key West, Florida.
Read more: Look out, Florida! This Texas port is poised to become a top cruise spot
Does Galveston have an airport?
Technically, yes. The Scholes International Airport (GLS) is located on Galveston Island. That said, it isn't a commercial airport. As such, you won't find any flights to GLS on major carriers like American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or United Airlines.
Rather, GLS is a general aviation reliever airport, meaning that it helps meet the needs of businesses, private pilots, and aviation enthusiasts.
If you're taking a cruise out of Galveston, you'll have to fly into either George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
IAH is the larger of the two and is one of the primary passenger hubs for United Airlines. However, it is farther than HOU, coming in at over 70 miles from the Port of Galveston. Other U.S.-based carriers that fly to IAH include:
- American Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Delta Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- JetBlue
- Spirit Airlines
Many international airlines also offer flights to IAH, making it a convenient option for travelers coming from outside the U.S.
HOU, on the other hand, is smaller but closer to Galveston. Regional flight options may be more limited depending on where you're coming from, with Southwest Airlines dominating the airport. Along with Southwest, you'll find these airlines offering flights to and from HOU:
- Allegiant Air
- American Airlines
- Delta Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- Sun Country Airlines
Drive time to Galveston from HOU takes approximately 45 minutes — depending on traffic. Conversely, the drive from IAH is longer, coming in at around 50 to 60 minutes.
How to get from Houston to Galveston?
You can hire an Uber or Lyft to the Port of Galveston, but the price varies depending on the originating airport, traffic, demand, and vehicle size. It's not uncommon to see fares as expensive as $70 to $140 for a one-way ride. That said, rides from IAH are generally more expensive since the airport is further from the island.
If you don't want to gamble with the unpredictability of rideshare services, you can book a shared shuttle from either IAH or HOU. Galveston Express, which offers rides from IAH and HOU, is a reputable operator that is reasonably priced. Shared round-trip service from either airport costs $70 to $75 per person. Private transfers come in at around $400 per way.
Depending on how many you have in your travel party, a shared shuttle may be more expensive than a rideshare. If you are worried about availability, you can always pre-book an Uber or Lyft through the app the day before you plan on arriving.
Hotels near the Galveston cruise port
Because Galveston is a tourist destination in and of itself, you won't find a shortage of hotels on the island, ranging from budget accommodations to beachside luxury resorts.
For those who want a hotel that's close to the port but also within walking distance of local restaurants, Harbor House is a top pick. They provide complimentary transportation to guests who leave their car parked on-site during the cruise. If you are not driving, you can still pre-arrange a shuttle to the Port of Galveston for $15 per person.
The Tremont House is another convenient, downtown option. Located in the heart of the renowned Strand District of Galveston, the hotel puts you within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, while blending historic charm with modern amenities.
Port of Galveston cruise parking
The Port of Galveston is located at 123 Rosenberg Street, Galveston, Texas, 77550. However, it is important to check the website to see if there are any route adjustments for your specific terminal due to construction in the area.
If you're coming from the East, you will need to take Interstate 10 West and then Highway 87 South. The Bolivar Ferry will take you across to Galveston Island, where you'll see clear signage to the port.
Cruisers coming from the North or West can take Interstate 45 South directly to Galveston Island and follow Harborside Drive all the way to the port.
Thankfully, the port's website makes it easy to pre-book parking reservations if you want to keep your car in the convenient and secure lots. Rates start at around $205 for a 7-night cruise in one of the uncovered lots and increase to nearly $275 for the covered garage.
You can save money on your Port of Galveston parking by checking the port's Facebook page for discount codes. For example, in March 2026, the port offered $5 off parking with the code "LUCKY26."
Another option is to park off-site. EZ Parking Galveston is a third-party lot that has good ratings. Located just two blocks from the cruise terminal with a complimentary shuttle, rates are more affordable than on-site parking, starting at $200 for covered parking for a weeklong cruise.
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Having sailed on over 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, Margaritaville at Sea, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
In addition to writing for Cruise.Blog, Elizabeth has bylines in Business Insider, Royal Caribbean Blog, and Cruiseshipfood.com.
