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$16 Car Rental Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal, TX

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Top Hotels in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal

  • The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
  • Harbor House at Pier 21
  • Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall
  • Wingate by Wyndham Galveston East Beach
  • The Mansion on 17th
  • The 1890 Freeman House
  • Historic Loft in the Heart of Downtown Galveston
  • Enjoy a Night at the Galveston Museum aboard the Historic Bonnie Brook Rail Car
  • Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection

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Galveston Port Transportation

Last updated on January 31st, 2024 at 04:08 pm

Convenient shuttle services and taxis are available to transport passengers to the Galveston cruise terminal from nearby airports and hotels. Local transportation options, such as rental cars and rideshare services, provide easy access to explore the city's attractions and reach the cruise port hassle-free.

What is the closest airport to the Galveston Cruise Port?

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Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal car rentals

On your next trip to Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal, don’t build your exploring around public transportation schedules. Instead, rent a car in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal and venture out whenever and wherever you like.

Benefits of renting a car

Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, picking up a cheap rental car in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal will help you see things at your own pace. Visit various attractions and go sightseeing at will instead of forking out money on rideshares or figuring out which bus or train connections you’ll need to make. You can even go on a road trip and see what the area around Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal has to offer.

Jazz up your getaway

Car rental companies make it easy to pick out the perfect set of wheels for your trip. Need to impress some company higher-ups? Request a luxury vehicle with leather seats and surround sound. Want to cart the entire family around? An SUV or minivan will hold everyone in safety and comfort. Traveling by yourself or with your sweetheart? Pull out all the stops with a sports car and step on the gas. We can almost feel the wind in your hair!

Comfort and convenience

Book a rental car from Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal Airport and start your adventure as soon as you land. There’s no need to scour car rental company websites to find your best ride. Instead, rent a car in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal from Travelocity and save money while you do.

Car Rental Locations of Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal

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Popular port of galveston cruise terminal hotels.

  • The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
  • Harbor House at Pier 21
  • Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall
  • Wingate by Wyndham Galveston East Beach
  • The Mansion on 17th
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  • Enjoy a Night at the Galveston Museum aboard the Historic Bonnie Brook Rail Car
  • Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection

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Nearby Airport Car Rentals in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal

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Top Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal Hotels

  • The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
  • Harbor House at Pier 21
  • Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall
  • Wingate by Wyndham Galveston East Beach
  • The Mansion on 17th
  • The 1890 Freeman House
  • Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection
  • The Mariner
  • The George Manor
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Galveston Beach
  • Hotel Lucine
  • Gaido's Seaside Inn

Visiting Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal

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Top Hotels in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal

  • The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
  • Harbor House at Pier 21
  • Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall
  • Wingate by Wyndham Galveston East Beach
  • The Mansion on 17th
  • The 1890 Freeman House
  • Historic Loft in the Heart of Downtown Galveston
  • Enjoy a Night at the Galveston Museum aboard the Historic Bonnie Brook Rail Car
  • Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection

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6 Easy Houston to Galveston Cruise Transport Options (Uber, Shuttles, Taxis, & More)

Heading from Houston to Galveston for a cruise? You’re not alone.

Roughly two decades ago Galveston wasn’t even a cruise port. It served only as an industrial port. Today it’s the busiest port for cruise traffic outside of Florida. Now, each year more than a million passengers embark from the island.

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Many of those people fly into Houston from all around the United States to set sail. What surprises many of them is that Galveston is actually quite far from the Houston airports.

In fact, the cruise port is about 40 miles from Houston Hobby (HOU) and about 70 miles from Bush Intercontinental (IAH) . Depending on traffic, it can take 1-2 hours to get from the airport to the cruise port.

The good news is that a number of services offer transportation between the airport and the cruise port.

The bad news? There’s no “cheap” way to get back and forth . Plan to spend at least $100 round-trip, depending on how large your group is and which airport you fly into.

We’ve outlined all your options below.

In This Article...

Houston to Galveston Cruise Transportation Options

So which method of getting to the port is right for you? Here is more information and our suggestions.

Rideshare | Uber & Lyft (Recommended)

For most people, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft makes the most sense on getting to Galveston. You can request a car when you arrive at the airport, and it’s a fast, easy way to make your way to the island. It’s also one of your cheapest options, unless you are traveling solo.

Estimated fares from Hobby are in the $120 range, round trip. If you are flying into Bush Intercontinental on the north side of Houston, the estimated fare is $160 round trip. The price you pay (and the length of your ride) will often depend on traffic along I-45 to Galveston.

Keep in mind that this price is for up to four people in a single car — not per person. There are also larger cars available if traveling with a larger group or if you have a lot of luggage. Uber and Lyft serve both of the Houston airports and can drop-off/pick-up at the Galveston cruise terminals, so you can be let out and picked up right at the ship.

Note : If you are new to Uber or Lyft and plan to use them, you should download the app before you leave home for the cruise port. There is some account setup that you’ll need to do, and you don’t want to try to do this at the airport after you arrive.

Independent Shuttles (Recommended)

Seeing a need in the market, a number of shuttle services have popped up that provide rides to and from the Houston airports and the Galveston cruise port. While other options are cheaper for most parties, if you are traveling with a larger group then the shuttles can be a deal.

Expect to pay around $65 to $95 round trip, per person . It’s obviously a little more expensive to get to Galveston from Intercontinental compared to Hobby given the greater distance.

Galveston Express : Offers both shared or private service between the airports and the cruise ship. The cheapest option is shared service, costing $65 per person round trip from Houston Hobby and $75 round trip from Bush Intercontinental. There is a $5 discount if you are a senior (55+) or for children under 10 years old.

Galveston Limousine : This company has limousine in the name, but does offer shared service from the airports to Galveston, departing roughly every hour. Book online ahead of time and the rate is $56 round trip per person from Hobby and from Bush Intercontinental (normal rates are $100/$120). That discounted rate makes this company the cheapest among the independent shuttles.

Island Breeze Shuttle : This shuttle service charges rates of $150 round trip for two passengers between Hobby and the cruise ship. Additional passengers cost extra. Rates run $190 for two passengers needing transport from Intercontinental on the north side of Houston. Want to save a little money? The company has discounts for seniors ($5 off) and for military (10%) if booking round trip.

Taxi cabs at Port of Galveston

Traditional taxi cabs are widely available at Houston airports. Rates for a round trip between Bush Intercontinental Airport is between $370 based on signage at the port. If you fly into Houston Hobby, which is considerably closer to Galveston, the rates is about $220 round trip.

These rates are higher than many other services but keep in mind that several people can ride for that price. This can make taxi cabs cheaper than some shuttles on a per-person basis. As well, you have the flexibility to make stops on the way to the port to pick up any last-minute items you might have forgot. You also don’t have to wait for a shuttle to fill up or share your ride with anyone else.

Cruise Line Transfer Shuttles

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Cruise lines offer services that will pick you up at the airport and take you to the cruise ship (and vice versa when it’s time to go home).

The benefit is that you are in no danger of missing the ship. If there is traffic or a breakdown, the cruise ship won’t leave without the passengers taking its cruise transfer service. Still, it’s rare that the issue ever comes up, and in our opinion isn’t worth taking a cruise line transfer to the port.

Transfers provided by the cruise line are restrictive and expensive. For one, they only leave at certain times. You may have to wait on the bus at the airport until it’s ready to depart. As well, it’s a direct ride to the cruise port. If you need to stop off on the way to the ship to get some last-minute items, that’s not possible.

In addition, rides are available only on the day of your cruise. If you fly in a day early for your cruise, then you’ll need to find other transportation.

Finally, there is the cost. For example, Carnival charges $42/$59 each way between Hobby/Intercontinental. Other cruise lines charge similar rates. A family of four traveling back and forth between Intercontinental and the Galveston cruise port will spend $472 just getting to and from their cruise from Bush-Intercontinental.

For that reason, we suggest other modes of transportation from to Galveston, unless you are traveling in a small group .

If you still want to know about transfers from your cruise line, simply click on the name of your line to see their options:   Carnival | Royal Caribbean | Disney | NCL

Other Services (Car Rentals | Private Cars)

Car Rentals: Want to have the freedom to explore Galveston on your own? A car rental is a good idea. This way you always have transportation — including from the airport to the Galveston cruise port.

Only Enterprise has a lot on the island, so you will need to rent with them if you plan to drop the car off in Galveston. However, sometimes they won’t allow one-way rentals from the airport (it still doesn’t hurt to check).

Every major car rental company is at the Houston airports. If you can find a decent rate, it’s possible to rent the car for the entire length of your cruise and just pay to park during your trip ( parking costs start around $100 per week ).

You can search for rental cars to the island below:

galveston cruise port rental car

There are dozens of services that provide private cars, and costs can range from $150 round trip to several hundred dollars , depending on the car you wish to use. While the headline price may be higher, it is often cheaper to go this route when dealing with larger parties.

We can’t list all of the private services, but what follows are some of the more popular ones. If you search around, you might find others that have lower prices for the specific level of service you’re looking for.

Companies offering transfers from Houston airports to the Galveston terminal: Galveston Shuttle , Karr Limousine ,  Elite Limousines , Elite Town Car Services .

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get from the airports to the Galveston cruise port? As we mentioned above, both Intercontinental (IAH) and Houston Hobby (HOU) are a considerable distance from Galveston. In good conditions it takes about 1.5 hours to get from Intercontinental to the island and 45 minutes from Hobby to the cruise port.

We suggest allowing at least two hours and one hour in travel time between the two airports and the cruise port, respectively, to allow for traffic.

What’s the cheapest way to get from Houston to Galveston? The absolute cheapest way to get from Houston to Galveston depends on the number of people you are traveling with. If traveling solo, then taking an independent shuttle that charges per person will be the least expensive way between the airport and cruise port.

However, most people travel with between 2-4 people. In that case, Uber or Lyft will offer the lowest rates as they charge by the car, not by the person. You can fit several people in the same car for the same price. They also have the advantage of being available on call, instead of waiting for a shuttle to depart.

Is there public transportation between Houston and the Galveston cruise port? While the Houston/Galveston metro area is home to millions, public transportation options are practically non-existent. There is no viable public option to get from the airports to the cruise ships and vice versa. You’ll need to use a service like those listed above to get to your cruise.

More on Cruising From Galveston

Galveston Cruise Parking   —  Driving to the port? Not sure where to park? We prices and profiles of all the lots near the cruise terminal.

Galveston Park & Cruise Hotels — Getting in late? Leaving early? Simply need a place to rest your head? We’ve rounded up the options for places to stay near the port, including those with park and cruise packages.

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Hello, We are sailing on March 31 and arriving at IAH on March 30th. We are a family of four with 17 year old boy/girl twins plus one is bringing a friend for a grand total of 5. We arrive at IAH at 11:00pm. Considering the late arrival we thought it would be best to stay near the airport and travel to Galveston in the AM. We are looking for a hotel that has a shuttle from the airport to the hotel after 11:30pm (many indicate that the last shuttle is 11 or 11:30 which I don’t think we will make in time). We also don’t know if we should get two rooms (1 for the 3 boys (guys) and one for the two girls (ladies)). We don’t have a budget but want a reasonable price. It would be nice if it had a pool but not necessary since we will likely only sleep there for a few hours and leave. Decent beds and cleanliness is a must. Any hotel recommendations? Secondly, we are hoping to take an uber or lyft from the hotel to the port. Do you think we will find transportation that will fit 5 people with 5 full size suitcases and at least 3 carryons? Thank you!

There is a hotel at IAH (Marriott) if you can’t find a hotel with shuttle at that time of night. Honestly, there are so many hotels around IAH that someone has to have a 24-hour shuttle if you call around.

Regarding Uber/Lyft, five people is no issue with the “XL” services, but 8 bags is a lot to bring. I don’t know that even a large SUV would carry that much. I’d suggest breaking that into two different cars. There are also the shuttle services that might make things easier. You’ll have to catch them from the airport, but if you end up staying at the onsite hotel, that’s no big deal.

We will arrive to Houston early. We will plan to Uber/Lyft with our family of 5. We will have lots of bags for a 1 week cruise. I am curious if it’s possible to leave our luggage somewhere and go enjoy the pier area at Galveston while waiting to board our ship? Has anyone ever done this? Would this require another Uber back to the cruise port after we’ve enjoyed the pier area or is it walking distance? Thanks.

There is a spot where you can store bags by the port called The Cruise Stop ( https://thecruisestoponline.com/ ). Not sure what you’re calling the “pier area” as there is the Strand which is near the cruise piers. The Cruise Stop is right there as well.

There’s also the Pleasure Pier on the Seawall, which is across the island. In that case, you would need an Uber to get back and forth.

It was Pleasure Pier I was thinking of. I was thinking we could Uber from the airport, drop our bags at the Cruise Stop then have the Uber take us down to Pleasure Pier until closer to time to board the ship. Then we’d need to Uber back to the ship. That would be pretty cheap from Pleasure Pier correct? Please let me know if I’m understanding correctly as that’s likely what we will do. Thanks of your reply!

Yes, sounds good. Should not be much to get across to the Pleasure Pier. It’s a short ride but too far to walk.

We are planning to arrive in Houston and rent a car to drive to Galveston the day before our cruise. We are planning to take Uber from the hotel to the port and when we return from the cruise we were planning to take Uber to a rental car place and drive back to Houston or take Uber from the port to the airport. Does that sound reasonable or do you have a better idea? Thanks

Just depends on the cost you’re paying for the rentals. If it’s less than an Uber from Houston to Galveston, then good idea (or if you are going to used a rental car for exploring a bit).

If the cost is similar and you’re just going straight to/from the port, we’d prefer to just Uber or take a shuttle so that you don’t have to worry about dealing with a rental or driving.

I arrive at Houston international on Nov. 26 with my wife. Our cruise leaves on Nov.27. We have a hotel reserved in Galveston. Best opition traveling from airport to our hotel the night before. Would like to spend less than $100 for a one way trip. Any ideas

One of the shuttle companies that provides rides to hotels or Uber/Lyft is what I’d suggest.

What do you think the chances are of making a flight departure time of 10:18 AM out of IAH from a Cruise that is supposed to end at 7AM? Thanks.

I think that’s cutting it too close. It’s at least 90 minutes to the airport given the distance. And just because the ship returns at 7 a.m. doesn’t mean that people are allowed to disembark at that time.

Thanks. And I suppose it be about the opposite of “stress free” even if one was able to somehow pull it off.

I read your “Galveston Cruise Terminal 10 Sailing Guide” (very helpful). In it you said: “You should know that Lyft is allowed to pick up at the terminal, but Uber is not.”

Based on your response to Pamela, is this still the case or has that changed?

That’s my understanding!

Basic shuttle transfer.

IAH to terminal 3 Sunday 4th December

Return to IAH 11th December for 2 adults

Hi! My boyfriend and I are leaving for our cruise with RC in two days. We booked our flight through the cruise line and it comes with complimentary shuttle service. Do you know what terminal that royal shuttle service uses at the Houston (IAH) airport? Our flight gets to Texas at 10:56 AM so we want to make sure we know where we are going and are quick!

Not sure on that one. Did the cruise line not send some information regarding transportation or a phone number to call when you arrive?

Arriving at IAH airport the day before the cruise. We would like to be stay in Galveston the night before the cruise to be close. any suggestions for a reasonable hotel for 6 people. 3 REAL adults, and 3 teenage grandkids,

Check out our hotel pages for Galveston. Not sure of your budget but keep in mind that rates are higher on most weekends!

My husband and I will be cruising in Feb. 2022 from Galveston. I have very limited mobility in my left hip and use a walker to help me get around. We are spending the night before the cruise in a hotel in Galveston where we can also leave our car during the cruise. I need to know if Uber and/or Lyft can pick us up at the hotel and take us to the area at cruise Terminal 2 where the Porters can take our luggage. I’ve researched the shuttles hotels use and they drop you off at certain places and then you have to manage getting your luggage to the area where the Porters are. That won’t work for us because my husband can’t handle getting all the luggage to the Porter area by himself. Thank you for assisting us with your answer.

Yes, Uber/Lyft should be able to drop you off right at the terminal. Many shuttles are charged by the port for access, meaning it costs money to drop you off right at the terminal. To our knowledge this doesn’t apply to rideshare or personal vehicles.

Thank you so much for the time you took to list all of the very useful information. Just one quick question. We fly in a day early, are there any hotels close around you would recommend? Thank you, Kristina and Bobby

Flying in early is always a good idea. Not sure of your budget, but any of the name-brand hotels on the island should be fine. If you want something high-end, look at the Tremont House (right by the cruise port) or Hotel Galvez (Seawall). Both are historic local hotels that many people love.

Your prices are off. Shuttle to Galveston around $30 per person vice $60

Hi! What company did you use that was $30.00 per person?

Would you share what company you used?

I would like to use Uber or Lyft from Hobby airport to Galveston for cruise. I have an original I phone and it won’t let me download their apps. What else can I do?

Unfortunately you have to download the app. Are you traveling with another person? Can they download on their phone?

Thanks for sharing this. Any updates on using Uber here? I know sometimes the dropoff at the Houston airport is challenging because they’d rather give the space to the cabs. Curious if the dropoff is any better?

how do i request a uber to pick me up from ship ahead of time , so i know who is picking me up and what they drive

For rideshare, you can request a ride ahead of time. Directions for Uber are here: https://help.uber.com/h/63165ec1-0910-409e-972f-0b8d8df1a605

Directions for Lyft are here: https://help.lyft.com/hc/en-us/articles/115013078668-Scheduled-rides-for-passengers

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Galveston cruise port: A guide to cruising from Texas

Melinda Crow

The Port of Galveston is the fourth-most-popular cruise home port in the U.S., having hosted 1.49 million cruise passengers in 2023.

While that's still a small number compared to the Florida ports ( Miami , Port Canaveral near Orlando and Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades ), the Port of Galveston continues to grow. The ships are getting bigger, cruise lines are expanding the itineraries they offer from Galveston and, in 2025, MSC Cruises will begin homeporting in Galveston with the introduction of year-round sailings on MSC Seascape . The total number of ship calls on the port's 2024 calendar is 388.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Most cruises from Galveston visit the Western Caribbean destinations of Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Belize; Jamaica; and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. However, you can find other options; for example, Carnival Cruise Line offers longer sailings (up to 14 nights) that include Eastern and Southern Caribbean ports.

Galveston itself is a beach destination worth spending time in either pre- or post-cruise, with a variety of hotel choices ranging from economy to luxury to historic. Families can find plenty to enjoy, and adults can enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

Galveston cruise port overview

galveston cruise port rental car

Port of Galveston cruise terminal information

Terminals 25 and 28: 2502 Harborside Dr., Galveston, Texas 77550

Terminal 10: 1028 Harborside Dr., Galveston, Texas 77550

Terminal 16: 1401 Harborside Dr., Galveston, Texas 77550 (tentative address)

Number of terminals: Four (as of 2025)

Cruise lines sailing from the Port of Galveston

galveston cruise port rental car

Terminal 10

Royal Caribbean bases three ships here, offering a mix of eight-night Bahamas cruises, which visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, and four- to eight-night cruises primarily in the Western Caribbean.

Terminal 16 (opening in November 2025)

MSC Cruises will base MSC Seascape year-round at a new terminal in Galveston. The ship will sail to the Western Caribbean, visiting Cozumel, Roatan and Mexico's Costa Maya.

Terminals 25 and 28

Multiple cruise lines share terminals 25 and 28. Carnival rotates a fleet of four ships year-round in Galveston, including the line's Texas flagship, Carnival Jubilee . The fleet offers four- to 14-night cruises throughout Mexico, the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Princess Cruises sails seasonally from Galveston, offering four- to 11-night cruises in the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Norwegian Cruise Line rotates a variety of ships seasonally through the Port of Galveston, offering seven- to 14-night sailings throughout the Caribbean, including visits to the line's private island, Harvest Caye, in Belize. Norwegian also sometimes offers one-way cruises from Galveston on point-to-point sailings to other destinations like Central and South America.

Disney Magic runs seasonally from Galveston, offering four- to six-night Western Caribbean itineraries.

You can find full calendars for the port on its website.

Closest airports to the Galveston cruise port

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is in north Houston, approximately 71 miles from the Port of Galveston. Airlines that fly to IAH include United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines and Alaska Airlines. Delta fans can save with the airline's annual companion certificate via its American Express-branded credit cards.

IAH is a United hub, with airline-branded lounges in four of the five terminals, including a Polaris Lounge in Terminal E. Terminal D at IAH features an Amex Centurion Lounge with access for holders of The Platinum Card® from American Express .

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is a bit closer to the port (41 miles) but is served by fewer airlines. Look for flights on Southwest Airlines, Jet Blue, American and Delta. Southwest offers the opportunity to fly two-for-one with the Southwest Companion Pass .

Houston Hobby lacks luxury lounges, but does have a Gameway gaming lounge, with access available to Priority Pass members via a selection of credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

How to get to the Port of Galveston

galveston cruise port rental car

Cruisers have multiple options for getting to the Port of Galveston, including:

The port of Galveston is on a coastal barrier island south of the city of Houston. The main highway into Galveston is Interstate Highway 45. It is possible to arrive from the east using the Port Bolivar car ferry, but the potential for ferry delays often outweighs the extra driving time it takes to go around the bay to reach the I-45 bridge.

Car rentals between IAH or HOU and Galveston

Currently, only Enterprise offers rental drop-offs in Galveston. With one-way fees and fuel, a midsize car or SUV could cost $200 for an overnight rental. This option gains value if your travel group has plans for exploring a bit pre- or post-cruise. You'll still need transportation from the Enterprise facility to the port, a distance of roughly 3 1/2 miles.

Cruise line airport transfers

You can travel from either Houston airport to the Port of Galveston on embarkation day via transfers prepurchased from the cruise lines. These are usually offered to passengers who buy air through the cruise line, but even those who book independently can call to make the purchase.

Carnival has instructions online for booking transfers from Houston airports, including flight timing restrictions. The cost is currently $58.99 per person from IAH and $41.99 per person from HOU. Return transfers would be similarly priced.

Related: Should I book my flight through my cruise line?

Independent airport shuttles from Houston airports to the cruise port

Local companies operate shuttle services between both Houston airports and Galveston, either to the cruise port or to a Galveston hotel. Galveston Express has shared van rides starting at $40 per person each way.

Independent van/car services

Multiple companies offer private car service from the airports to either the pier or a Galveston hotel. SuperShuttle offers private car service to the port starting at $80 per person. Blacklane offers chauffeured car service, averaging around $200 from either airport to the port, for up to three people and two bags. A larger Mercedes van for up to five passengers will cost around $250.

Hotel shuttles

Roughly half of the hotels located in Galveston offer free shuttles to the cruise pier. Hotels outside of Galveston rarely provide shuttles to the port.

Taxis and ride-hailing services

Getting from a Galveston hotel to the port via ride-hailing service, such as Uber or Lyft , is possible, but not always your best choice. Galveston is a relatively small island and when two or more ships are departing on the same day, extended wait times for pickups at your hotel can cause delays and surge pricing can make the trip more expensive than you anticipated.

Taxis and ride-hailing services are available at both Houston airports. Taxis are metered, with fares averaging $165 from IAH. For ride-hailing services, follow signs and use your apps for directions to pickup points. We checked a prebooked Uber from IAH and were shown a starting fare of $98.

Related: Frequent Uber or Lyft user? These are the best credit cards for you

Public transportation

Galveston does not offer public transportation to the cruise port. The Galveston Island Trolley has bus and rail lines that are ideal for traveling between pre- or post-cruise hotels and on-island attractions, but it stops short of the port.

Port of Galveston parking

galveston cruise port rental car

Galveston cruise passengers often drive to the port, so parking options abound. These include both official Port of Galveston parking and private lots. For guests not staying in a Galveston hotel, private parking lots are the cheapest option. If your plan includes a hotel stay and your hotel offers a parking package, it is almost guaranteed to be at a lower price than the lots closer to the port. Reservations made well in advance are recommended for all parking options.

On-site parking

Parking for terminals 25 and 28 is a bit spread out. Some lots have shuttle service, others are walking access only. The walk can be as far as two blocks. You can choose from covered and uncovered options, with prices ranging from $22 to $26.

Parking at the newer Royal Caribbean Terminal 10 includes shuttle services for all lots. All parking at Terminal 10 is uncovered. The price per day is $22 to $25.

Private parking facilities

Private parking options near the terminals include indoor and covered parking, all with shuttles. Some service only terminals 25 and 28, while others will also service Terminal 10. If the reservation form doesn't list your cruise ship or sailing date, it means that lot doesn't serve the terminal you need.

Prices are competitive and usually lower than official port parking. For example, Lighthouse Parking beats the terminal's official parking lots, offering covered parking for around $20 per day, with shuttle service to all terminals.

Some, like Galveston Park N Cruise, offer discounts for prepaying. That lot only serves terminals 25 and 28 (Carnival and Princess) and does not provide a shuttle because it's across the street from the terminal. Prepaid rates for indoor parking are as low as $18.50 per day for a seven-night cruise.

Park-and-cruise

If you plan an overnight stay in Galveston, the cheapest parking option is a hotel with a parking package. Many Galveston hotels offer cruise parking to guests who stay either before or after a cruise. Some offer parking free of charge; most charge a fee for leaving your car behind. The best scenario is a hotel with both a parking option and a shuttle to the port.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Hotels near the Galveston cruise port

galveston cruise port rental car

Hotels are abundant in Galveston, all of them 10 miles or less from the port. Because this is both a small port town and a vacation destination, rates and room availability fluctuate widely. Whether you need a one-night stay as close as possible to the port or are looking for a longer stay to fully explore this charming beach town, here are some of the many choices to consider.

Hilton hotels near the Port of Galveston

For a quick overnight before your cruise, the DoubleTree is a good choice (32,000 to 168,000 Hilton Honors points per night). It has a pool and free Wi-Fi and is across the street from the beach. It also offers parking package options.

For a more resort-style stay, consider the Hilton Galveston Island Resort (32,000 to 338,000 Hilton Honors points per night). It's within walking distance of the beach and offers parking and shuttle packages.

Related: Best Hilton credit cards

Marriott hotels near the Port of Galveston

For an affordable stay with beach access, check out the Courtyard Galveston Island (30,000 to 59,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night). You can dine at its on-site restaurant or venture out — either by foot or via the island's trolley — to sample the island's renowned seafood. Wi-Fi is free for Bonvoy members.

The Grand Galvez, part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, is the city's signature hotel. First opened in 1911 as the Hotel Galvez, it is the only historic beachfront hotel on the entire Texas coast. A stay here (from 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) is a grand way to start a cruise vacation.

For a hotel even closer to the pier and the city's famed downtown strand, the Tremont House is a luxury option from the Tribute Portfolio (from 55,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night). Its Blum & Co. bistro and wine bar is open all day and well into the evening for those arriving from late flights into Houston. The hotel has park-and-sail packages as well as transportation to the terminal.

Related: Best Marriott credit cards

Hyatt hotels near the Port of Galveston

The nearest Hyatt is the Hyatt Regency Baytown, a Category 3 hotel (from 9,000 World of Hyatt points per night). It's an hour's drive from the port, situated not far from Space Center Houston and the Kemah Boardwalk, if those are on your to-do list pre- or post-cruise.

Related: Why the World of Hyatt card is one of the best credit cards

Non-points hotels near the Port of Galveston

A stay at Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center is a whopper of a family-friendly choice. Besides the aquarium, rainforest and discovery museum on-site, the property boasts a beachy water park and lazy river, and a paddlewheel boat offering dinner cruises. The hotel offers cruise parking and a cruise shuttle for a fee.

Leaving the kids behind? The San Luis Resort, Spa and Conference Center is family-friendly, but its lack of attractions for children (other than a pool) means fewer children will likely be on the property. That makes it ideal for a couples or singles escape. The resort has ocean-view rooms and suites, four restaurants and a luxury spa to kick off (or finish off) your cruise.

Restaurants near Galveston cruise port

The food scene in Galveston includes everything from baskets of fish and chips done Texas style (which means it's probably wrapped in bacon and served with jalapenos) to elegant chop houses and seafood establishments. Choices line Seawall Boulevard and extend to the Strand Historic District and the Pier 21 tourist area.

Seafood is the predominant option, but it's also possible to sample barbecue and Tex-Mex.

Related: The best credit cards for dining

Things to do in and around Galveston before or after your cruise

galveston cruise port rental car

The beach is the No. 1 reason people visit Galveston. It stretches for 32 miles (more than 10 miles protected by a seawall and promenade) and is dotted with fishing piers, overwater souvenir shops and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park. The best part is that almost anything you need in Galveston is across the street from the beach, including most of the hotels and restaurants.

The bar scene along the seawall has plenty to offer, from rooftop outdoor seating at Pelican and the Shark at the 61st Street Fishing Pier to the famous Poop Deck facing the beach. The Strand has its own concentration of bars, from classy wine bars to genuine dive bars.

Beyond the beach, look for a Texas original water park — Schlitterbahn and Moody Gardens. Kids and adults both can delight in the three Moody Gardens pyramids. One's an aquarium featuring penguins, seals and a coral reef lab. Another is a rainforest, home to over 1,700 exotic plants and endangered animals, including free-roaming sloths and birds that fly between the trees as you walk the trails below the canopy. The third pyramid is a discovery museum with rotating exhibits. Expect animal encounters and hands-on "edutainment" at all three.

Shopping near the Port of Galveston

For last-minute cruise clothes, swing by the Tanger Outlets on I-45, approximately 20 miles north of Galveston in Texas City. As luck would have it, there's a Buc-ees right next door. Besides the clean bathrooms, you'll find Texas souvenirs, out-of-the-ordinary snacks, drinks and even decent barbecue packed into a supersize gas station and roadside palooza.

You won't have trouble finding Galveston's Walmart and Target if you're looking to purchase last-minute snacks, sundries, bottled water, soda or wine to carry on board ( where allowed ).

Hot spots for beachwear, hats, sunglasses and souvenirs specific to Galveston are Dolphin World and the Mermaid Pier.

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  • Gulf Coast Departures

Galveston - Rental Car drop-off at Port?

mrsfuzzmo

By mrsfuzzmo , January 20, 2012 in Gulf Coast Departures

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3,000+ Club

Hello my trusty CC friends. i am wondering if you can rent a car at HOU (of course you can), but then drop it off at the Port? If so, which car companies can we book for this?

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5,000+ Club

Hello my trusty CC friends. i am wondering if you can rent a car at HOU (of course you can), but then drop it off at the Port? If so, which car companies can we book for this?   Thanks!

There are many threads and comments about this issue.

Believe methods change often based upon rental car companys policies change to meet demand. For up to date info contact Enterprise Hertz and maybe others. Hopefully rental service changes are being made for more ships and more passengers being in Galveston needing service!

We live here and use Cornerstone Elite Limo to airports for out of town cruises. You might consider this for non cruise day service.

melika091900

melika091900

I researched for months and theres no rental place open on sundays,in galveston and the airport is about an hour away

not sure what days you are cruising, but most people get a shuttle, towncar, etc for getting to and from the airport, to the port

we just booked with Z limo for 91 total each way 3 people,

which was cheaper than a shuttle or taxi,

also had the option of renting the car for the length of the cruise and parking at the cruise terminal , but felt it was a waste...

theres a lot of threads about it,

Cool Cruiser

You can rent a car with enterprise and return it to drop box on Sunday. I think they will charge you for one extra day though. Have not done this yet. Would love to hear from someone who has recently.

looks like their hours are minimal on weekends

so if you are coming in fri before it might work

Monday 7:30 am 6:00 pm Tuesday 7:30 am 6:00 pm Wednesday 7:30 am 6:00 pm Thursday 7:30 am 6:00 pm Friday 7:30 am 6:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am Noon Sunday Closed

Would like to pick up a car at HOU on Sunday and drop it off near the port on Monday (they sail on Monday). Possible?

Galveston Cruiser

Yes you should be able to!

Call Enterprise!

Thanks! I called enterprise.

We had a rental booked on a Sun to get to the port and called Cornerstone Elite for the next Sun for return to the airport. They seemed so competent on the phone and a reasonable price (SUV $100 + tip for 4 of us each way) that we decided to skip the rental hassle and have them do both ways. They were in touch the night before to arrange pick up procedure, monitored the flight time and were there with water to drink on the way. Smartly dressed driver, super clean Suburban, easy, easy, easy. And we arranged it all on the Friday before we left on Sun.

They also monitored the ship arrival (I also texted them our timeframe as we learned it) and were there waiting when we cleared customs.

All in all, we highly recommend the private car pick up idea no matter which company you choose. So easy.

Almost Packed

Almost Packed

i have booked a one way trip from HOU to Galveston. dropped of our luggage, returned the car to the rental agency, and then they shuttled us to the ship. I will have to find my notebook with all of the info as i cannot remember which rental agency i used.

I do remember I was so lucky as they must have been desperate for cars as they did not charge me a one way fee and i got a super deal. it cost dh & i less than $20 I believe.

I'll check tomorrow and see if I can find out. Sometimes, you can book online one way, and sometimes you are better to call the local office.

  • 1 year later...

sunshine1234567

Hi there, we are first time cruisers and will be visiting Texas for first time - two adults, two children - flying into IAH - we are renting a car at AVIS for a couple of days - booked on Avis.com - pick up at the airport on Thurs to go around houston and galveston, and dropping it to Texas City/Galveston for Sunday morning - Sears Auto Centre open 10 am-2pm. Costs approx $70 to rent for three days. Avis has a shuttle to transport you from the auto centre in galveston to the cruise - just have to book it - approx 20 mins drive - costs $50 for all of us combined. Worth it to us, as we want our own car to vacation and explore with the children prior to the cruise and do some attractions! We have a car booked for when we get off the cruise at Avis as well - to drive back to IAH. Hope this helps!

And what did they say?:rolleyes:

Note the Sears auto center is in Texas City on the Mainland, not on Galveston island.

chyanmor

Who did you call to book the shuttle?? Enterprise are being useless and so looks like Avis is going to be the option for us.

Texas Tillie

This thread is 2 years old.

I know but rather than start a new one thought I would post on it to ask the simple question to some one who had done it previously....

As far as I know, at t he present there is only Enterprise on the island - does not drop off at ship; and Hertz in Texas City where you must take a cab to the port.

To my knowledge there are no rental car agencies that drop off at the Port in Galveston.

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We're considering renting a 1 way car and...

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Port of Galveston Questions & Answers

galveston cruise port rental car

We're considering renting a 1 way car and dropping it off at the enterprise location on the island which is about 3 miles away from the terminal. Has anyone done this before, and is there an easy way to get from the enterprise to the terminal w/o walking? Cab, Uber, etc? Thanks!

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If your cruising know that Enterprise is closed on the weekend and dropping the car unchecked is risky, we flew in to IAH Intercontinental and kept the car for the week and returned it after the cruise to IAh for less than anyones one way rates. We stayed At Gaidos Seaside Inn Which was Awesome Loved it and they let you park there free with just a one night stay.

Taxi fare was $15. not many public transport options and no Uber or Lyft on the island.

galveston cruise port rental car

We considered doing that and decided against it. For one thing, the fee for dropping in a different location than rented from is very high in Texas and would cost over $100 more. Enterprise won't shuttle you like most agencies do, so they said best option is a taxi to the port. We found the best option to be to stay at a hotel near the airport and use the cruise line shuttle service to the port the morning of the cruise.

galveston cruise port rental car

I tried to rent a car from Enterprise and they advised that I would need to take a cab to their office. Uber/Lyft are apparently not allowed to operate in Galveston, at least not at the pier.

galveston cruise port rental car

I know there are cabs available, but I have never done what you are proposing.

galveston cruise port rental car

You should contact Enterprise directly and ask them how to get to the terminal.

galveston cruise port rental car

I agree. We got the best deal renting the car with Costco (that's where we found the best rates) and staying at one of the hotels that offers parking. We liked the Hilton. The Holiday Inn express was getting rave reviews from people we talked to. If you opt not to stay the night the Port parking is safe. I wouldn't worry about the rental car there. I believe you get a discount for booking online. I googled to find a list of hotels with free parking. Best of luck. Have a great cruise!!

galveston cruise port rental car

Your best bet is to take a shuttle from the airport. Most hotels offer a shuttle to the cruise pier. If you aren't traveling in a group, you can find a group to split the cost with usually on one of the community boards. You can find others that are going on the same cruise and make arrangements to share the cost of a shuttle round trip. Much cheaper than renting a car because you have to rent it for the week that you are on the cruise. We had a group of four that went and we just split it ourselves. It was about $70 per person round trip with taxes. The more you have the cheaper it is. That was from George Bush international.

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Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rental prices in Galveston

Reviews for enterprise rent-a-car in galveston, recent reviews, where can i find enterprise rent-a-car car rentals in galveston, good to know, top tips for renting a car from enterprise rent-a-car in galveston.

  • By choosing Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rentals in Galveston, you can select your preferred vehicle from a well-maintained fleet. If traveling on a Budget, consider renting an economy car, which allows you access to a spacious car without spending too much. Further, economy cars are great when it comes to maneuvering the busy streets of the city center. Pickup trucks are also available if you need more space for your luggage. If you are visiting Galveston for business, you can check out the commercial vehicles offered by Enterprise, which accommodate two people and leave plenty of space for cargo. Luxury SUVs are also available to serve those who wish to tour in style.
  • Among the most outstanding perks availed by Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rentals in Galveston is Enterprise Plus, a loyalty program that gives points for qualifying rental dollars. Benefiting from the program is easy, as all you have to do is register for free. From then onwards, any dollar spent to hire an Enterprise car will give a point. After getting 600 points or more, free rental days will be within your reach. Since the point redemption by Enterprise doesn’t have blackout days, you can hire a car for free any day.
  • Canceling a booking with Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rentals in Galveston is usually done via the company’s official website. Calling the helpdesk is another common practice. If you reserve a car via the more expensive Pay Later option, you won’t pay any fines when canceling. However, if you made a prepayment, cancel a day before the designated pickup and avoid deductions on your refund. Revoking your reservation within a day of pickup entails paying a $100 charge. Further, Enterprise will assess a $100 fee to individuals who don’t show up to collect their rental car.
  • One of the strongest pillars of Enterprise is a sound customer support team that knows best practices when reserving an ideal vehicle. If you have doubts about the type of car suitable for your trip, you can contact the team and consult. Further, feel free to ask for help if you find it difficult to fill the reservation or understand the booking options given by Enterprise. Given the hire firm’s commendable record regarding quality services, which includes winning prestigious awards, you can be sure that any assistance from Enterprise’s agents comes from a well-versed individual.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars from Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston for $57 or less.
  • Book your rental car from Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston at least 2 weeks before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
  • Intermediate rental cars from Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston are around 30% cheaper than other car types, on average.

FAQs about renting a car from Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston

Where is/are the best pickup location(s) for booking enterprise rent-a-car car rentals in galveston.

Enterprise has a single pickup location in Galveston at 5919 Broadway St. One of the advantages of picking your rental here is being close to the city center. Near the spot is a shopping store where you can buy your trip’s essentials. There is also a Taco Bell nearby, providing light snacks before you drive off to run your errands.

What are the different car rental benefits or amenities offered by Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston?

The list of add-ons you can request after reserving a car with Enterprise is expansive. It includes child seats, ski racks, and navigation systems. However, different pickup locations have varied extras. Enterprise encourages you to call as early as possible to reserve the add-on you need to avoid missing out.

Where are the best places to park Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rentals in Galveston?

Given that Galveston is usually mildly busy, you can get parking spots in the downtown area, especially after rush hours. Some of the rules relating to street parking articulate that travelers must park for at least 1 hour and pay roughly $2.25 for every hour parked. You may find parking meters in the city center, which accepts cash and cards. If you don’t wish to use the valet or free parking services from your hotel, you can use local apps to reserve parking in private parking lots.

How much does it cost to rent a car from Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston?

On average a rental car from Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston costs $68 per day.

What is the most popular rental car from Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston?

Intermediate (Nissan Kicks or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type from Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston.

How many car rental locations does Enterprise Rent-A-Car have in Galveston?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car has 1 rental location in Galveston. Take a look at our Enterprise Rent-A-Car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.

Does Enterprise Rent-A-Car have a car rental location at the airport: Hobby airport (HOU)?

Does enterprise rent-a-car offer shuttle or airport pick-up services from hobby airport (hou).

  • Learn more about Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rentals

galveston cruise port rental car

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If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable transportation service from Houston to Galveston, consider Elite Town Car Service. We have 15 years of experience driving between Houston and Galveston, so we can provide prompt and courteous Galveston transportation services whether you need a ride to an exclusive occasion or airport pickup. With Elite Town Car Service, you can trust that everything will be handled efficiently and timely – no surprises! Elite Town Car Service provides reliable Houston to Galveston transportation. Our drivers are familiar with the area and the State, so be sure to benefit from our reliable services. We offer transportation from Houston airport to Galveston cruise port, whether you arrive at Elite Town Car Service by town cars, SUVs, limousines, Stretch limos, luxury Sedans, sprinter vans, Hummer limos, limo buses, party buses, Charter buses, or even through shuttle service. If you want to request a price quote for our business or scheduling information, call our business.

Houston to Galveston Shuttle services

Houston is a city with a rich history and culture. It has led to the city being a hub for business, shopping, and tourism. Our company’s shuttle service from Houston to Galveston, TX, or Galveston to Houston, is one of the finest ways for travelers to get from Houston airports to Galveston island. It’s an excellent option to take our Galveston charter bus to pick up and drop off at the George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Houston Hobby Airport to and from the Galveston cruise ship terminal to transport the cruise passengers. Our shuttles operating from Houston airport to Galveston cruise port schedule their pickups strictly according to schedules. We work hard to get you to your location on time. Houston airport to Galveston Shuttle buses and Charter buses are excellent transport for large groups of people. Sports teams, businesses, and institutions often rent these buses for long-distance journeys or vacations. All are equipped with AC and onboard storage for luggage. Many private shuttle companies, like island breeze shuttle, independent Shuttle, etc., provide various services. Still, Elite Town Car has one of the best drivers and affordable ground transportation companies between Houston and Galveston, tx. Please contact our office now to rent one of our shuttles that travels between George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Houston Hobby Airport for a one-way or round trip.

Houston to Galveston Shuttle services

Shuttle from Houston to Galveston cruise port

Houston and Galveston have thriving economies and large populations, so there’s always something for residents and visitors to do. Our private Shuttle provides a smooth ride from IAH to Galveston port, making it an ideal way to explore both cities. Houston to Galveston Cruise Shuttle has helped save some money on transportation costs for more than fifteen years. It first began offering transport options for passengers traveling from the Houston Hobby Airport to Galveston cruise ships or terminals. Our Galveston, TX, shuttle service company has efficiently served passengers throughout the State. We offer convenience to travelers with our IAH airport shuttle service. With our easy-to-use shuttle service from Houston, Texas, to Galveston, Texas, you can reach your destination quickly and easily. You’re sure to get to your destination on time with our affordable and comfortable shuttle service.

Houston, Texas to Galveston, Texas Car Rental

Houston Texas Car Rental is the perfect option for staying in Galveston, Texas. We offer a wide range of Car rental Galveston Tx, including luxury cars, Sedans, and SUVs. With our convenient and affordable rates, you can find the perfect vehicle for your transportation needs. Our rental car services offer clients transportation from the Houston airport to the Galveston cruise port. Galveston covers you whether you’re looking for a luxury car or something more budget-friendly. Plus, with so many attractions and businesses close by, it’s easy to explore everything the city offers. Whether you’re headed to an amusement park or the entire day at Galveston beach, our service will help make your travels simple and hassle-free. Make sure to give Car Rental Galveston Texas a try today! We offer you many transportation choices in the area, so booking a car is as easy as possible. Elite Town Car Service, like any significant airport, has many car rental companies to choose from for IAH and Hobby Airport to transfer people to the cruise terminal. We offer the best car services, with accommodations for up to four people.

Houston, Texas to Galveston, Texas Car Rental

Houston to Galveston Limousine Service

If you want a luxury limousine service that’ll take you to the airport or Galveston Island, look no further than Elite Town Car Service. You and your closest buddies will ride in our embellished limos, and as a celebrity, you’ll surely make an entrance. Elite Town Car Service can get you to and from the Houston area or Galveston, whether you’d like an airport transfer or require a luxurious limousine service. Our certified chauffeurs are skilled at every mode of transportation available, and they will make sure to provide you with drop-off service to your destination safely and correctly. They will also ensure that your trip is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Houston to Galveston limousines provide the best luxury transportation for special occasions. With presidential trips, family gatherings, and other events expected in the area, Galveston limousines are perfect for transporting passengers to and from these special events. Whether you need a driver for a short ride or an entire trip, our Galveston limousines are available at a moment’s notice. Galveston Shuttle is the place to go if you need a shuttle to transport large groups of people. With its roomy interior and dependability, you can count on it for all sorts of events. Book it, and it’s simple to use, so you can feel comfortable knowing your wedding will proceed without a hitch. Our experienced drivers are knowledgeable and eager to make your event as convenient and stress-free as possible. You’ll work with us worry-free, guaranteeing a stylish, prompt ride from the start of one area to the next. When you employ our support, you don’t have to worry about any of the hassles that come with getting from one location to the next; we’ll take care of everything from beginning to end.

Why Do People Choose us?

Elite Town Car Service is a professional, experienced, affordable transportation service that provides Galveston residents with quality and reliable transportation. Our town car service is ideal for active people who want to retain a healthy lifestyle. We offer our clients reliable and affordable car seats and wheelchair-accessible service. Our team is passionate about ensuring every customer has a great experience, and we ensure that all our clients are pleased with our services from Houston to Galveston. We offer excellent options for different needs so that you can choose the right town car for your requirements. From trips to business meetings, our hotel service has got you covered.

Stylish Luxury Vehicles

If you’re looking for a luxurious town car, shuttle bus , or limousine, look no further than Elite Town Car Service. Our vehicles come equipped with sleek leather seatings, LED lights, sound system and air conditioner, LEDs, newspaper, and a complimentary bottle of water, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, our charging port ensures you can always have your devices charged up while you’re on the go. Elite Town Car Service can provide you with the capacity to fit a lot more passenger seating! If you’re looking for a fantastic method to get around the town, you should hire Elite Town Car Service.

Stylish Luxury Vehicles

Reliable and Affordable Services

Elite Town Car Service is a responsible and reasonably priced limo service that offers transportation to and from Houston to Galveston. With professional drivers and fleet vehicles, Elite Town Car Service can get you wherever you need to go in comfort and style. Elite Town Car Service can help you fulfill your wish. Our company’s shuttles have highly competitive rates, and we offer various other services to make your travel experience more comfortable.

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Excellent Customer Services

Houston, TX – Elite Town Car Service offers excellent customer services from Houston to Galveston transportation. With years of experience, Elite Town Car Service can provide customers with the top-quality vehicle. Elite Town Car Service can help you get to town safely and comfortably, whether you’ve been transferred to an airport or require transportation within the city.

Online Booking system

If you’re looking to take hassle-free transportation from one part of town to the other, look no further than Elite Town Car Service. With our online booking system, you can easily find a shuttle from Houston airport to Galveston cruise port that’ll take you wherever you need to go – no more wasting time or attempting to find a place in a packed bus! Plus, our drivers are always happy to lend a hand with your bag or supplies. This option is ideal for those who wish to avoid traffic or are looking for a low-cost way of getting around town. So whether you’re heading to Galveston or Houston, Elite Town Car Service will make your staycation as smooth as possible!

Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can help make your travels more accessible than ever!

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11 Reason To Sail on Cruises From Galveston

I n no uncertain terms, a cruise port makes all the difference regarding your entire vacation. After all, the location of your departure sets the tone for your trip moving forward, determining which destinations you’ll reach once you’re on the high seas.

While specific destinations like Miami or Canaveral boast unique strengths, something might also be said for the Port of Galveston, Texas. A smaller port overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston may not be the largest or busiest destination from which to depart. Yet, there are plenty of amicable reasons to look into this idyllic Texan island for your next cruise-going experience.

1. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Offer Cruises From Galveston

Looking at it plainly, Galveston has three cruise terminals making up its port. In contrast, far larger alternatives, like the Port of Miami, have eleven terminals. Because of this, Galveston unfortunately cannot house many of the industry’s prestigious cruise lines. However, the port’s terminals support several large-scale cruise corporations, with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian, MSC, and Disney Cruises departing from Galveston regularly.

2. The Nearby Cruise Destinations Are Well Worth It

Admittedly, inevitable drawbacks are attached to cruises from Galveston. Considering how much farther west it is than ports in Florida or along the East Coast, most cruise lines out of Galveston cannot travel to their company’s private islands as many are in the Eastern Caribbean. However, Galveston’s location along the Gulf of Mexico has its distinct perks, including ready access to the Western Caribbean and parts of South and Central America. Though some guests might regret losing a chance at CocoCay, it’s hard to be upset when trekking along the shores of Mexico, Honduras, or Belize.

3. It’s Easier To Navigate Than Larger Ports

There’s no simple answer when it comes to determining the total cost of cruises from Galveston over any other port in the U.S. Like most ports, the final cost of the cruise depends on numerous factors, including the time of year you’re sailing, the location of your cabin, and the cruise line you plan on traveling with. However, the convenience of navigating the port itself makes Galveston a perfect option for anyone new to cruise vacations. Avoiding the large-scale crowds and tedious boarding lines as other major ports, Galveston remains a hassle-free destination for most novice travelers out there.

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4. galveston is conveniently located in the central u.s..

Given Galveston’s distinct location in eastern Texas , it’s one of the most readily accessible ports for travelers across the U.S. Located in the heart of America, travelers from the Western U.S. will have just as easy time reaching it as vacationers from the Midwest or East Coast. After all, who wants to sit on a lengthy plane ride to reach their port of call? Also, Galveston lacks the same high value of traffic as Miami or other popular ports, making it relatively hassle-free to reach.

5. The Port Terminal Is Reasonably Close to the Airport

Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport is the closest airport to Galveston. Roughly 41 miles northwest of the port, travelers can easily navigate from the airport to their cruise terminal in under an hour. Galveston is also close to several major cities, making it an option, albeit a farther one, for anyone flying into Austin or Dallas. However, given Houston’s short driving distance to Galveston, William P. Hobby Airport is your best bet for air travel.

6. The Boarding Process Is Quick and Seamless

As mentioned above, Galveston doesn’t have the same volume of passengers flooding through its port as Miami, Canaveral, or Port Everglades. As a result, boarding a ship is comparatively tamer—especially since the port opened up its third and latest terminal in 2022. Having been constructed in the past two decades and carefully refurbished, these terminals are in fantastic shape, making the onboarding process much more efficient for vacationers. The terminals also come equipped with innovative new features, with Terminal 3 offering mobile check-in and state-of-the-art facial recognition devices.

7. There Are Plenty of Hotels Nearby

Another notable feature of Galveston is the number of hotels near the port. (Because let’s face it: what’s more accessible than simply waking up, hopping in your car, and practically walking onto the ship without worrying about losing track of time?) What’s more, many of the hotels in the Galveston area have special offers for anyone traveling onboard a cruise ship. These offers include free or discounted parking rates and a helpful shuttle that ferry passengers back and forth from the hotel to the ship. While several hotels in Galveston have these amenities, some of the best include the Hilton Galveston Island Resort and the San Luis Resort .

8. Parking Is Easy

Don’t let Galveston’s size fool you—the port itself has plenty of options when it comes to parking. As previously suggested, anyone staying at a nearby hotel might want to consider leaving their car parked there and taking a shuttle, taxi, or Uber over to their terminal. Additionally, travelers can reserve a space in the port’s parking lot ahead of their trip. These parking spaces are safe and secure, and port employees will assist with any luggage brought aboard on cruises from Galveston.

9. Galveston Itself Is a Beautiful Place To Visit

The main reason we believe you should depart from Galveston on your next cruise is the opportunity you’ll have to see what it has to offer. Like most major cities, there’s plenty to do and see around town, with every prospective sight catering to travelers’ interests. For those interested in shopping, the Strand Historical District has plenty of independently owned stores that feature everything from odd tchotchkes to essential beach items. Galveston’s famous Moody Gardens is an educational park built around natural wonders such as exotic sea life, immaculate flowers, roaming monkeys, and sloths.

10. You’re Bound To Find Some Great Last-Minute Deals

As previously mentioned, Galveston is a more scaled-down port than Miami or Port Canaveral, but its three terminals still receive cruise ships constantly. Because of this constantly moving schedule, most travelers will find it incredibly easy to find last-minute deals on select cruises from Galveston—often days before the ship is booked to leave. Sure, it may not be practical for those traveling from longer distances to book something last-minute. Yet these last-minute deals are well worth it for anyone within a short distance of Galveston.

11. Galveston Is Steeped in Rich Maritime History

Galveston is a city rich in history, having first been settled by Indigenous Natives of the Akokisa and Karankawa tribes before the Europeans arrived in the 1600s. Over the next several centuries, Galveston became a hub for maritime trade, eventually attracting such notable figures as French buccaneer Jean Lafitte. All that being said, history buffs will delight at the chance to visit Galveston, taking in some of the numerous historical sights around town—like Lafitte’s personal hideaway at Maison Rouge or the Michael B. Menard House, named after one of Galveston’s original American settlers. Even those who don’t care for history will find these areas fascinating.

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11 Reason To Sail on Cruises From Galveston

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  3. Galveston Cruise Port Transportation, Shuttles, Taxi [UPDATED]

    Car Rentals in Galveston Texas While most major car rental companies including Hertz, Avis and Budget, are available at the airports, Enterprise is the only brand that has a location in Galveston. Galveston Cruise Shuttles Because of their distance from the port, shuttles and taxis can be quite expensive, depending on your party size.

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  9. 6 Easy Houston to Galveston Cruise Transport Options (Uber, Shuttles

    Galveston Express: Offers both shared or private service between the airports and the cruise ship. The cheapest option is shared service, costing $65 per person round trip from Houston Hobby and $75 round trip from Bush Intercontinental. There is a $5 discount if you are a senior (55+) or for children under 10 years old.

  10. Inside Galveston Cruise Terminal

    This airport is located 41 miles northwest of the cruise port, where you can rent a car. Once there, it's a 42-mile drive along Highway 45 to get to the port. However, driving your own vehicle to get inside Galveston cruise terminal will be less expensive and more convenient than taking a plane. Galveston Cruise Terminal Parking for Cars

  11. Galveston cruise port: A guide to cruising from Texas

    The Port of Galveston is the fourth-most-popular cruise home port in the U.S., having hosted 1.49 million cruise passengers in 2023. While that's still a small number compared to the Florida ports (Miami, Port Canaveral near Orlando and Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades), the Port of Galveston continues to grow.The ships are getting bigger, cruise lines are expanding the itineraries they offer ...

  12. Car Rental Galveston

    To extend your car rental, you can click "Call to Extend Your Rental" in our mobile app. You can also call your rental branch or 1-855-266-9565 to extend your reservation. For more information, please visit our COVID-19 FAQs page.

  13. Galveston

    February 9, 2005. Galveston, Texas. #17. Posted February 1, 2015. As far as I know, at t he present there is only Enterprise on the island - does not drop off at ship; and Hertz in Texas City where you must take a cab to the port. To my knowledge there are no rental car agencies that drop off at the Port in Galveston.

  14. We're considering renting a 1 way car and...

    Port of Galveston Questions & Answers. 442 Reviews. Ranked #25 of 351 Attractions in Galveston. JohnQuar. Fort Worth, Texas. We're considering renting a 1 way car and dropping it off at the enterprise location on the island which is about 3 miles away from the terminal. Has anyone done this before, and is there an easy way to get from the ...

  15. Book Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rentals in Galveston

    Search for the best prices for Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rentals in Galveston. Latest prices: Economy $53/day. Compact $53/day. Intermediate $53/day. Standard $55/day. Full-size $55/day. Minivan $66/day. Also read 3 reviews of Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Galveston & find all Enterprise Rent-A-Car pick up locations in Galveston. Save up to 40% today with KAYAK.

  16. $25 Rental Cars in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal, TX

    Rent a car in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal, TX $25. Book NOW! Orbitz offers you great short to long-term city car rental deals from + car rental companies. ... Top Car Deals in Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal. Midsize SUV. 5 people; Unlimited mileage; Houston, Texas, USA. $25.

  17. Car Rental Cruise Ship Dock

    Cruise Ship Dock (FP2) Address: Freeport Harbor, Freeport, Bahamas. Phone: (1) 242-352-7666. Hours of Operation: Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Get Directions.

  18. Galveston Ground Transportation

    Elite Town Car Service is a professional, experienced, affordable transportation service that provides Galveston residents with quality and reliable transportation. Our town car service is ideal for active people who want to retain a healthy lifestyle. We offer our clients reliable and affordable car seats and wheelchair-accessible service.

  19. 11 Reason To Sail on Cruises From Galveston

    6. The Boarding Process Is Quick and Seamless. As mentioned above, Galveston doesn't have the same volume of passengers flooding through its port as Miami, Canaveral, or Port Everglades. As a ...

  20. MSC Cruises: A Winter 2025/2026 Odyssey of Unmatched U.S. Departures

    The Winter 2025/2026 season promises to be a landmark in MSC Cruises'Cruises' storied history. Seven majestic ships depart from Miami, Port Canaveral, New York City, and Galveston.

  21. MSC Cruises Unveils 2025-26 US Winter Sailings

    Last updated: 10:50 AM ET, Thu June 6, 2024. MSC Cruises will have a record-setting seven ships sailing around the United States for the 2025-26 winter season, with ships homeporting in Miami, Port Canaveral, New York City and Galveston. MSC Grandiosa will make its U.S. debut from Port Canaveral, while the cruise line as a whole will be ...