Flight Arrival and Departure Times
To reach the Port of Galveston you need to fly into either Houston International Airport (IAH) or Houston Hobby Airport (HOU). If you are arriving the day of your cruise make sure you allow plenty of time to get to the ship. Carnival recommends arriving in to IAH by 1:00 PM or HOU by 1:30 PM at the latest on the day of embarkation. After your cruise, your flight should not leave before 1:30 PM. (updated October 2010)
Getting from the Airport (Bush and Hobby) to the Port of Galveston
It is approximately 90 minutes from IAH to the port and 60 minutes from HOU to the port. Cruise Line transfers are $40 per person each way from IAH and $30 per person each way from HOU. The cost of a taxi from Houston Intercontinental and Houston Hobby will run in the $125 to $175 range. The airport transfers offered by Carnival are convenient and a good value. Alternatively, you might consider a one-way rental car to drop-off in Galveston; however, beware of drop-off charges that may be assessed by the rental car company. (updated February 2011)
Carnival Cruise Galveston Port Parking
Carnival has 2 secure parking lots at the port. You need to drop off your luggage before parking as the shuttles do not accommodate luggage. When you return it is better for one person to get the car and then pick up the rest of your traveling companions with the luggage. Otherwise you may have to wait a while for a shuttle that can accommodate your luggage. The parking rates are $45 for a 4-night cruise, $50 for a 5-night cruise and $70 for a 7-night cruise. Payment is by cash, Visa or Mastercard only. You can pre-pay for parking on the Port of Galveston's web site and save $5 off the cost of your parking. (updated January 2011)
Other Parking options for Carnival Cruise Galveston Port
If you are arriving by car the night before your cruise, several of the hotels in the area may let you leave your car in their lot while you cruise. However, you will need to stay at least one night before your cruise – look for Park 'n Stay rates advertised by the hotel. These hotels usually have a shuttle to take you to and from the cruise port. (updated February 2011)
Online Check-in for your Carnival cruise
Complete the FunPass check-in online at least 3 days prior to your cruise. This will speed up check-in at Carnival Cruise Galveston Port. (updated February 2011)
Boarding Time for Carnival Cruises out of Galveston
Boarding for your Carnival cruise starts at 12:30 PM at the Port of Galveston. If possible get there early to avoid the lines. You must be checked-in at least 90 minutes prior to the scheduled cruise departure. (updated October 2010)
Required Travel Documentation
As of June 1, 2009 U. S. Citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that start and end from the same port) can still cruise with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID (children only need a birth certificate). Passports are required if you have to leave the cruise early and fly back to the U. S. Passports may also be required depending on the country your ship is visiting. Be sure to check the U. S. State Department's web site for up-to-date information. (updated January 2010)