🇺🇸 For U.S. Citizens:

We strongly recommend bringing a valid U.S. passport.

Why? In the event of a medical emergency or unexpected detour that requires flying from an international port (like Mexico or the Caribbean), you must have a passport to return to the U.S. by air. We don't recommend the "risk it for the biscuit" mentality here....

If you choose not to bring a passport, you’ll need:

An original or certified birth certificate (not a photocopy)

A government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license)

🌍 For Non-U.S. Citizens:

You will need a valid passport to board the cruise.

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may also need:

A U.S. visa or ESTA

✈️ Please double-check your travel documents and visa requirements based on your home country and U.S. entry policies.

If you're flying in, the nearest major airports are:

Houston Hobby Airport (HOU): ~45 minutes to Galveston

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): ~1 hour 15 minutes to Galveston

We recommend arriving in Houston or Galveston no later than January 31, 2026, to avoid any delays and to allow time for embarkation procedures.

There are several transportation options to the port:

Royal Caribbean Shuttle Service (can be booked via your cruise reservation)

Private shuttles: Galveston Express, Island Breeze Shuttle, Hotel Shuttle

Rideshare from the airport or hotel: Uber/Lyft

Car Rental: Available at both airports (note: parking is available at the port for a fee)

Here are a few options for hotels and inns in the area:

Gaido’s Seaside Inn

Perks: Beachfront, free parking, on-site restaurant

Shuttle: Cruise shuttle available (may require a package)

Distance to Port: ~8 minutes

Scottish Inns Galveston

Perks: Budget choice, clean rooms, free parking

Shuttle: Offers cruise parking and shuttle package

Distance to Port: ~10 minutes

Harbor House Hotel & Marina at Pier 21

Perks: Walkable to port, waterfront views

Shuttle: Not always needed—it's a short stroll!

Distance to Port: <5 minutes walk

Quality Inn & Suites Beachfront

Perks: Indoor pool, breakfast included

Shuttle: Cruise shuttle & parking package available

Distance to Port: ~10 minutes