GALVESTON – The cruise industry is making waves again, with a record number of Americans expected to set sail in 2025, and for Galveston, that means big business.
AAA is releasing its first-ever cruising forecast projecting just how many people will be taking to the seas this year. KPRC2′s Re’Chelle Turner spoke to Doug Shupe who says cruising is such a popular vacation.
“Cruise industry has just really rebounded since the pandemic, and what we have seen is just continued growth in overall cruise passengers over the last few years,” he said. “Cruising is popular because you can pack, unpack one time, and see multiple places, so it’s a really convenient way to explore the world.”
Galveston is Texas’ only cruise port and ranks as the fourth most popular in North America. It’s not just a hub for cruise passengers—it’s also a powerhouse for our economy. With 19 million Americans expected to cruise this year, the Port of Galveston is already seeing record-breaking growth.
Last year, 3.4 million passengers passed through Galveston’s cruise terminals, breaking the port’s 25-year record. That, along with more than 380 cruise ships sailing through the area, made 2024 a historic year. But it’s not just about passenger numbers—the economic ripple effect of the cruise industry is significant for Galveston and the surrounding region.
“Last year, the Port of Galveston created more than 4,500 jobs for Galveston area residents. It also brought in $733 million in business revenue and also contributed to about $25 million in state and local taxes,” he said.
SEE ALSO: REAL ID in Texas: Answering FAQs ahead of May 2025 deadline
If you plan on taking a vacation the time to book a cruise is right now!
“In fact, right now is one of the best times to book cruises because January through March is what is called wave season. And it’s that time of year when cruise lines offer their best deals,” Shupe said.
The port is home to cruise lines like Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Princess, and Royal Caribbean, is set to grow even more.
In November, Galveston will open its fourth cruise terminal, which will be home to Norwegian and MSC Cruises.
For Texans, this is a convenient port to get to and it only takes 45 minutes for ships to reach open water and that’s when the bars and casinos can open.
Officials project the new terminal will bring 925 jobs, $177.4 million in local business revenue, and nearly $5.1 million in state and local taxes.
What are the most popular cruise destinations?
According to AAA’s travel advisors most Americans taking cruises this year are wanting warm weather and sunshine. 72% of U.S. cruise passengers are heading to the Caribbean, making it by far the most popular destination. 6% will be taking Alaska cruises and 5% will cruise the Mediterranean.
What tips do you have for people who are thinking about taking a cruise?
• Book earlier in the year for best the deals. Wave season, when cruise lines offer their best deals, typically stretches from January through March.
• Work with a reputable travel advisor to find an itinerary that works best for your family or group or yourself.
• Consider travel insurance to protect your investment in case of a medical emergency or another interruption during your trip.
• Reserve activities ahead of time. Excursions, specialty dinners, or spa treatments, are popular cruise activities and sell out fast!
Consider Trip Insurance to protect your investment in case of a medical emergency or another interruption during your trip.
• Arrive the day before. If you’re flying into your port city, arrive a day or two before your ship is scheduled to depart in case you have a flight delay or cancelation. And, and it gives you time to explore your departure city.
• Pick your parking spot. If you’re driving to your port city, decide ahead of time where you will leave your car. To save some money, look for off-site cruise port parking options that offer a shuttle service. Another option is to look for hotels near the cruise port that offer “park & cruise” options. These packages allow you to stay at the hotel the night before your cruise and park your car there while you’re gone. The hotel will then take you to the cruise port on departure day and pick you up once you return.
• Download the cruise line’s app. You can check in for your cruise through the app, review the itinerary, complete the mandatory lifeboat drill, look at the daily program, and in some cases, open your stateroom door, order food, make dinner reservations, and text your friends. Best of all, you don’t need the ship’s internet package to use cruise line apps - they are free to use onboard!
• Do your homework before packing. Check your cruise line’s list of prohibited items ahead of your trip. From irons and steamers to certain foods and beverages, each company is different, so take the time to look up what you can and can’t bring onboard or your items will be confiscated. Also, sunscreen is a must and bringing it from home saves you money. In general, sundries onboard are more expensive. bring extra medications in case there is a delay during your trip. Magnetic hooks are popular with passengers who need extra storage space. Since cruise cabin walls are made of metal, hooks come in handy for hanging swimsuits and towels.
• Know the embarkation dos and don’ts. Some cruise lines have scheduled embarkation times. Arrive at your assigned embarkation time. Don’t try to get there early and hope they will let you on – they likely won’t. Always have your documentation, including passport, with you including a copy of your boarding pass. If you do not have proper identification when you are checking in at the pier, you will be denied boarding. If you check your suitcase with a porter, your bag may not arrive at your stateroom for a few hours. Pack a small carry-on with your swimsuit so you can change right away and start the fun!