THE BEST CRUISES FROM TEXAS

Did you know the Lone Star State is a gateway to top-rated shores in the Caribbean and Mexico? We’ve put together a guide to some of the best destinations you can visit on a cruise from Texas.

Texas is famous for a lot of things — cowboy boots, rodeos, live music, and some of the best barbecue in the United States, just to name a few. But most people don’t realize it’s also a great jumping off point for anyone interested in exploring the sun-soaked shores of Mexico and the Caribbean. The city of Galveston, Texas — a lively hotspot on the Gulf of Mexico — serves as the home port for thrill-filled cruise ships — each headed to beautiful tropical destinations like Costa Maya, Cozumel, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and more. From shorter tropical getaways that pack plenty of new discoveries into just a few days, to longer adventures that bring you to iconic Caribbean ports and some off-the-beaten-path gems, Royal Caribbean offers plenty of great itineraries to choose from if you’re looking for an unforgettable cruise from Texas. Keep reading for more information on some of the best spots you can visit in the Caribbean on a sailing from Galveston.

1. Georgetown, Grand Cayman®

Grand Cayman encompasses everything that comes to mind when you think of a stunning Caribbean paradise. It has a big selection of picture-perfect, award-winning beaches — including the iconic Seven Mile Beach — fantastic snorkeling, a great restaurant scene that serves up world class island fare made by top international chefs, and warm hospitality. It’s one of the most popular ports to visit among guests sailing on cruises from Texas, and it should be right at the top of your Caribbean wander list.

2. Roatan, Honduras

Roatan is known around the world for its unparalleled dive sites, but this gorgeous chain of islands off Central America’s northern coast offers plenty in addition to great undersea adventures. If you love a good hike, you’ll find lots of rugged trails through lush rainforests and jungles, plus mangrove forests you can kayak around. Roatan is also famous for its incredible food scene and its vibrant culture. It’s home to a large population of Garifuna — a community that traces its ancestry to Africa, the Caribbean islands, and native Arawak people — and you can immerse yourself in some of that rich heritage during your visit. Sail Roatan on a cruise from Texas and discover a destination brimming with gorgeous landscapes and unique cultural surprises.

3. Cozumel, Mexico

There are so many reasons to add Mexico to your travel list. It’s full of vibrant culture, captivating ancient sites, amazing food, and beautiful natural wonders. One of the most popular destinations in Mexico is Cozumel, a stunning island just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Many cruises from Texas make a stop at this amazing destination, where you can dive deep into history and culture at the San Gervasio Maya ruins, or take adventure under the waves on snorkel and diving excursions at Chankanaab National Park. If you’re more about lazing the day away on a sunbaked beach, it doesn’t get better than the white-sand shores at Dzul-Ha and Playa Bonita.

4. Falmouth, Jamaica

Another popular destination you can sail to on a Caribbean cruise from Texas is Falmouth, Jamaica. Life at this laid-back island port moves at a slower pace. You’ll have your pick of beaches — like the world-famous Chukka Beach and its quieter, more secluded counterpart, Burwood Beach. If you’re craving a bit of outdoor adventure, set out on an excursion to Ocho Rios — home to the iconic Dunn’s River Falls. Or hang out in Water Square, the buzzing heart of Falmouth, where you can listen to live reggae music in the street and unwind at plenty of great bars and cafes serving delicious jerk chicken, refreshing tropical cocktails, and all the island vibes Jamaica is known for.

5. Costa Maya, Mexico

Located on the southeastern coast of the Yucatan peninsula, this beautiful destination is home to great beach clubs, vibrant nightlife and wild natural beauty. And though it may feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to reach this tropical hotspot on a cruise from Texas. Whether you choose to spend the day relaxing on a gorgeous beach, like Mahahual, sipping margaritas at one of the many seaside bars located just off the pier, venturing out to discover cenotes hidden deep in the jungle, or diving the world-famous Banco Chinchorro — the biggest coral atoll in the northern hemisphere — you’ll find there’s no shortage of ways to spend your day in Costa Maya.

6. Key West, Florida

Less than 200 miles south of vibrant Miami, Key West invites visitors to move a little slower, loosen up, and go with the flow. This idyllic destination checks all the boxes — you’ll find plenty of history to get lost in as you cycle past centuries-old pastel-colored estates, and lots of outdoor adventures like snorkeling, diving, fishing and more. And if you’re looking for good food and drinks, hit scenic Mallory Square or buzzing Duval Street, where finding a slice of great key lime pie and the perfect piña colada is a given.

Like what you’ve read so far? Keep in mind that these are just a few of the incredible places Royal Caribbean can take you to when you book a cruise from Texas. Check out all the different itineraries available here — you’ll find plenty to fit your schedule, from short getaways to weeklong adventures.

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