
If you're planning a trip to Galveston, getting from Houston Airport to the port can be a challenge, but don't worry, there are several shuttle services available.
The most popular shuttle service is the SuperShuttle, which offers shared-ride and private car services from the airport to the port.
You can also take a taxi or ride-hailing service, such as Uber or Lyft, which can be a more direct and convenient option, but may be more expensive.
The driving distance from Houston Airport to Galveston Port is approximately 50 miles and takes around 1 hour in normal traffic conditions.
Types of Services
When traveling from Houston Airport to Galveston, you have several options to choose from. One of the most convenient is a shuttle service, which can be booked for a fixed rate.
Shuttle services offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Shared shuttles are a cost-effective option, but may take longer due to multiple stops.
Related reading: Pdx Airport Shuttle to Corvallis

Private shuttles, on the other hand, offer a direct route without stops, making them ideal for those who value convenience. These shuttles can accommodate larger groups and provide a more personalized experience.
For solo travelers or groups, shared shuttle services are a great option, offering a convenient and stress-free way to reach your destination. Royal Galveston Shuttle offers private door-to-door service and shared shuttle options starting at $30 to 40 per head.
Here are the different types of shuttle services available:
- Shared Shuttles: Cost-effective options where passengers share the ride with others.
- Private Shuttles: Ideal for those who prefer a direct route without stops, can accommodate larger groups, and provide a more personalized experience.
- Airport Shuttles: Specifically designed for travelers arriving at Houston's airports (IAH and HOU), offering convenient transportation directly to Galveston.
Booking and Reservations
Booking a shuttle from Houston Airport to Galveston Port is a relatively straightforward process. You can book a shuttle online through the shuttle service's website.
If you're short on time, you can also book a shuttle via phone. However, it's always a good idea to review the terms and conditions when booking.
To ensure a smooth trip, it's advisable to book your shuttle in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This will give you peace of mind and help you avoid last-minute hassles.
Many shuttle services offer flexible policies for changes, but it's essential to review the terms and conditions when booking. This way, you'll know what to expect if you need to make any changes to your reservation.
For more insights, see: When Do You Go through Customs at the Airport
Travel Information

Traveling from Houston Airport to Galveston Port can be a breeze with shuttle services, which start at $30 to $40 per head.
Shuttle services like Royal Galveston Shuttle offer private door-to-door service and shared shuttle options for solo travelers or groups.
Expect to pay around $65 to $95 round trip, per person, for independent shuttles like Galveston Express and Galveston Limousine.
Independent
Independent shuttles are a convenient option for traveling to and from the Houston airports and the Galveston cruise port.
These services cater to larger groups, making them a good deal for parties of four or more. Expect to pay around $65 to $95 round trip, per person.
Galveston Express offers shared or private service between the airports and the cruise ship, with the cheapest option being shared service. The rate is $65 per person round trip from Houston Hobby and $75 round trip from Bush Intercontinental.
Galveston Limousine has a discounted rate of $56 round trip per person from Hobby and Bush Intercontinental, making it the cheapest option among independent shuttles. This discounted rate can be booked online ahead of time.
Island Breeze Shuttle charges $150 round trip for two passengers between Hobby and the cruise ship, with additional passengers costing extra.
For your interest: Transportation from Houston Hobby to Port of Galveston
Travel Time from Houston to Galveston

The travel time from Houston to Galveston is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific shuttle service chosen.
If you're traveling with a larger group, independent shuttles can be a great option, offering shared or private service between the airports and the cruise ship.
Expect to pay around $65 to $95 round trip, per person, for independent shuttle services, with prices varying depending on the distance from the airport.
Galveston Express offers shared or private service, with the cheapest option being shared service, costing $65 per person round trip from Houston Hobby and $75 round trip from Bush Intercontinental.
Galveston Limousine is another option, offering shared service from the airports to Galveston, departing roughly every hour, with a discounted rate of $56 round trip per person from Hobby and Bush Intercontinental.
Island Breeze Shuttle charges rates of $150 round trip for two passengers between Hobby and the cruise ship, with discounts available for seniors and military personnel.
Galveston Airport Services

The Galveston Express offers shared and private shuttle service from the airports to the cruise port for a reasonable price of $40 round trip per person from Hobby and $50 per person from Intercontinental.
Private car services can be a good option for getting to and from the airport, offering a range of services from shuttle vans to private limo rides.
The distance from Houston to Galveston is 45 minutes to 1.5 hours by car with no traffic, depending on which airport you fly into.
Many companies offer transfers from Houston airports to the Galveston terminal, including Galveston Limousine, Galveston Shuttle, Karr Limousine, Elite Limousines, Aim Limousine, and Lady Bird Limousine.
Private rides can be a comfortable and convenient option, with personal drivers and the ability to pick you up and drop you off at nearly any time.
Costs for private car services can range from $150 round-trip to several hundred dollars, depending on the car you wish to use.
Airport Transportation

Airport transportation from Houston Airport to Galveston is a breeze, with several options to choose from.
Shuttle services are a popular choice, offering private door-to-door service and shared shuttles for solo travelers or groups, starting at $30 to $40 per head. Royal Galveston Shuttle provides spacious vehicles for groups and flexible scheduling.
You can book a shuttle online, via phone, or at the airport upon arrival, and it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
If you're looking for a more luxurious option, private car services are available, with prices ranging from $150 round-trip to several hundred dollars, depending on the car. Galveston Limousine, Galveston Shuttle, and other companies offer private car services with a personal driver and comfortable car.
For a more affordable option, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are available, with estimated fares from Hobby Airport ranging from $120 to $160 round-trip, depending on traffic.
Galveston Limousine
Galveston Limousine offers daily scheduled service from the airports to the island, with rates running $100 round-trip per person from IAH and $80 round-trip from HOU.
For seniors, the rates are $70 from IAH and $60 from HOU. The shuttles depart only three times daily, so be prepared to wait at the airport before leaving.
Always get a complete "out the door" price quote from Galveston Limousine to avoid any unforeseen charges.
Ride Share Services

Ride Share Services can be a convenient and affordable way to get to the cruise port.
Uber and Lyft are popular options, but their rules and availability can be confusing. Uber operates in Houston and can drop off passengers in Galveston, but won't pick them up. Lyft, on the other hand, operates in neither Houston nor Galveston.
Get Me is another competitor that offers similar services, with the ability to order up a car via an app on your smartphone. You can use their service to get to and from the cruise port, and even save 50% on your ride with the code "GCT".
Keep in mind that Get Me can't pick up passengers on airport property, but they can help with transportation from hotels or other locations.
A different take: Port Drayage Services
Airport Transportation
Airport transportation from Houston to Galveston is a breeze. There are several options to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences.
Shuttle services are a popular and reliable option, starting at $30 to $40 per head. Royal Galveston Shuttle offers private door-to-door service and shared shuttle for solo travelers or groups.

Taking an airport taxi or rideshare is another straightforward option. Taxis are available at the airport terminals and provide direct, private transportation, but can be more expensive, with costs varying based on traffic and distance, averaging $140 to $160.
The average travel time from Houston to Galveston is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific shuttle service chosen.
You can book a shuttle online through the shuttle service's website, via phone, or at the airport upon arrival, and it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Here are some estimated fares for rideshare services:
Private car services can often be your best bet, offering a comfortable car, personal driver, and can pick you up/drop you off at nearly any time, with costs ranging from $150 round-trip to several hundred dollars.
There are several types of shuttle services available for transportation from Houston to Galveston, including shared shuttles, private shuttles, and airport shuttles.
Galveston Express provides both shared and private shuttle service from the airports to the cruise port for just $40 round trip per person from Hobby and $50 per person from Intercontinental.
Galveston Limousine offers daily scheduled service from the airports to the island, with rates running $100 round-trip per person from IAH ($70 for senior citizens) and $80 round-trip from HOU ($60 for seniors).
Booking Help

Booking a shuttle from Houston Airport to the Galveston Port is a relatively straightforward process. You can book a shuttle online through the shuttle service's website.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
You can also book a shuttle via phone, which is a convenient option for those who prefer to talk to a representative. You can book a shuttle via phone.
If you're unable to book in advance, you can also book a shuttle at the airport upon arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Uber cost from Houston airport to Galveston?
An Uber ride from Houston's William P. Hobby Airport to Galveston costs approximately $58. The trip duration is around 51 minutes.
Is there a carnival shuttle from Houston to Galveston?
Yes, Carnival Cruise Line offers a shuttle service from Houston airports (George Bush Intercontinental or Hobby International) to the Port of Galveston on embarkation or debarkation days, with advance booking available up to two days prior to your sail date.
Sources
- https://www.shuttlefare.com/from-houston-iah/galveston
- https://galveston-shuttle.com/transfer-from-houston-airport-to-galveston-cruise-terminal/
- https://www.cruzely.com/how-to-get-from-the-houston-airport-to-the-galveston-cruise-port/
- https://www.carnival.com/airport-transfers/galveston
- https://royalgalvestonshuttle.com/how-to-get-from-houston-airport-to-galveston/
Featured Images: pexels.com