Renting a Car in Houston to the Galveston Cruise Port

Getting from the Houston airports to the cruise terminal is without a doubt the biggest hassle about sailing from Galveston. It is the only thing that keeps the island from being a perfect cruise port.

We’ve compiled a lot of information to help you make sense of your transportation options, but we often get questions about renting a car in Houston to get to Galveston.

Here’s the low-down: Getting from the airport to the cruise port is expensive. Expect to spend about $100 at a minimum for round-trip service using a rideshare service. That cost can go higher if you have more people or with the various options.

But if you rent a car, you will pay more. It can well be worth the extra cost, however. What’s ideal if to find a one-way rental to the island.

One-Way Car Rentals to Galveston

Currently, only Enterprise offers a rental car agency on the island. So if you want to pick the car up in Houston, and drop it off in Galveston, it’s Enterprise or bust.

Even so, one-way rentals with the company can be hit or miss. Sometimes cruise passengers can book a one-way rental from the airport (either Houston Hobby or Intercontinental), other times the company doesn’t offer them. Your best bet is to call the company directly or check on its website to see if you can book a one-way from the airport to Galveston.

You could also rent from other Enterprise locations in the Houston area, which will be more happy to accommodate a one-way rental. Keep in mind you may still have to pay for transportation to and from the rental agency.

Round Trip Car Rentals

More than likely, you are going to have to book a round-trip car rental. This is convenient because you will have your ride back to the airport ready once you get off the ship.

It is inconvenient, however, because you will have to pay for parking and the car rental while you are on your cruise. This extra cost is why is why the daily rental rates are so important to determining whether to rent a car or go with another transportation service.

We have seen times when daily rates for car rentals are as high as $60 for the cheapest option. But we have also seen rates for as little as $20 a day. At $20 a day, a 7-day rental plus parking would run about $200. That’s more than the cost of the cheapest options from the Houston airports to the Galveston cruise terminal, but with the added benefit of having your own set of wheels.

Have you rented a car from Houston for a Galveston cruise? Let us know in the comments below.

More on Cruising From Galveston

Getting to the Port of Galveston — Transportation options from airports and the Galveston area to the cruise port. Everything you need to know to get to the port and start your vacation.

Galveston Cruise Parking —  Driving to the port? Not sure where to park? We prices and profiles of all the lots near the cruise terminal.

Galveston Park & Cruise Hotels — Getting in late? Leaving early? Simply need a place to rest your head? We’ve rounded up the options for places to stay near the port, including those with park and cruise packages.

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