Port of Galveston Embarkation Procedure

These procedures have been prepared to help ensure the wedding day embarkation is a smooth and easy experience.

Please arrive at the port no later than 9:30 a.m. This applies to all guests. Carnival Cruise Lines has prepared a wedding check in desk for our convenience, and to expedite the check in of all guests, both sailing and non-sailing. It is located downstairs at the entrance to the terminal. 

All non-sailing guests (not going on the cruise trip) must have their driver’s license, or security will not allow them to board the vessel. This is a Coast Guard regulation, and there are no exceptions.

All non-sailing children must have a birth certificate or a passport in order to obtain a visitor’s pass.

Please be aware that there may be traffic due to passengers disembarking. The Port police have made provisions to allow all bridal parties to proceed to baggage drop off. 

Non-sailing guests (not going on the cruise trip) will be directed to the short term parking facilities. The fee is $8.00.  It is imperative you tell the police you are at the port for a wedding, so they may direct you to an expedited lane.

For sailing guests, after checking your bags, you will be directed to park your car in long-term parking. The fee is $45.00 for a 5-day cruise. This must be paid in cash. You will then ride the shuttle bus to the terminal. 

A wedding coordinator will meet and escort the group upstairs to proceed through security. 

All sailing guests must arrive at the terminal completely dressed for the wedding, as the cabins may not be ready (as bridal parties pre board early).

All checked baggage will not arrive at cabins until late afternoon, so make sure you carry on everything necessary for the ceremony and reception.

After passing through security, we will proceed to ticketing. It is necessary the sailing booklet be completely filled out prior to arriving at the port.

All sailing guests must have a valid driver’s license. In addition to this, proof of citizenship; a passport, OR a certified birth certificate, with a raised seal. A photocopy of a birth certificate or a hospital birth certificate will not be accepted. In the event a sailing guest does not drive a state ID card will be accepted.

By following these simple steps, embarkation will be speedy and efficient, and will result in a stress free start to this very important day.