GALVESTON, Texas — Travelers looking to book a cruise out of Galveston should take note of a recent change involving a major cruise line.
Carnival Cruise Line has updated its age policy, requiring all solo travelers to be at least 21 years old, the company announced.
Under the new rule, any guest under 21 must be accompanied by someone over 25. Exceptions include legally married couples and qualified military personnel.
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Carnival stated that guests unable to prove they are 21 or those attempting to board alone will be denied entry at the port without a refund.
The policy change is effective immediately.
Carnival currently operates five ships out of Galveston: the Breeze, Dream, Jubilee, Legend, and Miracle.
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This update comes as Galveston solidifies its position as a major player in the cruise industry. According to AAA’s latest cruise travel forecast, 19 million Americans are expected to set sail on ocean cruises in 2025.
Galveston has now become the fourth most popular cruise port in North America and the eighth busiest in the world, surpassing previous records. In 2024 alone, the port saw more than 3.4 million passengers and over 380 sailings from its three terminals.
“Cruising from Galveston has never been better,” said Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director. “We’re offering more sailings to more destinations on newer and larger ships. In November, we’ll open our fourth cruise terminal, which will be home to Norwegian and MSC Cruises.”
Tips for booking your cruise
If you’re planning to set sail, AAA recommends keeping these tips in mind:
- Reserve activities early – Popular cruise excursions and onboard experiences fill up fast.
- Consider travel insurance – Protect your trip investment in case of an emergency.
- Arrive the day before – Avoid flight delays and cancellations by giving yourself extra time.
- Pick your parking spot – Many cruise ports offer on-site parking for convenience.
- Download the cruise line’s app – Use it for check-in, reviewing itineraries, and daily schedules.
- Check packing restrictions – Know what items are prohibited before you pack.
With more sailings, new cruise terminals, and an increasing number of travelers, Galveston continues to rise as a top departure port. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years yet for cruising.