The cheapest way to get from Hobby Airport to the Galveston cruise port is to take our shared shuttle, just 60 dollars round trip per person. We pick you up right outside Southwest Airlines arrivals and take you to your cruise terminal or vacation rental.
Step 1: Landing at Hobby Airport – What to Expect
As soon as you land at Hobby, follow the signs to Baggage Claim on the ground level. If you checked bags, you’ll collect them here before heading outside.
Tip: Hobby is a compact airport, so you won’t have a walk longer than 10-15 minutes to baggage claim.
Step 2: Find the Shuttle Pickup Zone
After you get your luggage, look for signs for “Passenger Pickup Zone” or “Taxi Pickup“. At Hobby, almost all Galveston shuttles pick up outside Curb Zone 2 (just outside Baggage Claim, near the middle doors).
Royal Galveston Shuttle Location: Passenger Pick-up #3 by Zone 2 (image credit: Google maps)
Step 3: Meet Your Royal Galveston Shuttle Driver
- Shared shuttle: Your driver will be parked at Passenger Pick-up #3 by Zone 2
- Private shuttle: You’ll get a text or call from your driver with pickup instructions
- If your flight is delayed, just let us know. We will do our best to adjust.
Step 4: The Ride to Galveston from HOU
The drive from Hobby to Galveston takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and weather.
You can sit back, use the free WiFi, and get cruise tips from your driver (most of our drivers are locals and know Galveston inside out).
Why I Recommend Royal Galveston’s Shuttle Services
- Low family-friendly rates: Shared shuttle starts at $30 per person, private rides start at $149.
- Clean and comfortable vans: Plenty of space for you and your luggage.
- Direct service: No complicated transfers, straight from airport curb to your cruise terminal or hotel.
- Hourly schedule: We run daily, matching all cruise lines and flight arrivals.
- Gracious luggage allowance: 2 checked bags (or 1 checked bag and 1 carry-on per person)
How to Save Money on Your Shuttle from Hobby to Galveston
I get asked a lot about the cheapest way to get from Hobby Airport to Galveston. Here’s my straightforward advice after years of seeing what actually works for travelers and cruise guests:
There are four main options: shared shuttle, private shuttle, Uber/Lyft, and the airport taxi. Each has its own pros, but some are way better for your wallet. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Shared Shuttle (Best Value for Most Travelers)
- Most shuttles charge between $40 to $50 per person
- Royal Galveston’s shuttle costs $30 per person, or $120 round trip for two
- Generally shuttles run on an hourly schedule, matches most cruise and flight times
- Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups who don’t mind sharing a ride with other adventurers!
- Bottom line: If you want the lowest price and a straight forward transportation, this is usually your best bet
2. Private Shuttle (Best for Families & Groups)
- Private transportation for 4 passengers from Hobby Airport costs anywhere between $160 to $200 depending on the shuttle provider
- Royal Galveston’s rate is $149 for a sedan up to 2 people, check our rates page for vans and minibuses
- Direct, no waiting for others people, just your group, your schedule
- More economical for families or groups of 8 or more (splitting the cost)
- Pre-booked, with professional local drivers
- Bottom line: Cheaper than booking multiple Uber/Lyft rides if you have a group
3. Uber or Lyft (Variable, Not Always Cheaper)
- UberX is the most common and affordable option out of Hobby Airport, suitable for individual travelers or small groups
- Uber ride from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Galveston is $59. The trip duration is 51 minutes
- May be hard to get a large enough vehicle if you have lots of luggage or a bigger group
- You’ll pay extra for XL rides and prices can jump at busy times
- Bottom line: Convenient if you’re traveling solo during off-peak times, but costs can add up and reliability drops on cruise weekends
4. Hobby Airport Taxi (Most Expensive)
- Taxi from HOU to Galveston is often $110 or more depending on your destination
- Available 24/7 at the taxi stand at Zone 2, but expect to pay slightly more than other options
- No advance booking needed, but limited luggage space and sometimes longer wait for a minivan
- Bottom line: Use only as a last resort or if you prefer classic taxis over shuttles and rideshares
My Money Saving Tips:
- Book your shared shuttle early to lock in the lowest fare, especially for popular cruise dates
- Traveling as a family or group? Private shuttle is almost always the best value per person
- Avoid last-minute taxis unless you have no other option they are convenient, pricey, but consistent all year round
- Always check for discounts or promo codes with us when booking online, ask for any Royal Galveston Shuttle promo code
Sofiane’s pro tip: For most people, the shared shuttle gives you the best mix of price, comfort, and reliability. If you’re coming with your family or a group of friends, split a private shuttle and save even more.
Why You Should Fly Into Hobby Airport for Your Galveston Cruise
A lot of travelers ask me which airport is best for a Galveston cruise. Here’s why I recommend Hobby Airport (HOU) every time:
- Closest major airport to Galveston. Hobby is about 42 miles from the cruise terminals. The shuttle ride usually takes less than an hour with less risk of getting stuck in traffic.
- Taxis and rideshares like Uber and Lyft usually cost less from Hobby than from Bush Intercontinental since the distance is shorter.
- Hobby is a smaller and less crowded airport. You will get through baggage claim and out to the shuttle pickup area much faster.
- Hobby offers several direct and affordable flight options, especially on Southwest Airlines, which has a major hub there.
- A shorter drive and easier airport experience mean less stress on your cruise day and on your return ride back to the airport.
Houston Hobby Airport (HOU) – Departures Level (image credit: Google Maps)
Cons of Choosing Hobby Airport
- Fewer airline choices compared to Bush Intercontinental.
- Fewer nonstop international routes.
- Some airlines only offer limited flights per day.
- If you prefer United Airlines, you’ll need to use Bush Intercontinental (IAH).
If you have a choice, book your flight into Hobby Airport. You will save time, cut down on stress, and get to Galveston quicker.
Airlines That Fly Into Hobby Airport (HOU)
Main airlines serving Houston Hobby:
- Southwest Airlines
Largest airline at Hobby. Offers nonstop flights to most major U.S. cities and a few international destinations. - Delta Air Lines
Limited service, mostly connecting through Atlanta. - American Airlines
Very limited flights, mostly regional service. - Frontier Airlines
Budget airline with flights to select U.S. cities.
Hobby to Galveston Shuttle Schedule
Royal Galveston’s Hobby Airport to Galveston shuttles run hourly from 9 am to 10 pm daily. The most popular departures are 9 am, 10 am, and 11 am, getting you to the cruise port around noon or 1 pm.
For the complete hourly round trip schedule, check our Hobby-Galveston shuttle schedule page.
Which Shuttle Time Should I Book to Arrive On Time for My Cruise?
One of the most common questions I get: “What shuttle time should I choose to make sure I don’t miss my cruise?” Here’s my personal advice for Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Disney sailings out of Galveston:
Always aim to arrive at the cruise terminal at least 3-4 hours before your ship’s scheduled departure.
That’s the sweet spot for smooth check-in, bag drop, and stress-free boarding if it’s your first time cruising.
For Royal Caribbean Cruises
- Check-in/embarkation time: Typically starts at about 11:00 am; last check-in is 90 minutes before sailing.
- Most ships sail at 4:00 pm (subject to change).
- Official Royal Caribbean FAQ: “Guests should arrive within the 30-minute window selected during online check-in. Boarding generally begins at 10:30 am and ends 90 minutes before departure.”
My recommendation:
- Book a shuttle that gets you to the terminal between 10:30 am and 12:00 pm for early check-in and first boarding groups.
- Our 9:00 am, 10:00 am, and 11:00 am shuttles from Hobby usually put you at the terminal in that perfect window.
For Carnival Cruises
- Check-in time: Assigned by Carnival, usually from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm.
- Ships usually depart at 3:00 pm.
- Official Carnival Boarding Policy: “Guests must arrive at the cruise terminal within their selected Arrival Appointment and no later than 60 minutes before the published sailing time.”
My recommendation:
- Choose a shuttle that gets you to the terminal at least 3 hours before sail time, matching your Arrival Appointment.
- Morning shuttles (9:00–11:00 am departure) are best if you want plenty of time to check in, have lunch onboard, and explore the ship.
For Disney Cruises
- Port arrival time: Selected during online check-in, typically available from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
- Ships usually sail at 3:00 pm.
- Official Disney Cruise Port Arrival Info: “You must arrive at the port during your selected Port Arrival Time.”
My recommendation:
- Morning to late-morning shuttle is best: 9:00 am, 10:00 am, or 11:00 am pickup gets you to Galveston with plenty of time for Disney’s boarding process.
Pro Tip:
If you have an early Port Arrival Time (PAT) or check-in slot, let us know when booking. We’ll match you with the right shuttle so you don’t risk missing your preferred boarding window.
Summary Table:
| Cruise Line | Typical Check-In Window | Recommended Shuttle Pickup (Hobby) | Ship Departs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | 9:00–11:00 am | 4:00 pm |
| Carnival Cruise | 10:30 am – 2:30 pm | 9:00–11:00 am | 3:00 pm |
| Disney Cruise | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | 9:00–11:00 am | 3:00 pm |
My Bottom Line:
Always book your shuttle so you’re at the cruise port 3 to 4 hours before the ship sails.
If in doubt, just tell us your cruise line and boarding time and we’ll help you pick the best shuttle so you can start your vacation relaxed.
FAQ: Hobby Airport to Galveston Shuttle
How much does the shuttle from Hobby Airport to Galveston cost?
Hobby to Galveston shuttle is 30 dollars one way or 60 dollars round trip per person.
How far is it from Hobby to Galveston?
It’s about 42 miles and usually just under an hour’s drive.
How much is an Uber from Hobby to Galveston?
According to Uber, their UberX ride from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Galveston starts at $59.
Does Carnival have a shuttle from Hobby Airport to Galveston?
Royal Galveston provides hourly shuttle between Hobby Airport and Carnival cruise in Galveston.
Does Houston Hobby airport have shuttle service?
Hobby airport does not provide a dedicated shuttle service to Galveston. You may use third party shuttle providers such as Royal Galveston Shuttle.
Ready to Book Your Hobby to Galveston Shuttle?
I recommend booking your Hobby to Galveston shuttle online for instant confirmation. If you have any questions, you can always call us. My team and I are here to help—travel should be fun, not stressful!
