Perfect Day at CocoCay & Caribbean 8 Nights • Galveston, Texas • Icon of the Seas

When you cruise from Galveston, you’re in for big thrills before you even set foot onboard the ship. A favorite vacation stop among families, this fun-loving seaside city in Texas offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty and warm southern hospitality. Start your visit with a Texas-style breakfast in the historic Strand District, the pulsing heart of the city and a hub of antique shops, restaurants and bars. Make time for a walk along the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, home to lots of family-friendly rides, games and other attractions. Then explore Galveston’s illustrious history on a scenic stroll past well-preserved Victorian mansions and centuries-old landmark buildings. If you visit Galveston, you must dedicate a bit of time to the city’s museums, which host exhibits on all kinds of topics — from Galveston’s history with oil and railroads to the pirates and corsairs that haunt the Gulf Coast’s rich and colorful past.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:30 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Amid the largest coral reef in the West, this Caribbean island lures anglers, divers, snorkelers, and beachgoers. Fish the flats or head out to blue water to hunt for big game—mahi-mahi, marlin, sailfish, and more. Bring your dive card with you on your cruise to Cozumel and witness all the natural wonders waiting below the surface, like neon tropical fish, swaying sea fans, and vibrant coral colonies. Or, go snorkeling to see the show without a dive card. Curl up on the beach in a hammock with a cold one. At Playa Mia, you can even fly down Twin Twister waterslides.

Go cruise shopping for beautiful Mexican silver, amber, and other artisanal gifts in San Miguel. Or, hop a ferry to charming Playa del Carmen, on the mainland, and stroll along la Quinta Avenida for more inviting restaurants, bars, and shops. Down the coast from Playa, you can explore the ancient Maya city of Tulum, perched impressively on a cliff, overlooking the brilliant sea and powdery beach below. Cozumel cuisine means fresh seafood. Savor the catch of the day served on a banana leaf, or enjoy it marinated in lime juice, cilantro, onion, and tomato. Of course, this is the place for Mexican classics like tacos, guacamole—and margaritas.

Costa Maya boasts beautiful beaches on the Caribbean Sea, which is ideal for divers and snorkelers alike who enjoy exploring the beautiful Banco Chinchorro coral reef that lies just off the coast. History buffs will surely love exploring the lesser-known Mayan ruins, Cacchoben and Kohunlich; meanwhile there's something for everyone at the new shopping mall, which, while great for shopping, also features a central plaza with saltwater pools and 'swim-up' bars.

Afternoons in Galveston are typically filled with sun, seafood and southern charms. Paddle a kayak through the island’s wetlands. Peel open steamy Gulf shrimp in a waterfront dive. Explore Moody Garden’s interactive wildlife exhibits. Or top off your cruise adventure with a sky-high Ferris wheel ride at Pleasure Pier, overlooking the tranquil Gulf Coast.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.