Galveston

Discover the captivating charm of Southeast Texas. This journey through Galveston and Houston offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and seaside relaxation. From exploring historical neighborhoods and iconic landmarks to indulging in local delicacies, this getaway is a feast for the senses. Stay in luxurious accommodations nestled in the heart of The Strand Historic District. Delve into space exploration at Space Center Houston, immerse yourself in Galveston’s rich Victorian-era architecture and coastal charm, and savor the unique flavors of the region. This adventure promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.

Special Note: Please advise the RSSC Reservations team when you book this program should you have any special dietary restrictions or requirements. Requests will be send to our local ground operators for review.

DAY 1

Upon arrival at either the Houston Hobby International Airport (HOU) or George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), you will be seamlessly transferred to The Tremont House Hotel.

Upon arrival, check in to this charming four-star hotel located near Galveston’s historic Strand District. This beautifully restored 19th-century building features luxurious accommodations, a stunning rooftop bar with panoramic views, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of Southern hospitality. It seamlessly blends classic elegance with modern comfort. Nearby attractions include the Galveston Island Pleasure Pier, which offers amusement rides and games, and the Moody Gardens, featuring a rainforest pyramid, aquarium, and 3D theater. The Strand District itself is filled with shops, restaurants, and museums, making it a vibrant area to explore.

The remainder of the day and evening will be at your leisure, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the sophisticated amenities the hotel has to offer. Meals are on your own today.

Check in time at 4:00pm. Should you have an early arriving flight you may wish to book an extra night to guarantee room availability upon arrival or you may choose to store luggage at Reception and begin to enjoy the facilities of the hotel.

DAY 2

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide in the lobby and embark on a city tour of Houston. As you leave behind the charm of this iconic hotel, you'll head towards the bustling heart of downtown Houston. Here, the city's vibrant energy comes alive with landmarks like City Hall, Market Square, and the Downtown Aquarium, each offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and dynamic culture.

Travel through the Museum District, and past Hermann Park, to take in the lush greenery and beautiful gardens. The scenic campus of Rice University offers a serene contrast, with its majestic architecture and tranquil pathways. A quick stop at Minute Maid Park lets you feel the excitement of Houston Astros' home ground, while Discovery Green invites you to relax amidst its urban oasis of green spaces and public art.

For lunch, savor delicious farm fresh comfort food in a lively atmosphere.

Continue to the renowned Space Center Houston, a hub of innovation and discovery. Here, the group will spend the morning immersed in the wonders of space exploration. You will have the opportunity to explore interactive exhibits that bring the marvels of the universe to life, from the mechanics of rocket launches to the mysteries of distant galaxies. Viewing historic spacecraft up close, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the technological advancements and human ingenuity that have propelled space travel.

Additionally, you will learn about NASA’s groundbreaking missions, past and present, through engaging presentations and displays that highlight the incredible achievements and future aspirations of space exploration. This visit promises to be both educational and inspiring, offering a unique glimpse into the vast expanse of space and the pioneering spirit that drives us to explore it.

After an adventuresome day of exploration, retreat to the hotel for an evening of relaxation. Dinner is on your own.

DAY 3

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and begin the day with an architectural tour of the East End Historical District, where you will admire the beautifully preserved Victorian homes and learn about the rich history of this charming neighborhood.

Next, depart for the magnificent 1892 Bishop’s Palace, a stunning example of Victorian architecture, where you will spend time exploring its ornate interiors and learning about its historical significance.

For lunch, head to a local restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed setting.

Afterward, drive to The Bryan Museum, home to one of the largest collections of historical artifacts, documents, and artwork related to Texas and the American West. On a private tour for our group, you will be provided with an in-depth look at the museum’s impressive exhibits, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history.

Following this fascinating day, return to the hotel for an evening of relaxation. Dinner is on your own.

DAY 4

Following breakfast at the hotel, settle any incidentals and check out before meeting your guide.

Begin with a look at the charming Strand Historic District, where the historic architecture and vibrant shops transport you to a bygone era.

As you wander through its picturesque streets, make a sweet stop at La King’s Confectionary, indulging in their delightful treats and perhaps watching the old-fashioned taffy pull.

A short distance brings the group to Pier 21, where you can soak in the maritime atmosphere, enjoy the waterfront views, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the bustling harbor activities, from fishing boats to cargo ships.

Next, head to the Seawall, feeling the ocean breeze on your face and listening to the rhythmic sounds of the waves crashing against the shore. The Seawall offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Take your time to savor the scenery.

Don’t miss the chance to see the majestic 1877 tall ship Elissa, a National Historic Landmark. Admiring the beauty of the ship, imagine the adventures of sailors from a bygone era and appreciate the ship’s rich history and beautifully preserved structure.

Finally, head to the Cruise Port of Galveston to board your ship.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion.

•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive one last final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review that Welcome Letter and your final itinerary carefully for any further amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•Guests who do not arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program without notice will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.

Extra Nights

•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the hotel that is used on the FIRST NIGHT of your land program

•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 4:00pm. Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.

•If you have an early flight arrival, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 4:00pm

•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.

DAY 1

Arrive at either Houston Hobby International Airport or George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

You are met at the baggage carousel and transferred to your hotel to spend the afternoon and the evening at your leisure.

4:00pm Check in time at your hotel

Although every effort will be made to have rooms available sooner, this cannot be guaranteed.

Meals are on your own today

Overnight at The Tremont House or similar hotel

Meet and Greet and transfers

•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs, and the luggage claim area.

•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.

•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.

•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.

DAY 2

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

8:00am Depart for Houston

9:15am Orientation tour of Houston

12:00pm Lunch

1:00pm Depart for Space Center Houston

1:15pm Visit Space Center Houston

4:15pm Depart for the hotel

Evening at leisure, dinner on own

Overnight at The Tremont House or similar hotel

DAY 3

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am East End Historical District Architecture Tour

10:00am Depart for Bishop's Palace

10:15am Visit 1892 Bishop's Palace

11:45am Depart for lunch

12:00pm Lunch at a local restaurant

1:00pm Drive to The Bryan Museum

1:05pm Private Tour of The Bryan Museum

3:05pm Depart for the hotel

3:10pm Arrive at hotel

Evening at leisure, dinner on own

Overnight at The Tremont House or similar hotel

DAY 4

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

8:45am Hotel check out, settle any incidentals before you go

9:00am Tour The Strand Historic District including Stop at La King's Confectionary

11:00am Depart for Pier 21

11:05am Visit Pier 21

11:50am Drive to the Seawall

12:00pm Visit the Seawall

1:00pm Transfer to the ship

1:10pm Approximate arrival at the ship for embarkation

What to bring:

Comfortable, weather appropriate clothing that can be layered, umbrella or rain jacket, bathing suit, hat, sunscreen, camera, chargers, and sunglasses

Local Currency:

US Dollars accepted everywhere

Electricity

The standard voltage is 120 volts (V) at a frequency of 60 Hertz. If you live outside Canada and the USA, we recommend you bring a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required.

Please check with your local embassy for any visa requirements for your nationality.

The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.

If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.

Hotel address:

The Tremont House

2300 Ship mechanic Row St. Galveston, TX 77550

Phone: (409) 763-0300

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•3 nights at Tremont House (Subject to change) – Deluxe King Room

•Transfers

•Local English-speaking tour guide on transfers and sightseeing tours

•Entrance fees to all Space Center Houston, Bryan Museum, Bishop’s Palace, 1877 Tall Ship Elissa

•Breakfast on Days 2, 3 and 4 – including coffee, tea, juice, or water

•Lunch on Days 2 and 3 – including 2 glasses of beer, wine, soft drink, or water

•Porterage at hotels, airports and pier (based on 2 pieces of luggage per person)

•Hospitality Desk on Day 1 of program

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes for guests:

•Gratuities for drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Any meals and beverages not listed above

Please note:

Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.