A few months ago, it was announced that Carnival planned to bring its largest and newest ship — Carnival Vista — to port in Galveston in 2018.

This came as big news for the island, both literally and figuratively. First, the company placing the pride of its fleet in Galveston is a strong signal of how much it values the Texas market. Just about 15 years ago there wasn’t a single cruise ship sailing from the island. Now it sees the biggest and best ships from the world’s most popular cruise line.

Second, cruise ships in Galveston continue to get larger. Vista is the largest in Carnival’s fleet, but Royal Caribbean continues to increase the size of their ships ported in Galveston as well. Liberty of the Seas, which currently sails year-round from the island, measures more than 1,100 feet and can carry nearly 5,000 passengers. (For comparison, Vista is 1,062 feet and carries about 4,000 passengers.)

And while no word has been made yet, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Royal Caribbean eventually puts an even larger ship in Galveston. It’s already adding a second ship soon (Vision of the Seas). Why not continue to increase its presence with one of its Oasis or Quantum class ships?

With that in mind, we wanted to see just what it would look like if both Carnival and Royal Caribbean ported the largest ships in their fleet on the island.

Below we should how it might look to have Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean’s largest ship) and Carnival Vista docked in Galveston at the same time.

First, here’s what the port looks like now when both Carnival and Royal Caribbean are in dock:

And here’s how those ships would look next to Harmony of the Seas and Carnival Vista. You can see how much larger these ships are!

Finally, here’s what Royal Caribbean and Carnival’s largest ships would look like if docked on their own:

Headed out on a cruise soon? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite cruise items that can make your trip more comfortable, more memorable, or just plain more fun. And because we know that you want to save all you can for umbrella drinks, every item we’ve listed below is less than $20.

So get ready to shop guilt-free with these items that you’ll want for your next cruise…

Anti-Slip Lightweight Sandals

Walking around the pool area can be tricky. With the wind and wet deck, you have to be careful. That’s why we like this pair of fun (and cheap) sandals to keep you from slipping whether on the ship or on shore. $10 on Amazon

Sterling Silver Anchor Earrings

Sure, you don’t have to have them to cruise. But we think these earrings are too cute… and they only cost $15 on Amazon.

Anchor Headband

Great for hanging out by the pool! This headband will keep your hair from blowing in your face as you get some sun. It’s also super stylish and would go with any swimsuit. $4 on Etsy

Secret Alcohol Flasks

Most people buy drinks on a cruise, but let’s be real. The prices are high and the costs add up fast. That’s why we like these containers for your booze. They allow you to carry it on in secret, since they look like regular lotion bottles. $8 on Amazon

SPF 45 Sunscreen

You may not realize how powerful the Caribbean sun is until it’s too late. That’s why you should pack plenty of sunscreen. Amazon offers up cheap sunscreen, but you can also find deals at your local supermarket.

3 Outlet Adapter (With USB)

iPhones, iPads, fans, hair straighteners, nightlights… the list of things you’ll want to plug in goes on and on. Unfortunately, plug space is at a premium. We recommend bringing an adapter like this one, which also has USB ports for charging gadgets. $16 on Amazon

Don’t Need Therapy Shirt

Let’s be honest, the best shrink can’t do what 7 days on the open water can do for your soul. This shirt isn’t just fun… it’s true. $20 on Amazon (Comes in several colors)

Mesh Sand-Free Bag

If you’re headed to the beach, then take this bag. Large enough to carry towels, a change of clothes, and toys, it’s also made of a mesh that will keep the sand from piling up in your stuff. $9 on Amazon

Silver Anchor Necklace

A cute fashion accessory to wear on formal night (or any other night). The pendant is delicate and small, so it won’t be gaudy, but a classy addition to your outfit. $20 on Etsy

Waterproof Phone/Money Pouch

If you’re worried about what to do with your valuables while you swim, grab a couple of these pouches. Put your valuables in them, seal them up, and strap them on your waste. Now you can get in the water without worrying about leaving your phone/money on shore. $16 on Amazon (2 pack)

Canvas Tote Bag

Perfect as your carry-on for the cruise, or to haul around souvenirs when in port. This oversized bag has room for everything, while also looking totally stylish. $19 on Amazon

Keep Calm Cruise Shirt

To all those people stressing excited their cruise, this shirt is for you. Enjoy the sun, the sea, and the sand. Keep calm. Yeah, right! $17 on Amazon

Rather Be Cruising Car Window Decal

Show your love for the ship with this awesome decal. Put it on the back of your car and watch everyone else drool with envy. $8 on Etsy

CamelBak Water Bottle

Stop paying a ton to buy bottled water on shore. Get filled up on the ship with water (or any other beverage) and stay hydrated no matter where you go. $14 on Amazon

Wide-brimmed Hat

The best way to treat sunburn? Avoid it all together. We highly suggest bringing a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun off your face and neck. There are tons of styles available out there. We liked this one because it’s $18 and gets great reviews on Amazon.

Towel Clips

First-time cruisers are always surprised at how strong the wind is on a ship. But remember, you are sailing at close to 25 mph! Towel clips like these help keep your towel attached to your chair so you don’t have to battle the constant wind flipping it. $8 on Amazon

Portable Fan

There is no fan in your room. So if you want air to circulate, you either need to bring your own or open your cabin door. We prefer to bring a portable one to help us sleep more soundly. $20 on Amazon

If you’re anything like us, then the anticipation of your next cruise is a killer. One of our favorite ways to get our “fix” and pass the time is watching the ships in port.

Galveston offers several live webcams that broadcast a view of the port 24 hours a day, rain or shine. You can watch the cruise ships come and go and dream about your next trip.

To get your fix, just click the links below to open the live webcams. We’ve included a recent picture from each to show you the vantage point.

View across Galveston from Emerald: Webcam link

Galveston.com Cruise Cam: Webcam link

Pier 23 Cam: Webcam link

Edit: Originally, we mistakenly said the poker cruise was in October 2013. It is actually being held in October 2014.

Looking to satisfy your poker fix while also taking in some of the nicest scenery in the world? Then we have good news…

Poker magazine Ante Up just announced it will have a poker cruise departing from Galveston on October 19-26, 2014 aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas.

Now, most people are aware of the electronic poker tables that most cruise ships offer in their casinos. That’s not the case here. Ante Up and Royal Caribbean have partnered up to offer a live, Vegas-style multi-table poker room.

In total, the poker room will be open at least 76 hours during the trip — more than three full days! There will also be classes, cash games, single-table tournaments and four tournaments (including a $350 “Main Event”).

Check out the schedule below. If you’re interested in more information, check out Ante Up’s website for all the details.

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Are you about to embark on your first cruise? Then listen up…

We’ve rounded up our 10 best dos and don’ts for first-timers. These ideas cover everything from boarding to dining — and everything in between. But they all have one thing in common: We wish we knew about them before we took our first cruise. Continue Reading »