Galveston stands out as a prime port for anyone eager to explore the waters of Texas’s upper coast. Its diverse waterways are perfect for spotting playful dolphins, learning about local legends, or simply enjoying the sea breeze. Unlike many cruise destinations that focus solely on the ship experience, Galveston offers options that bring you face-to-face with marine life, historic ships, and ghost stories—all within a short ride from the pier. Whether you’re a family craving up-close dolphin encounters, a history lover intrigued by haunted tales, or a small group seeking a private sailing, Galveston’s boat tours deliver memorable moments on the water.
That’s why we’ve assembled a list of the best cruises and boat tours in Galveston, covering everything from quick dolphin-watching cruises to exclusive private charters. These experiences give you a taste of Galveston’s lively waterfront, its stories, and its wildlife, all with reliable reviews and good value at their core.
Quick Overview: Our list includes two dolphin-watching boat tours, each offering a different style—one with entertaining commentary, the other with guaranteed dolphin sightings. We also feature a haunted harbor tour for those curious about Galveston’s spooky side, a private sailing charter for small groups seeking personalized exploration, and a luggage storage service for smooth travel transitions. Each option varies in duration, price, and focus, ensuring there’s a fit whether you’re after a quick thrill or a private cruise experience.
1. Galveston: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour in Galveston Bay
At number 1, the Galveston Dolphin Watching Boat Tour in Galveston Bay scores an impressive 4.9 out of 5 based on 40 reviews. For just $30 per person and a 45-minute ride, this tour provides an excellent introduction to the bay’s playful dolphins. The captain, Alan, is renowned for his entertaining storytelling and for spotting dolphins early. Expect to see these marine mammals gracefully navigating the waters, often leaping and playing just feet from the boat. Along the route, you’ll also catch glimpses of iconic Galveston landmarks like cruise ships, the Cement Ship, and the shoreline.
One of the key highlights is the chance to see dolphins of all sizes, from tiny calves to full-grown adults, making the experience especially engaging for families and animal lovers. The reviews are glowing, with comments about the “fantastic trip,” and the captain’s ability to spot dolphins before they surface. The commentary adds a layer of historical tidbits about Galveston’s waterways, making the ride both fun and educational. The small size of the boat ensures a personal experience, and at this price point, it offers great value.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, engaging boat ride with guaranteed dolphin sightings and a knowledgeable captain, this tour is hard to beat. Book early to secure your spot and enjoy a memorable 45 minutes on the water.
2. Galveston: Dolphin-Watching Cruise
At number 2, the Galveston Dolphin-Watching Cruise offers a similar experience for slightly less money—$25 per person for a 45-minute cruise. This tour guarantees sightings of dolphins playing in Galveston Bay, a major draw for visitors seeking marine wildlife encounters. What sets this apart is the opportunity to learn about the dolphins from a naturalist guide, which adds a layer of depth to the ride.
During the cruise, you’ll cruise past notable sights such as the Strand Historic District and Seawall Boulevard, offering a scenic backdrop while you watch for dolphins. The guide’s humor and knowledge make the trip entertaining, and the reviews emphasize the fun and educational nature of the experience, with visitors praising guides like Ben and Captain Adam for their engaging commentary. The tour is well-suited for families and those who want a mix of wildlife viewing and local scenery.
Bottom Line: For a friendly, informative dolphin cruise that’s budget-friendly, this tour hits the mark. Expect lively guides and guaranteed dolphin sightings, ideal for a half-hour escape on the water.
3. Haunted Harbor Tour 1-hour Boat Ride at Night Galveston
Number 3 on our list is the Haunted Harbor Tour, a 1-hour night adventure priced at $45 per person. This tour offers a different flavor—combining the spooky stories and legends of Galveston with a scenic boat ride. It explores key sites like the USS Texas, Tall Ship Elissa, and the Ghost Face of UTMB, all under evening skies.
What makes this tour stand out is its mix of history and ghostly tales. Guides like Ben and Maddox bring the stories to life, blending local legends with historical insights. The atmosphere is enhanced by the night air and the fog rolling over the harbor, creating a spine-chilling vibe. Visitors have noted the humor and knowledge of the guides, making it a fun experience even if the weather isn’t perfect (some reviews mention rain cutting the trip short). It’s especially suited for those interested in the darker side of Galveston and looking for an engaging story hour on the water.
Bottom Line: If ghost stories, local legends, and a splash of history excite you, this evening haunted tour offers a memorable way to explore Galveston’s mysterious past.
4. Private Sailing Charter and Guided Tour
Number 4 is the Private Sailing Charter and Guided Tour, available for up to 6 people at $550 per group. This three-hour experience offers ultimate flexibility—you get a captain and your own boat, with start times from early morning to late afternoon. The itinerary includes sailing past Pier 21, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig, and getting close to the historic tall ship Elissa.
What makes this tour special is its customized nature. You can choose what sights to see, and the small group size ensures a more intimate experience. It’s perfect for small families, couples, or friends who want privacy and personalized attention. The guide provides bottled water, and the relaxed pace allows for plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Guests have praised the ease of booking and the opportunity to see key landmarks without the crowds. It’s a bit pricier, but for a private outing with a knowledgeable captain, it’s excellent value. It’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule who want a more in-depth exploration of Galveston’s waters.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking exclusivity and customization, this private sailing offers a relaxed, memorable way to see Galveston from the water.
5. Galveston: Luggage Storage close to Cruise Terminal
Finally, for practical needs, the Luggage Storage close to Cruise Terminal offers a convenient, secure spot to stash your bags for $9 per person. Open for a full day, it’s ideal if you want to explore Galveston after disembarking or before your next adventure.
While not a tour, this service helps streamline your day—no need to carry heavy luggage through the city or wait around at the hotel. Insurance and 24/7 customer support give peace of mind, and the no size restrictions mean you can store anything from backpacks to larger suitcases.
Bottom Line: If you’re arriving or departing via cruise, this luggage storage service makes it easier to enjoy Galveston without dragging bags around.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Galveston
When selecting a boat experience, think about your priorities: Are you after wildlife encounters? The dolphin tours (#1, #2) are perfect for family fun and guaranteed dolphin sightings. If ghost stories and spooky legends appeal more, the Haunted Harbor Tour offers a unique evening adventure. For small groups or couples wanting a personalized experience, the private sailing allows tailored visits and relaxed exploration.
Price and duration also matter: budget travelers will appreciate the 45-minute dolphin cruises, while those seeking a more in-depth or exclusive experience might prefer the private charter. If you’re arriving by cruise, don’t forget the luggage storage service to free yourself from bags.
Book early, especially for popular tours, and consider the season—dolphins are often more active in warmer months, while ghost tours shine at night, of course.
Final Thoughts
Galveston offers a variety of cruise and boat tour options that cater to different interests and budgets. For an energetic, family-friendly experience, the dolphin watching tours (#1, #2) deliver lively encounters with marine life. If you’re into spooky stories and history, the Haunted Harbor Tour offers a spooky spin on the island’s past. Small groups seeking exclusivity will find the private sailing an excellent choice for personalized water adventures.
Whatever your choice, booking early ensures you get the date and time that fit your schedule. Now, all that’s left is to pick your favorite, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy the best of Galveston’s waters!