I set sail from Galveston, Texas, twice in one week.
The first time, I used a generic terminal that is shared by several different cruise lines. The experience was typical — after passing through security, we queued up in a long line to check in at a counter and register our passports, credit cards and any remaining details prior to receiving key cards to take to the gangway and, later, to our cabins.
But thanks to a brand-new, state-of-the-art — not to mention green and zero-energy (100% solar-powered) — terminal dedicated exclusively to Royal Caribbean International (RCI), my experience boarding Allure of the Seas just one week later was significantly better.
The New Terminal Experience
Having pre-registered everything ahead of arrival via the line’s mobile app, getting onboard was a very swift process. The terminal itself is beautifully branded on the outside and features an impressive lobby with dramatic propeller blades suspended high from the ceiling. I took the escalators up — with my usually checked luggage and carry-on bag, both of which easily fit through the security scanners and were on-hand to unpack once I was on the ship — and went immediately to one of the dozens of pier-side representatives on hand who reviewed my passport.
After gathering a complimentary brimmed hat (in perfect Stetson cowboy hat fashion) that was emblazoned with the RCI logo, all that was left to do was scan my barcode and go straight to the ship. There was no need to even use the terminal’s waiting room, inviting as it was.
Then, at my stateroom, my key was waiting for me to use for the duration of the voyage.
The entire experience took less than 15 minutes.
Allure and Harmony of the Seas Head to Galveston
Making its debut in Texas for the first time is the Oasis-class Allure of the Seas. The second in the series, the ship has been sailing since 2010 and is the only vessel that has not been upgraded; it is thus missing several key features found on the class’ latest vessels.
That said, there is still plenty to excite guests. (Just note, The Ultimate Abyss dry slide and Perfect Storm trio of waterslides have yet to be installed, and there is no Wonderland specialty restaurant or Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade.)
We were told that the ship was originally earmarked for such improvements prior to the pandemic, and will still receive them at some point.
The line plans to deploy an Oasis-class ship from Galveston year-round, according to Vicki Freed, senior vice president of sales, trade support and service for RCI. (Allure will be replaced in Galveston by Harmony of the Seas in late 2023.)
Freed also pointed out how convenient it is for travelers in the western U.S. to fly into Galveston on embarkation day, arriving either into George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), both in Houston. It then takes about an hour to 90 minutes to reach the cruise terminal.
What Else Is in Store for Passengers Onboard Allure of the Seas?
On Allure of the Seas, live country music welcomes passengers in the Royal Promenade. A new brunch is available in the main dining room; a fresh menu has launched at Giovanni’s Table; and El Loco Fresh, a Mexican eatery, is featured at the Wipeout cafe (similar to other vessels in the class).
In fact, there are things I actually liked better on Allure than on her Oasis sisters. By not having Wonderland overlooking the Boardwalk neighborhood below, an expansive double-decker Diamond Club is available in the space for Royal Caribbean loyalists. I was also mesmerized by the dramatic water fountain that appears to levitate the Rising Tide Bar on this ship.
And if clients are fans of Sabor, the specialty Mexican restaurant is still showcased onboard. Even Samba Grill — an alternative Brazilian steakhouse option — is available (it’s only found here and on Radiance of the Seas).
If your customers are fans of such classic and unique features, now is the time to book them on Allure from Galveston. If not, know they will soon have the full Oasis experience in less than a year’s time.
In either case, Royal Caribbean is ready to wow travelers looking to escape to the Caribbean via Texas.
