PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment to take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
BIAS FREE CME - No Commercial Support was provided for this CME activity.
ITINERARY
DATE
PORT OF CALL
ARRIVE
DEPART
Mon Feb 17
Galveston, Texas
-
4:00 pm
Tue Feb 18
At Sea - Cruising
-
-
Wed Feb 19
Costa Maya, Mexico
11:59 am
7:00 pm
Thu Feb 20
Cozumel, Mexico
7:00 am
5:00 pm
Fri Feb 21
At Sea - Cruising
-
-
Sat Feb 22
Galveston, Texas
7:00 am
-
PORTS OF CALL
Galveston, Texas
While frequently utilized merely as a logistical waypoint for Caribbean departures, Galveston warrants a closer look as a destination of distinct character and resilience. To treat this island city solely as a parking lot for cruise ships is to overlook one of the most significant collections of Victorian architecture in the United States and a cultural history that rivals New Orleans or Charleston. For the discerning traveler, a pre- or post-cruise stay here offers a sophisticated glimpse into the Gilded Age ambition that once dubbed this city the “Wall Street of the South,” before the 1900 hurricane altered its trajectory forever.
**The Historic Strand and Architecture**
The heart of the visitor experience lies in the Historic Strand District. Unlike the manufactured port villages found in some Caribbean stops, the Strand is authentic—a grid of magnificent 19th-century iron-front buildings that survived natural disasters to house today's art galleries, antique purveyors, and boutiques. It is eminently walkable and serves as the city’s social hub. Just blocks away lies the East End Historic District, a neighborhood that rewards a slow walking tour or a bicycle ride. Here, the streets are lined with towering oleanders and an impressive density of Victorian homes.
Two architectural heavyweights demand attention here. The 1892 Bishop’s Palace (Gresham House) is widely considered one of the most significant Victorian residences in the country, a castle-like structure of stone and stained glass that reflects the immense wealth of early Galveston. Nearby, the Moody Mansion offers a similarly opulent, yet more personal, window into the lives of the powerful family that shaped much of modern Texas finance and philanthropy.
**Museums and Culture**
Beyond architecture, Galveston offers high-quality museums that appeal to educated professionals. The Bryan Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Renaissance Revival orphanage, contains one of the world's largest collections of historical artifacts, documents, and artwork relating to the American West. It is a sophisticated, curated experience far removed from typical tourist fare.
Maritime history is also central to the island's identity. The Texas Seaport Museum is home to the 1877 tall ship ELISSA, a floating National Historic Landmark that is not a replica, but a survivor of the age of sail. For those with an interest in engineering or energy, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum provides a fascinating, technical look at the oil industry aboard a retired jack-up rig—a rare opportunity to walk the pipe deck and understand the complexity of offshore operations.
**The Seawall and Beaches: An Honest Assessment**
Galveston’s relationship with the Gulf is defined by its famous Seawall, a 10-mile engineering marvel built to protect the city. It serves as a bustling promenade for walking, cycling, and people-watching. However, travelers should manage their expectations regarding the beaches. Due to the island's proximity to the outflow of the Mississippi and Trinity Rivers, the water is nutrient-rich and typically opaque or brown, rather than the translucent turquoise found in the Caribbean. The beaches are wide and enjoyable for sunbathing, shell seeking, or a long walk, but they are not premier snorkeling destinations. Appreciating Galveston requires accepting it as a rugged, authentic coast rather than a tropical resort.
**Culinary Highlights**
The dining scene is robust, anchored by access to fresh Gulf seafood. Gaido’s has been a local institution since 1911, famous for its crab dishes and pecan pie. For a more upscale atmosphere suitable for a special evening, Rudy & Paco offers Central American-influenced steaks and seafood with a dress code that keeps the atmosphere refined. For a casual, authentic lunch, seek out Katie’s Seafood House, which operates directly alongside the fish market where the local fleet unloads.
**Logistics and Stress-Free Travel**
The logistical argument for a pre-cruise stay is compelling. Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is a significant distance away—often 90 minutes or more with traffic—while William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is closer but still requires a 45-minute transfer. Attempting to fly in on embarkation day invites unnecessary stress. Arriving a day early mitigates travel risks and unlocks a destination that stands on its own merits.
**A Sample 24-Hour Pre-Cruise Itinerary**
* **Morning:** Start with coffee and pastries on the Strand. Walk the district while the morning air is still relatively cool, browsing the antique shops. Proceed to the East End for a self-guided tour of the Victorian homes, culminating in a visit to Bishop’s Palace.
* **Lunch:** Enjoy fresh Gulf shrimp or red snapper at a local favorite like Fisherman’s Wharf, offering views of the harbor and the ELISSA.
* **Afternoon:** Choose your cultural adventure. For history buffs, The Bryan Museum provides a deep dive into the American West. For those interested in maritime mechanics, tour the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig.
* **Late Afternoon:** Take a relaxed stroll along the Seawall to watch the pelicans and breathe the salt air, acknowledging the scale of the engineering that protects the city.
* **Dinner:** Conclude with a reservation at Rudy & Paco (jackets recommended for men) or Vargas Cut & Catch for a polished, high-end dining experience before your voyage begins the next day.
At Sea - Cruising
Costa Maya, Mexico
Costa Maya functions primarily as a modern logistics hub rather than a historic destination. The port facility itself is a clean, self-contained tourism village featuring pools and duty-free shopping—convenient, but essentially a manufactured environment. To engage with the authentic Yucatán, we strongly advise venturing beyond the port gates.
A short taxi or shuttle ride leads to Mahahual, a neighboring fishing village that offers a genuine slice of coastal Mexican life. Here, a pedestrian malecón runs parallel to the water, lined with unpretentious beach clubs and local eateries serving fresh seafood. It provides a relaxed, low-stress beach day far superior to the crowded pool decks back at the ship.
Culturally, Costa Maya is the strategic access point for the Chacchoben Mayan ruins. Unlike the arduous travel required for Chichén Itzá, Chacchoben is accessible via a moderate drive, offering a fascinating, less-crowded introduction to ancient architecture set within a jungle teeming with wildlife. Alternatively, nature enthusiasts should consider the journey to Lake Bacalar. Known as the "Lagoon of Seven Colors," this freshwater marvel offers stunning turquoise waters and a tranquil atmosphere distinct from the ocean coast. Whether you choose the history of the ruins, the local flavor of Mahahual, or the natural beauty of Bacalar, the true value of this stop is found outside the immediate port complex.
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel requires a strategic approach to bypass the commercial density of the immediate port area and access the island’s genuine natural splendor. As the gateway to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—the second-largest reef system in the world—the island’s primary allure lies beneath the surface. For divers and snorkelers, the drift dives at Palancar and Colombia reefs offer exceptional visibility and vibrant marine life. For a land-based alternative that avoids the masses, we recommend renting a jeep to explore the 'Wild Side' (the uninhabited east coast). This rugged shoreline offers a serene escape dotted with small, open-air reggae bars and crashing waves, providing a stark, beautiful contrast to the busy west coast.
A critical note regarding Mayan history: While the famous mainland sites of Tulum and Coba are spectacular, visiting them requires a 45-minute ferry to Playa del Carmen followed by a bus ride. This logistical commitment consumes your entire day and introduces transit stress. Unless these specific sites are non-negotiable, we advise remaining on the island. You can visit the smaller, on-island ruins of San Gervasio to satisfy historical curiosity without the risk of missing the ship.
If your goal is relaxation, Cozumel’s beach clubs are highly developed, ranging from high-energy all-inclusives to sophisticated, quiet retreats where the focus is on service and tranquility. When dining in the main town of San Miguel, avoid the waterfront tourist strip. Instead, walk three to four blocks inland to find authentic family-run cantinas serving excellent cochinita pibil and fresh ceviche at a fraction of the tourist prices. Cozumel is a polished tourism machine, but by focusing on the reef, the east coast, or a high-end beach club, you can curate a sophisticated and restorative experience.
Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas
PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment and take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Junior Suite with Balcony (J4)
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with sofa and bathroom with tub. Stateroom: 264 sq. ft. Balcony: 75 sq. ft.
Please Call: 800-422-0711 for Availability and Pricing.
Suite/DeluxeGrand Suite - 2 Bedrooms (GT) Two bedrooms with two twin beds that convert to Royal King (one room with third and fourth Pullman beds), balcony, two bathrooms (one with tub) and living area with double sofa bed.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
Suite/DeluxeGrand Suite -1 Bedroom (GS) Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, One double sofa bed, One bathroom with tub
Stateroom: 381 sq. ft. Balcony: 88 sq. ft.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
BalconySpacious Oceanview with Balcony (6B) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with sofa, and bathroom.
Stateroom: 203 sq. ft. Balcony: 42 sq. ft.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
Outside
Ocean View (4N)
Gaze into the beautiful views from your cozy room.
Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
Stateroom:161 sq. ft.
Please Call: 800-422-0711 for Availability and Pricing.
OutsideSpacious Panoramic Oceanview (1L) Spacious Panoramic Ocean View Two twin beds convert to Royal King. Double sofa bed for quad staterooms. Vanity with sitting area, Private bathroom with shower. Floor to Ceiling wrap around panoramic window.
Stateroom: 191 sq. ft.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
OutsideUltra Spacious Oceanview (1K) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, two Pullman beds in separate area, separate sitting area with sofa bed and bathroom.
Stateroom: 328 sq. ft.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
OutsideSpacious Oceanview (4M) Have a spectacular view for a memorable vacation.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area with sofa, vanity area and bathroom.
Stateroom: 211 sq. ft.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
OutsideSpacious Oceanview (1M) Have a spectacular view for a memorable vacation.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area with sofa, vanity area and bathroom.
Stateroom: 211 sq. ft.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
Because this program is sailing soon, full payment of the fare is due at time of booking.
3rd/4th in Stateroom - Please call to secure the best possible pricing
Cruise pricing is presented per person, based double occupancy of the stateroom, following industry practice. Pricing presented above is listed accordingly to allow easy comparison for the stateroom categories displayed. Our agents always provide 'total cost' pricing disclosing all particulars before you make any commitment.
PRICING SUBJECT TO CHANGE:
Fares displayed above are subject to availabilty and to change until reserved with a deposit or full payment. While the fares listed can sell out (i.e. are "subject to availability"), they generally remain available until 90 days before sailing, at which time they convert to typically higher, market rates.
Market Rates offered directly by the cruise line and quoted by our agents are also subject to availability and to change at any time prior to depositing on your stateroom. Those rates are capacity and revenue controlled and can be withdrawn without notice.
CANCELLATION PENALTY POLICY WILL APPLY: We recommend Travel Insurance to protect your investment from unexpected, late cancellations.
Cruise Cancellation Policy:
Nov 20, 2024: 25% of total price*
Dec 05, 2024: 50% of total price*
Dec 19, 2024: 75% of total price*
► CURRENT Jan 18, 2025: No refund except for Taxes/fees
When reserving your stateroom, please confirm the policy applicable to this cruise with one of our agents.
Course Fee Cancellation Policy: 30+ days before sailing date - 75% Refund ; 7-29 days before sailing date - 50% Refund; Less than 7 days before sailing date - No Refund
FUEL SUPPLEMENT: During periods of unusual oil price volatility, cruiselines may implement a fuel surcharge at any time prior to sailing.
Protect Your Trip with Allianz Travel Insurance
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can give you flexibility and support when your trip doesn’t go quite as planned. From unexpected flight issues to covered trip cancellations, travel emergencies, and more, travel insurance can help you manage unforeseen events that may impact your trip—giving you peace of mind from the moment you book your trip through your return home.
For an instant quote:
Simply provide a few short details about your trip
Whether you’re planning your next trip or you recently booked one, travel insurance can help smooth over many unexpected travel glitches—while putting your mind at ease, knowing you’re off the hook for covered expenses that could arise from them.
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can provide you benefits and professional support when a covered situation comes up before or during your trip. The following examples may qualify for benefits:
Cancelling your trip after unexpectedly becoming too sick to travel
Taking care of a sick or injured traveling companion
Having to end your trip early due to a family emergency
Dealing with a flight delay or cancellation
Needing to buy personal items if your luggage is lost or stolen
Missing your cruise departure after a covered flight delay
You also can contact our travel protection partner Allianz Global Assistance’s 24/7, award-winning customer service for on-the-go assistance with issues like a medical emergency, replacing your lost passport, or making reservations around the world. To be eligible for a time-sensitive waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusions, purchase your travel insurance plan within 14 days of initial trip deposit (other purchase requirements and conditions apply). Specific plan benefits may vary. Please review your plan details for more information.
What Can Travel Insurance Help Protect?
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can protect you before and during your trip—keeping you, your loved ones, and your travel budget safer. Benefits vary by plan, and these are brief descriptions. Please read your plan documents for details.
TRIP CANCELLATION
Reimburses your prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to a covered reason, such as you, a family member, or traveling companion experiencing a covered illness or injury. Examples include:
A doctor says you or a traveling companion is too sick to fly
Your parent or child requires hospitalization
You need to attend the birth of a family member’s child
You have a traffic accident (not breakdown) on the way to the airport
A storm shuts down your airport for 24 hours or more
TRIP INTERRUPTION
Reimburses your unused, non-refundable travel expenses and increased transportation costs during your trip if you have to return home early due to a covered reason, for instance when a family member has a qualifying medical emergency and needs your care. Examples include:
You have a covered illness or injury and a doctor says you must return home
A family member has a qualifying injury and needs your care
A covered emergency, like a fire or flood, makes your home uninhabitable
TRAVEL DELAY
If you have a covered delay while traveling, travel insurance can reimburse you for meals, accommodations, and transportation expenses when your trip is delayed for a minimum number of consecutive hours for a covered reason. Minimum number of hours varies by plan.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE
Reimburses your expenses related to covered medical and dental emergencies* that might occur on your trip. This benefit can be especially helpful if you have a covered emergency outside the United States, as most health insurance policies won’t cover you outside the country. Examples include:
You slip and break your ankle while sightseeing
You get food poisoning while sampling the local cuisine
You lose a filling and need immediate dental treatment*
*A sublimit and maximum apply for this benefit. Check your plan documents for details.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION
Arranges and pays for medically necessary transportation following a covered injury or illness to the nearest appropriate medical facility to receive care and get you home after treatment.
BAGGAGE LOSS, DAMAGE, or THEFT
Reimburses the replacement of your lost, damaged, or stolen luggage and personal items while traveling.
BAGGAGE DELAY
Reimburses essential items purchased during your trip if your baggage is delayed for a minimum number of hours (varies by plan).
CHANGE FEE
Reimburses fees if you need to change your flight itinerary due to a covered reason.
24-HOUR ASSISTANCE
Provides around-the-clock support during your trip. Allianz Global Assistance’s staff of multilingual problem solvers can help you with medical, legal, and travel-related emergencies whenever they happen. Medical assistance may include, but is not limited to:
Medical triage with referrals to local prescreened medical providers
Ongoing medical monitoring
Payment guarantee
Emergency medical transportation
Additional services for travel-related emergencies can help with:
When you purchase any Allianz Travel Insurance plan, you automatically get 15 days (or more, depending on your state of residence) to review your policy documents. Within that period, you can cancel your plan for a full refund if you’re not satisfied, as long as you haven’t filed a claim or departed on your trip.
Need Help Along the Way?
Contact Allianz Global Assistance’s award-winning team of travel experts. Call anytime for assistance navigating travel mishaps overseas or in the U.S.—or help with everything from reporting lost baggage to locating emergency medical treatment. They can also help you replace passports, refer you to legal assistance, secure cash from home in case of emergency, and guarantee payment when you need to be admitted to a hospital, in some instances.
Contact Allianz Global Assistance
Phone (24/7): 1-800-284-8300(within the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) 1-804-281-5700(outside of the U.S., call collect)
File or Track a Claim
It’s easy and convenient to file and track a claim, upload documents, and more online. Start your claim using your email address or policy number.
If you need to update your travel insurance plan, such as adjusting the dates of your plan to reflect itinerary changes, please contact us or manage your plan online so your plan reflects your entire itinerary and provides the right amount of protection for your travels.
Allianz Global Assistance is a world leader in travel insurance and assistance, helping millions of travelers across the globe every year. Allianz Global Assistance is owned by Allianz SE, the world’s largest diversified insurance company. For over 100 years, Allianz SE has helped protect important milestones in American history, insuring the Wright Brothers’ first flight and Golden Gate Bridge construction.
Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply including for pre-existing medical conditions. Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best’s 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at 800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or customerservice@allianzassistance.com.
Explore the seamless combination of Mid-Century Modern luxury and Southern hospitality that is Le Méridien Houston Downtown. This hotel’s prime location in downtown Houston near Minute Maid Park and Toyota Center will satisfy the needs of sports fans and concert goers alike. After a long day exploring downtown Houston, settle into your tastefully appointed room or suite designed for maximum comfort.
Centrally located in downtown Houston’s business hub, this modern hotel puts you near the George R. Brown Convention Center and many Texas attractions like Toyota Center, Hobby Center and Minute Maid Park. After a busy day of events or sightseeing, relax in a spacious guest room or suite, swim in a heated outdoor pool overlooking the city, relish the delicious menu at Shula’s Steakhouse, or grab a craft beer at the hotel bar located in the light-filled atrium lobby.
Established in 1911, Grand Galvez has pleased guests worldwide for more than 110 years. This AAA 4-diamond property is the only historic beachfront hotel on the Texas Gulf Coast and is renowned as one of the finest hotels in the Lone Star State.
https://grandgalvez.com/
Bookable Tours & Activities
Browse and book tours, excursions, and activities through our partner Viator.
Galveston Tours & Activities
Questions?
Call us at 800.422.0711 (US & Canada)
Or +1-727-526-1571
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.
