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
Often viewed simply as a departure point, Galveston is a destination with a character and history far deeper than its port function suggests. To arrive just in time for embarkation is to miss the story of a city defined by resilience, Gilded Age ambition, and a unique Gulf Coast identity. Extending your stay by a day or two transforms a travel day into a memorable part of your vacation, offering a rich bookend to your cruise.
Your exploration begins in the Historic Strand District, the city’s commercial and cultural heart. In the late 19th century, this was the “Wall Street of the South,” and its magnificent cast-iron and brick buildings still stand as testament. Today, the clatter of commerce has been replaced by the pleasant hum of art galleries, antique shops, and independent boutiques. It’s an eminently walkable district where you can spend hours browsing for unique finds, from maritime artifacts to contemporary Texan art. The Grand 1894 Opera House, a survivor of the catastrophic 1900 hurricane, is a jewel of the district and worth seeing even if you only admire its exterior.
Just a few blocks from the Strand, the East End Historic District beckons with one of the country’s best-preserved collections of Victorian architecture. Renting a bicycle or simply strolling these quiet, tree-lined streets reveals a stunning array of grand mansions and charming cottages, each with its own story. For a more structured look into this opulent past, two house museums are essential. The 1892 Bishop's Palace, an ornate marvel of stone and stained glass, offers a glimpse into extravagant Gilded Age living. Nearby, the 1895 Moody Mansion provides a more personal look at the life of one of Texas’s most influential families, with much of the original furniture and decor intact.
Galveston’s relationship with the sea is complex and ever-present, best understood along the Seawall. Built as a monumental feat of engineering after the 1900 storm, this 10-mile barrier is now a wide promenade perfect for a morning walk or sunset stroll. While here, it’s important to set realistic expectations for the beaches. The Gulf waters are not the clear turquoise of the Caribbean; the proximity to the Mississippi River delta gives them a characteristically murky hue. The value of Galveston’s beaches lies not in snorkeling, but in the simple pleasures of sunbathing, walking along the shore, and enjoying the sea breeze. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier extends over the water, offering classic amusement park rides and games—a nostalgic diversion with excellent views back toward the city.
To truly grasp the city’s maritime soul, visit the Texas Seaport Museum, home to the 1877 tall ship ELISSA. Boarding this beautifully restored vessel connects you to Galveston’s past as a vital port of entry, once known as the “Ellis Island of the West.” For a more modern perspective on the Gulf’s importance, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum offers a fascinating and surprisingly engaging look at the technology and life aboard a retired jack-up oil rig.
The culinary scene is a genuine highlight, centered around fresh Gulf seafood. For a classic Galveston experience, Gaido’s Famous Seafood Restaurant has been a landmark on the Seawall since 1911. In the Strand District, Rudy & Paco serves upscale seafood with a Central and South American influence, while The Tremont House’s Rooftop Bar offers craft cocktails and panoramic views of the harbor. For something more casual, don’t miss the chance to try fresh Gulf shrimp, either fried at a local spot or from a seafood market.
Logistically, Galveston is perfectly suited for a pre- or post-cruise stay. The cruise terminals are conveniently located adjacent to the Strand District, placing you within walking distance of the main attractions. If you’re staying near the Seawall, a short ride-share or trolley trip connects you to the historic core. Arriving a day early allows you to unwind, explore the city at a leisurely pace, and begin your vacation feeling relaxed rather than rushed. A post-cruise stay offers a gentle re-entry, allowing you one more day of coastal calm before heading to Houston’s airports (Hobby is about an hour away, Bush Intercontinental about 90 minutes) and the journey home.
At Sea - Cruising
Costa Maya, Mexico
It’s best to think of Costa Maya not as a historic town, but as a modern, purpose-built gateway to the southern Yucatán’s authentic treasures. The port itself is a clean, self-contained village with pools, shops, and restaurants—a perfectly pleasant, if manufactured, way to spend a few hours. For a more genuine experience, we highly recommend venturing beyond its walls.
A short taxi ride brings you to the neighboring fishing village of Mahahual. Here, a laid-back beachfront boardwalk, or *malecón*, is lined with local restaurants and unpretentious beach clubs, offering a true taste of coastal Mexican life. The real cultural highlight, however, is the access to lesser-visited Mayan ruins. An excursion to the Chacchoben ruins offers a fascinating and accessible glimpse into ancient history, set within the jungle and free from the overwhelming crowds of more famous sites. For pure natural beauty, the nearby Bacalar Lagoon—the famed “Lagoon of Seven Colors”—provides a stunningly beautiful and tranquil setting for a day on the water. Costa Maya is an excellent, comfortable base for exploring these worthwhile regional highlights.
Cozumel, Mexico
Let's be direct: Cozumel is one of the world's busiest cruise ports, and it's essential to have a plan to navigate the crowds and find its genuine highlights. The island's global reputation is built on what lies just offshore: the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. For divers and snorkelers, this is a premier, bucket-list destination. The clear, warm water and vibrant coral formations of sites like the Palancar and Colombia reefs are genuinely world-class. For an accessible taste without a dedicated boat trip, parks like Chankanaab or the more remote Punta Sur Eco Beach Park offer excellent snorkeling directly from shore, combined with beaches and other amenities.
Many are drawn by the allure of Mayan ruins, but here’s a critical piece of advice: the famous sites like Tulum and Coba are on the mainland, not on Cozumel. Reaching them requires a 45-minute ferry to Playa del Carmen and then a bus journey, consuming nearly your entire day. While magnificent, choosing this option means forgoing the island experience entirely. It's a trade-off you must be comfortable with.
If you stay on the island, the main town of San Miguel offers a bustling waterfront and a dizzying array of shops. We recommend walking a few blocks inland from the main tourist thoroughfare to find more authentic local restaurants for a fantastic lunch. For pure relaxation, Cozumel’s beach clubs are a popular and effective choice. They range from lively, all-inclusive party spots with water toys to more serene, upscale retreats where the focus is on a good book and a great cocktail. You can easily find one that matches your pace. Cozumel is a highly developed tourism hub that excels at water sports and beach relaxation; embrace it for these strengths, and you’ll have a fantastic day.
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 -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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:Late Cancellation policies vary by cruise line, itinerary and length of cruise. When reserving your stateroom, please congirm 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.
This package includes a room at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Houston Intercontinental Airport - a hotel conveniently located around five minutes from George Bush Intercontinental Airport and about an hour from William P. Hobby Airport.
Also included in the package price are a catered breakfast the morning of February 17th followed by a pre-arranged transfer to the Galveston Cruise Port. After the cruise, guests who have purchased this package will be seamlessly transported to George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
To book these accommodations, ask your agent about the “hotel and round-trip transfer package” for this sailing.
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.
