I can help with some specific questions about the region. We're in Houston, we go to Galveston often, and we've cruised out of Galveston many times over the years, including last month (on
Royal Caribbean.) I can't help with
DCL questions though; this is our first
Disney cruise.
We generally drive down from Houston the morning of the cruise. Traffic isn't usually much of an issue (even during Mardi Gras, which worried us.) Even with bad traffic, it's never taken us more than 2 hours, and we can usually make it in an hour. Just don't try to drive it at rush hour during the week!
The weather in November is somewhat unpredictable. In general, I'd say that we've found walking on the beach in November pleasant, swimming in heated pools pleasant, and swimming in the ocean just too cold. That said, it's only March now, and we've already been swimming in the ocean in Galveston a couple of times this year.
Galveston has come back reasonably well from the hurricane. It certainly isn't as depressing to visit as it was a couple of years ago, but there are still dead trees in some areas.
If you end up wanting restaurant recommendations either near the port or over towards the seawall, I'm happy to make suggestions. Galveston has pretty good Tex-Mex and Greek food, as well as traditional seafood places at various price points. Some places have great views as well, looking out either over the gulf or over the port area near where the cruise ships dock, but generally you pay a little more for the places right on the water with the views.