California Cruises

The California coast is renowned worldwide for its breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge of San Francisco to the glamorous beaches of Southern California, cruising this picturesque region offers a unique way to experience California’s rich culture and natural beauty. Fun fact: California is home to more national parks than any other state, including the majestic Yosemite and the iconic Joshua Tree! Cruising along the California coast allows you to visit charming coastal towns, indulge in delectable cuisine, and take part in exciting outdoor activities—making for unforgettable memories against a stunning backdrop.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to California

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 12 offering itineraries to the stunning California coast. The Ruby Princess and Discovery Princess are particularly popular, featuring a wide array of onboard activities, gourmet dining options, and luxurious staterooms. Ruby Princess is known for its exciting deck parties and engaging entertainment at sea. Most cruises depart from Los Angeles or San Francisco, offering great access points for exploring the beauty of the region.
• Holland America Line features a fleet of 11 ships, with 5 offering trips to the beautiful California coastline. The Nieuw Amsterdam and Zaandam stand out with their refined ambiance and excellent culinary offerings, showcasing local flavours throughout their journeys. Departures typically take place from San Diego or Vancouver, providing convenient embarkation for explorers wanting to experience all that California has to offer.
• Carnival Cruise Line boasts a fleet of 27 ships, with 6 dedicated to the California itineraries. The Carnival Panorama and Carnival Radiance are attractive ships offering a lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options, including outdoor movie nights and deck games, catering to families and young adults alike. Most departures occur from Long Beach or San Francisco, ensuring easy access to California’s stunning coastal areas.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises has a fleet size of 29 ships, with 6 focusing on California itineraries. The Navigator of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas are especially well-regarded for their innovative experiences like sky diving simulators and rock climbing walls, providing thrill-seekers with plenty of excitement during their cruise. Departures are most commonly from Los Angeles or Seattle, opening up diverse routes along the Pacific coast.
• Norwegian Cruise Line consists of 20 ships, with 5 offering itineraries that feature California. The Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Joy stand out for their freestyle cruising model, allowing guests the flexibility to dine and enjoy their activities as they please. Most departures typically occur from Los Angeles or Miami, ensuring smooth transitions into the rhythms of the Californian lifestyle.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options in California

• Oceania Cruises has a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 dedicated to itineraries that include California. The Marina and Regatta offer a blend of luxury and comfort, featuring fine dining that highlights fresh, local ingredients along with elegant accommodations. These vessels typically depart from Miami or Los Angeles, providing an upscale start to your exploration along the stunning coast.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 focusing on itineraries that feature California. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest are known for their intimate cruising experiences and commitment to immersive local engagement through late-night port stays. Departures usually occur from Miami or San Diego, ensuring a smooth transition into your enchanting journey.
• Seabourn features a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 1 dedicated to the California coast. The Seabourn Ovation is lauded for its all-inclusive luxury and exceptional customer service, ensuring an intimate and luxurious experience. Most departures occur from Los Angeles or San Francisco, setting an elegant tone for your discovery of the western coastline.
• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, both offering itineraries that include California. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II emphasise wellness and luxury, featuring upscale amenities and diverse culinary offerings. Departures usually take place from Barcelona or Miami, allowing for a lavish entry into the Californian landscape.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3, with 2 ships offering itineraries to California. The Bolette and Balmoral are particularly appreciated for their friendly service and classic cruising atmosphere. Departures typically occur from Southampton or Newcastle upon Tyne, ensuring convenient access for UK travellers looking to explore the captivating coast of California.

Top Harbours to Explore in California

• San Francisco – Known for its iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, San Francisco offers a vibrant experience. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, shop at Pier 39, and visit Chinatown for unique cultural insights. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets or enjoy a cable car ride for an unforgettable city experience.
• Los Angeles – The entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is brimming with attractions. Visit Hollywood Boulevard to see the Walk of Fame, explore Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city, or relax on the beautiful sandy beaches of Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Sample authentic Mexican cuisine at local eateries and indulge in the city’s exciting nightlife.
• San Diego – Known for its stunning coastline and mild weather, San Diego is a fantastic destination for beach lovers. Explore Balboa Park, home to the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, or relax on the beaches in La Jolla. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants and visit the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter for nightlife and entertainment.
• Santa Barbara – Often referred to as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara boasts Spanish Colonial architecture and beautiful beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along Stearns Wharf, explore the local wine country, or visit the Santa Barbara Mission. Don’t forget to try local specialities, like Santa Barbara-style seafood, at charming oceanfront restaurants.
• Monterey – Known for its picturesque coastline and historic sites, Monterey is perfect for nature lovers. Visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, stroll along Cannery Row, or take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Consider whale watching excursions for a chance to see the majestic marine life that calls the coast home.

The Best Times to Cruise to California

California enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate, making it an excellent cruising destination all year round. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 10°C to 20°C, perfect for outdoor explorations and enjoying the scenic landscapes without heavy tourist traffic. Spring (April to June) brings milder temperatures from 15°C to 25°C, ideal for festivals and beach activities with blooming flowers. The summer months (July to September) can be warm, often exceeding 25°C to 30°C, perfect for beach lovers seeking sunshine and lively attractions. Autumn (October to December) offers cooler temperatures of around 10°C to 20°C, making it ideal for local harvest festivals and outdoor adventures without the summer crowds.

Costs of Cruising to California

A standard one-week cruise to California typically costs between £800 and £1,500, depending on the cruise line and accommodation chosen. Luxury cruises generally start from around £2,800, with the potential for prices to escalate based on desired amenities. While onshore, you can expect to spend approximately £10 to £30 for meals at casual restaurants, while drinks usually range from £3 to £8, allowing you to enjoy California’s wonderful gastronomy during your stay.

The captivating landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and varied activities of California await exploration. It’s time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st and set sail for an unforgettable journey along the incredible West Coast USA!