San Diego is a convenient cruise embarkation port (especially if you live on the West Coast) and a lively and beautiful place to visit before or after your cruise vacation.
Where do cruises dock in San Diego?
Ships cruising from San Diego dock at the B-Street Pier & Cruise Ship Terminal, located on the two-mile-long Embarcadero fronting San Diego Harbor.
The always busy, always scenic waterfront near the San Diego cruise port offers dining, shopping, museums, attractions, and lodgings, all with the added benefit of spectacular views.
How far is the San Diego Airport from the San Diego cruise terminal?
The San Diego Airport is about three miles from the San Diego cruise terminal, and the trip takes about 10 minutes.
After your cruise, you can book a shore excursion that includes a tour of the city, followed by an airport drop-off.
A good option for families or groups who are flying to San Diego to embark on a cruise is to take a rideshare from the airport to the port area since you’ll be charged for the cost of the car and not a fee per person. You can also take a taxi, the most expensive option, but still reasonable given the short distance.
There are also shuttle services with affordable rates.
If you are spending one day in San Diego and staying at a hotel before your cruise, check to see if the hotel offers a shuttle service that will pick you up at the airport, then drop you off at the cruise port the next day.
Where should I park for a cruise from San Diego?
If you’re driving to the San Diego cruise port, it’s worth noting that there is no parking at the cruise terminal. However, there are multiple options for long-term parking at several lots nearby, ranging from one mile to three miles away from the port. These parking terminals are offered at generally competitive rates, based on their proximity to the port.
Covered parking is available at the Wyndham San Diego Bayside across the street from the cruise port.
Where can I cruise from San Diego?
From San Diego, you can cruise up the West Coast to Vancouver, or through the exciting Panama Canal all the way to Fort Lauderdale.
Read: Panama Canal Cruises From San Diego
West Coast Cruise from San Diego
Sail north on a Pacific Coastal cruise that ends in Vancouver and includes an overnight stay in the vibrant city of San Francisco.
In Santa Barbara, discover some of the best California wine regions such as Santa Ynez Valley, explore the beautiful Danish village of Solvang, or simply wander through this sun-splashed coastal city, nicknamed “The American Riviera”.
During your port of call in Monterey, ride along the famous 17-Mile Drive to see Northern California’s spectacular coastline, catch a glimpse of Pebble Beach’s legendary greens and fairways, and visit the artist’s colony of Carmel.
Enjoy San Francisco’s best beaches and most famous sights, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Embarcadero by day, and marvel at the magic of its city lights at night. Stop at the Buena Vista Cafe, home of the original Irish coffee.
Read: One Day in San Francisco
Tour Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country in Astoria. While in Seattle, enjoy a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, starting with the iconic Space Needle and the lively, foodie favorite Public Market.
Read: Things to Do in Astoria, Oregon
When disembarking in Vancouver, enjoy the great outdoors at Stanley Park, the lavish green space that gives the city its solid eco-reputation.
Panama Canal Cruises from San Diego
On a Panama Canal cruise, you’ll get a first-hand look at how the canal and its famous lock system work.
Along the way, you’ll stop at ports of call in chic Mexico beach havens like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. Sail, swim, or snorkel at some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Savor fresh seafood and authentic Mexican food. Zipline over a lush rainforest or explore the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains on an ATV.
Read: Where to Go Whale Watching in Mexico
In Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala, explore Mayan history and see Central America’s deepest lake, Lake Atitlan, that’s surrounded by three volcanoes.
In Puntarenas, Costa Rica, walk in a cloud forest over suspension bridges or experience Costa Rica’s rich cultural and coffee heritage. The country takes eco-responsibility seriously, as more than 25% of the country is made up of protected land.
On the last port of call before passing through the magnificent Panama Canal, spend a day in Colon, Panama, where you can visit world-renowned architect Frank Gehry’s Biomuseo, then hear all about the world’s greatest engineering feat on a guided tour of the Old Canal Zone. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste authentic Panamanian cuisine.
Read: Things to Do in Panama
In port in Cartagena, Colombia, explore the stunning Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the National Aviary to see over 1,900 species of birds, then make a sweet stop at a Chocolate Museum.
After sailing through the Panama Canal, your cruise will end in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Spend a day unwinding on one of the city’s pristine beaches, and explore the shops and restaurants on Las Olas before heading back to the airport for your flight home.
Book a San Diego Cruise
Browse our San Diego cruise itineraries and book online, or call one of our vacation specialists who will help you plan the perfect cruise vacation.
