California Cruises

Set Sail for California with Cruise1st

California, the Golden State, is a land where dreams come true and adventure awaits at every turn. With its stunning coastline, world-renowned wine country, and vibrant cities, California offers something for everyone. Fun fact: Did you know that California is the only U.S. state that has hosted the Olympic Games three times—1932, 1984, and 2028? A cruise to California allows you to explore diverse landscapes, from the iconic cliffs of Big Sur to the sun-soaked beaches of Los Angeles, all while enjoying the luxury and comfort of a cruise ship. Buckle up your seatbelt—for there’s plenty of excitement that lies ahead!

Major Cruise Lines Docking in California

• Princess Cruises: Princess Cruises boasts a fleet of 17, with 10 vessels visiting California, including the Ruby Princess and Coral Princess. Known for their diverse itineraries and exceptional onboard dining options, these ships offer something for everyone. Most sailings to California depart from Los Angeles or San Francisco, giving cruisers an excellent selection of departure points and opportunities to explore these beautiful cities before or after their voyage.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 5 that visit California, with the Zaandam and Nieuw Amsterdam leading in itineraries. These ships are recognised for their fine dining and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for cruisers who appreciate a touch of elegance. They're especially accessible, with departures from Sydney for domestic routes and international departures from San Diego or Fort Lauderdale.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian has a fleet of 20 ships, with 5 sailing to California, including Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss. Known for their dynamic onboard entertainment and diverse dining options, these ships guarantee a fun and lively atmosphere. Departures mainly occur from Los Angeles or Miami, making it easy to dive into the California experience.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With 29 ships, Royal Caribbean offers a blend of exhilaration and relaxation with 5 ships on California itineraries, including Navigator of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas. Their cruise experience features thrilling activities and entertainment options. Most voyages set sail from Los Angeles or Vancouver, ensuring smooth travel to California's highlights!
• Cunard: Cunard’s fleet is on the smaller side with 4 ships, yet they impress with 3 vessels sailing to California: Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne among them. These ships are distinguished by their classic glamour, fine dining, and sophisticated onboard experiences, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for guests. Departures from places like New York or Southampton set the tone for a prestigious journey into California.

Luxurious and Small Ship Options to California

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania’s fleet consists of 8 ships, with 4 visiting California, particularly the Insignia and Vista. Renowned for their culinary excellence and immersive experiences, these ships ensure guests enjoy both comfort and exploration. Departures are available from various international ports, mainly from Los Angeles or Miami.
• Seabourn: Featuring a fleet of 6, Seabourn has 3 ships that cruise to California, including Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest. Known for their luxury experience, these ships focus on personalization and exquisite dining. Departures often happen from Miami or Papeete, providing elegant travel to California's scenic shores.
• Silversea: This line includes 12 ships with 3 visiting California, notably Silver Shadow and Silver Moon. Silversea is famous for its all-inclusive luxury services and intimate onboard atmosphere, designed for discerning travellers. Most departures are from Los Angeles and San Diego, ensuring a fabulous start to your voyage.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara has 1 ship—the Azamara Onward—that sails to California. This cruise line is dedicated to offering immersive experiences with late-night port stays, allowing you to soak in California's vibrant nightlife. Departures occur mainly from San Diego, providing a lively atmosphere as you embark on your Californian adventure.

Top Californian Harbours to Visit

• Los Angeles: The bustling hub of entertainment, Los Angeles is a must-visit on any California cruise. While in port, you can visit Hollywood's famous Walk of Fame, explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or relax at Santa Monica Beach. An iconic drive along Hollywood Boulevard or a tour of the famous film studios could fit perfectly into your day!
• San Diego: A sunny paradise, San Diego is famed for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. Here, cruise passengers can explore Balboa Park, home to world-class museums and gardens, or spend a day at the renowned San Diego Zoo. Don’t forget to soak up the sun at Mission Beach and taste the local culinary delights in the historic Gaslamp Quarter.
• San Francisco: An iconic destination for cruises, San Francisco offers breathtaking views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. During your visit, walk through Fisherman’s Wharf, hop on a historic cable car, or explore the quirky shops of Haight-Ashbury. Make time for a delightful meal at one of the local seafood restaurants to enjoy the fresh catch of the day!
• Santa Barbara: With its Mediterranean-style architecture and stunning beachfront views, Santa Barbara welcomes cruisers with open arms. Visitors can indulge in wine tasting at a local vineyard, stroll along Stearns Wharf, and enjoy the lively arts scene. A bike ride along the coast is a lovely way to soak in the beautiful views.
• Avalon (Catalina Island): This enchanting island is known for its charming atmosphere and stunning beaches. While you’re there, take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the vibrant marine life, or rent a bike to ride around the scenic paths. You can also unwind at the beach or indulge in some delicious seafood at a waterfront restaurant before setting sail again.

Harbours Not in California But Frequently Visited

• Athens, Greece: A historical marvel, Athens invites visitors to explore the Acropolis and Plaka’s delightful streets filled with shops and eateries. A guided tour can lead you to all the key sites, blending history and culture seamlessly during your visit.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Renowned for its old-town charm and stunning walls, Dubrovnik offers cruisers an unforgettable experience. Guests can stroll along the city walls, soak in views of the Adriatic, and sip a coffee in the picturesque old town.
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: Your cruise journey becomes even more enchanting when you visit Civitavecchia. Guests can take day trips to Rome to explore its ancient history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, making it a key highlight of any Mediterranean cruise.
• Istanbul, Turkey: A city that straddles two continents, Istanbul is a mosaic of sights, sounds, and tastes. While in port, be sure to visit the Hagia Sophia and the bustling Grand Bazaar to truly experience the essence of this fascinating city.
• Kotor, Montenegro: Nestled between mountains and the sea, Kotor is a beautiful destination where you can explore its medieval old town or hike up to the fortress for panoramic views of the fjord-like bay, making it a must-see stop on any cruise itinerary.

Best Times to Cruise to California

Booking a cruise to California offers unique experiences throughout the year. From January to March, it’s cooler, with temperatures around 10-20°C, making it a good time for sightseeing. April to June welcomes mild weather at 15-25°C, perfect for outdoor festivals and wine tastings. July to August heats up to 20-30°C, ideal for beach days and open-air concerts. Lastly, September to November brings cooling temperatures at 15-25°C—an excellent time for enjoying harvest seasons and fewer crowds!

Cost Overview for California Cruises

Typical pricing for cruises to California can range from $1,200 to $2,000 AUD for a week-long journey, jumping up to $2,500-$4,500 AUD for two weeks. Luxury cruises can start at around $3,800 AUD for a week and go up to $8,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals on the ship are usually included, but if exploring local cuisine, you might pay around $20-50 AUD per meal at restaurants, with drinks generally costing $10-15 AUD each.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If California seems like the perfect destination for you, consider these enticing alternatives:

• Pacific Northwest: Known for its gorgeous landscapes and vibrant cities like Seattle and Portland, this region is perfect for nature lovers and foodies alike, offering a rich selection of local wines, craft beers, and stunning natural parks.
• Mexican Riviera: If you're after sun-soaked beaches and vibrant culture, the Mexican Riviera is an excellent choice. Enjoy beautiful coastal towns like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, filled with delightful cuisine and plenty of opportunities for watersports.
• Alaska: For those seeking breathtaking natural scenery and adventure, an Alaskan cruise offers stunning glaciers and wildlife encounters, providing an entirely different, yet spectacular, coastal experience.
• Caribbean: If you fancy turquoise waters and sandy beaches, the Caribbean promises fabulous relaxation and tropical fun. Each island offers its unique culture and beauty, perfect for chasing the sun.
• Hawaii: Known for its breathtaking scenery and unique cultures, Hawaii offers gloriously sunny beaches, volcanic landscapes, and rich traditions, making it a perfect tropical getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Are you ready to embark on your California cruise adventure? Let Cruise1st help you book the perfect itinerary where sun, sea, and adventure await you!