San Francisco Cruises

Explore San Francisco, USA

San Francisco, the City by the Bay, is known for its stunning vistas, rich history, and eclectic culture. Visiting San Francisco on a cruise is an excellent choice for travellers looking to experience iconic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and a vibrant arts scene. Fun fact: The Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most recognized symbols of the city, is painted in a unique shade of "International Orange," which helps it stand out in the fog!

Activities and Attractions in San Francisco, USA

When your cruise ship docks in San Francisco, you won’t run out of things to do. Here are some must-see attractions and activities:

• Visit Alcatraz Island: Take a short ferry ride to Alcatraz, once a notorious federal prison. Explore the island's history and enjoy an audio tour featuring interviews with former inmates and guards.
• Explore Fisherman's Wharf: This bustling waterfront area is famous for its seafood restaurants, street performers, shops, and attractions like Pier 39, where you can see sea lions lounging in the sun.
• Ride a Cable Car: Hop on one of San Francisco's iconic cable cars for a fun and scenic ride up and down the city's famously steep streets, offering fantastic views along the way.
• Discover Golden Gate Park: Larger than New York's Central Park, Golden Gate Park is a serene escape featuring beautiful gardens, walking trails, and iconic attractions like the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences.
• Stroll Across the Golden Gate Bridge: No visit to San Francisco is complete without a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, offering stunning views of the city, bay, and Pacific Ocean. Be sure to take photos of this monumental structure!

Nearby Harbours to Explore

When cruising to San Francisco, consider visiting these nearby ports:

• Honolulu, Hawaii, USA: This tropical paradise is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. While docked, visit Pearl Harbor, hike Diamond Head, or enjoy a traditional Hawaiian luau.
• Panama Canal, Panama: A marvel of engineering, cruising through the Panama Canal offers unique views of its locks and stunning landscapes. It's a highlight that provides exciting educational insights into maritime history.
• San Diego, California, USA: Just south of Los Angeles, San Diego offers beautiful beaches, a rich cultural scene, and attractions such as Balboa Park and the historic Gaslamp Quarter.
• Victoria, Canada: The vibrant capital of British Columbia, Victoria is known for its stunning gardens, historic architecture, and British charm. Visit the famous Butchart Gardens and explore the quaint streets of downtown.
• Los Angeles, California, USA: A bustling metropolis famous for Hollywood and its entertainment scene, Los Angeles offers iconic attractions such as the Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and world-renowned beaches like Santa Monica and Venice Beach.

Regions You Can Explore When Cruising to San Francisco, USA

A cruise to San Francisco lays the groundwork for exploring these fascinating regions:

• USA West Coast: This vibrant region features stunning coastal scenery and diverse landscapes. Cruising along the West Coast allows you to experience the unique culture of cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
• Mexican Riviera: Home to beautiful beaches and exciting resorts, the Mexican Riviera offers destinations like Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.
• Central America: Rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, Central America boasts beautiful rainforests, ancient ruins, and vibrant local cultures. Explore countries such as Costa Rica and Nicaragua during your cruise.
• Polynesia: Known for its stunning natural beauty, Polynesia offers serene beaches and vibrant cultures across its many islands. A cruise through this region provides the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Hawaii: An idyllic island paradise, Hawaii features stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Island-hop to explore unique attractions like volcanoes, waterfalls, and beautiful coastlines.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting San Francisco, USA

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises boasts 11 vessels visiting San Francisco, including Ruby Princess and Coral Princess. Departing from ports like Sydney and Los Angeles, they provide exceptional onboard activities and diverse dining experiences.
• Holland America Line: Operating 11 ships, Holland America features 4 vessels calling on San Francisco, such as Nieuw Amsterdam and Koningsdam. Departing primarily from San Diego and Fort Lauderdale, their focus on cultural enrichment stands out.
• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard includes 3 vessels visiting San Francisco, including Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne. Known for their elegant service and luxurious atmosphere, they frequently depart from New York and San Francisco.
• Carnival Cruise Lines: This lively fleet of 27 has 3 ships offering itineraries to San Francisco, including Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Legend. Most cruises depart from Brisbane or Tampa, and Carnival is well-known for its fun-filled atmosphere.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 20 ships, Norwegian features 3 vessels visiting San Francisco, including Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Jade. Most departures are from Miami or Vancouver, and they’re recognized for their freestyle cruising, giving guests more dining and activity flexibility.

Best Times to Visit San Francisco, USA

• Spring (March, April, May): Enjoy mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 21°C. Spring brings blooming flowers and fewer tourists, making it a beautiful time to explore the city and its attractions.
• Summer (June, July, August): The warmest months see temperatures from 15°C to 25°C. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities and events, but be prepared for chilly winds in coastal areas.
• Autumn (September, October, November): With temperatures ranging from 12°C to 23°C, autumn features lovely weather and beautiful foliage, allowing you to explore without large crowds.
• Winter (December, January, February): Cooler temperatures range from 6°C to 15°C. While winters can be wet, this off-peak season offers more affordable prices and fewer tourists, making it easier to discover local gems.

Frequently Asked Questions about San Francisco, USA

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

A one-week cruise visiting San Francisco generally costs around $1,800 for standard options, while luxury cruises may range from $3,000 to $6,000 depending on specific cruise lines and accommodations.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard meals are typically included in your cruise fare. In San Francisco, dining at local restaurants may range from $15 to $60 per meal based on the type of cuisine and dining experience.

What are some of the dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

San Francisco offers diverse dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants and delicious local eateries. Explore famous areas like Chinatown and the Ferry Building Marketplace for unique shopping and dining experiences.

What are transportation options?

Transportation for shore excursions is normally arranged through your cruise line. San Francisco is easily navigable by public transport, rideshares, and taxis, making it convenient to explore nearby attractions.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the city, although it's good to have some cash handy for small purchases or local markets.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

San Francisco is generally safe for tourists. However, it's wise to stay vigilant, keep your belongings secure, and follow local guidelines while enjoying the sights.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The primary language spoken is English. While many locals speak some Spanish and other languages, knowing a few key phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with the diverse communities in the city.