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Cruises from San Diego

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There’s a reason why San Diego is known as “America’s Finest City.” With year-round perfect weather, sunny beaches, and a charming atmosphere, San Diego is an inviting place that welcomes you with open arms. Visit its award-winning museums and zoos, ride a wave along its surf-friendly shores, and explore one of its many diverse neighborhoods full of restaurants, bars, and small boutiques.

Cruises from San Diego include itineraries along the Pacific Coast and through the Panama Canal to Fort Lauderdale. Discover the beauty of California during stops in Santa Barbara, Catalina Island, and San Francisco. Visit Astoria, Oregon and the bustling city of Seattle, Washington before disembarking in the modern metropolis of Vancouver. Or experience the thrill of cruising through the Panama Canal while discovering Central and South American destinations like Cartagena, Colombia and Puntarenas, Costa Rica along the way.

Please Note: While we don't currently sail to San Diego, you can still discover the beauty of the state on one of our California cruises . Browse our cruises to California below.

Itineraries

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Admire the engineering masterpiece of the Panama Canal, the water channel that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. During your journey, you’ll visit top beach destinations in Mexico, including Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta; the jungles of Costa Rica in Puntarenas; and the towns of Cartagena, Colombia and Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala, where colorful, colonial architecture is found at every turn.

From picturesque vineyards to gorgeous ocean views, all of the port destinations on a Pacific Coast cruise are a sight to behold. Overnight in the exciting city of San Francisco, where you can cross the Golden Gate Bridge or spend an afternoon touring Alcatraz. Sip on wine and stroll around the hills of California’s wine country. Embark on an outdoor adventure in Vancouver, head to the top of Seattle’s famous Space Needle, and stop by the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, one of the world’s best aquariums.

Our Ship Sailing out of San Diego

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Why Sail from San Diego with Celebrity Cruises

Cruise from San Diego in style on a Celebrity cruise. Stay in one of our spacious accommodations and enjoy unbeatable views of the Pacific Coast, or experience the magic of crossing the iconic Panama Canal from the comfort of your own veranda. 

By day, visit stunning port destinations in California and Canada, or Central and South America. Spend the evenings dining in one of our world-class restaurants, watching spectacular shows at the theater, and sipping on artisanal cocktails in one of our bars and lounges. There’s no shortage of fun and relaxation waiting for you on board.

View All Cruises from San Diego

San diego cruise port facilities & location.

Cruises from San Diego depart from the modern B Street Cruise Terminal and Broadway Pier. Here, you'll find souvenir shops and a beautiful park where you can sit and admire the beautiful view of the water. There is ample off-street parking available, with shuttles that will take you to the cruise terminal, as well as easy access via taxi or public transportation from the airport or downtown area.

Top Sights & Attractions for Cruises to & from San Diego

Mission beach.

Head to Mission Beach for a quintessential San Diego beach experience. Mission Beach is known for its miles of wide, golden sand and its bustling boardwalk full of rollerbladers and surfers enjoying the sunshine. It’s conveniently located adjacent to Belmont Park, a carnival-style amusement park with a wooden roller coaster and games.

Windansea Beach

For a more serene beach day, head north to Windansea Beach in La Jolla. Located in the laidback Bird Rock neighborhood, Windansea Beach is surrounded by large flat rocks that create the perfect hideaway to lay your towel over the powdery soft sand. While its secluded location may make you feel like you’re far away, you’ll be just a couple of blocks from coffee shops, cafes, and restaurants.

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is considered one of the best zoos in the world, thanks to its incredible conservation efforts and large animal enclosures. Visitors of all ages will enjoy its wide variety of species and educational live shows. The San Diego Zoo is known for its panda exhibit, as it’s one of the few zoos outside of China where you can still see them in person. 

Learn More About San Diego Shore Excursions

Top things to do in san diego.

The USS Midway is an old naval aircraft carrier turned museum that is permanently docked in the harbor of San Diego. Learn about the area’s naval history and tour the control room, the sailors’ bunks, and the deck where fighter jets used to land on the ship. Don’t miss visiting the large statue of a sailor kissing a nurse located in the small park area next to the ship.

Walk Around Balboa Park

Take a stroll around San Diego’s Balboa Park and admire its historic architecture and attractive landscaping. Visit one of the park’s 17 world-class museums, including the San Diego Natural History Museum, the San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Air and Space Museum, the San Diego Railroad Museum, and the San Diego Museum of Man.

Visit La Jolla Cove

If your ideal beach experience is less about sand and more about views, head to La Jolla Cove. This breathtaking coastline curves magnificently around the Pacific Ocean, and along with steep cliffs and rocky tide pools, you’ll see sea lions, seagulls, and other sea birds frolicking in the surf and on the rocks. The cove is next to La Jolla’s upscale shopping district, where you’ll find fine restaurants and designer boutiques. Adventure enthusiasts can go sea kayaking through the caves or snorkeling and scuba diving within the cove. 

What should I eat in San Diego?

During your cruise from San Diego, you can’t miss trying the authentic Mexican cuisine and fresh seafood you’ll find all over the city. San Diego is particularly known for its Baja fish tacos, which are made out of fish (often cod or mahi-mahi) fried in tasty batter, placed on a corn tortilla, then topped with a tangy white sauce and a heaping scoop of cabbage. 

Another iconic San Diego dish is the California burrito, which is stuffed with carne asada, french fries, guacamole, and cheese. The burger scene is also fantastic, and the battle for the best burger is usually between Hodad’s in Ocean Beach and Rocky’s in Pacific Beach. If you’re in the mood for seafood, try some fresh fish or locally caught spiny lobster (when it’s in season) at one of the many restaurants in Point Loma, the Gaslamp Quarter, or La Jolla.

What’s the history and culture of San Diego?

San Diego was discovered by Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, but before the Spanish settled there, the area was inhabited by Native Americans, specifically the Diegueño, Luiseño, Cahuilla, and Cupeño people. In 1769, the first mission was established. Control of the mission was taken over by Mexico in 1834, and it wasn’t until the United States incorporated California in 1846 that San Diego became a part of the country. 

Today, San Diego is known for its laid-back attitude, and its surf and beach culture are front and center when it comes to things to do. The city’s economy is mostly concentrated in the military and defense industries, as there are multiple naval bases in the area. Tourism also plays a major role in the city, as do biotech and telecommunication services.

Where can I go shopping in San Diego?

The mecca of all malls in the city is Fashion Valley, located in Mission Valley. Fashion Valley is home to several department stores, brand names, and luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Balenciaga. Soak in some of the Southern California sunshine as you walk between stores at this open-air mall. 

For unique boutiques and eclectic shops, including San Diego’s most famous hat store, head to the uptown neighborhood of Hillcrest. The Gaslamp Quarter, which is located within walking distance from San Diego Harbor, is home to a number of popular shops and locally owned boutiques.

How can I get around San Diego?

The San Diego Trolley is a scenic way to travel around the city. It connects the Gaslamp Quarter with Old Town San Diego and some of the outer edges of the city limits. You’ll find many taxi ranks around downtown San Diego, popular beach areas, and the Port of San Diego. Take the Coaster to visit some of the coastal suburbs and their charming downtown areas. You can also use the Sprinter, a light rail line that connects the western coast with some of the more inland areas, such as San Marcos and Escondido. 

What are the currency and tipping customs?

San Diego uses the U.S. dollar, and credit cards are widely accepted. Before you get in a taxi, make sure it accepts credit cards, since some drivers only take cash. Some smaller food stands may only accept cash as well, so make sure you always have cash on hand. ATMs are located all over the city. Tipping in San Diego is similar to the rate the rest of the United States uses, at 15% to 20% of the total bill. 

Find Cruises to California's San Diego Port

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Plan Your Cruise

San Diego offers fun for all ages, from paddleboarding through the bay to a trip through naval history. Experience the unique charm of San Diego, just moments from your ship. 

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Next Stop, Go: Where Adventure Awaits.

From the moment your ship arrives, the Port of San Diego welcomes you with breathtaking views and nonstop excitement. Whether you feel like going into relaxation mode and kicking back with a drink, or dancing the night away under the stars, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more. And with our two cruise ship terminals located right in the heart of the city, your adventure awaits as soon as you step off the ship.

Welcome to the Port of Land and See logo

Next Stop, Go: Wherever the Tide Takes You. 

The Port of San Diego welcomes you to a charming waterfront paradise, a city that offers nothing but good times and even better fish tacos. Discover the perfect destination for fun with friends, a romantic getaway, or a trip with the little ones, all within sight of your ship. With our two cruise ship terminals located right in the heart of the city, picturesque sunsets and a dazzling skyline greet you and will have you wishing you could stay forever. 

Cruise Destinations

Whether you are looking for a cultural experience, a relaxing trip to paradise or an opportunity to discover ancient worlds – there are opportunities to begin and end your adventure at the Port of San Diego. You can enjoy the best San Diego has to offer, and then take a cruise to relax in the Mexican Riviera, enjoy a Panama Canal adventure, or explore an Incan discovery. Or enjoy the best of the US with a cruise of the Pacific Coast or to Hawaii. A world of destinations awaits, and it all begins from our beautiful waterfront in San Diego.

  • Hawaii & the South Pacific
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  • South America
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Click here to download 24-25 Cruise SHip Schedule

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Book a Cruise

Begin your voyage in San Diego by booking a cruise with one of our partner cruise lines that depart from our convenient cruise terminals.

  • Holland America Line
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Celebrity Cruise Line

a view of San Diego Bay from Mariott Marquis

Nearby Hotels & Attractions

With year-round warm weather, it is almost always a perfect day for a stroll to nearby attractions. With so much to discover, the only question is which direction you’ll head in first. Welcome to the Port of Land and See. 

View Nearby Hotels & Attractions

a crowd walks along the North Embarcadero at the Port of San Diego there is a cruise ship in the background.

Navigating the Cruise Terminals

The Port of San Diego’s two cruise ship terminals are located on San Diego Bay’s Embarcadero: a two-mile stretch of downtown waterfront offering dining, shopping, lodging, museums, attractions and more, all with an amazing view!

View Navigating the Cruise Terminals

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Contact: port of san diego cruise ship terminal office.

Phone: 619.400.4744 Fax: 619.683.8968

Information for Cruise Operation Companies

Treat your passengers to a place where skyline and shoreline meet, where picturesque views pair with endless possibilities. A place where adventure awaits, all within sight of your ship. 

Click here if you are a cruise line Business Operator

Long-term Cruise Parking

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Come aboard & celebrate

Savor the perfect moment on San Diego Bay. Surrounded by spectacular views, luxury comforts and a relaxing breeze, Flagship puts you at the center of it all. The sights and sounds inspire relaxation, adventure and romance. Our mission is to celebrate every single moment we can in San Diego. When you capture the memories, the paradise becomes yours.

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Locally Owned Since 1915

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Private Events, Dining Cruises & Tours

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San Diego’s #1 Most Cruised Locally owned fleet

Harbor tours narrated by local guides, dinner cruises dine & dance on the bay, parties & celebrations luxury at any budget, champagne brunch mimosas & live music, corporate events reward your team, our promise to you.

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Outstanding Service

Enjoy every moment with San Diego's most experienced fleet

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Exceptional Views

See the city like you never have before

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Celebrate everything we love about San Diego for a truly authentic experience

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Dine and dance under the stars.

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San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise

Start your weekend with a relaxing, scenic escape .

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Holiday Lights Spectator Cruise

Enjoy the best view of San Diego's spectacular holiday boat parade.

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Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise

Celebrate in San Diego this Thanksgiving with a scenic holiday cruise. 

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December Nights on the Bay

Join us for San Diego's most festive holiday dinner cruise

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San Diego Whale Watching Tours

Get an up-close view of whales in their natural environment.

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Patriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride

Take a turbo-charged tour of San Diego Bay.

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San Diego Harbor Tours

See the best of San Diego aboard a modern yacht

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Sunday Dinner On The Bay

A refreshing upgrade to the classic Sunday Dinner tradition.

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San Diego, CA

cruises in san diego

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cruises in san diego

It’s not by accident that sunny San Diego, California regularly tops ‘best places to live’ lists. Having one of the most pleasant climates in the U.S. helps, not to mention the vibrant street life, compelling Mission-style architecture, plus food and craft beer culture. All of this comes together to make San Diego a delicious destination, one you can really savor before or after a cruise to Mexico. It’s true — these cruises departing from San Diego are great for experiencing one of the world’s greatest zoos and the hot local nightlife, but for folks looking to get a taste of San Diego, check out Mexico cruises from San Francisco, many of which make San Diego one of their destinations!

  • Stroll the verdant Spanish gardens of Balboa Park.
  • Ride a historic roller coaster — dating back to the 1920s — just off Mission Beach.
  • Spend a beach day (or a spa day!) on Coronado Island, before you cruise from San Diego.

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San Diego, California

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