Cruises from San Francisco, California
San Francisco is one of the most scenic and fascinating departure ports on the West Coast, offering travelers a seamless blend of iconic city attractions and world-class cruise adventures. With the Golden Gate Bridge as your backdrop and Alcatraz Island in view, cruises from San Francisco promise an unforgettable start to your journey. Major cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line offer diverse itineraries from this port, taking travelers to destinations across the Pacific and beyond.
From San Francisco, you can embark on remarkable voyages to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, and even farther afield to Asia or the South Pacific. Experience the untamed beauty of Alaska's glaciers, the lush islands of Hawaii, or the colorful coastlines of Mexico - all while enjoying the comfort and excitement of your ship at sea. Longer repositioning cruises and Panama Canal sailings also begin here, perfect for those seeking extended adventures.
Before or after your cruise, take time to explore San Francisco's world-famous attractions. Ride a cable car through the city's steep hills, stroll along Fisherman's Wharf for clam chowder in a sourdough bowl, or admire the sweeping views from Twin Peaks. Discover the art and culture of Chinatown, explore Golden Gate Park's museums and gardens, or cross the bridge to nearby wine country in Napa and Sonoma for an unforgettable tasting experience.
With its combination of breathtaking views, cultural richness, and access to some of the Pacific's most extraordinary destinations, San Francisco is not just a place to start your cruise - it's part of the adventure itself. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a bucket-list voyage across the Pacific, cruises from San Francisco offer something for every traveler, blending the city's iconic charm with the excitement of exploring the open sea.
Popular Cruises From San Francisco
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All Sailings By Month | $1,499 | $819 | $659 | $899 | $542 | $489 | $522 | $509 | $474 | $834 | $749 | $799 | $869 | $1,499 | $1,599 | $1,599 | $674 | $574 | $589 | $614 | $564 | $559 | $1,219 | $850 | $1,980 | $1,680 | $1,780 | $875 | $789 | $5,999 | ||||||
| Alaska - Cruises | $1,059 | $999 | $1,079 | $1,184 | $1,014 | $1,145 | $1,159 | $1,324 | $1,450 | $1,204 | $1,329 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hawaii | $1,499 | $1,299 | $1,384 | $1,449 | $1,399 | $1,329 | $1,479 | $1,329 | $1,749 | $1,499 | $1,599 | $1,599 | $1,549 | $1,830 | $1,930 | $1,580 | $1,980 | $1,680 | $1,780 | $1,730 | $1,630 | |||||||||||||||
| Mexico | $819 | $659 | $899 | $542 | $489 | $522 | $509 | $474 | $749 | $799 | $869 | $674 | $574 | $589 | $614 | $564 | $559 | $1,219 | $850 | $789 | ||||||||||||||||
| Pacific Coastal | $874 | $834 | $924 | $875 | $875 | $1,125 | $5,999 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Panama Canal | $2,249 | view sailings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Trans Pacific Cruises | $3,649 | $2,529 | $17,609 | $1,409 | view sailings | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| World Cruises | $19,419 | $15,980 | view sailings |
Top Cruise Destinations From San Francisco
A cruise from San Francisco to Hawaii offers the ultimate tropical escape, blending the adventure of the open sea with the serenity of the islands. Sail across the Pacific and experience the natural beauty and spirit of aloha that make Hawaii unforgettable. From the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island and the lush valleys of Kauai to the beaches of Maui and Waikiki, every island offers something unique. Snorkel with sea turtles, explore cascading waterfalls, and enjoy the laid-back island lifestyle that defines Hawaii's charm.
View Hawaii CruisesThe Pacific Coast cruise route is a favorite for travelers who want to experience the best of the West without venturing too far from home. These scenic sailings typically include stops in vibrant cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and Vancouver, as well as charming smaller ports like Astoria or Victoria. You'll enjoy breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, serene beaches, and picturesque harbors as you travel along the coastline. Perfect for shorter getaways or repositioning cruises, Pacific Coastal itineraries offer a mix of culture, food, and natural beauty.
View Pacific Coastal CruisesSail north from San Francisco and experience the wild, untamed majesty of Alaska. These cruises take you through a world of icy fjords, towering glaciers, and snow-capped peaks, where whales breach and eagles soar overhead. Explore charming frontier towns like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, and witness the natural splendor of Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord. Whether you're kayaking through quiet waters or viewing glaciers from your balcony, an Alaska cruise from San Francisco promises an adventure filled with awe, discovery, and unforgettable scenery.
View Alaska CruisesThings To Do And See In San Francisco
No trip to San Francisco is complete without seeing the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge. Spanning nearly two miles across the bay, this iconic landmark connects the city to Marin County and offers spectacular views of the skyline, Alcatraz, and the Pacific Ocean. You can walk or bike across the bridge, stop at scenic overlooks for photos, or visit the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center to learn more about its fascinating history and construction.
Fisherman's Wharf is one of San Francisco's most popular waterfront destinations, filled with shops, seafood restaurants, and lively entertainment. Stroll along the piers, meet the resident sea lions at Pier 39, or sample clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl - a local favorite. You'll also find street performers, bay cruises, and quick access to ferries bound for Alcatraz Island. It's the perfect place to soak in the city's maritime charm before or after your cruise.
Once home to the country's most infamous prison, Alcatraz Island is now one of San Francisco's most intriguing attractions. A short ferry ride from the pier takes you to this legendary island, where you can explore the historic cellhouse, hear stories from former inmates and guards, and take in stunning views of the city skyline. The award-winning audio tour brings its dramatic past to life, making Alcatraz a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors alike.
Step into one of the oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns in North America. Enter through the ornate Dragon Gate and wander streets filled with lanterns, markets, and traditional shops. Sample authentic dim sum, explore herbal apothecaries, and visit the historic Tin How Temple, one of the oldest Chinese temples in the U.S. This cultural gem offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's diverse heritage and a sensory experience unlike any other neighborhood in San Francisco.
Stretching over 1,000 acres, Golden Gate Park is an urban oasis filled with gardens, museums, and scenic trails. Visit the de Young Museum or the California Academy of Sciences, admire the Japanese Tea Garden, or rent a bike to explore its winding paths and lakes. Locals and visitors alike love the park for its mix of culture and nature, making it a perfect spot to relax, picnic, or simply take in the fresh coastal air before your cruise.
San Francisco Shore Excursions
Cruises From San Francisco FAQs
San Francisco offers an incredible mix of hotel options for travelers spending time in the city before or after their cruise. Whether you want to stay steps from the Embarcadero, soak in skyline views from Nob Hill, or enjoy boutique charm by the bay, there's a perfect match for every traveler. Extending your stay is an easy way to enjoy the local culture, iconic landmarks, and world-class dining the city is known for.
- Trusted Hotel Brands: You'll find comfort and convenience at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco, located right on the Embarcadero, and the Hilton San Francisco Financial District, just a few minutes from the cruise terminal. The Marriott Marquis near Union Square offers sleek rooms, great amenities, and easy access to the city's top attractions.
- Boutique & Stylish Hotels: For a more personalized stay, Hotel Zephyr at Fisherman's Wharf brings playful, nautical design and a lively atmosphere. The Argonaut Hotel, a historic favorite, features maritime-inspired decor, exposed brick, and bay views that make it one of the city's most unique boutique hotels.
- Luxury Hotels: If you're looking for an upscale escape, check into the elegant Fairmont San Francisco atop Nob Hill, where timeless style meets panoramic views. The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco blends old-world charm with modern comfort, while the Four Seasons Embarcadero delivers sleek sophistication overlooking the Bay Bridge.
All cruises from San Francisco depart from the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27, located along the scenic Embarcadero waterfront. It's easily accessible from major highways, downtown hotels, and both of the Bay Area's airports.
If you-re flying into San Francisco International Airport (SFO), expect about a 25-30 minute ride depending on traffic. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is another option, roughly 35-40 minutes away via the Bay Bridge. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular choices, and public transportation is also available through BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit). You can take BART from the airport to the Embarcadero Station and connect to a short taxi or streetcar ride to Pier 27.
San Francisco serves as a key West Coast gateway for a select group of cruise lines, offering travelers scenic voyages to incredible destinations. From short getaways to Mexico to bucket-list journeys to Alaska and Hawaii, you can sail directly from this iconic city with three distinguished cruise lines.
Princess Cruises is the leading line operating year-round from San Francisco. Their itineraries include Alaska cruises filled with glacier viewing and wildlife encounters, relaxing voyages to Hawaii, and sun-drenched adventures to Mexico and the California coast.
Carnival Cruise Line offers fun-filled, family-friendly sailings that are perfect for travelers looking for vibrant onboard entertainment and classic coastal routes. Carnival's itineraries typically include the Mexican Riviera and shorter West Coast escapes that combine comfort and value.
For those seeking a more refined and traditional ocean experience, Cunard Line provides a touch of British elegance. Cunard's occasional sailings from San Francisco include extended voyages and repositioning cruises, known for their white-glove service, afternoon tea, and timeless transoceanic ambiance.
Whether your idea of cruising means casual family fun or classic luxury, these cruise lines make San Francisco an unforgettable departure point for voyages across the Pacific and beyond.
If you have a little extra time before or after your cruise, you'll find that San Francisco's waterfront is packed with memorable ways to spend a morning or afternoon. Start your visit along the Embarcadero, a pedestrian-friendly stretch that runs right past the cruise terminal. The views of the Bay Bridge are spectacular, especially around sunrise or sunset. Stop inside the Ferry Building Marketplace, a must-see for food lovers where you can sample artisan cheeses, locally roasted coffee, and fresh oysters while browsing unique shops selling everything from wine to handmade chocolates.
Just north of the terminal, Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 deliver classic San Francisco charm with lively street performers, souvenir shops, and delicious seafood stalls. Watch the famous sea lions lounging on the docks or take a short bay cruise for a close-up view of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. If you prefer to stay on land, hop aboard one of the city's historic cable cars- they're as much a San Francisco icon as the bridge itself - and ride up to Nob Hill for sweeping skyline views.
For those craving a little culture or family fun, the Exploratorium at Pier 15 offers hundreds of hands-on exhibits that blend art and science in an unforgettable way. Travelers with a few extra hours might also explore nearby neighborhoods like North Beach, the city's Italian district, or Chinatown, one of the oldest and most vibrant in the United States. Whether you're into food, history, or sightseeing, the area around the port is the perfect place to soak in the city's spirit before setting sail.
Parking near the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27 is convenient, but it?s always smart to plan ahead since spaces can fill quickly during busy sailings. The Pier 27 Garage is the closest and most convenient option, located directly beside the terminal with easy access for luggage drop-off and embarkation. It offers both short- and long-term parking, and reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer or major events like Fleet Week. Rates typically range from $25 to $40 per day, depending on the season and duration of stay.
If Pier 27's lot is full, several nearby garages provide solid alternatives. The Embarcadero Center Garages (at Piers 19-23) and lots along Lombard Street and Bay Street are all within a five- to ten-minute rideshare or shuttle ride to the terminal. Some even offer multi-day packages specifically for cruisers. Travelers staying in the city overnight should ask their hotel about "Park and Cruise" packages - many downtown and Wharf-area hotels will let you leave your car during your voyage and include round-trip transportation to the port.
For visitors driving in from farther away, it's worth arriving early to avoid traffic and allow time to unload luggage before parking. The Embarcadero can get busy during weekends and events, so a little extra time ensures a smooth and stress-free start to your vacation. Once parked, you can relax and enjoy the waterfront views knowing your car is secure while you're away at sea.
Few cities rival San Francisco when it comes to dining, and the area surrounding the cruise terminal offers something for every appetite. For a casual bite, head to Boudin Bakery Cafe at Fisherman's Wharf for a hearty bowl of clam chowder served in freshly baked sourdough bread - a San Francisco classic. Another favorite is The Codmother Fish & Chips, a no-frills food truck turned local legend known for its crispy golden fish and friendly service.
If you're looking for seafood with a view, Fog Harbor Fish House and Scoma?s both offer dockside dining and fresh local catches paired with unbeatable bay scenery. Waterbar, located along the Embarcadero, combines sustainable seafood and contemporary design with panoramic views of the Bay Bridge, making it a favorite for pre-cruise dinners. Just next door, Epic Steak serves prime cuts and California wines in a chic waterfront setting perfect for a special occasion.
For something truly memorable, venture a bit farther into the city to try Angler, an upscale restaurant offering wood-fired seafood and coastal-inspired cuisine with an inventive twist. And if you prefer something simple before boarding, the Ferry Building Marketplace has dozens of artisan food stalls where you can grab a coffee, fresh oysters, or gourmet snacks to enjoy by the bay. Whatever you choose, dining near the port sets the perfect tone for your cruise from San Francisco.
Cruises from San Francisco operate nearly all year, but the ideal season depends on where you're headed. For those sailing north to Alaska, the best time to cruise is from late spring through early fall, when the days are long, wildlife is abundant, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Travelers heading for Hawaii tend to favor the cooler months of October through March, when the Pacific offers calm seas and pleasant tropical temperatures.
Mexico and Pacific Coastal cruises are most popular in spring and fall, offering comfortable weather both at sea and in port. San Francisco's own microclimate can be unpredictable - expect cool mornings and warm afternoons, even in summer. Pack layers, and you'll be ready for any adventure your itinerary brings.
For most closed-loop cruises - voyages that begin and end in San Francisco and visit places like Alaska, Hawaii, or Mexico - U.S. citizens can sail using a government-issued photo ID along with an original or certified copy of their birth certificate. That said, a valid U.S. passport is always the best form of identification for any international travel.
A passport gives you maximum flexibility, especially in the event of an emergency that requires you to fly home from a foreign port. It's also required for any cruise that includes stops in international destinations such as Canada, Japan, or the South Pacific. Always check your cruise documents to confirm entry requirements and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
Absolutely! San Francisco is packed with family attractions that make it easy to turn your cruise vacation into a full Bay Area adventure. Start with Pier 39, where kids can watch sea lions basking in the sun, explore the Aquarium of the Bay, or enjoy a spin on the waterfront carousel. Just a short walk away, the Exploratorium offers hundreds of interactive exhibits blending science and art in a hands-on way that's perfect for curious minds.
Families who love the outdoors can venture to Golden Gate Park to visit the California Academy of Sciences, explore botanical gardens, or enjoy a picnic among the redwoods. For a scenic outing, take a ferry to Angel Island State Park and spend a few hours hiking, biking, or relaxing with incredible views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
To make your departure as smooth as possible, plan to arrive at the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal about two to three hours before your ship is scheduled to leave. Most cruise lines open check-in mid-morning, and all guests are required to be onboard at least 90 minutes before departure. Arriving early ensures plenty of time for parking, baggage drop-off, and security screening without feeling rushed.
If you're flying in the same day, aim for an early morning flight to SFO or OAK to allow time for traffic and check-in delays. Many travelers prefer to arrive the day before sailing to enjoy the city and avoid last-minute stress. With waterfront views, restaurants, and nearby attractions, arriving early for your cruise from San Francisco can be as enjoyable as the voyage itself.
