holland america cruise from san diego

San Diego Cruise Guide > Cruise Lines > Holland America

Holland America Cruises from San Diego

Holland America Line offers cruises from San Diego to Mexico , Hawaii , Australia , California coast and through the Panama Canal . These mid-size luxury ships are known for attentive service, fine dining and interesting activities. See the schedule of departures below.

The Koningsdam ship has frequent departures from San Diego. It won an award for "best mid-sized cruise ship". Several venues for live music are featured: Rolling Stone Rock Room, Lincoln Center Stage, BB King's Blues Club, Billboard Onboard, Cantare and World Stage. Other highlights include BBC Earth in Concert, Microsoft Studio, Greenhouse Spa, and the casino. Dining options are the main dining room, Lido Market, Dive-In Grill, New York Pizza, Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, Tamarind, Nama Sushi, Rudi's Sel De Mer, and Club Orange.

94-day cruise to Australia & New Zealand on the Volendam. Round-trip from San Diego to Honolulu (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii), Fanning Island, Pago Pago, Samoa, Fiji, Port Vila, Noumea, Brisbane (Australia), Airlie Beach (Australia), Townsville (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Komodo Island, Broome (Australia), Exmouth (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Fremantle (Australia), Albany (Australia), Port Lincoln (Australia), Penneshaw (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Hobart (Australia), Port Arthur (Australia), Sydney (Australia), Milford Sound (New Zealand), Port Chalmers (New Zealand), Akaroa (New Zealand), Wellington (New Zealand), Napier (New Zealand), Tauranga (New Zealand), Auckland (New Zealand), Nuku Alofa, Alofi, Rarotonga, Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, Tahiti, Fakarava and Nuku Hiva. • 2024 departure: January 3.

California Coast

6-day California Coast cruise on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Santa Barbara (California), Monterey (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: March 30.

7-day California Coast cruise on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California), San Francisco (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: November 2.

7-day California Coast cruise on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California), San Francisco (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: November 16.

7-day California Coast cruise on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Ensenada (Mexico), San Francisco (California), Santa Barbara (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 19.

17-day cruise to Hawaii on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Honolulu (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: January 13.

18-day cruise to Hawaii on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Kauai (Hawaii), Honolulu (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: January 30.

35-day cruise to Hawaii & the South Pacific on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Hilo (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Honolulu (Hawaii), Fanning Island, Raiatea, Tahiti, Moorea, Tuamotu and Nuku Hiva. • 2024 departure: February 17.

51-day cruise to Hawaii & the South Pacific on the Zaandam. Round-trip from San Diego to Hilo (Hawaii), Honolulu (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii), Fanning Island (Kiribati), Pago Pago (American Samoa), Apia (Samoa), Suva (Fiji), Dravuni (Fiji), Lautoka (Fiji), Nuku Alofa (Tonga), Alofi (Niue), Rarotonga (Cook Islands), Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, Tahiti, Fakarava and Nuku Hiva. • 2024 departure: September 30.

17-day cruise to Hawaii on the Zaandam. Round-trip from San Diego to Honolulu (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: November 20.

16-day cruise to Hawaii on the Zaandam. Round-trip from San Diego to Honolulu (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: December 18.

17-day cruise to Hawaii on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Honolulu (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: January 11.

18-day cruise to Hawaii on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Honolulu (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: January 28.

35-day cruise to Hawaii & the South Pacific on the Koningsdam. Round-trip from San Diego to Kona (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Honolulu (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Fanning Island, Raiatea, Tahiti, Moorea, Fakarava and Nuku Hiva. • 2025 departure: February 15.

51-day cruise to Hawaii & the South Pacific on the Zaandam. Round-trip from San Diego to Santa Barbara (California), Kona (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Honolulu (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii), Fanning Island (Kiribati), Pago Pago (American Samoa), Apia (Samoa), Suva (Fiji), Dravuni (Fiji), Lautoka (Fiji), Savusavu (Fiji), Nuku Alofa (Tonga), Vavau (Tonga), Aitutaki (Cook Islands), Rarotonga (Cook Islands), Raiatea (Society Islands), Moorea (French Polynesia), Huahine (French Polynesia), Tahiti (French Polynesia), Rangiroa (French Polynesia), Fakarava (French Polynesia) and Nuku Hiva (French Polynesia). • 2025 departure: September 29.

7-day cruise to the Sea of Cortez. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2024 departure: January 6.

7-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: March 23.

14-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Manzanillo (Mexico), Zihuatanejo (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico), Loreto (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico). • 2024 departure: March 30.

7-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: October 26.

7-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: November 9.

7-day cruise to the Baja Penisula. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2024 departure: November 23.

10-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico), Loreto (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: November 30.

11-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico), Loreto (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico), Puerto Vallarta (Mexico) and Manzanillo (Mexico). • 2024 departure: December 10.

7-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: December 21.

7-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: December 28.

7-day cruise to the Baja Penisula. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2025 departure: January 4.

7-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2025 departure: March 22.

11-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Bahia Magdalena (Mexico), Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico), Loreto (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico), Puerto Vallarta (Mexico) and Manzanillo (Mexico). • 2025 departure: March 22.

10-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico), Loreto (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 2.

7-day cruise to the Baja Penisula. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 12.

7-day cruise to Mexico. Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 26.

Panama Canal

15-day Panama Canal cruise on the Zaandam. One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Corinto (Nicaragua), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, Cartagena (Colombia) and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas). • 2024 departure: January 19.

15-day Panama Canal cruise on the Volendam. One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Corinto (Nicaragua), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, Cartagena (Colombia) and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas). • 2024 departure: April 6.

16-day Panama Canal cruise on the Nieuw Amsterdam. One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Chiapas (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, and Aruba. • 2024 departure: October 4.

16-day Panama Canal cruise on the Eurodam. One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Chiapas (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, and Aruba. • 2024 departure: October 10.

15-day Panama Canal cruise on the Zaandam. One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Corinto (Nicaragua), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, Cartagena (Colombia) and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas). • 2025 departure: January 3.

22-day cruise on the Koningsdam. One-way from San Diego to Vancouver (Canada). Visit Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Kona (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii), Honolulu (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii) and Victoria (Canada). • 2024 departure: April 5.

7-day Pacific Coastal cruise on the Zaandam. One-way from San Diego to Vancouver (Canada). Visit Santa Barbara (California), Monterey (California), San Francisco (California) and Victoria (Canada). • 2024 departure: April 20.

5-day Pacific Coastal cruise on the Nieuw Amsterdam. One-way from San Diego to Vancouver (Canada). Visit Santa Barbara (California) and Victoria (Canada). • 2024 departure: April 23.

6-day Pacific Coastal cruise on Eurodam. One-way from San Diego to Vancouver (Canada). Visit Santa Barbara (California) and San Francisco (California). • 2024 departure: April 27.

7-day Pacific Coastal cruise on the Koningsdam. One-way from San Diego to Vancouver (Canada). Visit Catalina Island (California), San Francisco (California), Astoria (Oregon) and Victoria (Canada). • 2025 departure: March 29.

6-day Pacific Coastal cruise on Eurodam. One-way from San Diego to Vancouver (Canada). Visit Catalina Island (California) and San Francisco (California). • 2025 departure: April 26.

4-day Pacific Coastal cruise on Nieuw Amsterdam. One-way from San Diego to Vancouver (Canada). Visit Catalina Island (California). • 2025 departure: April 30.

4-day Pacific Coastal cruise on Zaandam. One-way from San Diego to Vancouver (Canada). Visit Catalina Island (California). • 2025 departure: May 3.

San Diego, CA

Cruises from San Diego depart year-round. This Southern California city, 125 miles south of Los Angeles, is known for its 70 miles of coastline and the San Diego Bay, which is surrounded by landscaped promenades, public art and more than 20 parks. Visitors can go shopping in Seaport Village, visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego, take a trip to SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, or hop on a trolley for a guided sightseeing adventure. Visit one or more of San Diego's historic districts: The Gaslamp Quarter is home to dining, shopping, nightlife and entertainment, while Old Town San Diego-location of the state's first settlement-is packed with culture, from strolling mariachis and authentic Mexican fare to museums and a living-history experience at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

Driving Directions and Parking Information for the Port of San Diego Port of San Diego "B" Street Cruise Ship Terminal 1140 Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101 The Port of San Diego is located within 5 miles of San Diego Lindberg Airport. Traveling from the North - On I-5 Southbound, take the exit for the San Diego International Airport. Continue straight on Kettner Boulevard. Turn right on Laurel Street. After crossing over Pacific Highway, stay in the left lane; the right lane will take you to the airport. Turn left on Harbor Drive and proceed to the terminal. Traveling from the North and South (alternate route) - On I-5 north or south, take the Front Street exit and head south on Front Street. Turn right on Broadway. Turn right on Harbor Drive and proceed to the terminal.

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San Diego Cruise Terminal Information

Last updated on February 7th, 2024 at 09:27 pm

San Diego's cruise terminal, situated near downtown, combines stunning waterfront views with easy access to the city's attractions. Discover the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, explore Balboa Park, and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches before embarking on your cruise.

The Port of San Diego (also known locally as the Port of Land and See) has two cruise terminals in downtown San Diego, along the Embarcadero waterfront district.

Most cruise ships dock at B-Street Pier & Cruise Ship Terminal is located at 1140 North Harbor Drive.

The 2nd Terminal, Port Pavilion at Broadway Pier, which acts as an overflow terminal is located at 1000 North Harbor Drive.

Both cruise terminals are close to hotels , restaurants and shopping along the two mile stretch known as San Diego Bay’s Embarcadero.

The newer, architecturally stunning, Port Pavillion acts as a flexible event space and has public access to the waterfront, a visitor’s center, and restaurant.  The airport is located 10 minutes away from the cruise piers, and the main train station, only 2 blocks. There is also a waterfront shuttle which operates during the summer, providing rides all day for one low price.

Click the links below for more information: San Diego Cruise Parking San Diego Port Transportation Hotels Near San Diego Cruise Port

San Diego is known for it’s temperate climate and distinct landscape. There are many vibrant neighborhoods such as Old Town and Pointe Loma, located within a few miles of the ship. Little Italy and the Gaslamp district are located within walking distance of the pier.

There is no luggage storage at the pier, but you can arrange for storage with Luggage Hero. Click here for pricing and locations closest to the B Street Pier. 

Cruises From San Diego

San Diego is a main departure point to many destinations including Mexico, the Panama Canal , Hawaii and the South Pacific. A number of cruise lines depart from the San Diego Cruise Terminal :

Disney Cruise Lines – Disney Wonder

Holland America – Koningsdam and Zuiderdam  with additional ships scheduled for October 2022

Celebrity Cruises – Celebrity Millennium

Norwegian Cruise Line – Jewel

Tips for Cruising from San Diego

– have your ID and cruise tickets ready to show when entering the pier, and keep them handy to show at the cruise terminal check-in – if arriving by car, you can be dropped off at B-street pier, but there is no parking adjacent to the terminal. Click here for parking information – Passports are required for cruises to Mexico

Weather in San Diego

March to May and September to November are the best times to visit San Diego. It can get rainy during the winter, but the lower rates on hotel accommodations make it a great time to visit. In any case, the weather is almost always sunny throughout the year, which makes almost any time a good time to come to San Diego.

Click to see excursions in San Diego.

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

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San Diego (California)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region West Coast USA and Canada

Local Time 2024-05-01 11:12

Port San Diego cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from San Diego, California. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port San Diego is located in Southern California and on San Diego Bay. The port city was founded in 1542 by Spanish conquistadors. San Diego is approx 120 mi (190 km / 2-hours drive) from Los Angeles (direction south) and approx 350 mi (560 km / 5-hours drive) from Las Vegas.

As cruise port, San Diego CA is a major departure port / homeport for turnaround operations (roundtrip itineraries). The Port's cruise ship schedule offers convenient departures to ports in Hawaii, Mexico's Riviera and California coastal cities. The most popular itinerary from San Diego is the 7-day "Mexican Riviera Cruise" visiting Mazatlan , Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas . Longer voyages go to South America or the South Pacific (Australia-New Zealand).

San Diego Bay (where the cruise port is located) features a coastline with numerous luxury hotels. The Port alone is the landlord for 17 hotels at the waterfront. Here are still operational 3x shipyards - NASSCO (National Steel and Shipbuilding Company), Huntington Ingalls (Continental Maritime) and BAE Systems (Southwest Marine). NASSCO is West Coast USA's largest shipbuilding yard. It specializes in building auxiliary and support vessels (for the US Navy), as well as oil tankers and dry-bulk cargo carriers.

Currently, by annual cruise berthings, San Diego is ranked California's 3rd-busiest cruise port - after Long Beach and Los Angeles .

Port San Diego CA

Port San Diego (locode USSAN) was established in 1962 as a public-benefit corporation. As cargo port, it is currently ranked one of USA's top 30 containership ports, with annual cargo shipping volume of ~3 million tons. For FY2017 (fiscal year), the Port reported USD 9,4 billion impact to California's economy. Its business supports 44300+ local jobs (shipbuilding, cargo operations, tourism, hospitality).

The Port's largest/main terminals are 10th Avenue Marine Terminal and National City Marine Terminal.

• 10th Avenue Marine Terminal covers an area of 96 acres (39 ha) and has 8x multi-purpose berths. The imported cargoes include refrigerated food, fertilizer, cement, break bulk cargoes, forest products. There is a large, on-dock cold storage warehouse (sized 300,000 ft2 / 28,000 m2) used for storing perishables (including fresh produce).
• National City Marine Terminal (operated by The Pasha Group) covers an area of 125 acres (51 ha) and has 7x berths. Annually, here are handled 450,000+ vehicles. The terminal serves as primary port for imported cars (Honda, Acura, Isuzu, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Hino Motors, VW).

San Diego is the primary port for imported vehicles (Fiat, Audi, VW, Honda, Mazda, Acura, Isuzu, Nissan, Mitsubishi). The seaport holds a lease with Dole Food Company (importing much of the USA's bananas).

San Diego Bay waterfront's most visited tourist attraction is the Maritime Museum. The 1948-opened museum has one of the USA's largest collections of historic ships, featuring the Star of India (1863-built iron-hulled sailing ship), San Salvador (100-ft/30-m long full-rigged galleon, replica of the flagship of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo/1497-1543), HMS Surprise (3-masted sailship, 1970-built as replica of HMS Rose/1757-launched 20-gun/6th-rate post ship of the British Royal Navy) and Berkeley (1898-built ferryboat that served San Francisco Bay crossings between West Oakland and San Francisco ). On Berkeley is also the MacMullen Library & Research Archives.

In April 2023, San Diego's Maritime Museum announced a plan to redevelop the North Embarcadero premises to include galleries, a store, an educational theater, a cafe bar, roof-top terraces, as well as public and administrative offices. The US$28 million project also includes reconfiguration of the dock/moorings.

San Diego cruise port is located downtown (North Embarcadero). Its main passenger terminal facility (B Street Pier) has 3 berths. The historic Broadway Pier was redeveloped (inaugurated in December 2010) as the second cruise terminal. The list of largest cruise shipping companies homeporting vessels here includes HAL-Holland America Line , Celebrity , DCL-Disney , RCI-Royal Caribbean , NCL-Norwegian , Carnival , Princess , Silversea . Each San Diego roundtrip voyage results in an average USD 2 million in economic impact to California.

Most cruises leaving from San Diego are to Mexico. In early April and early November are also offered Panama Canal repositioning cruises. The port is often included in around-the-world voyages offered by companies like Costa , Oceania , Phoenix Reisen .

In the period 2002-2006, the cruise port reported a 44% growth in ship calls - from 122 (in 2002) to 219 (in 2006). In that period, the passenger numbers jumped from 276,000 to 619,000. In 2008, the port reported a record year with handled 252 cruise ship calls and over 800,000 passengers. In 2007, this business declined due to slumping US economy and the violence in Mexico.

In May 2013, the port was visited by its largest so far cruise ship - Celebrity Solstice . In 2016, the cruise port reported a 50% increase in ship calls. The growth was largely based on turnaround operations by Holland America and Disney ships.

Port San Diego reported a total of 69 ship calls during season 2015-2016 and scheduled 83 calls in 2017-2018. The increase in passengers was from 198,000 (season 2015-2016) to over 242,000 (2017-2018). The increased passenger shipping traffic was mainly due to Mexican Riviera itineraries. Previous cruise port statistics show 200 ship calls (season 2009-2010) and a drop to 79 calls (2012-2013).

In 2017, Disney Wonder had scheduled 13 San Diego departures. Princess ships visit the port on round-trip Mexican Riviera itineraries leaving out of Los Angeles . HAL-Holland America Line also cruises to Mexico Riviera ports, as well as Panama Canal transition and Mexico-Hawaii cruises leaving out of San Diego and visiting Ensenada (Baja California) . For season 2019-2020, HAL homeported here a small fleet of 3 liners ( Oosterdam , Eurodam , Maasdam ) for 7-day Mexican Riviera itineraries visiting Puerto Vallarta , Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlan .

For season 2018-2019, the port handled 92 ship calls (83 calls in 2017) and ~242,000 passengers (8% increase over 2017). The projected growth in cruise passenger numbers is 5-8% a year - to 280,000 by 2020. In 2019, Walt Disney expanded its San Diego homeporting season to 2 months. Also in 2019, the seaport celebrates its 250th anniversary.

For season 2019-2020, the cruise port had scheduled (berth bookings) 104 ship calls with expected ~338,000 passengers (295,000 more than 2018-19). Season's highlight is the return of Carnival Cruise Lines (last homeporting here in 2011) with Carnival Miracle (beginning December 1, 2019) for 12 roundtrips. Carnival's planned itineraries included 7-day Mexican Riviera; 14-15-day Hawaiian Islands, 3-4-5-6-day Baja Mexico.

In 2020, the Port opened a second shore-to-ship power connection . Using power supply from the city's power grid, shore power reduces bad emissions from vessels while berthed in port.

• After 2020, cruise companies with more than 5 ship calls in California are required to plug-in (use shoreside power supply) for 80% of the calls. The mark before 2020 was 70%.
• In April 2021 was announced a USD 4,6 million investment (equipment, installation, construction) to double the shore-power capability at the terminals "B Street Pier" and "Broadway Pier". In January 2022, for the project (completed in August 2022) were contracted Cochrane Marine LLC (to buy equipment, also for construction management, testing, coordinating, commissioning) and Baker Electric Inc (to install the new electrical equipment and to replace/terminate the medium voltage cables).
• Now, at both terminals, two vessels can be plugged in simultaneously. The first two ships that simultaneously used the expanded shore-power facility (on January 13, 2023) were Disney Wonder and Oceania Insignia .
• In December 2023 was planned a third shore power plug/point (at B Street Terminal's south berth) to be operational in 2024.

CCL-Carnival stopped homeporting here in 2012. Carnival Elation was the first homeported year-round in San Diego (between 2007-2010), followed by Carnival Spirit (2011-2012, then relocated to Australia). Starting December 1, 2019, here was homeported Carnival Miracle (previously deployed in Tampa FL ) for a 3-month season to Hawaii (14-15-day) and Mexico (5-7-day).

In late-July 2020, Port San Diego was approved by CBP (US Customs and Border Protection) to activate an FTZ (Foreign Trade Zone) at TAMT (10th Avenue Marine Terminal / 96-acres / 39-hectares site). The FTZ offers as business benefits duty reduction (in merchandise processing fees), deferral (flow savings until cargoes are imported/exported), logistical, cost savings. At the FTZ, equipment manufacturers can assemble components to create USA-made products, thus obtaining additional savings (duty drawbacks). As of 2020, San Diego County has 19x FTZx (mainly warehouses). The seaport has two cargo terminals - TAMT and NCMT (National City Marine Terminal) - both benefiting from the deep-water and well-protected harbor.

Due to the global Coronavirus crisis, in 2020 Port San Diego lost 49 cruise ship calls (~174,000 tourists) or ~40% of 2020-2021 (September-May) season's planned 137 calls (expected ~450,000 tourists). The canceled 49 calls (12x by Disney and 17x by Holland America) resulted in ~USD 79M loss of revenues.

On September 29, 2020, Port San Diego completed the USD 24 million project for the modernization of 10th Avenue Marine Terminal. Partially, the TIGER project ("Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery" ) was funded by US Department of Transportation (USD 10 M). Works included removing two obsolete warehouses (redeveloping their area with project cargo handling facilities), improving dock rails, and installing new lighting and pavement. Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal serves mainly RoRo vessels (vehicle carriers) , break-bulk cargo carriers (military equipment, wind energy equipment, shipbuilding steel), boxships (reefers/refrigerated TEU-containers with fresh import produce), dry-bulk cargo carriers (soda ash, aggregate, cement / used in construction projects).

Season 2022-2023 became the cruise port's busiest (since 2009-2010) with 140 booked berthings (+45% over 2021-22) and estimated ~460,000 tourists. In season 2022-23, Disney doubled its homeporting operations (from 16-24 to 51), while Princess booked 13 berthings and for the first time started homeporting in/roundtrips from San Diego.

Season 2023-2024 comprised 100 ship calls and ~338,000 passengers.

San Diego cruise terminal

San Diego cruise terminals are very close to downtown, both located at B Street Pier (at 1140 Harbor Drive). The Airport is just 5 mi (8 km) from the cruise port.

The “first green building” or the Port Pavilion at Broadway Pier also has a terminal.

It is used if more than 4 vessels are in port or if the "B Street" Terminal is not operational (generally due to maintenance works).

Both San Diego cruise port terminals offer a wide range of passenger-use facilities. Parking fees are USD 10–20 daily (Port Authority subject to change). Both facilities offer easy access to downtown attractions like the Maritime Museum, Midway Museum, several waterfront hotels and restaurants. The facilities are also close to San Diego's historic neighborhoods Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy.

B Street Pier has 5x wharves. Wharf 1 and Wharf 2 are on the north side, Wharf 3 is on the west and Wharf 4 and Wharf 5 are on the south side. Wharves 1, 2, 4 and 5 can accommodate bigger cruise liners . Smaller vessels dock at Wharf 3. In October 2017, at B Street Cruise Terminal was installed a new passenger boarding bridge. Major repairs and improvements were made to B Street Terminal's Pier in 2022. For 2024 was scheduled to start a US$5 million project for interior improvements to B Street Terminal.

USS Midway Museum: it is within 5 minutes walking time from San Diego cruise port, along North Harbor Drive. Discover the naval tradition of San Diego.

San Diego Maritime Museum: amazing historic ships collection. It is north of San Diego cruise port. You will find ships like Berkeley, Star of India and Californian.

Seaport Village: the best place for shopping. It is 2/3 miles away from San Diego cruise port.

Embarcadero Marine Park: located just across Seaport Village.

Balboa Park: 12,000 acres with 15 galleries and museums like San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum.. There is also the San Diego zoo, the Japanese Friendship Garden and the Inez Rose Parker Memorial Rose Garden.

Gaslamp Quarter: the most attractive area of San Diego. It dates from 1867. Discover wide range of restaurants, fashion shops,sidewalk cafes,galleries, jazz clubs, nightclubs and bars. The Victorian atmosphere combines with a party atmosphere for an amazing experience.

Spanish Missions: there 21 catholic missions. The first one is Mission San Diego de Alcala, known also as Mother of the Missions.

Coronado Beach: you will need half an hour by ferry to reach Coronado island and discover that lovely beach.

San Diego tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Everything You Need to Know About Holland America Cruise $49 Standby List

I f you’re looking for last minute cruise deals, Holland America’s standby list program is worth checking out. This program allows you to book a spot on Holland America cruises for $49 per person per day. Essentially, you’ll be put on a standby list, and if there are any available cabins close to the departure date, you’ll be confirmed to go on the cruise! It’s a great option for spontaneous travelers!

What Is the Holland America’s Standby List Program

Holland America’s standby list program is great for travelers who are flexible with their travel dates and are looking for last-minute cruise deals. The program allows you to add your name to a standby list, and if there is space available on the cruise ship, you will be confirmed to go on the cruise. They will review the standby list 7 to 2 days prior to sailing.

Holland America will notify you about your confirmation no less than two days before departure. Given the short notice, this program is best for people who live near the cruise port. Otherwise, you will be scrambling for last minute airfare!

You can add your name to the standby list by calling your travel agent or calling Holland America directly at 1-877-724-5425. 

Holland America’s Standby List Payment Process

If you are interested in being placed on Holland America’s standby list, it’s important to understand the payment process. When you contact Holland America to request a spot on the standby list, you will be required to pay a fee of $49 per person per day for the first two people in your stateroom. It’s important to note that this fee is non-refundable. 

When you are added to the standby list, you will be charged the full cruise fare. The only way you can receive a refund of the standby fee is if Holland America does not confirm your booking within two days of the scheduled sailing date.

How Much is the 3rd and 4th guests?

The 3rd and 4th guests are free, but you will have to pay their taxes and port fees. 

When Will You Receive a Notification About Your Cruise Confirmation?

You can expect to receive confirmation of your cruise booking two days before your scheduled departure. They will tell you whether you are confirmed to go on the cruise or not. In case you are not confirmed, the cruise company will refund your cruise fare.

However, if you wish to continue waiting in the hope of securing a spot on the cruise, you have the option to remain on standby. This means you will remain on the standby list until 90 minutes before the departure time, and you will be notified if a spot becomes available. 

What Cruise Ports?

There are several cruise ports that are included in the standby list of Holland America. If you are looking for a cruise to Alaska, you can choose sailings from Vancouver, Seattle, and Whittier cruise ports. There are also Pacific coast cruises from San Diego. As well as 14 to 42 days transatlantic cruises from Fort Lauderdale. There are also several New England cruises from Boston, Montreal, and Quebec. 

What Stateroom Will You Get?

If you are picky about your stateroom, then you might not like this program. You won’t have the option to choose your stateroom. Instead, Holland America will assign you a stateroom category based on availability at the time of booking, which could be any category up to a verandah stateroom. 

It’s important to keep in mind that the cruise fare is non-refundable, meaning that once you’ve confirmed your booking, you won’t be able to request a refund if you’re unhappy with the stateroom you’ve been assigned.

What About Solo Travelers?

If you are a solo traveler, you can add yourself to the standby list for $49 per day. 

Can You Get a Refund?

Again, once you add your name to the standby list, you will be charged the full cruise fare of $49 per person per day. The only way you can get a refund is if you are not confirmed to go on a cruise. You do have the option to add a cancellation protection plan to your booking. 

Who is Holland America’s Standby List Best For?

Holland America’s standby list is a great option for travelers who are looking for a last-minute getaway and have the flexibility to travel at short notice. It’s also best for people who live near the cruise port, so you don’t end up paying exorbitant last-minute airfare fees. Looking for more ways to get last minute cruise deals? Check out our article on 10 Tips for Cheap Last Minute Cruise Bookings .

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The post Everything You Need to Know About Holland America Cruise $49 Standby List appeared first on Suburbs 101 .

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Would you roll the dice on a $49-a-day holland america standby cruise.

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Holland America passengers from Eurodam horseback riding at Half Moon Cay.

After almost sinking during COVID, the cruise industry is getting hot again. New ships, from the “city at sea” 7,600 passenger Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) to smaller, all-luxury ships like the 920-passenger Explora I are bringing new interest—and new cruisers—to the industry.

Innovative new marketing programs are also boosting cruising. Holland America is expanding its Standby List Program , where passengers can potentially get booked on a cruise for as low as $49 a day.

Once you’ve picked a destination and a sailing day, you can get on the standby list. (This means paying for the discounted cruise you’ve selected immediately.) If your lucky number comes up, Holland America will let you know if you’ll be sailing between two and seven days before the ship leaves port. If no vacancies materialize, the money will be returned to your credit card.

You will have to be able to live with uncertainty as to what kind of stateroom you’re getting.

“Guests for this program do not choose their stateroom category, so they could end up staying in a variety of different cabin types including Inside, Oceanview, or Verandah,” said a Holland America spokesperson. Where you end up “depends, in part, on where the last-minute cancellations happen. Guests will be confirmed in the order they joined the list within the week of sailing. It could be seven days or as close as 48 hours to departure. So it really is tailored for guests who live close to the port.”

But of course, as the spokesperson put, “Guests will still have access to everything onboard that full-fare paying guests do, such as world-class dining, exciting entertainment, and most importantly—access to desired destinations.”

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The Hydro Pool on board the Holland America Oosterdam.

The Holland America Standby Program launched in August of 2023 with cruises from Seattle. In October and November, the company expanded the program to include voyages from homeports in Fort Lauderdale and San Diego. Now, as the line launches its 2024 Alaska and Canada/New England sailings, guests will see standby offers sailing from ports including Boston, Vancouver as well as Seattle.

The standby concept has always been popular, typically with people who have more time than money. Travelers have tried to go standby (going to the airport without a ticket and getting on the standby list) on airlines for years. Last-minute hotel rooms are also commonly available through various vendors.

With flights, hotel rooms and cruises, the lure of waiting until the last minute is the same: a discounted deal. Once that flight leaves, the hotel calendar clicks to the next day or the ship sails, that seat, suite or stateroom is gone, empty and unsold.

With the Holland America standby program, the rates of $49 are per person per day (for either a solo cruiser or a cabin at double occupancy), but third and fourth guests sail free. The program is for guests 21 and over, so you can take your pals but not your kids.

Of course, there are additional charges. The $49 per day fare amount excludes taxes, fees and port expenses. And as with most ‘a la carte’ cruises, gratuities, liquor, Wi-Fi and other amenities are additional.

The standby program is for all vacancies on a particular cruise, although it’s certainly a win for Holland America if it can resell a cancelled trip for additional income.

NY Deli & Pizza - Central Park Pizza on Holland America cruise ships.

You’ll be charged for each date you sign up for, immediately upon signing up, so you may want to try going standby on one cruise at a time. Once you’ve paid and are on the standby list, you can’t leave it. If offered a cruise between 7 and 2 days prior to sailing, guests will be charged the full fare whether they decide to go or not. If you’re looking for more flexibility, a spokesperson said potential passengers can also purchase a cancelation plan.

Conde Nast Traveler calls the standby program a cruise “industry first.” But author Jessica Puckett cautions that the inability to pick your room might land you in a 143 square foot interior room, rather than that 405 square foot veranda stateroom you’re dreaming of. If you “win” the small interior room, it might start feeling cell-like, especially on, say, a 42-day Mediterranean cruise from Ft. Lauderdale in November. However, that would still be a good deal financially, as instead of $5,479 plus fees for an inside room, you’d pay $2,058 plus fees.

Another potential issue might be getting on certain excursions from the ship. Some might be sold out by the time your standby booking is confirmed.

If you’re getting interested in cruising, it’s worth researching the industry. There are many lines, ships, destinations, and a seemingly endless list of options. Some deals might make more sense than going standby.

Still, the spokesperson told us that they had talked to several guests who have used the standby program multiple times successfully this season in Florida.

Passengers playing pickleball on Holland America Koningsdam.

"We see Holland America Line’s Standby Program as a win-win for guests and our business,” said Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management at Holland America. “Circumstances may arise for booked guests where they must cancel a cruise the week before sailing. The Standby Program allows us to fill those cabins with people who have already committed to going and who presumably live close enough to the port that they can make last-minute travel arrangements.”

Rough added, “For those guests with flexibility to travel, it means access to an unforgettable cruise vacation at $49 per day—an exceptional value.”

You can see a list of available Holland America sailings here , or call 877-724-5425 to get on the standby list. The page also includes some frequently asked questions.

If you live near one of the ports, is it worth taking a shot at getting a great deal on a standby cruise?

Several years ago, as a registered Rolling Stones fan, I was contacted by email one day about a “Lucky Dip” for tickets at an upcoming show at T-Mobile in Las Vegas. Like the Holland American standby offer, the deal was $50 a ticket, ‘we pick the seats for you.’ We booked a room at the now-departed Tropicana and held our breath for a few weeks, expecting nosebleed seats. Instead, we sat 20 rows up with a perfect view of the stage, especially for Keith Richards emotional solo set.

Will your roll of the “tumbling dice” bring you similar luck on a Holland America cruise? As Mark Twain put it in HUCKLEBERRY FINN, “You pays your money and you takes your chances.”

Tamarind - Mongolian Beef Lamb Chop on Holland America.

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'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Cheers broke out on Holland America Line’s Koningsdam ship when the total solar eclipse began on Monday.

Off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, passengers were perched on loungers, reclining on beach towels and lining the railings of Deck 14 with cameras on tripods at the ready. When the sliver of fiery orange that remained of the sun disappeared, a black circle ringed by white light took its place. Passengers applauded the moment they'd been awaiting since the ship departed from San Diego on Friday.

The sunny, 72-degree weather – quintessential cruise weather – gave way to chilly wind and late morning’s best impression of sunset. The horizon line glowed orange in the dusky sky.

Cruise ships can help take guests to the path of totality for eclipses, allowing passengers to get a prime viewing spot and make a vacation of it.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun as it moves between the sun and Earth.

While the sun is about 400 times bigger than the moon, the moon is roughly 400 times closer to Earth. “In the past, the moon was much closer, and in the future, the moon will be much further away,” said Adam Burgasser, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of California, San Diego, and director of the Cool Star Lab, who served as an onboard expert during the cruise. “And so we're in a special time, which, of course, lasts for billions of years, where it's set up just right to block out the sun.”

Total solar eclipses take place about every 18 months on average, but the last one visible from the U.S. was in 2017 .

The phenomenon creates a multi-sensory experience, with a cold front moving in ahead of the eclipse. “You block the sun, and it gets cold,” said Burgasser. “It’s actually just that simple. And it's slow enough that the atmosphere can react.”

Plants and animals respond, too: Birds often begin to chirp, plants may close up, and nocturnal will come out. “It’s kind of an all-around-you experience where it's not just the fact that the sun has been blocked that’s so fascinating, but just the effect it has on the entire environment.” Those effects weren’t easily discernible on Koningsdam, though, which was about 150 miles from shore.

Nicole Chaput, a 57-year-old passenger from Calgary in Canada, said partial and total eclipses are “totally different.”

“I heard someone describe it as being partly pregnant,” she said. “You can’t do it. There’s no comparison.”

What makes a cruise a good place to see an eclipse?

Bad weather can wreck even the best-laid viewing plans. If a city in the path of totality has overcast skies, it can be tough to quickly move to an alternate site.

“If you're on a cruise ship and a little bit farther to the east or a little bit farther to the west along the path, there's clear sky, the ship can move,” said Dan Jarrell, who was on the cruise with his wife, Kay, and friends. The Washington, D.C.-area resident has seen solar eclipses with friends during two other sailings, including on Holland America’s Veendam in 1998.

“If you're on land and there's not a road there, you’d better have a tank,” Jarrell said.

That’s where a cruise ship comes in handy. “Having the ability to map out based on what the current weather is where you can catch the eclipse, and having a range over the course of the ocean where you could chase that a little bit is certainly helpful,” Burgasser added.

Capt. Ane Smit, Master aboard Holland America’s Zaandam for the viewing, said the ship can move at a maximum of 20 knots, so the crew needs to scout out the conditions with enough time to move as needed.

“If it's not good enough, we really need to start finding another spot because we are not the quickest vehicle, of course, to be driving around, but we have the luxury of being able to go in any direction without any restriction,” he said. “It’s a pretty wide highway that we have.”

The view of the horizon also allows passengers to “see that shadow coming in and leaving more so than you can in a topographical area,” said Burgasser. Being in the ocean away from city lights is also helpful for seeing stars and other parts of the sky usually only visible at night.

The cruise line also made the practicalities of watching an eclipse easier: eclipse glasses were distributed to guests’ staterooms and Burgasser guided guests through the event via the ship’s speaker system, before and after totality.

More eclipse cruises on the horizon

If you missed your chance to see it this time or want another go, Holland America has more eclipse-viewing opportunities on the books.

“Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's Vice President of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, said in an email. Details have not yet been released.

Other cruise lines offer similar opportunities as well. Princess Cruises' Emerald Princess was near Koningsdam on Monday.

Chaput, the Canadian passenger, said she’s been “chasing” total solar eclipses since seeing her first one in 1991. Monday’s eclipse marked her seventh viewing and second on a cruise ship.

“I think it’s just such an amazing natural phenomenon,” she said. “It’s seeing science in action.”

Contributing: Josh Rivera, USA TODAY

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Holland America Line. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected]

Holland America Introduces ‘Dutch Day’ Culinary Experiences on Every Cruise

• April 28, 2024

Holland America Line is introducing a new “Dutch Day” culinary experience celebrating the cruise line’s history on every sailing in Alaska, Europe, Asia or the Caribbean, according to a press release.

The focal point of Dutch Day will be a themed Dutch Dinner served once per cruise in the main Dining Room, with many dishes also available in the Lido Market. Additionally, Holland America Line’s Orange Party will be held on Dutch Day, and guests can enjoy fresh-made poffertjes in Crow’s Nest Café.

“Holland America Line remains deeply connected to our roots in the Netherlands, and Dutch Day is the perfect way to honor our history through experiences that celebrate the culinary culture of the country,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line. “Our guests appreciate special touches like Daelmans Stroopwafel for turn down or a dish in the dining room that is distinctly Dutch, and we’re excited to expand the cultural experience for an entire day to showcase more of our heritage.”

The special Dutch Dinner features both classic and contemporary Dutch delicacies. The selection of starters features a Bay Shrimp Cocktail with Dutch cocktail sauce, Erwten Soep (Dutch Pea Soup), and Mushroom Cream puff pastry with hollandaise sauce.

Dutch-inspired main course options include Bami Goreng, a stir-fried noodle dish with chicken sate and peanut sauce; Pan-Fried Dover Sole with lemon butter; and Hodge Podge Klapstuk with chateau potatoes. For dessert, options include a Bosche Bol, Tompouce or a slice of traditional Dutch Apple Pie.

In collaboration with Daelmans Stroopwafels, Dutch Day will also feature Stroopwafel Cheesecake for dessert on the dinner menu in the Dining Room and Lido Market and a Stroopwafel Napoleon at tea time. Additionally, instead of the traditional stateroom turn-down chocolate, guests will find a Daelmans Stroopwafel waiting for them on their pillow.

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New ‘Dutch Day’ on Every Cruise Celebrates Holland America Line’s Heritage with Themed Culinary Experiences

Daelmans Stroopwafel partnership offers a variety of sweet treats, while new special menus and the Orange Party highlight Holland America Line’s rich Dutch history

Seattle, Wash., April 26, 2024 — Holland America Line is introducing a new “Dutch Day” experience that celebrates the cruise line’s more than 150-year-history that began in the Netherlands. Whether sailing in Alaska, Europe, Asia or the Caribbean, many Dutch culinary favorites will be featured on board for the special day.

The centerpiece of Dutch Day will be a themed Dutch Dinner served once per cruise in the main Dining Room, with many of the dishes also offered in the casual Lido Market. Additionally, Holland America Line's popular Orange Party will be held on Dutch Day, and guests can enjoy fresh-made poffertjes in Crow’s Nest Café.  A new partnership with Daelmans Stroopwafel includes delectable desserts featuring the Dutch staple and a Daelmans Stroopwafel turn-down pillow treat in every stateroom.

“Holland America Line remains deeply connected to our roots in the Netherlands, and Dutch Day is the perfect way to honor our history through experiences that celebrate the culinary culture of the country,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line. “Our guests appreciate special touches like Daelmans Stroopwafel for turn down or a dish in the dining room that is distinctly Dutch, and we’re excited to expand the cultural experience for an entire day to showcase more of our heritage.”

Culinary traditions run deep in the Netherlands, and the special themed Dutch Dinner in the Dining Room features an extensive menu that includes both classic and contemporary Dutch delicacies. The selection of starters features a Bay Shrimp Cocktail with Dutch cocktail sauce, Erwten Soep (Dutch Pea Soup), and Mushroom Cream puff pastry with hollandaise sauce.

Dutch-inspired main course selections include Bami Goreng, a stir-fried noodle dish with chicken sate and peanut sauce; Pan-Fried Dover Sole with lemon butter; and Hodge Podge Klapstuk with chateau potatoes. For dessert, a Bosche Bol (large, chocolate covered cream puff), Tompouce (Dutch mille-feuille pastry) or a slice of traditional Dutch Apple Pie provide the perfect sweet ending to the meal. 

In collaboration with Daelmans Stroopwafels — a family-owned bakery founded in the Netherlands in 1904, renowned for its authentic recipe —Dutch Day will feature Stroopwafel Cheesecake for dessert on the dinner menu in the Dining Room and Lido Market and a Stroopwafel Napoleon at tea time. Select bars will serve a Stroopwafel Liqueur with hints of cinnamon and caramel only on ships in Europe. Additionally, in place of the traditional stateroom turn-down chocolate, guests will find a Daelmans Stroopwafel waiting for them on their pillow.

New in Crow’s Nest Café on all ships, fresh-made poffertjes — a traditional Dutch treat resembling small, fluffy pancakes — will be available daily (not just on Dutch Day) for a nominal charge.

Popular Orange Party Held on Dutch Day

Once per cruise, Holland America Line holds the Orange Party with live music, cocktails and treats, and now it will be held on Dutch Day. The Orange Party pays homage to the company’s Dutch heritage (orange is the color of the Dutch Royal Family, which hails from the House of Orange), and guests are invited to wear orange attire and accessories. During the after-dinner festivities, special orange-themed cocktails are available while servers pass around finger-foods and sweets.

Dutch Day is part of Holland America Line’s programming that offers authentic experiences to immerse guests in the culture, history and traditions of the places visited on each cruise.

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18-Day Circle Hawaii

Amazing food and superb service make Holland America one of the longest running cruise lines.

Delve into the unique Hawaiian culture and spectacular tropical delights of the islands with a cruise to Hawaii.

Situated on the Pacific Ocean, San Diego is known for its near perfect weather, beautiful beaches and abundance of activities.

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This posh cruise sails from Vancouver to the Caribbean Islands for a steal

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A cruise from Vancouver takes passengers on a bucket-list journey through the Panama Canal before making several stops in the Caribbean Islands. 

The cruise departs from Canada Place on Sunday, Sept. 29 and spends a couple of days at sea before stopping in San Francisco on Wednesday, Oct. 2. It spends one more day at sea before stopping in Mexico in Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. 

Guests enjoy a day at sea before making two more stops in Mexico in Huatulco and Puerto Chiapas on Oct 10 and 11. The cruise visits Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala the following day before spending one more day at sea. 

On Oct. 13, the cruise will make a stop in Puntarenas, Guatemala. On Oct. 15, it will move through the awe-inspiring Panama Canal before spending several days at sea with a day in breathtaking Aruba sandwiched in between. 

The Panama Canal is considered a marvel of engineering and a favourite voyage of cruise enthusiasts. 

After stopping in Florida's Fort Lauderdale on Oct. 20, the cruise makes stops in Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Islands, St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas.

The cruise disembarks back in Fort Lauderdale on Sunday, Oct. 27. 

Vancouver cruise with Holland America Line through the Panama Canal 

Holland America Line is known for its mid-size vessels that can navigate this trim terrain. Fans of the cruise line typically enjoy sailing on ships they can become well acquainted with during the voyage and relish opportunities to speak with the captain and cruise director. 

The ship is the five-star Nieuw Amsterdam, which offers 11 bars and lounges, three swimming pools, a basketball court, a tennis court, hot tubs, a movie theatre, renowned spa treatments, a showroom, a jogging track, and much more. 

The total cost for the lead-in cabin category, an interior stateroom, is US$6,097.36 which converts to C$8,362.68 or C$4181.34 per person. This total breaks down to a per-diem, per-person amount of C$149.33 (see slide three).

One-way flights from Fort Lauderdale to Vancouver start for just over C$200 in October but typically involve two stops at that price. For an itinerary with only one stopover, prices typically start around C$250 (see slide four for details). 

Travellers should spend at least one night in Florida post-cruise before flying in case there are delays; it also gives them a chance to enjoy the sun-drenched state before returning to Raincouver.

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