cruise port san francisco

Cruise Lines

San Francisco is the homeport for Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruises. The Port does not manage cruise reservations. Cruises must be booked directly with individual lines.

Passenger Information

  • Getting to Piers 27 & 35 & 30/32
  • Long-term Parking
  • Luggage Storage

Pier 27 is located on the northern waterfront of The Embarcadero. The terminal is accessible by transit, on foot or vehicle. The terminal is approximately 20 minute walk from the Embarcadero BART/Muni station. The nearest public transit is the F Historic streetcar ( The Embarcadero/Sansome  stop). Taxis and vehicles can drop off cruise passengers at the terminal hall entrance.

Pier 35 is located on the northern waterfront of The Embarcadero, about a 6-8 minute walk north from Pier 27. The nearest public transit is the F Historic streetcar ( The Embarcadero/Bay stop).

Piers 30/32 is less than one mile away from the Ferry Building on The Embarcadero, between Bryant and Brannan streets. It is accessible by vehicle, on foot, or Muni light rail ( The Embarcadero/Brannan stop). Walking from the Ferry Building, it is about a 20 minute walk to the pier.

Temporary or overnight parking is not provided at the cruise terminals.

ABM Parking Services offers long-term cruise parking at 80 Francisco Street. Contact [email protected]   or call 415.398.4162 with questions about your reservation.

Passengers should confirm their reservation with the parking company before their trip. The Port provides this information as a courtesy and does not manage the lot.

Luggage storage is not offered at the cruise terminals.

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Cruises to San Francisco, California

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San Francisco Shore Excursions

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San Francisco California Port Guide

The lure of California continues to persist centuries after settlers ventured “out West” to widen America’s boundaries. No place better manifests the promise of California than San Francisco. San Francisco cruises offer travelers on a Pacific Coast cruise a chance to experience the Bay Area for themselves. Look back at the counterculture movement of the 1960s as you explore Haight-Ashbury, or take an iconic cable car ride along Powell Street using the world’s last operational manual cable car system.

San Francisco’s unbreakable spirit is apparent the second you arrive. While you’re here, explore sights like the Golden Gate Bridge and Chinatown as you walk up and down the city’s endless hills. When you take cruises to San Francisco, venture beyond the city on excursions to Muir Woods, Sausalito, or the famous Napa and Sonoma wine regions.  

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A trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without an afternoon in Chinatown, a 24-block stretch of shops, restaurants, markets, and historic sites. Take a walking tour or strike out on your own to sip traditional Chinese tea or order dim sum as you explore the oldest Chinatown in the United States.

Golden Gate Park

Bigger than New York’s Central Park, Golden Gate Park is over 1,000 acres of natural beauty enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. On your excursion to Golden Gate Park, visit the Japanese Tea Garden or the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Check out the de Young Museum for an afternoon of fine arts.

Stop in at this waterfront marketplace, home to shops, restaurants, games, and even an  aquarium called The Aquarium of the Bay. Stroll along the pier, grab a bite from a local vendor, and look out for California sea lions, who sometimes settle on the docks.

Haight-Ashbury

The neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury was the center of the hippie counterculture movement of the 1960s, where people flocked from across the U.S. to experience and participate in the Summer of Love in 1967. Today, the district is one of San Francisco’s best known, its Victorian-style architecture a stark contrast with the foggy city’s looming skyline.

Learn More About San Francisco Shore Excursions

Top things to do in san francisco, walk, bike, or drive across the golden gate bridge.

Instantly recognizable through the California fog, walk or bike the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Take photos alongside the signature structures, a special color called “international orange,” and stand in awe of views of the bay connecting San Francisco with Marin County to the north. Though the Golden Gate Bridge was completed less than 100 years ago in 1937, it feels like a quintessential, ageless part of San Francisco.

Take a Cable Car Along Powell Street

Powell Street connects many of San Francisco’s districts, including Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf. Hop on a cable car at the intersection of Powell Street and Market Street, where you can tackle those pesky hills the easy way while taking in views of the city’s historic buildings. 

Rent a Boat on Stow Lake

Need a break from the urban hustle? Within Golden Gate Park is Stow Lake, a manmade lake perfect for renting a rowboat or paddle boat to from one side to the other. Walk along the trails and bring a picnic to enjoy while you’re at the park, or stop inside the Boathouse for a coffee or a quick snack.

See Alcatraz

Crime podcast lovers and history buffs can’t miss a tour of Alcatraz, the infamous federal prison where high-profile criminals like Al Capone served their time. Originally, Alcatraz was the first lighthouse and fort built by the United States on the West Coast. Now, it’s a National Park where all can take in its history and rich views of the Bay Area from its lookout points. Patient bird-watchers will find colonies of gulls, egrets, and other species living on the island, too. 

Venture to Muir Woods

Muir Woods is a can’t-miss experience while you’re in California. Stand humbled among the tallest forest of redwood trees in the world, a quiet refuge from the bustle of the city. Muir Woods have been protected since 1908, when the area was declared a national monument. Rent a car for a quick 40 minute drive from the city, or you can take a shuttle bus to get there. 

Sip in Napa and Sonoma Wine Country

If you’re a wine lover with extra time during your San Francisco cruise, take a drive north to wine country, where you can tour wineries, sip reds, whites, and bubbly, and take in stunning views of the California countryside. Napa is about a three hour drive from San Francisco, while Sonoma is about two hours north of the city. For a laid-back vibe, Sonoma is relaxing and earthy, while Sonoma is considered the glossier, more cosmopolitan of the two wine regions. 

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the San Francisco Cruise Port

You can stick with the classic chain restaurants near the cruise terminal, like Hard Rock Cafe or Bubba Gump Shrimp along the pier. Try the much-hyped In-N-Out Burger—a California institution—while you’re there, too. Here are a few other food and drink spots to try during your San Francisco cruise:

La Taqueria

Address: 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110

This traditional Mexican taqueria is famous for its unadorned, expertly-seasoned tacos and burritos. Limited seating is available in the restaurant, so La Taqueria is best for a quick bite before you go on to explore other parts of the Mission District.

Address: 490 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133

In the mood for Italian? Try Cotogna, a James Beard award-winning Italian spot in San Fran’s Jackson Square. It serves all the classics, from wood-fired pizza to ravioli and carbonara with some twists, like ricotta gelato and seasonal specialties.

Address: 688 San Jose Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94100

Support this local ice creamery to satisfy your sweet tooth while you’re exploring the city. Mitchell’s has been making and serving their homemade ice cream daily for over 65 years.

Arsicault Bakery

Address: 397 Arguello Blvd San Francisco CA 94118

Bon Appetit once named the croissants at Arsicault Bakery the “best in America.”Venture a little ways out of the city’s center to its Richmond District to taste their morning buns, tarts, and croissants for yourself.

Culture & History of the San Francisco Cruise Port

The city of San Francisco was originally a Spanish mission, since the bay’s positioning made it a desirable location for trade and commerce. During the Gold Rush of the mid-1800s, the United States claimed the city and it saw considerable growth as a metropolitan area. The 1906 earthquakes and fire left the majority of San Francisco in ruins but, miraculously, the city bounced back. The 1930s saw the creation of the Golden Gate Bridge, increasing accessibility to the Bay Area unlike ever before.

Then, San Francisco became known as the birthplace of the counterculture movement during the “Summer of Love” in 1967, and became a safe haven for the LGBTQ community in the years following. Let San Francisco cruises be your introduction to Silicon Valley, where tech startups and innovators increasingly flock year after year to make it big.

San Francisco Port Facilities & Location

Cruises to San Francisco have the unique benefit of a well-kept cruise port. You can reach the James R. Herman cruise terminal via public transportation or simply walking from Pier 27. San Francisco cruises are incredibly popular, with over 300,000 passengers passing through this port of call every year. You can find luggage storage at Pier 39 within the California Welcome Center, just 0.4 miles away from Cruise Pier 27.

Transportation in San Francisco

Beyond the classic cable cars running widely through San Francisco, several modes of public transportation are popular in the city. For example, the BART can help you get from the airport into the city. The Muni is one public transit option, which includes bus, metro, and some cable car options, mostly above ground. You’ll also find taxis, Lyfts, and Ubers aplenty in San Francisco.

Shopping Near the San Francisco Cruise Port

Need to pop in for a souvenir? South of Pier 39 is the Westfield Mall on Market Street which houses over 170 shops, restaurants, and major department stores for you to find whatever you might need. Head north to explore Chinatown before making your way back to the cruise port.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

You’ll find ATMs in abundance in San Francisco. The currency for the area is the U.S. dollar (USD). If you’re a traveler from overseas, note that you’ll need to leave a tip (typically 15-20%) at restaurants and bars.

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Many of the city's leading tourist attractions are located at the port , including Hyde Street Pier, Fisherman's Wharf, PIER 39 and access to Alcatraz. These attractions draw more than 15 million visitors annually to San Francisco's northern waterfront.

It's a 5$ metro ride away from San Francisco Airport to Embarcadero station.

It is a good 20 - 30 minute walk from the Embarcadero station to the cruise terminal or take a cab at the Hyatt .

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

A new terminal just opened at Pier 27 . It has everything a cruise ship might want. It has electric shore power so the ships don't have to run their engines in port, boarding areas with heating and air conditioning, a specially designed $3 million passenger elevator and a ton of other amenities.

On occasion other piers are use which are all close by.

Printable map to take along

Cruise calendar for this port.

Check here for festivals and events in San Francisco when you are in port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers of Pier 35 and Port Location on Google Maps

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers of Pier 27 and Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for San-Francisco

Sightseeing:

The most attractive of American cities and regularly voted the best city in the USA, San Francisco is adored because of its colorful history, dramatic setting and its laissez-faire atmosphere, a quality missing from synthetic Los Angeles. It is a regular trend setter in everything alternative, from flower-power to 'free love' and gay liberation; it prides itself on being individualistic, down-to-earth and cultured.

Streets roller coaster up and down the hills, and when not swathed in the city's trademark fog, there are superb vistas of San Francisco Bay, spanned by one of the world's most famous sights, the Golden Gate Bridge. Surrounded by hills and urban development, traversed by bridges, dotted with sails and 14 small islands, including the notorious Alcatraz , the bay is the largest inlet on the Californian Coast. Fisherman's Wharf at the edge of the bay is a popular place to eat, stroll and shop, with its resident seals a favorite photographic subject.

Within the surprisingly compact city are distinct neighborhoods that reflect the cultural background of diverse communities that were attracted to San Francisco by the discovery of gold in 1848, and the promise of a new life for those desperate to escape their harsh circumstances. Most of San Francisco's residents were born outside the city and this mix of cultures is reflected in the dragon-studded temples of colorful Chinatown and Japantown, the characteristic bohemian flavor of the Italian pasta restaurants and cappuccino cafes in North Beach, the old Spanish-speaking Mission District that blends with the nightlife of SoMa, the modern Financial District, the gay center of Castro and The Haight, characterised by the memory of the hippie movement of the 1960s.

There is much to see and do in San Francisco and a good guide book is indispensable so you can plan your siteseeing.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

Down town SF is very walkable, all though streets can be very steep, use the famous cable car where you can. The main cable car station is at Market and Powell St.

Different loops San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Double Decker Bus Tour.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

Admire the Muir Woods Redwoods , some of which are more than 800-years-old and 250-feet tall!

Explore Sausalito , a quaint Mediterranean-style village, which is home to art galleries, boutique shops, fine dining and home to some of San Francisco's rich and famous.

Shopping and Food

San Francisco offers some of the best shopping in the world, so it is no wonder that tourists and serious shopaholics alike want to spend some time and money in San Francisco's varied shopping centers, districts and malls. Union Square, Hayes Valley, upper Fillmore, the Mission, Sacramento Street, Chinatown and downtown's San Francisco Shopping Center offer a unique style with one-of-a-kind shops, each mall and neighborhood with a distinctive feel suited to any shopper's mood, from urban sophisticate to funk fantastic.

Nearby Pier 39 is a bustling marketplace boasting more than 110 stores.

The official U.S. currency is the United States dollar (symbol: $). ATM's everywhere.

Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely used and accepted, even for transactions worth only a few dollars. In fact, in some cases, it may be the only way to make a transaction. Note to overseas visitors: Prices of goods and services always seem lower than they really are, as taxes and gratuities are seldom included.

Most states have a sales tax, ranging from 2.9% to nearly 10% of the retail price; 4-6% is typical. Sales tax is almost never included in posted prices (except for gasoline, and in most states, alcoholic beverages consumed on-premises), but instead will be calculated and added to the total when you pay.

Tipping in America is widely used and expected. While Americans themselves often debate correct levels and exactly who deserves to be tipped, generally accepted standard rates are:

  • Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (Often this is the only income of the wait(ress). Tips are either left in cash or you can add it to the credit card slip) Note: Few restaurants add an automatic service charge, in which case it is up to you how much you tip extra. Check your bill!
  • Taxi drivers, hairdressers, other personal services: 10-15%
  • Bartenders: $1 per drink if inexpensive or 15% of total
  • Bellhops: $1-2 per bag ($3-5 minimum regardless)
  • Hotel doorman: $1 per bag (if they assist), $1 for calling a cab
  • Tour guides: Depending on tour length, size, and overall quality of guided tours; for half day tours or less $5-10 per person, for longer tours $10-20 per person.
  • Private car & limousine drivers: 15-20%
  • Housekeeping in hotels: $1-2 per day for long stays or $5 minimum for very short stays (optional)
  • Food delivery (pizza, etc.): $2-5, possibly more for very large orders

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Communication:

The U.S. has no official language at the federal level, but English is by far the standard for everyday use. Several states have declared their official state language as English. Spanish is also official in the state of New Mexico, where it is widely spoken; French is official in Louisiana and the Hawaiian language is official in Hawaii, but neither approaches the use of English and are official for primarily historical reasons.

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Opening Hours and Holidays:

In major metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles, many drugstores and supermarkets are routinely open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, while department stores, shopping centers and most other large retailers are typically open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and often with shorter hours on Sundays - generally 11 a.m. or noon to 5 or 6 p.m. On holidays, the tendency is to remain open (with the exception of the most important holidays like Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day where stores are generally closed)

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  • Coordinates 37.797, -122.392
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  • Local Time 2024-05-14 13:47

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Cruises from San Francisco

From the golden gate bridge to the painted ladies, sail on the best sf cruises with princess®.

Best Cruises From the West Coast

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Start your cruise from San Francisco by sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge and into a sea of opportunity. Venture north to relive Alaska’s gold rush history, or head south to bask in the beauty of the Mexican Riviera. Tour the California Coast on a 4-day cruise from San Francisco, or explore the Hawaiian islands on a 15-day cruise. Arrive in Northern California and embark on your dream vacation with Princess.

Find the Best Cruises from San Francisco

Alaska Cruises

Glaciers, wildlife and mountains await you on a cruise from San Francisco to Alaska. Our roundtrip voyages bring you up close to untouched landmarks, including Glacier Bay National Park or Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier. Fish for salmon in Ketchikan, meet sled dogs in Juneau and pan for gold in Skagway. Experience it all with Princess, the #1 cruise line in Alaska*.

*More guests choose Princess in Alaska than any other cruise line

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From Northern California to the Southern cities, The Golden State is brimming with breathtaking coast lines, creative cuisine and iconic marine life. On cruises out of San Francisco, visit the San Diego Zoo, California’s very own living sanctuary. Explore Catalina Island’s underwater oasis where kelp forests dance to the rhythm of the ocean. Or enjoy crisp wines amidst the Sonoma Wine Country.

Hawaii Cruises

On a cruise from San Francisco, unpack once and visit multiple Hawaiian Islands. Drive through Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Then enjoy an evening in Honolulu with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays – included in every itinerary. With the sunset as your backdrop, conclude your trip with a traditional luau. Island hop with ease in a way that only Princess can offer.

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For a taste of fun, flavor and fiesta, sail to Mexico with Princess. On a cruise from San Francisco, dive into adventure in Cabo while snorkeling beside sea turtles and kayaking along the Sea of Cortez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Puerto Vallarta, zipline over vast jungle canopies. Or take the day to relax on one of the unspoiled beaches where sun-kissed sand and crystalline waters leave you feeling recharged.

Panama Canal Cruises

The Panama Canal is a true engineering wonder, but even more spectacles lie ahead when you cruise from San Francisco aboard the #1 cruise line in the Canal. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary in Limon. Stroll along the colorful streets of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore Spanish fortresses nearby. Or zipline through Nicaragua’s lush jungles and relish in sweeping views of the region’s untouched landscapes.

Getaway Cruises

Enjoy convenient departures and itineraries with Getaway Cruises out of San Francisco. Sail down the coast to meet San Diego’s famous seals, and sip fine wines in Ensenada’s Guadalupe Valley. Or head North to Astoria to experience the iconic beauty of the Pacific Northwest while sampling ales at local breweries. Choose from a four-day cruise from San Francisco to Vancouver or a five-day voyage through the Golden State.

What to Know About Cruises from San Francisco

Make the most of your cruise out of San Francisco by taking in the flavor, beauty and history that lies before you. Here’s everything you should know before arriving in the Golden Gate City.

San Francisco at a glance

  • Language: English
  • Currency: U.S. dollar
  • Time Zone: Pacific Time (PT)
  • Docking: Your Princess ship docks at Pier 27, San Francisco Cruise Terminal.
  • Attire: Light jackets, sweaters or blazers are recommended, especially for the mornings and evenings.
  • Transportation: Taxis or rideshare vehicles can get you to and from the ship and are available pier side for all guests.

Things to do in San Francisco

Visit Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and Muir Woods National Monument. In the birthplace of blue jeans, shop boutiques on Market Street, or find the perfect souvenir at Pier 39. Then savor Italian seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, and try the city’s signature dish — clam chowder in a bread bowl. Or spend time in Sonoma or Napa sipping locally grown wines before your cruise from San Francisco.

Ships That Cruise from San Francisco

Our Princess fleet includes some of the best cruises from San Francisco. Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board any of our ships. Discover what makes our fleet so unique.

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EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Cruises from/to San Francisco, California

San francisco, california cruise port.

Some call San Francisco the ‘Paris of the West’ because it is such a beautiful city filled with a diverse population, has an interesting history and is surrounded by the beautiful blue water of the San Francisco Bay. San Francisco became what it is today as a result of the Gold Rush of 1849, which increased the city’s population from 1,000 to 25,000 in a year. In San Francisco you can uncover the growth of the city on several walking tours, from the gold rush to the great earthquake and fire of 1906, to the summer of love in 1969 – just be prepared for a workout because San Francisco has some of the steepest streets in the world. You can get a sense of the hills and the entire city on a trolley ride. San Francisco is the gateway to Hawaii, Alaska, the Panama Canal, the Caribbean and many more wonderful cruise destinations.

  • You should check out the different neighborhoods, like Chinatown, where you can visit a fortune cookie factory; the Mission, where the city’s oldest building stands; the Castro, the home of the city’s gay community; or the Presidio, a former military base. Each neighborhood offers a new perspective on San Francisco.  
  • Ride on one of the last functioning cable car systems in the United States.  
  • Wander through the Golden Gate Park and enjoy the beautiful flowers and millions of trees. While there, be sure to visit the Conservatory of Flowers and ride on the carousel.  
  • Head over to Alcatraz and explore one of the world’s most infamous prisons.

San Francisco, California: James R. Herman Cruise Terminal

San Francisco, California: Pier 35:

Top 10 Cruises to San Francisco, California

  • Crown Princess 11 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From San Francisco, California (May 2024 - Sep 2024)
  • Silver Shadow 13 NIGHT Caribbean CRUISE Departing From San Francisco, California (May 2024)
  • Silver Shadow 23 NIGHT Caribbean CRUISE Departing From San Francisco, California (May 2024)
  • Carnival Miracle 11-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Departing From San Francisco, California (Jun 2024 - Jul 2024)
  • Crystal Serenity 8 Night San Diego to Vancouver Departing From San Diego, California (Jun 2024)
  • Carnival Miracle 10-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Departing From San Francisco, California (Jul 2024 - Sep 2024)
  • Crystal Serenity 6 Night Vancouver to Los Angeles Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (Aug 2024)
  • Queen Elizabeth 13 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (Sep 2024)
  • Queen Elizabeth 38 NIGHT South Pacific CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (Sep 2024)
  • Celebrity Summit 6 NT COASTAL VANCOUVER TO LOS ANGELES Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (Sep 2024)

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San Francisco United States of America

The Port of San Francisco is located in the bay of the same name on the coast of California. The city and its region are full of activities. If your cruise starts or ends in San Francisco, take a few days to enjoy the attractions of the area.

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Useful Information

A 15% tip will be appreciated in restaurants and taxis.

USD US dollar

Time difference

from New York: -3h

from San Francisco: -1h

from London: -8h

Where is located the Port of San Francisco Cruise Terminal

Travelling around the san francisco cruise port, transportation between the airport and the port of san francisco.

San Francisco Airport (SFO) is located about 20 km from the cruise port.

The taxi ride will take about 30 minutes and cost between $70 and $90.

The yellow line of the BART rail transport system connects the airport to the port (Embarcadero station). The station is located at Garage G.

You can also book a private transfer in advance.

Directions from Airport to Cruise terminal

  • directions_boat Pier 27 James R. Herman Cruise Terminal
  • directions_boat Pier 35 on The Embarcadero

Directions from Cruise terminal to Airport

Activities in San Francisco

Rebate cards, rebate tourist cards.

Many companies offer cards that include admission to multiple museums and activities. Some also include cruises and hop-on hop-off bus pass.

Neighborhoods

Alamo square - painted ladies.

This square is bordered by the charming Victorian houses made famous by the TV series “Full House” in the 1990s.

The largest Chinatown outside of Asia and the oldest in North America.

Lombard Street

This winding street was designed in 1922 to reduce the slope inclination that was too dangerous. The landscaping makes this street even more charming.

Golden Gate Bridge

The bridge, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, connects San Francisco and Sausalito. Its international orange color of this suspension bridge makes it one of the most famous bridges in the world.

This Art Deco style tower was inaugurated in 1933 in honor of the firefighters. An observation deck at its top allows you to have a panoramic view of the city and the San Francisco Bay.

Historical sites

This island is located in San Francisco Bay. It was used as a military fortress before becoming a prison that over the years housed the most dangerous and wanted criminals in the United States. Now a national park, it is possible to visit the prison and walk on the island to observe the birds. To get there, you have to take a ferry at Pier 33.

SS Jeremiah O’Brien

World War II ship that can be visited at Pier 45.

USS Pampanito

A restored World War II submarine that sank six Japanese ships in the Pacific.

California Academy of Sciences

This natural history museum also includes an aquarium, a planetarium and a rainforest.

Cable Car Museum

This museum presents the history and operation of San Francisco’s cable cars.

Exploratorium

Interactive Museum of Science and Technology located at Pier 15.

Legion of Honor Museum

Art museum presenting exhibitions of European painters and sculptors, ancient art, photography and decorative art.

GLBT History Museum

This museum is located in the LGBTQ neighborhood of Castro and traces the history of the LGBTQ community.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

One of the largest museums in the world dedicated to modern and contemporary art.

Madame Tussauds

Famous museum of wax statues.

It is very pleasant to walk in this redwood forest, a national park.

Golden Gate Park

This park of more than 1000 acres is an oasis of nature where there are several museums and monuments.

Fisherman’s Warf

Fisherman’s Warf is the starting point for many activities and excursions. There are also several restaurants and shops.

Several water activities are offered at Pier 39. Here you will find restaurants, shops, the aquarium of the Bay and other activities. The sea lions basking in the sun are the mascots of Pier 39.

The symbol of the city, this transport system pulled by cables counts 3 lines still in operation.

Ghirardelli Square

This former confectionery producing chocolate has been transformed into a complex bringing together shops and restaurants.

Conservatory of Flowers

This Botanical Garden is home to rare and unusual plants from threatened environments and rainforest.

Family activities

Aquarium of the bay.

The aquarium located at Pier 39 showcase marine species living in the San Francisco Bay.

Sonoma is a well-known wine region of California, where you can visit vineyards.

Napa Valley

Nappa Valley is a very important wine region in California and one of the most prestigious in the United States. You can visit several vineyards.

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Useful References

  • Tourism Board - San Francisco
  • Tourism Board - United States of America
  • California Tourism board
  • San Francisco on Wikipedia
  • United States of America on Wikipedia
  • Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)
  • Port Website

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

Alternative:

https://www.viator.com/en-CA/San_Francisco/d651-ttd?pid=P00045706&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=morebutton

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San Francisco, CA

cruise port san francisco

  • Carnival Legend
  • Carnival Miracle

* Coming Soon

cruise port san francisco

Seaports have always been important throughout history… it’s about more than just the cargo, but the import and export of ideas. You could say that a city’s seaside status almost necessarily creates a crossroads of cultures. All that said, something sets San Francisco apart! Maybe it’s the year-round comfy weather that makes people want to spend their time outdoors, or perhaps it’s the spectacular food culture, or the history, or the hills, or the architecture. But one thing can be proven: San Francisco is beautiful, arguably the most romantic and cosmopolitan city in the U.S., and all of these elements go into the mix of making it a place you want to be, whether you know it or not. From the world’s most recognizable bridge, The Golden Gate, to the quirky, flower-lined Lombard Street… it’s no surprise that in SF even a former prison island — you knew we’re talking about Alcatraz, right? — ends up being an iconic destination.

  • Send yourself to Alcatraz — for a little bit — as you visit the island that housed not only the prison, but a bird sanctuary and the west coast’s first lighthouse.
  • Walk among the world’s tallest trees, between 500 and 700 years old, at Muir Woods National Monument.
  • Get some of the city’s best views of the skyline — plus, actually, sea lions — at Pier 39 near Fisherman’s Wharf.
  • Visit San Francisco’s amazing neighbors like the charming, arty Sausalito and the serene Napa Valley wine region.

See it all from San Francisco.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

cruise port san francisco

San Francisco, California

Port schedule.

San Francisco, California cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship’s estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship’s next port-of-call.

The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise ship arrivals from all major cruise lines. In order to find out more about the cruise ship itineraries such as ports, dates, and arrival/departure times just follow the ship’s link.

  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 15 May 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 24 May 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 26 May 2024 - 07:00
  • Silver Shadow 466 passengers 26 May 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 03 Jun 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 06 Jun 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 14 Jun 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 17 Jun 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 24 Jun 2024 - 08:00
  • Crystal Serenity 1.254 passengers 26 Jun 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 28 Jun 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 05 Jul 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 09 Jul 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 15 Jul 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 20 Jul 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 26 Jul 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 31 Jul 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 05 Aug 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 11 Aug 2024 - 07:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 16 Aug 2024 - 08:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 15 May 2024 - 16:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 24 May 2024 - 16:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 26 May 2024 - 16:00
  • Silver Shadow 466 passengers 26 May 2024 - 23:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 03 Jun 2024 - 16:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 06 Jun 2024 - 16:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 14 Jun 2024 - 16:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 17 Jun 2024 - 16:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 24 Jun 2024 - 16:00
  • Crystal Serenity 1.254 passengers 26 Jun 2024 - 18:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 28 Jun 2024 - 16:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 05 Jul 2024 - 16:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 09 Jul 2024 - 16:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 15 Jul 2024 - 16:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 20 Jul 2024 - 16:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 26 Jul 2024 - 16:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 31 Jul 2024 - 16:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 05 Aug 2024 - 16:00
  • Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 11 Aug 2024 - 16:00
  • Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 16 Aug 2024 - 16:00

cruise port san francisco

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What to Do on a Port Day in San Francisco

San Francisco bay marina

Make Your Own Shore Tours on a Port Day in San Francisco

Through the years husband Rob and I have driven our vehicle to San Francisco. More frequently, we searched for reasonable airfare and rented a car. Then recently, we found a much easier way to revisit our beloved City by the Bay; on a cruise.

On a West Coast cruise, San Francisco offers a wealth of port attractions. We have gone on three very enjoyable California or West Coast cruises with San Francisco port visits.

Time to Hit the Ground Running

First, fuel up with a hearty breakfast before your ship docks. The cruise ship terminal at Pier 27 is about a 20-minute walk on flat pavement from Fisherman’s Wharf.

San Francisco skyline

From Fishermans Wharf, we boarded a 9 am San Francisco City Sightseeing luxury bus for a narrated Sausalito and Muir Woods tour. As the bus meandered through the Marina District and the Presidio, the driver gave a running commentary. While we crossed the famed Golden Gate Bridge, we sang along to the recorded San Francisco song. 

After a 10-minute photo stop at Vista Point, our bus drove through Marin County for views of Sausalito’s gorgeous ocean scenery and million-dollar homes that precariously clung to the sides of cliffs.

A walk through Muir Woods

We never tire of the fragrant, clean piney scent of giant Coastal Redwoods in Muir Woods National Monument just 30 minutes from Fisherman’s Wharf. The redwoods massive height reminds me of an outdoor cathedral where sunlight filters through the branches. A walk among these cherished giants is pure joy. The fresh earthy scent and peaceful environment are great for the soul.

Because Muir Woods has limited food options, before we boarded the bus we bought a picnic lunch to eat after our hike. Savvy visitors wear comfortable walking shoes and bring rain gear when appropriate. Muir Woods admission is not included in tour fare, so bring your National Park pass if you have one. 

An afternoon of wine tasting

A different City Sightseeing bus in the afternoon took us through picturesque Sonoma County where dozens of vineyards dot the landscape.

Visit to a winery during a port day in San Francisco

While tasting award-winning white and red wines at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards, we learned about the Italian Jacuzzi family history. Then we were off to sample olive oils and stroll through the beautiful grounds.

There were more wines to taste during an informal talk at Larson Family Vineyards, where a friendly dog was part of the scenery. At our third stop we enjoyed a humorous interactive wine tasting at Roche Winery. After a lingering visit and sampling at a cheese store, the City Sightseeing bus returned us to our ship in time for dinner. www.city-sightseeing.us

Other City Sightseeing buses will return you to Fisherman’s Wharf where you can connect to another tour, venture out on your own or ride a cable car.

Insider tip to Beat the Cable Car Queues

Tour guides say the Hyde Street cable car end terminal on Hyde & Beach often has long queues. If you walk a block up the Hyde Street hill to Hyde & North Point (or another block to Hyde & Bay), you can board a cable car without waiting.

What to do at Pier 39

Located at a prominent spot between the cruise terminal on Pier 27 and Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 beckons tourists with a colorful array of eateries, shops, attractions, tour operators and discount booklets. First-time visitors and kids enjoy watching the sea lions and listening to their dog-like barking. Pier 39’s Aquarium of the Bay is worth a visit. Don’t miss the underwater tunnels sand outstanding jelly fish exhibit. www.aquariumofthebay.org/

Laurie Armstrong of the San Francisco Travel Association offers a bevy of ideas for a port day in San Francisco. Her top four suggestions are:

Walk to the Exploratorium , a hands-on museum for science and gadget buffs of all ages at Pier 15. www.exploratorium.edu .

Travel to the Presidio , www.presidio.gov , by taxi, Uber or Lyft to see the Walt Disney Family Museum, the Presidio Officers Club, and/or visit Yoda at the Letterman Digital Arts Center.

Use the Muni Passport in the San Francisco CityPASS www.citypass.com/sf-plan to ride the California Street cable car line from the Embarcadero. Get off at Chinatown for shopping and have lunch.

Stop at Nob Hill to visit the grand hotels (Fairmont, Mark Hopkins Intercontinental, Scarlet Huntington and Ritz Carlton) and the beautiful Grace Cathedral. Ride the cable car all the way to Van Ness to see the colorful neighborhoods, and then ride it back to the Embarcadero.

Winding Down

If you accomplish most of the above, you’re entitled to a relaxing dinner in one of San Francisco’s world-class restaurants. Later back onboard, we walked out on deck to watch the Bay Lights, a unique nightly LED art installation, play across the Bay Bridge.

Rob and I have left our hearts in San Francisco many times. Exploring this fascinating city from a cruise ship is the easiest and most relaxing way to do it—sans worries about traffic and parking. Most cruise ships spend an entire day here.

All photos by Pat Woods.

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cruise port san francisco

San Francisco, CA

Cruises from San Francisco depart year-round. San Francisco, CA lies about 90 minutes southwest of Sacramento and six hours north of Los Angeles. Reno and Carson City, NV, are within a four-hour drive. San Francisco is a popular international tourist destination famous for its steep hills, summer fog, diverse mix of Victorian and modern architecture and its famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, the cable cars, and Chinatown. Pier 39, located near Fisherman's Wharf, is celebrated as the third-most popular tourist attraction in the nation. The pier offers shopping, dining, street performers, an aquarium, the exciting RocketBoat ride and is the permanent home to hundreds of San Francisco sea lions. Visitors can also take a bay cruise and travel directly under the Golden Gate Bridge and get within yards of the legendary Alcatraz Island.

cruise port san francisco

Driving Directions and Parking Information for the Port of San Francisco Port of San Francisco Pier 35 1454 The Embarcadero San Francisco, CA 94133 Port of San Francisco Pier 27 The Embarcadero San Francisco, CA 94105 The Port of San Francisco (Pier 35 and Pier 27) is located midway between the Bay Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf. This port does not have parking on site, but for other parking options please click here . Traveling From the North - On 101 Southbound, take the Lombard Street exit. Take Lombard East approximately 1.5 miles and turn left on Van Ness. Turn right on Bay Street, then proceed 1 mile to the Embarcadero. Turn left on Embarcadero for Pier 35 and right on Embarcadero for Pier 27. Traveling From the South - On 280 Northbound, exit at the end of 280 Freeway at King. Continue 3 blocks on King until it turns into Embarcadero. Pier 27 and Pier 35 are approximately 2 miles ahead to the right.

cruise port san francisco

  • san-francisco »
  • tours-shore-excursions

San Francisco Tours & Excursions

Last updated on June 12th, 2023 at 07:19 pm

Uncover the beauty and diversity of San Francisco, California, with an array of tours and excursions. Ride the iconic cable cars, explore the vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury on a guided city tour, or venture to nearby attractions such as Muir Woods or Alcatraz Island. From the Golden Gate Bridge to the historic Fisherman's Wharf, there are countless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.

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Hotels near Pier 27 and 35 Port of San Francisco Cruise Ship Terminal

San Francisco Golden Gate bridge

San Francisco in California

San Francisco is a popular port of call and embarkation port for many cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line HAL, Oceania Cruises and Celebrity. Extend your cruise vacation, spend a few nights in a pre or post cruise hotel, and discover all major sights and attractions of this lovely city.

Book cheap deals for San Francisco hotels and affordable motels near both Pier 35 and Pier 27 cruise ship passenger terminals. Stay in Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, Marina District or close to the airport.

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Stay near Cruise Terminal of San Francisco CA

Where to Stay ? The new James. R. Herman terminal at Pier 27 is located just a few blocks from Fishermans Wharf and downtown Union Square at SF’s eastern waterfront. Pier 35 passenger terminal is situated within walking distance of famous Pier 39, home to sea lions, waterfront dining, shopping and live music. Nearby attractions include the USS Pampanito Submarine, Aquarium of the Bay, Alcatraz Cruises and the Exploratorium.

Many cruise passengers choose to stay in nearby Fisherman’s Wharf or around Union Square , from where both passenger terminals can easily be reached. Major attractions can easily be reached. Room rates at Fisherman’s Wharf can be generally higher than in other areas of the city.

Fairly inexpensive and affordable hotels can be found in the Marina District around Lombard Street , but this area is a bit further from the most popular tourist areas. When your inbound flight arrives late or when you have an early flight the next morning, it can be very convenient to stay near San Francisco airport or Oakland international airport .

Looking for San Francisco Hotel with Shuttle to Cruise Port? There are no hotels at this time offering this kind of service but to get to the port, taxi is only around $10 to $20 and even cheaper by Uber. The cruise pier is right in the middle of The City, very close to Fisherman’s Wharf. Some hotels are within walking distance of the terminal, no shuttle needed.

One of the nearest hotels is Hotel Zephyr San Francisco (0.4 mi or 8 min. walk from Pier 35).

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  • San Francisco Cruise Port
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Pier near Port of San Francisco

Located close to San Francisco cruise passenger terminal pier 35 and pier 27.

San Francisco downtown aerial view

Very popular hotel within walking distance of Union Square in downtown San Francisco CA. 25 min from Airport.

Union Square in San Francisco

Reasonable priced 3 star hotel near Union Square and a classic Cable Car stop. 1 mile from cruise terminal.

SF Cruise Ship Terminals near Fishermans Wharf

San Francisco Cruise Terminals — Ships sailing into and out of the Port of San Francisco pass through the famous Golden Gate. Ocean liners dock at the city’s bustling downtown waterfront on San Francisco Bay within walking distance of Fishermans Wharf.

Currently Pier 35 was the existing primary terminal but is replaced by the new James R. Herman Terminal at Pier 27 in September 2014. Plenty of accommodations can be found either around both terminals in nearby Fisherman’s Wharf, in downtown or near San Francisco and Oakland airports. Stay in affordable or more luxurious hotels, discounted motels or in self contained apartments.

Cruise ships leaving the port sail through the magnificent San Francisco Bay, pass the world famous prison island of Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge and out to the Pacific Ocean.

Currently departing from the port are Princess Cruises , HAL Holland America Line , Cunard, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Oceania, Crystal, and Celebrity Cruises.

Pier 27 – James R. Herman Terminal New passenger terminal which have increased passenger capacity. The new berth is significantly longer than the current cruise ship terminal at Pier 35.

It is a state of the art building which can accommodate the largest vessels. While there is no ship docked a the two-story facility, the 100,000-square foot building is also available for conferences, weddings and other special events.

The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

web : www.sfport.com

Pier 35 Ship Passenger Terminal Address San Francisco Cruise Terminal Pier 35 — the cruise facility is located at Pier 35 (at the end of Bay Street).

1454 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133

San Francisco is one of the main cruise ports in California. Others include the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro , Long Beach Carnival Port and the Port of San Diego . Near all these ports you will plenty of hotels as well.

City by the Bay – Pacific Coast

San Francisco in northern California is one of the most beautiful cities of the United States.

Spread over steep hills, the “City by the Bay” offers attractive architecture, world class art and culture, and historical landmarks such the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz Island. There are plenty of hotels in San Francisco to accommodate you no matter what part of the city you’d like to stay in and no matter what your budget.

Zig-zag through Lombard Street, the flowers on the winding road are beautiful. The heart of the district is Chestnut Street , near Lombard Street. The area is full of unique shops and great value restaurants and cafes.

Catch a ride over the city hilly streets in one of the  Cable Cars . It’s a great way to discover this amazing city. Hop on and off the car as much as you like and ride through many interesting San Francisco districts such as Union Square, North Beach, Nob Hill, Russian Hill, Lombard Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Located right on San Francisco Bay, Fisherman’s Wharf , it’s a popular tourist centre and lively area of the city boasting excellent shopping and a wide variety of fresh seafood restaurants and eateries, and gift shops. It’s a place full of history, and a short walk from the Alcatraz ferries, Girhardelli Square and Pier 39 . From Fisherman’s Wharf you can easily get to Chinatown and Union Square by cable car. For families traveling with young kids, the Wharf is often the best choice.

Union Square in downtown is home to lots of hotels, surrounded by shopping streets, art galleries and the theatre district. Cable cars run from Powell and Market to Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square. Union Square is the main shopping area of the city.

See also the famous sea lions that live on Pier 39. For picture perfect moments head up the hill to Ghirardelli Square. You can see Alcatraz in all its glory and almost the entire skyline. Nearby Golden Gate Park is home to the Japanese Tea Garden, a wonderful place to spend a day out with family and friends.

The most famous landmark of San Francisco CA is the Golden Gate Bridge, built in 1937. Rent a bike and cross over to the view site on the Sausalito side. The views are spectacular and it will be an unforgettable experience. Escape to Alcatraz. A short ferry trip leads to the island, which was once home to some of America’s most dangerous criminals. During a tour you are able to walk around and check out the cells and the courtyard.

To end your day, take a bay cruise for incredible views of and under the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge.

Nearest airports – SFO Airport and Oakland International

San Francisco Intercontinental Airport (SFO) — SFO airport is approximately 14 miles outside downtown SF. You can take a taxi or shuttle directly to the port or pre cruise hotel/motel.

Oakland International Airport — OAK airport is approximately 21 miles from the pier.

Many properties here provide a free complimentary shuttle service to/from the airport and free Wifi. Properties in this area are more budget friendly than downtown accommodations.

Parking — safe and secure overnight car parking garages are available close to the San Francisco cruise terminals at pier 35 and 27.

Pre and Post Cruise Overnight Accommodation with free Shuttle

Pre or Post cruise accommodation with free shuttle service to the pier or airport — several San Francisco hotels will shuttle you to the Port of the morning of your cruise.

Plenty of hotels near SFO airport offer complimentary 24 hour shutte transportation service to and from the airport terminal building.

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'Come and go as you please': Here's how overnight cruise stops work

cruise port san francisco

If you've ever sailed on a cruise , you know there's no grace period from the ship leaving the dock. But on a recent cruise, it was nearly 5 p.m. when I was heading out on my first shore excursion.

I caught an evening show at San Francisco's magic speakeasy The Magic Patio and when I returned to the port, Princess Cruises' Discovery Princess ship was lit up for the evening, glowing in the Bay.

The sight was a rarity because we'd normally be sailing away by that time, our host explained over the loudspeaker on the bus. But that night, the ship served less as a means of transportation than a floating hotel during our two-day visit.

While many cruises stop only for a day, some itineraries include overnight stays that give guests more time to explore and see destinations from a new vantage point.

"One of the common gripes for cruising is you don't really get to experience the destination if you're only there for X number of hours," said Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel. "The cruise lines' answer to that is, 'Well, let's stay overnight.'"

What are the benefits of overnight cruise stays?

For starters, travelers don't have to feel rushed to return to the ship before it leaves. "You're able to really experience what the port has to offer in terms of nightlife," Feldman said.

Tillie and Joseph L. James Jr., luxury travel advisers who co-own Tillie James Travel, said longer stays allow them to arrange unique experiences for their clients, like private museum tours or dinners at local restaurants. Cruise lines may offer nighttime excursions as well.

Some activities may be even better after dark, like perusing Christmas markets . "It's so beautiful to see them at night," said Tillie. "During the day, you can go walk through those, but during the nights, when everything's lit up and you smell all the food, it's just a wonderful experience."

Those kinds of stops are becoming easier to find, too, according to Feldman. He noted an uptick in itineraries featuring overnights over the past two or three years.

"It's a growing trend," he said.

Do I have to stay on the cruise ship during an overnight stay?

Not necessarily. Feldman said cruise ships typically leave the gangway open all night for guests. "You can come and go as you please," he said. "And if you want to go out and, let's say, party until 3 in the morning, you can do that and then come back."

You can sleep in without missing out too. Most ships also don't leave for their next destination until late afternoon or evening, giving passengers nearly a full second day in port.

On my cruise, knowing I had extra time in San Francisco, I didn't feel pressured to cram everything into one day. The ship offered a nice home base after the show, and I grabbed a quick bite to eat on the way back to my cabin.

What cruises have overnight stays?

Travelers are more likely to find overnights on itineraries that feature "some of your larger destinations where there's just so much to do, people want to get immersed," Feldman said, like Athens, Rome, or Southampton, England.

Looking for cruise deals? Here's why they may be harder to find

Some lines market their sailings with a particular focus on overnight stays, he added, such as Princess, Azamara, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises . Longer itineraries, like world cruises that can sail for months at a time, may also feature more overnights as they have more time to fill.

And having even just one extra day can shift the hop-off, hop-on dynamic of a cruise. "You're like, 'Oh, I don't have to be back by any certain time. I don't have to be back until tomorrow,'" said Feldman. "So, it kind of changes your perspective of how you can approach a port."

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

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cruise port san francisco

World Cruise: San Francisco to Sydney Voyage

25-night queen mary 2 cruise.

From $4,299 per person* Additional government taxes, fees and port expenses per person: $325

Calls to Hawaii, French Polynesia, and New Zealand await on this 25-night voyage. Perhaps you'll visit Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, explore Cook's Bay in Mo'orea, or ascend Auckland's iconic Sky Tower.

Included Extras

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Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

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Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Port of Call Port of Call (Arrival, Departure)

San Francisco

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San Francisco is a golden dream come true, a place where heart, mind and soul embrace, lost in the simplicity of delightful deliverance. Fog and sun mingle playfully above America's favorite city; the cool, cloudy comfort of early morning slowly dissolving into the peaceful warmth of a gentle afternoon glow. Touch it....it is real. Feel it.....it is the essence of escape. Savor it.....it is one of a kind. Little wonder why San Francisco has been named the world's top city twice by readers of Condé Nast Traveler; the top U.S. city seven times since 1988. San Francisco's neighborhoods comprise its inner beauty, enhancing daydreams, opening doors to new and exciting visions. The City is a cultural wonderland, an ethnic treasure chest where custom, tradition and history are preserved, celebrated, shared. So take your time and explore The City. You'll find that the Gold Rush days have never really ended here; there's still plenty of gold to be found. The restless spirit of The City's Barbary Coast past lives on, fueled by a desire to be different, nurtured by infinite viewpoints, personalities, styles. Magical moments abound. The echo of cable car bells from atop great hills. The rejuvenation of the soul upon crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. The splendor and elegance of a boat cruise on San Francisco Bay. The soft touching of wine glasses over a gourmet meal. The views. The people. The sights. The sounds. The City. So come and share the wealth. Let your heart, mind and soul wander. Stay as long as you like. San Francisco encourages lingering. It was designed with adventure, romance and pleasure in mind. It is one of life's great indulgences, so indulge. It is one of the world's most gratifying escapes, so escape. It is where the world comes to unwind. It is America's preeminent playground.

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Anyone lucky enough to be going to Honolulu doesn't have to give a reason for going. They can just say, "We're going to Honolulu," and imagination will take care of the rest. Moreover, Honolulu can probably live up to and even surpass whatever we imagine. World-famous beaches and tropical weather set the scene for an amazing mix of Pacific cultures in this Hawaiian capital. There is a reason why Hawaii is consistently rated as one of the nation's top travel destinations; in fact, there are several of them. Waikiki Beach is the center of activity for Hawaii's biggest industry: tourism. This is one of the world's greatest resort playgrounds, featuring some of the most beautiful beaches and hotels in the world. Visitors from all over the world flock here to enjoy the sun, the sand and the incredible nightlife. Besides the beaches, visitors to Honolulu can take tours of the countryside surrounding the downtown area. These tours are amazing, bringing visitors to some of the most beautiful rainforests and volcanoes in the world. Animal and plant life are abundant, and the scenery is unsurpassed. A five-minute car ride from Honolulu brings visitors into some of Nature's most beautiful and awe-inspiring sights. Several museums, including the Bishop Museum, combine exhibits on Hawaiian natural history with lessons about history and culture of its many diverse peoples. The Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest public aquarium in the United States, and it features many of Hawaii's most interesting sea animals. The Honolulu Zoo also features some of the unique mammals, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the forests just outside of the city. The history of Hawaii is very rich, as the islands have always attracted many different people. Visitors can tour the Iolani Palace, the residence of the last of the Hawaiian monarchs. They can also visit Honolulu's Chinatown, which is more authentic than many of its mainland counterparts. They can also visit the Arizona Memorial, commemorating the destruction of the battleship Arizona during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that brought America into World War II. Honolulu exhibits the best of Hawaii in every way. From its famous beaches to its incredible natural preserves, this town has attracted millions of people from around the world. Many of those visitors stayed, helping to make Hawaii one of the most cosmopolitan and diverse places to visit in the United States. Anyone lucky enough to be going to Hawaii knows that he won't be disappointed.

Kailua/Hawaii

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Historians and researchers believe that it is possible that Kailua was home to Hawaiian families at least 1,500 years ago. The earliest settlers are thought to have lived fished and played on the slopes surrounding Kawainui Marsh. A Bishop Museum report on archaeological excavations of the marshland concludes that when the marsh slopes were first occupied about 500 A.D., agriculture was not possible. The report said that early Hawaiian occupants of Kailua apparently lived beside a lagoon or bay open to the sea hundreds of yards shoreside of today's shoreline. In the 16th century, Kailua attracted the ali'i giving birth to many rich Hawaiian legends, some of which may be found in written and oral reminiscences in Hawaii State Libraries. Many legends were born here including the menehune who were known for working at night in Kaiwainui Marsh and mo'o who took the shape of a large lizard that attracted fish. Kailua was densely populated before the arrival of Captain Cook and was the ancient capital of O'ahu's kings. The biggest event in Kailua and the entire Windward side was in 1795 when King Kamehameha I conquered O'ahu in his quest to unite the Hawaiian Islands. The King granted Kaiwainui Marsh and old Kailua, which included large freshwater fish ponds and saltwater ponds at Mokapu, to the warriors and chiefs that had helped him. The land was used in various forms for agriculture from sugarcane to rice to taro and eventually was used primarily for cattle raising. Kailua was a sleepy town of barely 3,000 in the 1940s. However, the events of World War II changed the appearance of Kailua. Kaneohe Ranch sold portions of land to the government for expansion of the Navy base and the Army's Fort Hase. Finally in 1942, Kaneohe Ranch closed down its cattle raising operations entirely, freeing thousands of acres for post-war development. Harold K.L. Castle, owner of Kaneohe Ranch, donated the land for many churches, schools, and for a new hospital. A new four-lane highway, tunneling through the Ko'olau Mountains, was completed in the late 1950s. In 1946, a small Liberty House (now Macy's) shop opened with three employees and upgraded to a full-line department store in 1953 with nearly 50 employees. The first bowling alley, a branch office of the telephone company, and the very first supermarket in Hawaii opened in Kailua in 1947. By the end of the 1950s, Hawaii had become a state and Kailua became the official postal designation. Castle Hospital opened in 1963. By 1960 the population was up to 24,400. The town has grown more than 100 percent since 1960 when its population was 24,402. It has a compact, easy-to-shop business district surrounded by mostly single-family homes. By 1992 50,000 residents encompassed a central urban core with surrounding residential areas.

Papeete/Polynesia

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Papeete is the major city of Tahiti and the capital of French Polynesia. This little city of 80,000 people is pretty recent as there was no buildings on its site when in 1769, Captain Cook first reached the Matavai Bay located 10 km away on the East Coast. Since the 18th century, sailors realized how safe was its bay for their ships. In 1797, the London Missionary Society (LMS) tried to send some missionaries to settle down in Papeete but they did not succeed until 1824 with the help of Queen Pomare IV. It is Governor Bruat who decided in 1843 that Papeete would become the administrative center of the newly born French Protectorate. At that time, the expansion of the city was going fast and the bay of Papeete had become a large harbour.In the 19th century, some Chinese started to settle down in Papeete that counted only 5,000 persons. During World War I, Papeete was bombed by the Germans and the Municipal Market was destroyed.

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Some 17km (11 miles) from Tahiti, and connected to it by a 45-minute ferry service or seven-minute flight, is an island with a simpler and more rustic lifestyle and yet offering plenty of entertainment for the tourist, including traditional-style nightlife. Dominated by volcanic peaks, it also has dazzling white sand beaches and clear lagoons ideal for swimming, diving and snorkelling. Excursions include a visit to the beautiful Opunohu Valley, an ancient dwelling place, uninhabited for 150 years, with 500 ancient structures including temples or marae, some of which have been restored. Le Belvédère is a lookout spot from where the best view of the island may be had. The nearby island of Tetiaroa, recently opened to the public and accessible only by air, is an important seabird sanctuary.

Crossing the International Dateline

Bay of Islands/New Zealand

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The Bay of Islands is the finest Maritime Park in New Zealand with 144 islands, secluded bays and an abundance of marine life. It is the cradle of European civilisation in New Zealand and has fine examples of Maori culture for you to experience. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular and can only be fully appreciated by cruising through the area. The area is the warmest part of New Zealand. The Maritime Park is a natural wonderland with an abundance of wildlife including marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and many other species. The towns of Paihia and picturesque Russell are perfect places to wander amongst the many shops and restaurants along the waterfront. There are endless activities too - fishing, forest and beach walks, all kinds of water sports and great golf courses. The Bay is the perfect base from which to explore further North. See the magnificent Kauri forests, Cape Reinga - the top of New Zealand, 90 Mile Beach and the craft shops of Kerikeri.

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Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, with a population of just under 382,000 within the city boundary and 1.18 million in the greater Auckland area. This represents about one third of the population of the whole country. The city and suburbs cover an area of 60 square kilometres, with many of the suburbs having their own unique character. The city is built on a narrow isthmus between two harbours, the Waitemata to the East and the Manukau to the West. Water sports are a pastime enjoyed by a large number of Aucklanders and the city enjoys the reputation as being known as the 'City of Sails' due the number of yachts which sail in the harbours and the adjoining Hauraki Gulf.

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Tauranga is located at the western end of the Bay of Plenty, on the North Island’s central eastern coast. It is built around Tauranga Harbour, a busy port, and the surrounding region is a fertile fruit growing district. It is sheltered to the west by the Kaimai Ranges and to the east by Matakana Island. Historically, Tauranga was a base for missionaries and for the flax trade. The city is also home to Gate Pa, the site of an historic battle between local Maori and European settlers. Artillery and earthworks can still be seen at the site. Today, Tauranga’s warm climate and coastal location makes the city a popular location to live, and it is the country’s fastest growing centre. Its major attractions are boating, surfing and fishing, and a host of other activities such as water skiing, diving and windsurfing. The city also has some interesting historical buildings and attractions, such as Tauranga Historic Village/Museum. Nearby Mt Maunganui is built on a long sandy peninsula and can be reached by the harbour bridge or via the coast road. It is a popular resort with a long sandy beach and fine surfing. At the tip of the peninsula is Mt Maunganui itself. This bush clad hill has several walking tracks and excellent views of the area.

Sydney/Australia

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Sydney is Australia's largest and most cosmopolitan city and is the capital of New South Wales, the most heavily populated state of Australia. Sydney is situated on one of the world's most beautiful and famous harbours. Sydney also boasts beautiful beaches, fantastic shops, restaurants, history and culture. Sydney's many highlights include the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Centrepoint Tower, The Rocks, the stunning harbour and the white sands of Bondi, Manly and beyond. Sydney is also home to beautiful National Parks, the Royal Botanic Gardens, many harbour front picnic locations and heritage areas.

Onboard the Queen Mary 2

Cruise FPO 6

Queen Mary 2

Costco Member Reviews

4.3 of 5 stars

  • Year Built: 2003
  • Year Refurbished: 2016

Double Occupancy Capacity: 2676

Queen Mary 2® is a true heir to the timeless elegance, legacy and inspiration of the great Cunard liners of legend. You'll notice it the moment you walk through the doors into the soaring Grand Lobby, and from the first instance you experience the famous Cunard White Star Service®. This sophisticated flagship also boasts the pampering services of Mareel® Spa and the Cunard Insights® Enrichment Program led by prestigious experts.

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Onboard Activities

Activities & services (included in cruise).

cruise port san francisco

  • Planetarium
  • Disco/Nightclub
  • Theater/Show Lounge
  • Fitness Center
  • Sauna/Steam Room
  • Educational Programs
  • Pool - Children's
  • Pool - Outdoor
  • Sports Facilities
  • Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
  • Art Gallery
  • Bars/Lounges
  • Children's Outdoor Play Area
  • Organized Age Specific Activities
  • Teen Center or Disco
  • Teen Programs
  • Business Center
  • Concierge Desk
  • Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
  • Safe Deposit Boxes

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

cruise port san francisco

  • Beauty Salon
  • Full-Service Spa
  • Internet Center
  • Babysitting
  • Dog Kennels
  • Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
  • Infirmary/Medical Center
  • Self-Service Laundromat

cruise port san francisco

Queens Grill

Main Dining

Queens Grill:  Guests staying in the Queens Grill Suites have a table reserved in the Queens Grill Restaurant. You'll always be greeted warmly by name, and appreciate attentive service during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dinner is served when you wish between 6:30 – 9 p.m.

Princess Grill:  The sophisticated, intimate Princess Grill serves up excellent cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dinner is served when you wish between 6:30 – 9 p.m. To match your choice, a sommelier will gladly talk through the impressive wine list.

Britannnia Club Restaurant:  The Britannia Club Restaurant boasts the same grandeur as the neighboring Britannia Restaurant, but with an intimate dining club atmosphere. Dine in the evening here whenever it suits you between 6:30 – 9 p.m.

Britannia Restaurant:  Your table reservation is at Britannia Restaurant, where grandeur and occasion combine with exceptional service. Breakfast and lunch always feel special here and whether you've chosen to take your seat for dinner at 6 or 8:30 p.m., you can arrive with a flourish, down the steps of the curved staircase.

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The Verandah

Specialty Dining

The Verandah:  Steakhouse at The Verandah restaurant offers a sublime experience, whether it's lunch or dinner. Showcasing specialties such as prime USDA grain-finished New York strip steak and Alaskan king crab, alongside dishes celebrating British origin such as Salt Marsh lamb rack, as well as renowned Wagyu beef from farther afield. The menu is a celebration of the fine provenance of the US, British Isles and Australia. The Verandah takes design inspiration from the original Verandah Grill on board Queen Mary. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

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Kings Court

Casual Dining

Kings Court:  Enjoy a casual breakfast, lunch, dinner or late-night buffet in the relaxed self-service Kings Court restaurant. With cuisine options that take inspiration from around the world, you’ll always find something to tempt you.

Golden Lion Pub:  Darts, karaoke, live sports and ale – everything you’d expect of an authentic English pub. There’s even a traditional pub lunch served every day, with classic favorites such as fish and chips and cottage pie.

Sir Samuel's:  Sweet-toothed epicures are invited to unwind in the elegant art deco surroundings of Sir Samuel's. Besides expertly-blended coffee and tea, you'll discover an exquisite variety of confectionery by master Belgian chocolatier Godiva. Deliberate over tempting pralines, sublime truffles, glistening macarons - or perhaps an ice cream made with intense dark chocolate? Finally - your tantalizing dilemma resolved - relax into sumptuous leather upholstery and reward yourself with the distinctive silky rich flavors of Godiva chocolate. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Carinthia Lounge:  A tranquil retreat by day, the serene Carinthia Lounge provides the perfect place to relax and catch up with friends, or a good book, as well as enjoy light breakfast and lunch dishes along with premium teas and coffee and handmade patisseries. When the sun sets, the atmosphere evolves into an inviting evening spot where carefully selected wines are paired with tasting plates, and relaxed entertainment. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Queens Room:  The elegant tradition of afternoon tea is a Cunard signature not to be missed. White-gloved waiters serve delightful cucumber sandwiches, fresh scones and tea accompanied by the sounds of the orchestra in the magnificent Queens Room ballroom.

Inside Stateroom

Ocean view stateroom, balcony stateroom, suite stateroom.

Staterooms feature tasteful décor, a soft color palette and nightly turndown service.

Standard Inside (Category: IF)

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With a variety of locations to choose from on board, our well-appointed inside staterooms are a haven of comfort and style to enjoy during your voyage. You'll find thoughtful features and luxurious amenities, all organized by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after.

Standard Inside (Category: IE)

Standard inside (category: ic), standard inside (category: ib), standard inside (category: ia), atrium view (category: hb).

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With a view of Queen Mary 2's magnificent atrium, our well-appointed Atrium View Inside staterooms are a haven of comfort and style to enjoy during your voyage. You'll find thoughtful features and luxurious amenities, all organized by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after.

Luxurious staterooms feature elegant décor in soft, muted colors, an ocean view, 24-hour room service and nightly turndown service.

Oceanview (Category: EF)

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Positioned to offer sea views, our Britannia Oceanview staterooms provide a private enclave from which to watch the world go by. Perfectly framed views are the backdrop to thoughtful features and luxurious amenities, all organized by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after.

Features a balcony with a seating area in a spacious stateroom featuring tasteful décor in soft, elegant tones.

Balcony, obstructed view (Category: DF)

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Enjoy access to private, outdoor space in one of our obstructed view Britannia Balcony staterooms. You'll find thoughtful features and luxurious amenities, all organized by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after.

Balcony, obstructed view (Category: DC)

Balcony, obstructed view (category: db), balcony, sheltered (category: bz).

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Enjoy access to private, outdoor space in one of our sheltered Britannia Balcony staterooms. You'll find thoughtful features and luxurious amenities, all organized by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after.

Balcony, sheltered (Category: BY)

Balcony, sheltered (category: bv), balcony, sheltered (category: bu), balcony (category: bf).

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Drink in sparkling sea views from your own private, outdoor space in one of our Britannia Balcony staterooms. You'll find thoughtful features and luxurious amenities, all organized by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after.

Balcony (Category: BC)

Balcony (category: bb), britannia club balcony (category: a2).

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Take advantage of prime sea views from your own private, outdoor space in one of our Britannia Club Balcony staterooms. You'll find thoughtful features, luxurious amenities and benefits, all organized by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after.

Britannia Club Balcony (Category: A1)

Spacious suites feature a separate seating area, a balcony and the Grills Experience. Select suites feature whirlpool bath and butler service.

Princess Suite (Category: P2)

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Delight in magnificent sea views that can be enjoyed from both in and outside your Princess Suite. You'll find thoughtful features and luxurious amenities, all organized by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after.

Princess Suite (Category: P1)

Queens suite (category: q7).

cruise port san francisco

Retreat to an exclusive world of luxury with your own private residence at sea. Bold, striking colors and thoughtful designs bring each space in your suite to life. An attentive butler is on hand at all times to truly customize your voyage experience.

Queens Suite (Category: Q6)

Queens suite (category: q5), penthouse (category: q4).

cruise port san francisco

Royal Suite (Category: Q3)

Single-level or duplex apartment (category: q2).

cruise port san francisco

Grand Duplex (Category: Q1)

cruise port san francisco

  • Ship Name: Queen Mary 2
  • Year Entered Present Fleet: 2004
  • Maximum Capacity: 2,691
  • Number of Passenger Decks: 13
  • Number of Crew: 1,292
  • Officers' Nationality: British/International
  • Ocean-View without Balcony: 76
  • Ocean-View with Balcony: 813
  • Total Inside Staterooms: 292
  • Tonnage (GRT): 151,400
  • Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 2,676
  • Country of Registry: Bermuda
  • Total Staterooms: 1,353
  • Suites with Balcony: 170
  • Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International

Available Dates & Prices

Departure date, departure date - 02/06/2026, terms & conditions.

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.

Ship's registry: Bermuda

Digital Costco Shop Card

This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.

Ship Rating

5 of 5 stars

An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.

4.0 of 5 stars

A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.

3.0 of 5 stars

A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.

2.0 of 5 stars

A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.

1.0 of 5 stars

Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.

0.5 of 5 stars

Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.

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Oakland airport name change moves forward amid legal challenge from San Francisco

Oakland has also filed a counterclaim against San Francisco's trademark lawsuit.

Officials in Oakland, California, approved modifying the name of the city's airport to include "San Francisco," despite a federal trademark lawsuit from the city of San Francisco, while also filing their own lawsuit against the neighboring city over the name-change dispute.

The Oakland Board of Port Commissioners unanimously voted Thursday to rename Metropolitan Oakland International Airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. The name change has since gone into effect on the airport's website and social media accounts. The airport's three-letter code -- OAK -- and visual brand will remain the same.

PHOTO: Travelers walk towards Terminal 1 at Oakland International Airport in Oakland, CA, April 12, 2024.

The board said the new name is part of the port's efforts to "strengthen and grow the airport."

"Our Board came to these discussions with a shared love of Oakland and a desire to see our city and airport thrive," Port Commission President Barbara Leslie said in a statement following Thursday's vote. "We are moving forward with a commitment to honoring our past while building a stronger, more inclusive future."

After announcing the proposed name change in late March, the board voted unanimously to modify the airport's name in a first reading vote on April 11. Leslie said the port then met with "dozens of community leaders and stakeholders" to hear their concerns over the change.

The city of San Francisco filed a federal trademark lawsuit over the plan on April 18, arguing that the proposed name would cause confusion for travelers and infringe on San Francisco International Airport's (SFO) trademark. The city attorney's office said it filed its lawsuit following "multiple attempts" to work with the Port of Oakland on alternative names.

MORE: San Francisco sues Oakland over proposed airport name change

Two days before Thursday's vote, which allowed the Port of Oakland to move forward with the renaming, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu "strongly" urged the Port of Oakland Board of Commissioners to reconsider their plans.

In a letter to the board , he called on the commissioners to "instead engage in discussions with the City and others about a different name that would achieve the Port's objectives without infringing on the City's trademark and engendering consumer confusion and harm."

San Francisco's lawsuit seeks injunctive relief to immediately stop the use of the name and orders declaring that Oakland has infringed on SFO's mark and requiring the city to destroy any materials containing the new name. The lawsuit is also seeking unspecified damages and fees.

PHOTO: A man checks flight information signs at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in San Francisco, CA, Feb. 4, 2024.

San Francisco has owned the U.S. federal trademark registration for the mark "San Francisco International Airport" with the first date of use in commerce in 1954, according to the city's lawsuit.

In a countersuit filed on Thursday, Port of Oakland asked the court to rule that SFO's trademark does not extend to the use of "San Francisco Bay" and argued that other places have several airports whose names begin with the same geographic identifier, such as London, Paris, Beijing, Chicago and Dallas.

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"The San Francisco's City Attorney's decision to pursue litigation is an attempt to stop consumer education, prevent expanded air travel options for Bay Area residents and visitors, and is a misguided use of San Francisco taxpayer dollars," Port Attorney Mary Richardson said in a statement . "OAK is committed to enhancing its airline routes and increasing competition for the benefit of all of San Francisco Bay Area's visitors and residents, including those residing in the City and County of San Francisco. We stand ready and willing to partner with SFO to increase choices for travelers and invite any productive dialogue to this end."

MORE: Famous authors' lawsuit against ChatGPT developer gets underway

The Port of Oakland's lawsuit is not seeking any financial compensation or damages.

In a statement to ABC News, Jen Kwart, a spokesperson for the San Francisco City Attorney's Office, said it is "disappointing that Oakland chose this path and has ignored our multiple offers to collaborate on alternative names and avoid litigation."

"We have strong federal trademark infringement claims against Oakland, and they have given us no choice but to move forward with next steps in our lawsuit," the statement continued.

There were 11.2 million passengers who came through Oakland's airport in 2023, while San Francisco's airport saw 50 million passengers last year.

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Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • Top ways cruisers waste money
  • 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
  • The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

The Disney Wonder cruise ship sails past glaciers in Tracy Arm Fjord as part of its Alaska itinerary. Nestled between 3,000-foot high granite walls, the narrow, twisting Tracy Arm Fjord weaves through the Tongass National Forest for roughly 35 miles. (Diana Zalucky, photographer)

I'm a CEO who ran my company from a cruise ship for a month. It requires a lot of discipline, but I'd do it again.

  • Tony Fernandes, CEO of UEGroup, managed his company from a cruise ship for 21 days.
  • Fernandes experienced challenges with slow internet and communication but found workable solutions.
  • Despite the hurdles, he finds value in being offline at times and plans to continue cruising.

Insider Today

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Tony Fernandes, a 60-year-old founder and CEO of UEGroup based in San Francisco, about his experience working remotely on a cruise ship. It's been edited for length and clarity.

My wife and I are in the post-kid, post-pet phase of our lives. Our kids have gone off to college and we had a beloved dog and house rabbits that have passed away. After they passed, that really opened up a window for us to travel — and we did — but extended travel is new for us.

In November, I embarked on a trip where I spent several weeks leading my company from a cruise ship with my wife. We ultimately circumnavigated the globe on two different cruises and with air travel. Leaving California, we went through Europe, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan.

It's been a cool experience. But I found that while working on the ship , you do need some discipline — especially on a 21-day cruise.

You have to create a time for work and a time for play

We didn't realize it, but when we upgraded our internet, it upgraded our drinks package. So, it turned out we could get bottles of Moët & Chandon Champagne for free.

We had a couple of lunches and dinners where we enjoyed Champagne , but we also developed a rhythm where we had work time and playtime. It wasn't rigid — but there were times when my wife, who does finance at UEGroup, and I knew we had to get things done.

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Working can set you apart from people who are on vacation. That doesn't mean you can't work in your bathing suit or have a beer before you start your work, but it puts you on a slightly different footing than some of the other people on the cruise.

Expect very slow internet service

One thing I didn't realize prior to the trip was that the cruise ship had only one satellite connection shared by thousands of people. The internet was oppressively slow at times.

For our next long trip, I'm looking into getting a data satellite phone so I can put an antenna on my patio facing the right direction for the satellite. I've still got to figure it out, but there were times when it was really important for us to communicate, and we couldn't.

We're now very mistrustful of statements the cruise lines make about the quality of their internet. For example, we upgraded our Internet, but it turned out the cruise line's definition of upgrading was that we could have more than one device, not that there was any better speed or reliability. You've got to read the fine print about how they define an upgrade.

I would also recommend asking what kind of download and upload speeds to expect.

Create a backup plan for meetings and other communication challenges

Internet access can be unpredictable even with research and planning ahead, so we had backup people for important meetings back at the office. If we weren't able to show up, there was someone prepared with the slide deck. I can't say it didn't create awkward moments at times — and it is one of the downsides — but you can plan for it the best you can.

When my wife was dealing with a bank and needed to get a two-factor authentication code without working SMS, there wasn't much she could do. So, that was a challenge as well.

At some points, I was forced to go ashore and buy SIM cards to leverage local cell service, but this requires research. Depending on the country there might only be one cellphone service that works there, or you might be able to get SIM card brands that work for a larger area.

Being offline can end up being a good thing

I find it hard to be offline, but because the connectivity was so bad sometimes, it just forced it to happen. We were in the middle of nowhere, and it wasn't going to change. In a way, being offline was good because I could just tune out.

My wife and I plan to cruise more in the future and even recently bought a home in Portugal near a cruise port that we're going to commute to using cruises as much as possible.

When we did the math, taking a cruise from California to Portugal was less than two business-class air travel tickets. Plus, you get meals, entertainment, and no jet lag — it seems like the way to go.

If you live or work on a cruise ship and would like to share your story, please email [email protected] .

Watch: Microsoft's chief brand officer, Kathleen Hall, says the company's employees are its best product testers

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  1. Cruising From San Francisco: A Guide To The Port

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  1. San Francisco Cruise Port and Terminal Information

    The Port of San Francisco hosts more than 100 cruise ship calls and 400,000 passengers every year. The main terminal is located at Pier 27, while the nearby Pier 35 building is used at busy times ...

  2. Cruises

    Cruises from the Port sail along California Coast and to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico and beyond. About Pier 27 . The Pier 27 James R. Herman Cruise Terminal opened in 2014. Ships can plug into the Port's 12-megawatt shore power system to receive the cleanest source of power. ... Pier 1, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111. Administrative ...

  3. San Francisco (California) cruise port schedule

    San Francisco cruise port handles over 70 cruise ships with around 200,000 passengers annually. The city has population over 870,000 (metro around 4,7 million) and is known as "Everybody's Favorite City" because of its diverse communities and cultural attractions.

  4. Cruise Port San Francisco

    The port of San Francisco has two cruise terminals: James R. Herman Cruise Terminal - Pier 27, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111. Pier 35 - 1510 The Embarcadero N, San Francisco 91433 (at Bay Street) Located close to shopping, restaurants and the iconic Fisherman's Wharf, this is the ideal location for cruise passengers who want to ...

  5. San Francisco Cruise Port (The Embarcadero, James R. Herman Terminal)

    San Francisco, California. Address: Pier 27 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, California, 94111, . The port of San Francisco has a few piers, including a new cruise terminal - the James R. Herman at Pier 27, which is located in the Embarcadero district San Francisco.

  6. San Francisco Cruise Ship Terminal Guide: Everything to Know

    Welcome to the gateway of maritime adventures at the San Francisco Cruise Ship Terminal. Nestled at the iconic Piers 27 and 35, this terminal serves as the embarkation point for unforgettable cruise experiences along the picturesque West Coast. Situated against the stunning backdrop of the San Francisco Bay, the San Francisco Cruise Ship ...

  7. San Francisco Cruise: Discover Cruises to San Francisco

    Cruises to San Francisco have the unique benefit of a well-kept cruise port. You can reach the James R. Herman cruise terminal via public transportation or simply walking from Pier 27. San Francisco cruises are incredibly popular, with over 300,000 passengers passing through this port of call every year. You can find luggage storage at Pier 39 ...

  8. Cruises to San Francisco

    San Francisco Cruise Port Facilities? Piers 27 and 35 are located at the Embarcadero. Most ships dock at Pier 27, the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal, opened in 2014, located along the Embarcadero ...

  9. San Francisco USA Cruise Port

    San Francisco USA Cruise Port Guide Location: Many of the city's leading tourist attractions are located at the port, including Hyde Street Pier, Fisherman's Wharf, PIER 39 and access to Alcatraz. These attractions draw more than 15 million visitors annually to San Francisco's northern waterfront. It's a 5$ metro ride ...

  10. SAN FRANCISCO Port Map and Cruise Schedule

    San Francisco cruise port West Coast USA and Canada. Schedule Review Hotels. Coordinates 37.797, -122.392; LOCODE USSFO; Local Time 2024-05-09 15:26; 71°F 21.8°C. Gentle breeze 5.2 m/s . 80 °F / 27 °C 54 °F / 13 °C. San Francisco cruise ship schedule . Ship. Arrival. Departure. Thursday 2 May, 2024: Oceania Regatta:

  11. San Francisco Cruise Port Guide

    Where You're Docked. San Francisco has two main cruise terminals. Pier 27 opened for cruise ships in 2014. Pier 35 is still used and is beside the touristy Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf. Pier 30 by the Bay bridge has also been used in the past when all berths were occupied. Cruise schedule available from the San Francisco Port website under the ...

  12. Cruises from San Francisco

    Start your cruise from San Francisco by sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge and into a sea of opportunity. Venture north to relive Alaska's gold rush history, or head south to bask in the beauty of the Mexican Riviera. Tour the California Coast on a 4-day cruise from San Francisco, or explore the Hawaiian islands on a 15-day cruise.

  13. San Francisco, California Cruise Port

    613 San Francisco, California Port Reviews. Write a Review Upload Photo. 4. by Sugar68. We stayed the weekend before our cruise and booked tours independently. The first one was through "Tower Tours". This was a 2 part tour. They picked us up at the hotel then brought everyone to their main office.

  14. San Francisco, California Cruise Port

    Learn about the cruise port of San Francisco, California. Find 2024, 2025 and 2026 cruise itineraries from San Francisco or view sample excursions and things to do in San Francisco, CA.

  15. San Francisco Cruise Port

    San Francisco Airport (SFO) is located about 20 km from the cruise port. The taxi ride will take about 30 minutes and cost between $70 and $90. The yellow line of the BART rail transport system connects the airport to the port (Embarcadero station). The station is located at Garage G.

  16. Cruises from San Francisco

    Get some of the city's best views of the skyline — plus, actually, sea lions — at Pier 39 near Fisherman's Wharf. Visit San Francisco's amazing neighbors like the charming, arty Sausalito and the serene Napa Valley wine region. Cruise from San Francisco and explore its iconic attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz ...

  17. Cruises out of San Francisco

    Looking for cruises from San Francisco? Find and plan your next cruise out of San Francisco on Cruise Critic through our Find a Cruise tool, offering sailings into 2026. Compare the latest and ...

  18. San Francisco · USA · Port Schedule

    San Francisco, California cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship's estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship's next port-of-call. The following timetable provides valuable ...

  19. What to Do on a Port Day in San Francisco

    Laurie Armstrong of the San Francisco Travel Association offers a bevy of ideas for a port day in San Francisco. Her top four suggestions are: Walk to the Exploratorium, a hands-on museum for science and gadget buffs of all ages at Pier 15. www.exploratorium.edu. Travel to the Presidio, www.presidio.gov, by taxi, Uber or Lyft to see the Walt ...

  20. THE 25 BEST Cruises from San Francisco, CA 2024 (with Prices) on Cruise

    Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of 6th May 2024. Looking for cruises from San Francisco? Find and plan your next cruise out of San Francisco on Cruise Critic through our Find a Cruise tool, offering sailings into 2026. Compare the latest and lowest prices for your next cruise holiday.

  21. Carnival Cruise Ports: San Francisco, CA

    1454 The Embarcadero. San Francisco, CA 94133. Port of San Francisco. Pier 27. The Embarcadero. San Francisco, CA 94105. The Port of San Francisco (Pier 35 and Pier 27) is located midway between the Bay Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf. This port does not have parking on site, but for other parking options please click here .

  22. San Francisco Excursions & Tours

    Tours & Excursions. Uncover the beauty and diversity of San Francisco, California, with an array of tours and excursions. Ride the iconic cable cars, explore the vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury on a guided city tour, or venture to nearby attractions such as Muir Woods or Alcatraz Island. From the Golden Gate Bridge to ...

  23. Best Hotels near San Francisco Cruise Port Terminal Pier 27-35

    The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States. web : www.sfport.com. Pier 35 Ship Passenger Terminal Address San Francisco Cruise Terminal Pier 35 — the cruise facility is located at Pier 35 (at the end of Bay Street). 1454 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133. San Francisco is one of the main cruise ports in California.

  24. Cruises from San Francisco to Sydney (Australia)

    Cruises from San Francisco to Puerto Quetzal (Antigua) 387 Reviews Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site.

  25. Do cruises stay overnight? What overnight stops offer passengers

    Feldman said cruise ships typically leave the gangway open all night for guests. "You can come and go as you please," he said. "And if you want to go out and, let's say, party until 3 in the ...

  26. World Cruise: San Francisco to Sydney Voyage

    Day 1 Port of Call San Francisco Departure 8:00pm. Overview . select to open San Francisco pictures - Opens a dialog San Francisco is a golden dream come true, a place where heart, mind and soul embrace, lost in the simplicity of delightful deliverance. ... The splendor and elegance of a boat cruise on San Francisco Bay. The soft touching of ...

  27. Oakland airport name change moves forward amid legal challenge from San

    MORE: San Francisco sues Oakland over proposed airport name change. Two days before Thursday's vote, which allowed the Port of Oakland to move forward with the renaming, San Francisco City ...

  28. Where can I cruise without a passport?

    Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights. Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

  29. Working Remotely From a Cruise Ship: Pros and Cons

    As told to Jamie Killin. May 9, 2024, 2:06 AM PDT. Tony Fernandes and his wife experienced difficulties while working and cruising for 21 days. Courtesy of Tony Fernandes. Tony Fernandes, CEO of ...

  30. Princess Cruises to make San Juan, Puerto Rico, the home port for Grand

    The Santa Clarita, California-based cruise line, which is a subsidiary of Miami-based Carnival Corp. & plc (NYSE: CCL), announced San Juan will serve as the ship's home port from Oct. 12, 2025 ...