10 day mexican riviera cruise from san diego

San Diego Cruise Guide > Cruise Destinations > Mexico

Cruises from San Diego to Mexico

Four cruise lines offer cruises from San Diego to the beaches of sunny Mexico. See the full schedule of departures out of SD below.

Cabo San Lucas is a city at the southern point of the Baja California peninsula. It has a tropical desert climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. Kayak to El Arco rock, sip margaritas in a cantina, go sportfishing, and go scuba diving or snorkeling with the marine life.

At Mazatlan you can see cliff divers, explore the old city, or relax on the beach. Excursions include golf, jet boats, and shrimp feasts.

A stop at the port of Puerto Vallarta brings you to Banderas Bay and the Sierra Madre. Explore the streets, shops and markets of the old town. Hit the beach or take an adventure to the jungles of the mountains.

Ensenada is at the top of Baja, very close to California. It's the destination of short cruises to Mexico.

Read reviews of Mexico cruises from San Diego . Learn from the experience of other cruisers.

Learn more about all of the cruises to Mexico from California . There are plenty to choose from.

7-day cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2024 departure: January 6.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: March 15.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: March 19.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: March 23.

7-day cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: March 23.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: March 30.

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

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: April 3.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: April 7.

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: April 11.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: April 14.

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: April 18.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: April 21.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: April 28.

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: May 2.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2024 departure: May 5.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2024 departure: October 26.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2024 departure: November 23.

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

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

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

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

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2025 departure: January 4.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: March 10.

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: March 14.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: March 17.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: March 21.

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

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

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: March 28.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: March 31.

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

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 4.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 7.

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 11.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 12.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 14.

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 18.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 21.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: April 25.

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

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Catalina Island (California) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: May 2.

3-night cruise to Mexico on Disney Cruise Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: May 5.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Ensenada (Mexico), Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2025 departure: October 4.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico). • 2025 departure: October 18.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2025 departure: October 25.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico). • 2025 departure: November 8.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2025 departure: November 15.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico). • 2025 departure: November 22.

10-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico), Loreto (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Puerto Vallarta (Mexico). • 2025 departure: November 29.

12-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico), Loreto (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico), Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Manzanillo (Mexico) and Ensenada (Mexico). • 2025 departure: December 6.

11-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Manzanillo (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico), Loreto (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico). • 2025 departure: December 9.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), La Paz (Mexico) and Loreto (Mexico). • 2025 departure: December 20.

7-night cruise to Mexico on Holland America Line . Round-trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Mazatlan (Mexico) and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico). • 2025 departure: December 27.

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Mexican Riviera Cruises

Awaken your sense of adventure as you cruise the mexican riviera.

Beachside cities and historical towns await you on our top-rated Mexican Riviera cruises. Depart from Los Angeles or San Francisco, where you can sail under the Golden Gate Bridge. Then explore the natural playgrounds of Cabo, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta. With both seven-day Mexico cruises and 10-day itineraries, there’s an itinerary to fit any schedule. Experience Mexico as it was meant to be, only with Princess®.

Featured Ports on a Mexican Riviera Cruise

Learn more about the port on your Mexican Riviera cruise.

• Cabo San Lucas
• Puerto Vallarta

Located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo is surrounded by clear waters and sun-kissed beaches. As one of the world’s premier resort destinations, it’s the perfect place to relax, recharge and reawaken your passion for adventure. On a Mexico cruise, tour Todos Santos and enjoy lunch at the Hotel California. Or sail on a catamaran to Lover’s Beach, and snap a photo in front of El Arco on your way.

With a culture as timeless as the scenery, Mazatlan is a jewel in Mexico’s crown. Stroll past the colorful homes and artisan stalls that line the streets. Celebrate the city’s cultural and historical highlights during a folkloric show. Or shop for hand-crafted goods in one of Mexico’s major port cities, and find a special gift to take home as a token of your Mexico cruise.

Between its beaches, aquatic parks and vibrant art scene, Puerto Vallarta’s varied landscapes offer adventures for all. On a Mexico cruise, wander through the city’s galleries, and sample tequila alongside handmade tortillas and salsa. Or stroll along the seafront Malecon boardwalk – the city’s premier shopping destination — where mementos, margaritas and Mexican buffets await.

What to Do on a Cruise to the Mexican Riviera

Learn more about Mexico while touring historical landmarks, sharing a traditional meal with locals or relaxing on the sun-drenched beaches.

The Malecon

Mazatlan cathedral, medano beach.

Spend an entire day walking along the Malecon, Puerto Vallarta’s beach boardwalk. Shop for regionally crafted goods — like woven baskets or a pair of leather boots — and meet the locals who created them. Stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can enjoy delicacies like tamales and pozole with a seafront view. Or watch street performers sing and dance, and get up close to larger-than-life sand sculptures.

On a Mexican Riviera cruise with Princess, travel back in time to the 19th century during a visit to Mazatlan’s Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Admire the Moorish and Gothic architecture, and marvel at statues of famous saints — like Matthew, Mark, Luke and John — that decorate the church’s exterior. Then head inside to see baroque decor, crystal chandeliers and gold-lined murals.

With an abundance of activities to do on both land and sea, Medano Beach offers something for the whole family. Relax on the golden shores, or indulge in a waterside lunch nearby. Float in the turquoise sea, or make some waves on a jet ski ride. Your dream beach day awaits on a Mexican Riviera cruise to Cabo.

Mexican Riviera excursions

On a seven-day Mexico cruise or a 10-day itinerary, you can find expertly crafted excursions on every itinerary. Zipline across forests and rappel down waterfalls in Puerto Vallarta. Spend the day catching marlin and tuna in the world-class fishing port of Mazatlan. Or scuba dive through Cabo’s protected marine sanctuary. With excursions for every traveler, see why we’re named one of the best cruises to the Mexican Riviera.

Ships on this itinerary

Our Princess fleet includes ships that offer a multitude of amenities and feature the innovative MedallionClass® experience. From a balcony stateroom, take in the sights and sounds of the colorful cultures ashore before enjoying the “sabor” of local cuisine in one of our many eateries during your Mexican Riviera cruise.

#PrincessCruises Mexico Connections

See Mexico through our guests' eyes.

Mexico Cruises Onboard Experience

Experience the country’s unique character the second you step on the ship with traditional Mexican cuisine, events and activities.

Mariachi and margaritas

Sip, savor and sway to the music with onboard activities that give you a taste of Mexican tradition. Sample tequila while learning about the drink’s history from a local expert, and indulge your taste buds with tacos and fajitas. Or let loose with your loved ones during a mariachi performance, and dance to the lively tune of violins and guitars. On a cruise to Mexico with Princess, activities lie around every corner.

Every reason to celebrate

On select sailings in October and November, discover the region’s heritage with our Mexican Fiesta. Celebrate the Day of the Dead, a holiday to commemorate loved ones who have passed. From face-painting to Aztec flower-making, there are activities for the whole family on a cruise to Mexico. Learn a traditional dance, decorate marzipan skulls and make a skeleton out of pasta. Or watch dancers perform ‘The Procession of the Dead.’

Mexican and Spanish Cuisine

Famous for a reason

Recognized by UNESCO for its cultural heritage and preservation of culinary technique, Mexican and Spanish cuisine is a big part of the region’s culture. Sample the bold flavors and creative combinations for yourself on a cruise to Mexico with Princess. In many of our dining rooms, enjoy Mexican-themed dishes — like ceviche, fajitas and coconut cocadas — for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Mexico Cruise Articles & Videos

Learn more about Mexico before you set sail.

2024-2025 Mexico Cruises

Sailing the Mexican Riviera for more than 50 years.

6 Things to Buy in Mexico Cruise Ports

From coffee and salsa to spirits and artisan goods, discover the best things to buy in Mexico cruise ports when you sail with Princess.

Explore Puerto Vallarta's Hidden Beach: Playa del Amor

Swim your way to seclusion at Puerto Vallarta's hidden beach, Playa del Amor. A romantic, awe-inspiring lagoon awaits after navigating a natural rock cavern.

5 Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas

Discover 5 things to do in Cabo San Lucas while on a Princess Cruise. Make the most of Cabo San Lucas' pristine landscapes and natural wonders.

See the La Quebrada Cliff Divers

See the La Quebrada cliff divers with Princess Cruises. One of our unique Panama Canal excursions, the Acapulco cliff divers are a famous sight.

Things to Do in Manzanillo, Mexico

Explore things to do in Manzanillo, Mexico with Princess Cruises. The Mexican Riviera has many beauties including Manzanillo, a historic city center.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

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Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

Princess 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.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

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 representative’s services.

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Start planning the vacation of your dreams with a cruise you'll love at a price you can't beat. Explore our latest featured deals, snag some last-minute savings and see how our all-inclusive packages can make your getaway even better.

You May Also Like

Mexico cruise destinations.

Discover the rich heritage and bright flavors on a Mexico cruise.

Cabo San Lucas Getaways

Revel in white-sand beaches, fun and adventure on a cruise to Cabo.

Sea of Cortez

From colonial towns to colorful beaches, savor the best of Mexico.

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MEXICO CRUISES

When it comes to extraordinary vacations, a cruise to Mexico has it all: vibrant cultural heritage, ancient ruins, incredible food, and natural splendors that range from arid deserts to balmy rain forests. Holland America Line offers the best Mexico cruises for a fully immersive experience, one beyond the sun and surf.

If you're passionate about food, a cruise to Mexico is a revelation, as the country is recognized by UNESCO for its preservation of age-old culinary techniques. Find a wide array of cruises to Mexico from San Diego if you need a quick escape. Or be swept away on a longer cruise adventure to iconic destinations like Puerto Vallarta, Cabos San Lucas, and Mazatlán. Zip line in a tropical forest or go whale watching off the coast on shore excursions . Whatever draws you to this amazing place, we have the Mexico cruise for you and a welcome as warm its sun-soaked beaches.

Make the Most of Your Mexico Cruise Vacation

Experience all that the Mexican Riviera has to offer with an unforgettable cruise. Read on to learn more about Mexico cruise deals, shore excursions, and more, so you can choose the vacation that’s right for you.

MEXICO CRUISES FROM SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

Award-winning mexico cruises.

The votes are in and Holland America Line has the best Mexico cruises. Enjoy an immersive experience as our well-appointed ship sweeps you to vibrant cities and secluded coastal towns along the Mexican Riviera.

Mexico Cruise Deals

Get away for less with Mexico cruise deals and promotions. Check out our current offers and save big on your next vacation.

Explore The Mexican Riviera

Featured mexico cruise itineraries.

Explore Mexico’s unique charm with one of our featured Mexico cruise itineraries.

7-Day Mexican Riviera

Need a breezy getaway? Find 7-day Mexico cruises and unwind with the sun and sea.

9- to 14-Day Mexico & Sea Of Cortez

Visit Sea of Cortez treasures, from Cabo San Lucas to the charming Puerto Vallarta.

Featured Mexico Cruise Ports

Relax and enjoy an array of activities at these popular Mexico cruise ports.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Los Cabos doesn't exude the same kind of charm as many other areas of inland Mexico do, but its twin towns—San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas—don't seem to mind. Visitors are drawn here less for the traditional Mexican culture than for the sun, the sand, and the opportunity to just relax.

Mazatlan, Mexico

Mazatlán, nicknamed the Pearl of the Pacific, is a pleasant port city in the Mexican state of Sinaloa. Here, the best of traditional Mexican architecture, food and culture is found alongside contemporary conveniences, amenities and attractions.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Unlike some of Mexico’s beach resorts, Puerto Vallarta, on the Pacific Ocean, retains its colonial-era charm. Its town square, Plaza de Armas, and the gorgeous parish church topped with an ornate crown serve as the loveliest representations of bygone ages.

SEE ALL MEXICO CRUISE PORTS

Featured Mexico Shore Excursions

Fully immerse yourself in Mexico’s beauty and culture with these popular Mexico shore excursions.

Mexico Cruise Onboard Experience

Live it up in port and at sea. Perfect days and amazing nights await on your Mexico cruise with our award-winning onboard experience. Learn more about the country’s influential cuisine with cooking demonstrations. Treat yourself to the ultimate steakhouse at sea at Pinnacle. Find entertainment venues with feature programs for every preference, from Memphis Blues at B.B. King’s to dueling pianos at Billboard Onboard.

Dining Experiences

Onboard Entertainment

Mexico vacation packages.

Add flights and hotels before or after your cruise (or both!). Arrange ground transportation to create a custom Mexico cruise vacation package.

Find Flights

Fly to cruise departure ports, such as San Diego, and then set out on your cruise to Mexico. Find low prices, loads of options that arrive and depart in time for your cruise, and enjoy flexibility and support should plans change with Flight Ease ®.

Add a Hotel Package

Add a hotel package to your cruise to Mexico and luxuriate in a comfortable stay in your cruise departure or arrival city.

Plan Ground Transportation

Schedule ground transportation between the airport and ship. Breeze to and from your Mexico cruise ship and enjoy the peace-of-mind of having it all arranged ahead of time.

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11-Day Mexican Riviera & Sea Of Cortez

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

Sail along the coast of the Mexican Riviera in style while you delve into ancient civilizations—take a cruise to Mexico.

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

• Koningsdam - Passenger Capacity: 2,650 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2016 Last Refurbished: N/A

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Mexican Riviera

Ports of Call

San Diego, California , Manzanillo, Mexico , Puerto Vallarta, Mexico , Mazatlan, Mexico , Loreto, Mexico , Pichilingue (La Paz), Mexico , Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

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11-Day Mexican Riviera & Sea Of Cortez sailing on the Koningsdam

Departure dates: dec 2024 - dec 2024.

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*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

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Carnival Cruise line returns to San Diego

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - Carnival Cruise Line is returning to San Diego after sailing away from the city in 2012.

The cruise line will begin offering cruises in December 2019 on the 2,100-capacity Carnival Miracle, the Port of San Diego announced. Seven-day cruises to the Mexican Riviera, featuring stops in Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas.

Two longer cruises on Carnival Journeys, setting sail to Hawaii and visiting popular destinations throughout the state.

RELATED: Carnival cruise ship diverted to San Diego due to Tropical Storm Bud

"The Port of San Diego is thrilled to welcome Carnival Cruise Line back," Rafael Castellanos, chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners, said. "The partnership between the Port and Carnival offers cruisers more travel options while providing even more economic benefit to the region."

Some of the cruises Carnival is planning for San Diego include:

• Two five-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas.
• Two three-day cruises to Ensenada.  
• 2020 New Year’s four-day cruise to Baja Mexico.
• Six-day cruise that includes two days in Cabo San Lucas and a day in Ensenada.
• 13-day Panama Canal cruise that leaves San Diego and arrives in Miami, Fla.

Experts said each home-ported cruise - each cruise that leaves or embarks from San Diego- can bring in an economic impact of $2 million. 

80-year-old Beatrice Tiger said she is ready to contribute. For the last two years, she has been going on at least three, one-day cruises out of San Diego, a week. She even calls herself a “cruise-a-holic.” Once the Carnival Miracle arrives next year, she said she is ready to extend her trips to experience some Aloha. 

“I’m sure I can talk a gentleman friend into going with me!” she laughed. 

The Carnival Miracle had previously operated in San Diego before the cruise line pulled it to expand coverage in Australia.

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4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego

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Cruise Itinerary

• Visit Disneyland Resort, home to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park
• Enjoy up-close, exotic animal encounters at San Diego Zoo
• Explore the USS Midway Museum, where the famed aircraft carrier resides
• Meet the island’s resident bison
• View sea life from a glass-bottom boat
• Tour the Catalina Casino
• Watch a Broadway-quality musical and splash it up in a freshwater pool
• Savor upscale restaurants, buffets, poolside snacks and room-service
• Find one-of-a-kind fun in unique clubs designed for kids, teens, tweens and adults
• Escape to the beautifully landscaped Plaza Civica
• Gush over the La Bufadora marine geyser
• Hunt for handmade treasures along Boulevar Costero and La Primera

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.

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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:

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• 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.