San Diego is quickly becoming ‘the’ place to board for cruise vacations. The Port of San Diego, California is conveniently located just steps away from the downtown area.
For those setting sail from these two cruise terminals, consider arriving early or staying at the end to explore this amazing Pacific coast city. Below are five helpful tips for navigating this port as well as information on cruise lines and destinations.
Arriving at the Port of San Diego
This location has the ultimate convenience rating for arriving at and departing from a cruise ship port. The San Diego International Airport (SAN) is only a two-mile drive along scenic North Embarcadero.
Also, the historic Santa Fe Depot (Union Station) is a mere one block from the terminals. This structure, built in 1914, still receives light-rail and Amtrak service. While personal vehicle parking is not allowed at the pier for cruise passengers, there are ample lots and shuttle services to and from the port. These characteristics make this port one of the easiest to navigate.
B Street Pier & Cruise Ship Terminal / Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier
Both terminals are located in the downtown waterfront area known as San Diego Bay’s Embarcadero. This two-mile stretch is home to restaurants, museums, hotels, visitor centers, and a public plaza.
The largest of the two cruise ships terminals is the B Street Pier. The Broadway Pier location is popular for special events and its waterfront access for the public. These features make the Port of San Diego one of the more popular debarkation and embarkation points for cruises.
Security at the port
Security at these terminals follows US Coast Guard regulations. In order to be dropped off at the pier in a private vehicle, you must show your picture ID and ship ticket. All luggage must have an identifying tag with your name and address.
For common carrier drop-off, you must present your photo ID and ship’s ticket to pass through security; followed by a repeat of the process at your cruise ship’s counter.
Cruise lines departing and arriving at the Port of San Diego
The two terminals welcome ships from the following cruise lines:
- Celebrity Cruise Line
- Crystal Cruises
- Disney Cruise Line
- Holland America Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Princess Cruises
Destinations from the Port of San Deigo
Ships leaving from there terminals visit the following destinations:
- Mexican Riviera
- Panama Canal
- South America
- Pacific Coast
- Alaska
- Hawaii
- South Pacific
If your cruise is leaving and/or returning to the Port of San Diego, extend your vacation in this southwestern corner of the US.
Within two miles of the terminals you will find ten art galleries, eight parks, eight urban wineries, seven craft beer breweries, six museums, and twenty hotels. It’s a destination in itself – enjoy!
Port of San Diego map is HERE.
