Holland America Line Central America: 21 nights from Vancouver with Eurodam
Oct 5, 2025

Santa Barbara

San Diego

During a stop in San Diego, you can enjoy a perfect mix of culture, nature and relaxation in one of the most vibrant cities in California. Start your exploration from the historic Gaslamp quarter, famous for its Victorian architecture and numerous restaurants and boutiques, ideal for an immersive walk in the heart of the city. Visit Balboa Park, a green oasis with museums, gardens and the famous San Diego Zoo, one of the most renowned in the world for the variety of species and environments. If you love the sea, the Maritime Museum and the USS Midway Museum offer an immersion in naval history and the opportunity to board historic ships. Don't miss the iconic beaches like Coronado Beach or La Jolla, perfect for some relaxation under the sun. San Diego is a must for those looking for culture, fun and breathtaking landscapes.

San Diego, known as the birthplace of California, is steeped in rich history, from its early Native American roots to its founding by Spanish missionaries in 1769. The city has evolved from a humble mission into a bustling metropolis, all while preserving its historical charm, evident in the preserved Spanish architecture of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. This area, along with the Cabrillo National Monument, offers a glimpse into the city's past, showcasing the diverse cultures that have shaped San Diego into the vibrant city it is today.

San Diego's climate is arguably one of its most attractive features, boasting year-round sunshine and mild temperatures. This idyllic weather facilitates an outdoor lifestyle, encouraging visitors to explore the city's expansive beaches, lush parks, and scenic walking paths. Whether you're sunbathing at La Jolla Cove, hiking in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, or enjoying waterfront dining, San Diego's climate makes every activity more enjoyable, earning it the title of "America's Finest City."

San Diego's attractions cater to every interest, making it a versatile destination for all types of travelers. The world-renowned San Diego Zoo and Safari Park offer up-close animal encounters, while Balboa Park houses museums, gardens, and the iconic California Tower. For maritime enthusiasts, the USS Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum of San Diego provide insight into naval history. San Diego's proximity to the Mexican border also introduces a unique cultural blend, enriching the city's already diverse array of attractions and activities.

The culinary scene in San Diego is as vibrant and varied as its landscape, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and seafood. The city is renowned for its fish tacos, a local delicacy that reflects its coastal and Mexican influences. Craft beer enthusiasts will also find a haven here, as San Diego boasts one of the most dynamic craft beer scenes in the country. From upscale dining in the Gaslamp Quarter to casual beachside eateries, San Diego offers a culinary adventure for every palate.

For those looking to explore beyond the city, San Diego serves as an ideal departure point for cruises. The city's cruise terminal, located downtown near the vibrant Embarcadero, offers voyages to the Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, and the Panama Canal. Starting your cruise in San Diego not only provides an opportunity to enjoy the city's many attractions but also offers a seamless transition to the relaxation and adventure of a cruise vacation. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and welcoming climate, San Diego is the perfect port of call for cruisers seeking a memorable start to their journey.

Puerto Vallarta

Huatulco

Puerto Chiapas

Puerto Quetzal

Puntarenas

Set sail on an exhilarating cruise from Puntarenas, Costa Rica, a vibrant port city on the Pacific coast. Known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife, Puntarenas offers an incredible starting point for exploring the natural wonders of Central America and beyond. Prepare for a journey filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable discoveries in one of the world's most biodiverse regions.

Aruba

Aruba stands as one of the most fascinating destinations in the Dutch Antilles, a true paradise for lovers of the sea, nature and culture. This Caribbean island, with its white beaches, crystal clear waters and always sunny climate, offers an ideal setting for an unforgettable vacation. Cruises to Aruba allow you to embrace the beauty of the island in a unique way, combining the luxury and comfort of cruise life with the adventure of terrestrial explorations rich in discoveries.

The nature of Aruba invites you to be explored. The island boasts a variety of landscapes ranging from the quiet beaches of Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, ideal for relaxation and water sports, to the wild heart of Arikok National Park. The latter offers adventurers the opportunity to discover mysterious caves, unique rock formations and a biodiversity that testifies to the uniqueness of the island's ecosystem. The local fauna and flora, together with the breathtaking views that open from its hills, make Aruba a place to be explored in depth.

In addition to the natural wonders, Aruba is rich in culture and history. Oranjestad, the colorful and lively capital, tells stories of a colonial past through its Dutch architecture, museums and local markets. The city is a crossroads of flavors, colors and sounds, where local traditions blend with external influences creating a unique atmosphere. Here, visitors can enjoy Creole cuisine, admire local handicrafts and immerse themselves in the traditions of an island that, despite its small size, has a lot to offer.

Opting for a cruise that includes Aruba in its itinerary means choosing a travel experience that satisfies both the desire for adventure and relaxation. Aruba, with its sober and welcoming style, promises a stay full of emotions, unforgettable landscapes and moments of pure pleasure, making each visit a precious chapter in every traveler's diary.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is in Florida, USA. It is one of the main ports for the cruise market and it is a holiday resort for many tourists coming from anywhere in the States and from other Countries in the world.

The majority of the cruises to the Caribbean leave from Ft. Lauderdale, due to its strategic position. The city is the ideal destination for the beach life enthusiasts: you can’t miss out Hollywood Beach, near the city centre and lively beach. If you are shopping lovers, you’re in the right place. You can find plenty of shops in malls or in the city centre, that also offers many bars and clubs where you can enjoy the best night life. Visit the Flamingo Gardens, 60 acres of fields where you can observe flamingos and alligators enjoying a lush and verdant flora. Explore all the species of animals and plants during an unforgettable safari. Ft. Lauderdale is a comfortable and relaxing place and the best place where you can spend a few days before your cruise. Here you can find cruises with the best companies such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America, Princess Cruises and many more.