Princess Cruises Central America: 23 nights from Vancouver with Caribbean Princess
Sep 23, 2025

San Francisco

San Francisco, considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, has become an essential destination on the itinerary for all those who love to travel, architecture, cuisine and the good life. Its breathtaking landscapes and mild climate do the rest...

San Francisco is located on the coast of California about 400 miles north of Los Angeles. It is located on the shores of a large bay protected by the coastal mountains of California. The city is famous for its steep streets, with panoramic views of the beautiful San Francisco Bay and the surrounding mountains. It has a very moderate climate, the breezes from the Pacific Ocean coast make summers warm and winters cold, but without extreme temperatures.
Founded in 1776 by a Spanish friar and developed in 1848 thanks to the "gold rush", San Francisco today has more than 800,000 inhabitants and is one of the most important tourist destinations in the United States.
The territory is known for the Golden Gate Bridge, which connects San Francisco with a mountainous peninsula called Marin, the island of Alcatraz, an abandoned prison located in the middle of San Francisco Bay, and the Twin Peaks hill, which enjoys incredible panoramic views over the entire area. The unique character of the city has emerged thanks to the cultural mix of native Indians, Spanish settlers, and many Asian immigrants.
In this city, you can get to know some of its most exclusive neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Japantown, Mission District (Hispanic neighborhood), North Beach (known as the Italian neighborhood), Financial District (the financial heart of the city), Castro District (the largest gay community), or the Haight Ashbury area (the cradle of the hippie movement). Culturally open, the city is also reflected in the imaginative cuisine found in the many fabulous restaurants in the area. Here everyone finds their place.
San Francisco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Its steep streets lined with Victorian houses, a huge turquoise bay surrounded by low mountains, and vintage cable cars pulled by cables that still carry passengers up and down the hills of the city, all this makes San Francisco one of the most picturesque places in the United States.

Catalina Island

Embark on a delightful cruise from the picturesque Catalina Island, a true Southern California gem. While often a cruise destination itself, departures from this charming island offer a unique and serene start to your ocean adventure. Experience the island's laid-back charm, clear waters, and scenic beauty before setting sail to explore more of the stunning Pacific coastline, promising a relaxing and refreshing escape.

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.

Los Angeles

Set sail on an incredible cruise from Los Angeles, California, the vibrant heart of the entertainment industry and a major West Coast port. From the glitz of Hollywood to the sun-kissed beaches, LA offers an exciting departure point for exploring the Mexican Riviera, Alaska, and beyond. Experience the Californian dream before embarking on a journey filled with relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable moments at sea.

Los Angeles, the city of angels, is an iconic destination that fascinates millions of visitors every year. Located on the west coast of the United States, this vibrant metropolis is known worldwide for its glamorous lifestyle, its film industry and its extraordinary natural beauty.

Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the city is undoubtedly spring and autumn, when the temperatures are pleasant and the days are sunny. In summer, Los Angeles offers numerous outdoor activities, such as walks on the beach and visits to parks, while in winter it is possible to enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.

Los Angeles boasts a vast array of attractions not to be missed. These include Hollywood, with its famous Walk of Fame and Grauman's Chinese Theatre, the Getty Center, an art museum with a breathtaking view of the city, and the Griffith Observatory, from which to admire a spectacular panorama of Los Angeles. Cruisers cannot miss a visit to Santa Monica and Venice Beach, two iconic seaside resorts, and Disneyland Resort, the most famous theme park in the world.

Los Angeles cuisine is a true melting pot of influences, reflecting the cultural diversity of the city. Among the typical dishes, Mexican tacos and burritos stand out, food trucks that offer specialties of all kinds and fusion cuisine restaurants that combine culinary traditions from all over the world. Cruisers will also be able to taste the renowned Californian wines and purchase local artisan products, such as clothing and fashion accessories.

Los Angeles is an ideal starting point for a cruise to discover the west coast of the United States and Mexico. Embarking on a cruise that departs from Los Angeles means having the opportunity to visit iconic destinations such as San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver and Cabo San Lucas, admiring breathtaking landscapes, exploring natural sites and experiencing unique cultural experiences at each stage of the journey. Whether you choose to sail north or south, a cruise from Los Angeles will give you unforgettable memories and will let you discover the best of California and the Pacific.

Puerto Vallarta

Huatulco

Puerto Chiapas

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.

Balboa

Balboa, located at the end of the Panama Canal, is known for being the port of Panama City. Geographically it is close to the canal docks and the Ancón hill behind it which separates it from Panama City.

Balboa owes its name to the Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa who reached this land in 1914. Before being annexed to Panama City as a district, Balboa was for a long time controlled by the Americans who took care of the construction of many of the buildings and structures still present today within the city.

The canal on one side and the hills on the other create an enchanting landscape where the blue of the sea and the green of the hills merge in a unique way creating a perfect combination. Among the various activities that can be carried out in Balboa, hiking is certainly one of the main ones. The paths immersed in the green will allow you to fully experience the beauty of the nature of this place and to enjoy the suggestive view of all its beauties and uniqueness from above.

The best way to reach the city is on board a cruise ship. Choose a cruise that departs from Balboa or has the city as a stop to admire up close the unique beauty of this territory and to set off to discover Central America, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean.

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.