Welcome to California

Start your adventure with a taste of San Diego

The relaxed atmosphere is one of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive in sunny San Diego to begin your Pacific coast expedition cruise to Vancouver.

Take time to discover its many beautiful beaches and parks. And sample the famous Baja California cuisine too while you're here. The day is all yours to enjoy at your own pace before heading to your hotel for the night.

There’s so much to do here that it’s worth adding a couple of days if you can. Don't miss the world famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park, and take your pick from the city's 17 museums.

The American Riviera

Discover old school Spanish charm in the Golden State

Nestled between pristine Pacific coast beaches and vineyard-lined Santa Ynez mountains, Santa Barbara has an authentic Spanish charm that wouldn’t feel out of place in the Mediterranean. In fact, it's known as the American Riviera.

Stroll among the Spanish-era buildings and wander to the end of Stearns Wharf, California’s oldest pier, for a homemade ice cream. Enjoy a bite to eat or a drink at the town’s excellent restaurants and bars. Or try some New World vintages on a wine tasting tour.

On our way to and from Santa Barbara, stay on the look out for whales as we sail through the surrounding Channel Islands.

Whale spotting at sea

Look out for the abundant Pacific marine life

A day spent at sea gives you the opportunity to relax, whether that’s in the sauna or one of the hot tubs, or by exercising in the state-of-the-art gym.

Join the Expedition Team in the Science Center to learn more about the wildlife, the geography and the science of the Pacific Coast. You can take part in our Citizen Science research projects and make a real difference to data collection on tracking whales or studying cloud formations.

It's also a great time to head on up to the Observation Deck and spot some of the local marine life, such as dolphins and, if you're lucky, humpback whales.

Eureka’s forest giants

Hike among ancient forests

Welcome to Eureka, a scenic seaport blending Victorian style with an eco ethos. We'll visit the incredible Redwood National Park as an included excursion. This International Biosphere Reserve is home to some of the world's most dramatic—and huge—ancient woodland.

Some of the redwoods in this forest are more than 1,500 years old. They're also known as ‘nature’s skyscrapers’ because they tower over 100m above the forest floor.

The success of the conservation work here speaks for itself, in the sheer size and majesty of these awe-inspiring trees, which once seen, you'll never forget.

Leisure cruising

Relax and discover more about the Pacific coast

Your Pacific expedition cruise continues north towards San Juan Islands. Take time to enjoy your ship's pool, spa and fitness facilities, or learn more about the natural wonders around you.

You can also choose to join us for a series of art classes and photography workshops. If you're feeling inspired by the beauty around you, why not get creative and capture lasting memories.

Whales of San Juan

Whale and bird watching in stunning surroundings

The San Juan Islands are a haven for marine life and sea birds. We hope to see humpback whales, minke whales, and maybe even a pod of orcas.

Birdwatchers should be on the look out for magnificent Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons and Black Oystercatchers, who call these islands home.

Your Expedition Team will be on hand to talk you through points of interest and help you spot wildlife. Keep your camera ready for some spectacular shots against the stunning backdrop of pine forest and snow-capped mountains.

Olympic National Park

Marvel at unspoiled sub-alpine splendor

Today you'll anchor at the charming seaport of Port Angeles. From here, we'll head to UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, Olympic National Park.

It’s home to three distinct ecosystems: the rugged Pacific coast, a temperate forest, and sub-alpine forests. We'll be exploring the latter, specifically the mountainous area of Hurricane Ridge.

An optional guided hike takes you through the park, with birdwatching opportunities in the wildflower meadows and among the trees. If we’re lucky, you might spot the indigenous Roosevelt Elk or even black bears.

Vibrant Vancouver

Enjoy British Columbia’s largest city

Our expedition cruise from San Diego ends in the beautiful city of Vancouver at the foot of the Rockies. Visit Gastown, the city's oldest neighborhood, and climb Vancouver Lookout for a citywide panorama. From her, you'll see neon-lit Granville Street, West End's beaches and the towering cedars of Stanley Park. 

Vancouver has a flavor all its own—and so does its global cuisine. Dine out in Chinatown, Punjabi Market or Little Italy as you soak up the city's buzzing atmosphere.

Adventure lovers might want to join our Post-Program to the beautiful mountain resort of Whistler. What better way to end your adventure.