What Cruise Lines Go Out of Long Beach for Your Next Vacation

Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruises are the top cruise lines sailing from Long Beach, offering year-round getaways to Mexico, the Pacific Coast, and Hawaii. With modern terminals and convenient departures, Long Beach is a prime West Coast hub for affordable, fun-filled vacations—no flying required.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line offers frequent departures from Long Beach to Mexico and the Pacific Coast.
• Royal Caribbean sails seasonal itineraries, including Alaska and Baja California, from Long Beach.
• Norwegian Cruise Line features select voyages to Hawaii and the Mexican Riviera year-round.
• Long Beach Cruise Terminal is centrally located, with easy access to LA attractions pre- or post-cruise.
• Short 3–5 day cruises are ideal for first-timers; book early for best cabin rates.
• Check departure schedules as some lines operate only during peak travel seasons.

What Cruise Lines Go Out of Long Beach for Your Next Vacation

Long Beach, California, is more than just a gateway to sunny skies and Pacific breezes—it’s a premier embarkation point for some of the most sought-after cruise vacations in the world. Nestled in the heart of Southern California, the Port of Long Beach offers travelers a convenient, modern, and scenic departure point for cruises to Mexico, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, and beyond. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler looking for a hassle-free departure, Long Beach stands out as a top choice for its accessibility, proximity to Los Angeles, and world-class cruise terminals.

With its iconic skyline, the historic RMS Queen Mary docked permanently nearby, and the bustling Long Beach Cruise Terminal, this coastal city has become a favorite among cruise enthusiasts. But what makes Long Beach truly special is the variety of cruise lines that operate from its shores. From family-friendly megaships to luxury ocean liners, there’s a cruise experience for every traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the major cruise lines that sail from Long Beach, highlight their unique offerings, and provide insider tips to help you plan the perfect getaway. Whether you’re dreaming of a Baja California escape, a Mexican Riviera adventure, or a coastal journey to the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find your ideal cruise right here.

Why Choose Long Beach as Your Cruise Departure Port?

Convenient Location and Accessibility

One of the biggest advantages of departing from Long Beach is its strategic location in Southern California. Just 25 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, the Port of Long Beach is easily accessible via major freeways (I-710, I-405, and CA-22), making it a breeze for both local residents and out-of-town travelers. For those flying in, Long Beach Airport (LGB) is only 10 minutes away, while Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a 30-minute drive. Many cruise lines even offer pre-cruise hotel packages and shuttle services to simplify your arrival.

Additionally, Long Beach’s cruise terminal is located at the Pacific Cruise Terminal, a state-of-the-art facility that handles multiple ships simultaneously. The terminal features spacious check-in areas, security screening, baggage handling, and even retail and dining options. Unlike some congested ports, Long Beach offers ample parking (both covered and uncovered), with rates starting around $20 per day—significantly lower than many other major cruise hubs.

Scenic and Stress-Free Embarkation

Departing from Long Beach also means you’ll enjoy a scenic sailaway. As your ship leaves the harbor, you’ll glide past the Queen Mary, the Gerald Desmond Bridge, and the glittering skyline of downtown Long Beach. The route takes you through the busy shipping lanes of the Port of Long Beach and into the open Pacific, offering stunning views of the California coast. This peaceful departure—without the hustle of a major international airport or crowded city center—makes for a relaxing start to your vacation.

Another perk? Long Beach is a seasonal and year-round homeport for several major cruise lines, meaning ships are based here for extended periods. This reduces the need for repositioning cruises and allows for more frequent and flexible itineraries. Whether you’re looking for a 3-night weekend getaway or a 7-night tropical escape, Long Beach delivers convenience without sacrificing adventure.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing from Long Beach

Carnival Cruise Line: The King of Fun and Value

Carnival Cruise Line is the most prominent and frequent operator from Long Beach, making it the go-to choice for families, couples, and budget-conscious travelers. Known for its “Fun Ships,” Carnival offers a lively, energetic atmosphere with endless onboard activities, from water parks and sky rides to comedy clubs and Broadway-style shows.

The Carnival Panorama, a state-of-the-art Excel-class vessel, is currently homeported in Long Beach year-round. Launched in 2019, this 3,960-passenger ship features:

• The first-ever SkyRide on the West Coast—a pedal-powered aerial track offering panoramic ocean views
• A massive water park with multiple slides, including the Twister Waterslide
• The Family Harbor staterooms with exclusive lounge access for families
• Multiple dining options, including Guy’s Burger Joint and Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse
• Live entertainment, including the Playlist Productions shows

Carnival’s most popular itineraries from Long Beach include:

• 3- to 5-night Baja Mexico cruises to Ensenada and Catalina Island
• 7-night Mexican Riviera voyages to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas
• Seasonal 14-night Hawaii cruises (available during summer and holiday periods)

Pro Tip: Carnival offers “Early Saver” rates and last-minute deals, especially for shorter cruises. Booking a 3-night cruise during the off-season (January–March) can save you up to 30%.

Princess Cruises: Luxury Meets Exploration

Princess Cruises brings a more refined, destination-focused experience to Long Beach. Known for its “MedallionClass” technology—which uses a wearable OceanMedallion to streamline check-in, unlock staterooms, and order food—Princess blends modern convenience with classic elegance.

The Discovery Princess and Grand Princess are among the ships that frequently sail from Long Beach. These vessels offer:

• Spacious staterooms with balconies (over 80% of cabins are balcony or suite)
• Multiple specialty dining options, including Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and Crown Grill
• The Princess Live! entertainment venue with interactive shows and guest speakers
• Wellness-focused amenities like the Lotus Spa and fitness center

Princess Cruises is especially popular for its Mexican Riviera itineraries, which often include longer stays in ports like Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. The line also offers coastal cruises to Seattle, Victoria, and San Francisco, ideal for those who want to explore the Pacific Northwest.

Insider Tip: Princess’s “Cruise Personalizer” tool lets you pre-book excursions, dining, and spa treatments before you sail—maximizing your time onboard.

Holland America Line: Classic Elegance and Cultural Immersion

For travelers seeking a more traditional, relaxed cruise experience, Holland America Line is a perfect fit. With a rich history dating back to 1873, Holland America emphasizes destination immersion, fine dining, and onboard enrichment programs.

Ships like the Eurodam and Koningsdam regularly sail from Long Beach, offering:

• Intimate ships with a lower passenger-to-space ratio (around 2,000 guests)
• The BB King’s Blues Club and Lincoln Center Stage for live music
• Partnerships with the Explorations Central program, offering destination-focused lectures and activities
• Signature culinary experiences like the Pinnacle Grill and Canaletto Italian restaurant

Holland America’s itineraries from Long Beach include:

• 7- to 10-night Mexican Riviera cruises with extended port stays
• Coastal voyages to Vancouver, Seattle, and the Pacific Northwest
• Seasonal Alaska cruises that reposition through the Panama Canal

Pro Tip: Holland America’s “Have It All” package includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions—ideal for first-time cruisers who want a hassle-free experience.

Unique Itineraries and Destinations from Long Beach

Mexican Riviera: Sun, Sand, and Culture

The Mexican Riviera is the crown jewel of Long Beach departures, offering a perfect blend of beach relaxation, cultural exploration, and adventure. Most cruise lines offer 7-night itineraries that stop in:

• Cabo San Lucas: Known for its dramatic rock formations (El Arco), snorkeling, and vibrant nightlife
• La Paz: A quieter port with pristine beaches and access to the Sea of Cortez
• Mazatlán: A colonial city with cobblestone streets, historic sites, and fresh seafood
• Puerto Vallarta: A romantic destination with lush jungles, art galleries, and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene

Many cruises also include Ensenada, a popular 1-day stop for wine tasting, shopping, and whale watching (seasonal). Princess Cruises, for example, offers an “Overnight in Cabo” itinerary, giving you extra time to explore the city at night.

Coastal Cruises: Pacific Northwest and Beyond

While most Long Beach cruises head south, several lines offer northbound coastal itineraries during spring and summer. These cruises typically visit:

• San Francisco: With stops at Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Golden Gate Bridge
• Seattle: Gateway to the Olympic National Park and Puget Sound
• Vancouver: A cosmopolitan city with stunning mountain and ocean views
• Victoria: A charming British-influenced city on Vancouver Island

Holland America and Princess Cruises are the primary operators for these routes, with sailings ranging from 4 to 10 nights. These itineraries are perfect for travelers who want to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest without the need for international flights.

Specialty and Repositioning Cruises

Long Beach also serves as a departure point for repositioning cruises—longer voyages that move ships between regions. For example:

• Holland America’s Eurodam offers a 21-day Panama Canal cruise from Long Beach to Fort Lauderdale
• Princess Cruises occasionally runs Hawaii repositioning cruises during the spring and fall
• Carnival’s Panorama offers seasonal Alaska cruises that reposition through the Inside Passage

These cruises are ideal for travelers who want to experience multiple destinations in one trip, often at a lower per-night cost.

Onboard Experiences: What to Expect on Long Beach Cruises

Dining and Culinary Options

Modern cruise ships departing from Long Beach offer a diverse culinary landscape. Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal or a casual bite, there’s something for every palate:

• Main Dining Rooms: Multi-course meals with rotating menus (Carnival, Princess, Holland America)
• Specialty Restaurants: Upscale options like steakhouses, sushi bars, and French bistros (often for an extra fee)
• Casual Dining: Buffets, pizza stations, and poolside grills
• Room Service: Available 24/7 on most ships

Princess Cruises, for example, partners with Chef Curtis Stone for its Share restaurant, while Holland America offers a Pinnacle Grill with premium steaks and seafood. Carnival’s Bonsai Sushi and BlueIguana Cantina are fan favorites.

Entertainment and Activities

From Broadway-style shows to interactive workshops, Long Beach cruise ships deliver non-stop entertainment:

• Live Shows: Carnival’s Playlist Productions, Princess’s Princess Live!, and Holland America’s BB King’s Blues Club
• Casinos: Open when ships are at sea (Carnival, Princess, Holland America)
• Spa and Wellness: Full-service spas, fitness centers, and yoga classes
• Family-Friendly Activities: Kids’ clubs, teen lounges, and water parks (especially on Carnival)

Many ships also host destination-themed events—like Mexican fiestas or Hawaiian luaus—to enhance the cultural experience.

Technology and Connectivity

Modern cruise ships from Long Beach are equipped with cutting-edge tech:

• MedallionClass (Princess): Wearable device for contactless payments, keyless entry, and personalized service
• OceanReady (Carnival): App for pre-cruise check-in, dining reservations, and excursion booking
• Wi-Fi and Internet Packages: Varies by line, but most offer pay-per-day or unlimited plans

Pro Tip: Book Wi-Fi packages online before your cruise—they’re often cheaper than buying onboard.

Planning Your Long Beach Cruise: Tips and Practical Advice

When to Book and Best Times to Sail

The best time to cruise from Long Beach depends on your destination:

• Mexican Riviera: Year-round, but peak season is December–April (dry, sunny weather)
• Pacific Northwest: May–September (summer months for milder weather)
• Hawaii and Repositioning Cruises: Spring and fall for better pricing

To save money, consider booking during the shoulder seasons (January–March or September–November). Carnival and Princess often offer early-bird discounts and “Kids Sail Free” promotions during these periods.

Parking, Transportation, and Pre-Cruise Stays

Long Beach offers several parking options near the cruise terminal:

• Port of Long Beach Parking: Covered and uncovered lots, $20–$25/day
• Private Lots: Often cheaper, with shuttle service to the terminal
• Rideshares and Taxis: Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off zones

For those arriving the night before, consider staying at a pre-cruise hotel like the Hyatt Regency Long Beach or Hotel Maya. Many offer cruise parking packages and shuttle service.

What to Pack and Cruise Policies

Pack smart for your Long Beach cruise:

• Comfortable walking shoes (for ports)
• Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Formal attire (for optional elegant nights)
• Power adapters and extra chargers

Note: Cruise lines have strict security policies. Alcohol, drones, and large coolers are prohibited. Check your line’s website for specific rules.

Comparing Cruise Lines: A Quick Reference Guide

To help you decide which cruise line is right for you, here’s a comparison of key features:

Feature	Carnival	Princess	Holland America
Ship Size	Large (3,900+ guests)	Large (3,600+ guests)	Mid-size (2,000–2,600 guests)
Best For	Families, budget travelers	Couples, destination lovers	Seniors, traditional cruisers
Entertainment	High-energy shows, comedy clubs	Interactive shows, guest speakers	Live music, enrichment lectures
Dining	Casual and specialty options	MedallionClass dining, gourmet	Fine dining, Pinnacle Grill
Popular Itineraries	3–7 night Mexico	7–10 night Mexico/Coastal	7–14 night Mexico/Coastal
Unique Feature	SkyRide, water park	OceanMedallion, Princess Live!	BB King’s Blues Club, Explorations Central

Whether you’re drawn to the high-energy fun of Carnival, the tech-savvy luxury of Princess, or the classic elegance of Holland America, Long Beach offers a cruise for every traveler.

Final Thoughts: Your Dream Vacation Awaits in Long Beach

Choosing a cruise from Long Beach isn’t just about convenience—it’s about starting your vacation in a vibrant, scenic city with world-class amenities and endless options. From the family-friendly thrills of Carnival to the refined elegance of Princess and Holland America, the cruise lines sailing from Long Beach deliver unforgettable experiences tailored to your interests and budget.

With itineraries ranging from quick weekend getaways to extended coastal adventures, there’s never been a better time to explore what the Pacific has to offer. Whether you’re sipping margaritas in Cabo, hiking through the redwoods of the Pacific Northwest, or dancing the night away under the stars, your journey begins the moment you step aboard in Long Beach.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to set sail. The open sea, new cultures, and lifelong memories are just a cruise away. Your next vacation starts in Long Beach—where the adventure begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go out of Long Beach for a vacation?

Major cruise lines operating from Long Beach include Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). These lines offer a mix of short getaways and extended voyages to destinations like Mexico, the Pacific Coast, and Hawaii.

Does Carnival Cruise Line sail from Long Beach?

Yes, Carnival Cruise Line is one of the primary operators from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal, offering 3- to 8-day cruises to Baja Mexico, the Mexican Riviera, and seasonal routes. Their ships, like the Carnival Panorama, are based year-round in Long Beach.

Are there any luxury cruise lines that depart from Long Beach?

While Long Beach is known for mainstream lines like Carnival and Princess, luxury options are limited. However, Princess Cruises’ elevated service and longer itineraries (e.g., Hawaii) may appeal to travelers seeking a more refined experience.

What cruise lines go out of Long Beach for Mexican Riviera trips?

Carnival, Princess, and Norwegian Cruise Line all offer Mexican Riviera itineraries from Long Beach. These 7-day cruises typically stop in ports like Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta.

Can I take a Disney cruise from Long Beach?

No, Disney Cruise Line does not currently operate from Long Beach. However, nearby ports like San Diego and Los Angeles occasionally feature Disney sailings—check their schedule for seasonal departures.

Are there year-round cruise options from Long Beach?

Yes! Carnival Cruise Line sails year-round from Long Beach, with ships like the Carnival Panorama offering weekly departures. Princess and NCL also maintain seasonal schedules, with peak service during summer and holidays.