What Cruise Lines Leave Out of Long Beach Revealed

Tip: If you’re eyeing an NCL cruise from Long Beach, book early. The Norwegian Jewel’s itineraries often sell out quickly, especially for holiday cruises and summer departures.

Why Some Cruise Lines Choose Not to Sail from Long Beach

Port Infrastructure and Ship Size Limitations

One of the most significant factors influencing a cruise line’s decision to operate from Long Beach is the port infrastructure. The Port of Long Beach’s cruise terminal, while modern and well-equipped, has physical constraints that limit the size of ships it can accommodate. The terminal can handle vessels up to approximately 3,000 passengers, which excludes many of the newer, larger mega-ships operated by lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Carnival.

For example, the Port of San Diego and the Port of Los Angeles have deeper berths and more extensive docking facilities, allowing them to accommodate ships with capacities of 5,000+ passengers. This infrastructure advantage enables these ports to host larger, more profitable ships that offer longer itineraries and higher onboard revenue potential.

Data Point: According to the Port of Long Beach’s 2023 annual report, the cruise terminal handled 120 ship calls and 350,000 passengers—a solid figure, but significantly lower than San Diego’s 250+ calls and 1.2 million passengers.

Market Demand and Competition

Another critical factor is market demand. Long Beach is a popular departure point for Mexican Riviera and Hawaii cruises, but it doesn’t attract the same volume of travelers seeking longer, more exotic itineraries (e.g., trans-Pacific, Alaska, or repositioning cruises). As a result, cruise lines that specialize in these niche markets—such as Holland America Line and Princess Cruises—may choose to focus their efforts on ports with higher demand for such sailings.

Additionally, the Port of Long Beach faces stiff competition from nearby ports. The Port of Los Angeles, just 10 miles away, offers more berths, better transportation links, and a wider range of dining and entertainment options in the surrounding area. For cruise lines, the decision often comes down to maximizing passenger convenience and operational efficiency.

Example: Princess Cruises operates both from Long Beach and Los Angeles, but its longer itineraries (e.g., 14-night Hawaii cruises) typically depart from Los Angeles, where passenger volume and demand are higher.

Logistical and Operational Challenges

Logistics play a crucial role in cruise line decisions. The Port of Long Beach is primarily a cargo port, with cruise operations sharing space and resources with container ships, tankers, and other freight vessels. This dual-use model can create scheduling conflicts, especially during peak shipping seasons, which may deter cruise lines seeking a dedicated, uninterrupted terminal.

Furthermore, the port’s location—while scenic—can pose challenges for passenger embarkation. Unlike the Port of Los Angeles, which has direct freeway access and a large parking structure, Long Beach requires more complex transportation arrangements, particularly for travelers coming from inland areas like Orange County or the Inland Empire.

Tip: If you’re driving to Long Beach, use the port’s pre-booked parking system to secure a spot and avoid last-minute stress. Shuttle services from nearby hotels and parking lots are also available.

Alternative Cruise Options for Long Beach Travelers

Exploring Nearby Ports: San Diego and Los Angeles

For travelers set on a cruise line that doesn’t operate from Long Beach, the good news is that alternative ports are just a short distance away. The Port of San Diego and the Port of Los Angeles offer a wider range of cruise lines and itineraries, making them excellent substitutes for Long Beach departures.

Port of San Diego: Located just 100 miles south, San Diego is a major cruise hub with year-round operations. It hosts Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Holland America, and Princess Cruises, offering everything from 3-night Baja cruises to 14-night Panama Canal voyages. The port’s modern terminal, convenient parking, and proximity to attractions like Balboa Park and the USS Midway Museum make it a popular choice.

Port of Los Angeles (San Pedro): Just 10 miles north of Long Beach, this port is a powerhouse for Carnival, Princess, and Holland America. It’s particularly strong in Mexican Riviera and Alaska itineraries. The port’s World Cruise Center is one of the largest on the West Coast, with dedicated terminals for each cruise line and ample passenger amenities.

Practical Example: A family from Long Beach wanting a Carnival cruise can drive to San Pedro, park at the port’s secure lot, and board the Carnival Panorama for a 7-night Mexican Riviera adventure. The entire trip, including parking and driving, can be completed in under an hour.

Seasonal and Repositioning Cruises

Another alternative is to book seasonal or repositioning cruises that occasionally call at Long Beach. While these itineraries are not year-round, they can offer unique opportunities to sail with lines that don’t have a permanent presence at the port.

For example, during the spring and fall, some cruise lines reposition ships between the Caribbean and Alaska, making stops at Long Beach as part of their trans-Pacific or repositioning routes. These cruises often feature longer itineraries (10+ nights) and may include exotic destinations like Hawaii, French Polynesia, or Japan.

Tip: Sign up for cruise line newsletters and follow port announcements to stay informed about seasonal sailings. Repositioning cruises are often discounted, making them a cost-effective way to try a new cruise line.

Private Charters and Smaller Operators

For a more personalized experience, consider private charters or smaller cruise operators that occasionally depart from Long Beach. These include:

• American Cruise Lines: Offers small-ship river and coastal cruises with occasional departures from Long Beach.
• UnCruise Adventures: Specializes in adventure cruises to Alaska and Baja California, with limited sailings from Southern California.
• Pacific Whale Foundation: Operates eco-friendly whale-watching and short coastal cruises from Long Beach.

These options are ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience. While they may not offer the same amenities as large cruise ships, they provide unique opportunities to explore lesser-known destinations and engage in sustainable tourism.

The Impact of Missing Cruise Lines on Long Beach’s Tourism

Economic Considerations

The absence of certain cruise lines has tangible economic implications for Long Beach. Cruise tourism generates millions in revenue each year through passenger spending, port fees, and local business activity. When major lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean bypass the port, it means fewer passengers, reduced onboard spending, and lower demand for local services like hotels, restaurants, and transportation.

According to a 2022 study by the Port of Long Beach, cruise passengers spend an average of $150 per day during their visit, with a significant portion going to local businesses. The port estimates that each cruise call generates approximately $500,000 in economic activity—a figure that could be higher with a broader range of cruise lines.

Data Table:

Community and Cultural Impact

Beyond economics, the lack of diverse cruise lines affects Long Beach’s cultural and community landscape. Cruise passengers bring diversity, energy, and a sense of global connection to the city. Events like “Cruise Terminal Open Houses” and “Cruise Ship Viewing Days” are popular with locals, offering a chance to explore ships and meet crew members from around the world.

When major cruise lines are absent, these opportunities shrink, limiting the port’s role as a cultural ambassador. Additionally, the port’s identity as a “cruise destination” is less pronounced, which can impact tourism marketing efforts and local pride.

Future Prospects: Will More Cruise Lines Come to Long Beach?

Port Expansion Plans

The Port of Long Beach is not standing still. Ongoing infrastructure upgrades aim to attract more cruise lines and larger ships. Projects include:

• Terminal Expansion: Adding new berths and expanding parking facilities to accommodate larger vessels.
• Green Initiatives: Implementing shore power systems and cleaner fuels to reduce emissions, appealing to eco-conscious cruise lines.
• Passenger Amenities: Upgrading lounges, baggage handling, and transportation links to improve the embarkation experience.

These efforts could make Long Beach more competitive with San Diego and Los Angeles, potentially attracting lines like Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises in the future.

Emerging Trends in Cruise Tourism

The cruise industry is evolving, with trends like shorter itineraries, destination-focused cruising, and smaller, luxury ships gaining popularity. These trends align well with Long Beach’s strengths, particularly its proximity to Mexican Riviera and Hawaii.

For example, luxury lines like Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas Cruises may find Long Beach an attractive option for shorter, high-end cruises to Baja California or the Channel Islands. Similarly, expedition cruise lines like Lindblad Expeditions could leverage the port’s location for eco-tourism voyages.

Tip: Keep an eye on port announcements and cruise line press releases for news about new deployments. The next big cruise line could be docking at Long Beach sooner than you think.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Long Beach’s Cruise Offerings

While Long Beach may not host every cruise line under the sun, its unique position as a scenic, accessible port makes it a compelling choice for many travelers. The absence of giants like Carnival and Royal Caribbean is not a flaw but a reflection of strategic market decisions and infrastructure realities. By understanding what’s missing—and why—you can make smarter choices about your cruise vacation.

Whether you opt for a Princess Cruises Mexican Riviera adventure, a seasonal Norwegian Cruise Line sailing, or a short drive to San Diego for a Carnival voyage, the options are plentiful. The key is to align your cruise preferences with the right port and the right line. Long Beach may not have it all, but it offers a gateway to some of the best cruise experiences on the West Coast—and with ongoing improvements, its future looks brighter than ever.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to set sail. Whether from Long Beach or a nearby port, the open sea awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines leave out of Long Beach?

Major cruise lines that operate from Long Beach include Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. These companies offer a variety of itineraries, primarily to Mexico and the Pacific Coast, from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal.

Does Royal Caribbean sail out of Long Beach?

No, Royal Caribbean does not currently sail out of Long Beach. Instead, the port is served by Carnival, Princess, and Norwegian Cruise Line, which offer regular departures to destinations like the Mexican Riviera and Hawaii.

Are there luxury cruise lines that depart from Long Beach?

Long Beach is primarily a hub for mainstream cruise lines like Carnival and Princess. For luxury options, travelers often consider nearby ports like Los Angeles, where lines such as Regent Seven Seas or Oceania Cruises operate.

Can I take a Disney cruise from Long Beach?

No, Disney Cruise Line does not operate from Long Beach. However, Carnival and Princess Cruises offer family-friendly voyages from the port, with itineraries catering to travelers of all ages.

What cruise lines leave out of Long Beach for Alaska?

Princess Cruises is the primary line offering Alaska voyages from Long Beach, typically during the summer months. These cruises often include stops in ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.

Are there seasonal cruise lines that use the Long Beach port?

Yes, some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises, offer seasonal sailings from Long Beach, such as Alaska cruises in summer or special holiday voyages. Most year-round departures are to Baja California and the Mexican Riviera.