What Cruise Lines Sail from Long Beach Your Complete Guide

Several major cruise lines sail from Long Beach, including Carnival, Princess, and Norwegian Cruise Line, offering a variety of itineraries to Mexico, Hawaii, and beyond. The Long Beach Cruise Terminal serves as a convenient homeport for both short getaways and extended voyages, with Carnival operating year-round and seasonal sailings from Princess and Norwegian. With modern facilities and easy access, Long Beach is a top West Coast departure point for unforgettable cruise vacations.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line offers frequent 3- to 7-day voyages from Long Beach to Mexico and beyond.
• Disney Cruise Line sails seasonal 3- and 4-night Baja cruises, perfect for families.
• Royal Caribbean operates select 3- to 5-night sailings, ideal for quick getaways.
• Long Beach is a top West Coast hub with year-round departures and easy airport access.
• Book early for best rates—popular itineraries like holiday cruises sell out fast.
• Check port parking options in advance; on-site and off-site lots fill quickly.
• Pack for varied climates—Mexico sailings require both beachwear and light layers.

What Cruise Lines Sail from Long Beach? Your Complete Guide

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known not only for its beautiful beaches, bustling harbor, and the iconic Queen Mary, but also as one of the most popular cruise departure ports on the West Coast. Nestled just 25 miles south of Los Angeles, the Port of Long Beach offers a convenient, scenic, and stress-free gateway to some of the most sought-after cruise destinations in the Pacific. Whether you’re planning your first cruise or are a seasoned traveler, departing from Long Beach means skipping the long airport lines, avoiding the hassle of international flights, and starting your vacation the moment you step onto the dock.

From sunny Mexican Riviera escapes to relaxing Pacific Coast voyages and even seasonal Alaska adventures, Long Beach is a launchpad for diverse itineraries. But which cruise lines operate from this bustling port? What ships are homeported here, and what kind of experiences can you expect? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every major cruise line that sails from Long Beach, detail their offerings, highlight top itineraries, and provide practical tips to help you plan the perfect cruise vacation. Whether you’re a luxury seeker, a family cruiser, or a budget-conscious traveler, this guide has you covered.

Why Choose Long Beach as Your Cruise Departure Port?

Convenient Location and Accessibility

The Port of Long Beach is strategically located just minutes from major freeways (I-710, I-405), making it easily accessible from Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. Unlike larger ports like Los Angeles or San Diego, Long Beach offers a more relaxed embarkation experience with fewer crowds and shorter security lines. The cruise terminal is modern, well-organized, and equipped with amenities like free Wi-Fi, luggage drop-off zones, and nearby parking options.

For travelers flying in, Long Beach Airport (LGB) is just a 10-minute drive from the port, offering a seamless connection with fewer delays than LAX. Many cruise lines also offer shuttle services from LAX and other nearby airports, making transfers easy. If you’re driving, the port offers both short-term and long-term parking with competitive rates—typically $20–$25 per day. Some hotels in the area even provide complimentary shuttle services and “cruise parking packages,” allowing you to park and stay the night before departure.

Scenic and Historic Setting

One of the unique perks of cruising from Long Beach is the dramatic sail-away experience. As your ship departs, you’ll pass the Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner permanently docked in the harbor and now a hotel, museum, and event venue. The views of the Long Beach skyline, the Gerald Desmond Bridge, and the Pacific Ocean at sunset make for unforgettable photos and a memorable start to your cruise.

Additionally, the port is surrounded by attractions. You can spend a day exploring the Aquarium of the Pacific, visiting the Museum of Latin American Art, or dining at Shoreline Village before your cruise. The proximity of entertainment, dining, and lodging makes Long Beach an ideal pre- or post-cruise destination.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Practices

The Port of Long Beach is a leader in environmental sustainability. It’s one of the first ports in the U.S. to implement shore power for docked cruise ships, significantly reducing emissions. This commitment to green cruising appeals to environmentally conscious travelers. Additionally, the port supports clean energy initiatives and has reduced air pollution by over 80% in the last decade, making your departure not just convenient—but responsible.

Major Cruise Lines That Sail from Long Beach

Carnival Cruise Line – The Fun, Affordable Choice

Carnival Cruise Line is the undisputed leader in Long Beach departures, operating the largest number of ships and sailings from the port. Known for its “Fun Ship” experience, Carnival offers a high-energy, family-friendly atmosphere with a wide range of onboard activities, dining, and entertainment. The Carnival Panorama, a 133,500-gross-ton, 3,960-passenger ship, is currently the only ship homeported year-round in Long Beach. It sails primarily 7-day Mexican Riviera itineraries to ports like Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta.

What makes Carnival a top choice for Long Beach cruisers?

• Affordability: Carnival offers some of the most competitive prices in the industry, with frequent sales and promotions.
• Family-Friendly: With Camp Ocean (kids’ club), water parks, mini-golf, and family cabins, it’s ideal for multi-generational travel.
• Dining Options: From Guy’s Burger Joint to Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi, Carnival delivers diverse culinary experiences.
• Entertainment: Live shows, comedy clubs, and deck parties keep the energy high.

Pro Tip: Book your Carnival cruise during “Carnival Journeys” events for themed sailings (e.g., 80s retro, food & wine) with enhanced entertainment and activities.

Royal Caribbean International – Innovation and Adventure

Royal Caribbean has made a strong presence in Long Beach, primarily with seasonal deployments of its Quantum-class and Oasis-class ships. While not homeported year-round, Royal Caribbean frequently sails from Long Beach during peak seasons (spring, summer, and winter holidays). The Anthem of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas have both operated 3- to 5-night Pacific Coast and Baja Mexico itineraries from the port.

Royal Caribbean stands out for its:

• Cutting-Edge Technology: Features like the North Star (a glass capsule that extends 300 feet above sea level), robotic bartenders, and virtual balconies.
• Thrilling Activities: Rock climbing walls, surf simulators, zip lines, and indoor skydiving (on select ships).
• Global Dining: Over 20 restaurants, including Jamie’s Italian, Chops Grille, and Izumi (hibachi).
• Entertainment: Broadway-style shows (e.g., “Grease,” “Cats”), ice skating, and aqua theaters.

Example Itinerary: A 4-night cruise on Navigator of the Seas might include stops in Ensenada, Mexico, with a day at sea, offering a quick getaway with plenty of onboard excitement.

Princess Cruises – Elegance and Enrichment

Princess Cruises operates seasonal sailings from Long Beach, primarily during the summer and holiday periods. Ships like the Emerald Princess and Grand Princess have sailed 7- to 10-day Mexican Riviera and California Coastal itineraries. Princess is known for its refined atmosphere, excellent service, and enrichment programs, making it a favorite among couples and mature travelers.

Key features of Princess Cruises include:

• Movies Under the Stars: A giant outdoor screen with complimentary popcorn and cozy seating.
• Discovery at SEA: Partnerships with Discovery Channel and Animal Planet for themed activities and shore excursions.
• MedallionClass Experience: A wearable tech device that enables contactless check-in, keyless cabin entry, and personalized service.
• World Fresh Marketplace: A buffet with global cuisine and healthy dining options.

Tip: If you’re interested in a longer cruise, look for Princess’s 10-day “Classic California Coast” itinerary, which includes stops in San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Catalina Island—perfect for exploring the Golden State.

Top Destinations and Itineraries from Long Beach

Mexican Riviera – The Classic Escape

The Mexican Riviera is the most popular cruise route from Long Beach. These 7-day itineraries typically visit:

• Cabo San Lucas: Famous for its dramatic rock formations (El Arco), snorkeling, whale watching (winter), and vibrant nightlife.
• Mazatlán: A colonial port city with golden beaches, a historic downtown, and excellent seafood.
• Puerto Vallarta: A romantic destination with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and lush jungles.

These cruises are ideal for sun-seekers, couples, and families. Most depart on Sundays and return the following Sunday, making them perfect for week-long vacations. Carnival’s Panorama sails this route weekly, while Royal Caribbean and Princess offer seasonal options.

California Coastal – Explore the Golden State

For travelers who want to stay closer to home, California Coastal cruises offer a unique way to see the state’s iconic cities. These 3- to 5-night itineraries often include:

• San Diego: Balboa Park, the USS Midway Museum, and the Gaslamp Quarter.
• Santa Barbara: Spanish-style architecture, wine tasting, and scenic beaches.
• San Francisco: Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

These shorter cruises are great for first-time cruisers, weekend getaways, or those with limited vacation time. Princess Cruises’ 10-day California Coast itinerary is especially popular, offering a deep dive into the state’s culture and natural beauty.

Alaska – Seasonal Adventures (via Connecting Flights)

While no cruise line offers direct Alaska sailings from Long Beach, many cruisers use Long Beach as a departure point for Alaska-bound flights to connect with Alaska cruises from Seattle or Vancouver. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Princess all offer Alaska itineraries that can be booked as part of a “cruise + flight” package. For example, you could fly from Long Beach to Seattle, then board a 7-day Alaska cruise to Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.

Why this works: Long Beach offers lower airfares than LAX for regional flights, and cruise lines often provide seamless transfer services. This combo is ideal for travelers who want to minimize driving and maximize time in Alaska’s stunning landscapes.

Onboard Experience and Amenities Comparison

Dining and Cuisine

Each cruise line offers a unique dining experience. Here’s how they compare:

Cruise Line	Main Dining	Specialty Restaurants	Casual Options	Unique Feature
Carnival	Traditional and flexible dining	Guy’s Burger Joint, Bonsai Sushi, Fahrenheit 555	Pizza Pirate, BlueIguana Cantina	Free 24-hour pizza
Royal Caribbean	Dynamic Dining (rotating tables)	Chops Grille, Izumi, Jamie’s Italian	Windjammer Café, Boardwalk Dog House	Robotic bartenders (on Quantum-class)
Princess	Anytime Dining with reservations	Chef’s Table, Crown Grill, Sabatini’s	Horizon Court, Alfredo’s Pizzeria	World Fresh Marketplace (global cuisine)

Entertainment and Activities

Entertainment varies widely by line:

• Carnival: Comedy clubs, karaoke, deck parties, live bands, and the “Playlist Productions” musicals.
• Royal Caribbean: Broadway shows, aqua theaters, ice skating, and high-tech attractions like the North Star.
• Princess: “Movies Under the Stars,” live music lounges, enrichment lectures, and the “Discovery at SEA” program.

Tip: Check the daily cruise newsletter (delivered to your cabin) for schedules. Many shows and activities require reservations, especially on Royal Caribbean.

Family and Kids’ Programs

All three lines offer excellent kids’ programs, but they differ in structure:

• Carnival: Camp Ocean (ages 2–11), Circle “C” (12–14), and Club O2 (15–17). Features water parks and teen nightclubs.
• Royal Caribbean: Adventure Ocean (ages 3–11), with themed zones like Science Lab and Theater. Also offers teen lounges and video arcades.
• Princess: Camp Discovery (ages 3–12), with Discovery Channel activities. Teens have their own lounges and events.

Pro Tip: Book kids’ activities early—some programs fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

Practical Tips for Cruising from Long Beach

Booking and Timing

To get the best deals and itineraries, book your cruise 6–12 months in advance. Carnival often releases its Long Beach sailings first, followed by Royal Caribbean and Princess. Best times to sail:

• Mexican Riviera: November–April (dry season, ideal weather).
• California Coast: May–September (summer and early fall).
• Alaska (connecting): May–September (peak Alaska cruise season).

Look for “early bird” promotions, which often include free upgrades, onboard credit, or reduced deposits.

Transportation and Parking

Plan your arrival to the Long Beach Cruise Terminal:

• From LAX: Shuttle services (~$30–$50 per person) or ride-share (Uber/Lyft).
• From Long Beach Airport: Taxi or shuttle (~$15).
• Parking: On-site parking at the port is $20–$25/day. Consider off-site lots with shuttle services for lower rates.

Tip: Arrive at the terminal between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to avoid the earliest crowds and ensure a smooth check-in.

What to Pack and Prepare

Pack smart for your Long Beach cruise:

• Documentation: Passport (required for Mexico), boarding pass, and cruise ID.
• Clothing: Swimwear, formal wear (optional), comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for evenings at sea.
• Electronics: Phone charger, power bank, and waterproof case.
• Extras: Sunscreen, medications, and reusable water bottles (most ships allow them).

Download your cruise line’s app before departure for digital check-in, itinerary tracking, and onboard reservations.

Final Thoughts: Your Long Beach Cruise Awaits

Long Beach is more than just a port—it’s the beginning of an unforgettable journey. With three major cruise lines offering diverse itineraries, world-class amenities, and unforgettable destinations, there’s never been a better time to set sail from this Southern California gem. Whether you’re chasing the sun in Mexico, exploring California’s coastal beauty, or dreaming of Alaska’s wild frontier, Long Beach provides the perfect launchpad.

From the family fun of Carnival to the high-tech thrills of Royal Caribbean and the elegant refinement of Princess Cruises, there’s a perfect cruise for every traveler. And with convenient transportation, eco-friendly practices, and a scenic departure, your vacation starts the moment you arrive at the terminal. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the magic of cruising—from Long Beach to the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Long Beach?

Major cruise lines operating from Long Beach include Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. These lines offer itineraries to destinations like Mexico, the Pacific Coast, and Hawaii from the Port of Long Beach.

Does Carnival Cruise Line sail from Long Beach year-round?

Yes, Carnival Cruise Line maintains a year-round homeport in Long Beach, offering 3- to 8-day cruises to Baja California and the Mexican Riviera. Their iconic Carnival Panorama ship sails regularly from this port.

Which cruise lines sail from Long Beach to Hawaii?

Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line offer seasonal voyages from Long Beach to Hawaii. These extended cruises typically run 10-16 days, with departures concentrated in spring and fall months.

Are there any luxury cruise lines sailing from Long Beach?

While Long Beach primarily hosts premium and contemporary lines, Princess Cruises offers elevated service with their Princess Plus amenities. Most luxury lines use other Southern California ports like San Diego or Los Angeles.

What cruise lines sail from Long Beach for short getaways?

Carnival Cruise Line specializes in short 3-4 day weekend cruises from Long Beach to Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico. These quick trips are ideal for first-time cruisers and those with limited vacation time.

Can I take a repositioning cruise from Long Beach?

Yes, Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line offer seasonal repositioning cruises from Long Beach to Alaska or Asia. These one-way sailings typically occur during spring and autumn fleet redeployments.