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Major cruise lines like Princess, Carnival, and Norwegian regularly depart from Los Angeles, offering a variety of itineraries to Mexico, the Pacific Coast, and Hawaii. With convenient year-round sailings from the Port of Los Angeles, travelers can easily embark on unforgettable adventures to tropical destinations without flying.
Key Takeaways
- Major cruise lines like Carnival, Princess, and Royal Caribbean depart from LA.
- Year-round options are available, with peak seasons in summer and winter holidays.
- Short getaways to Mexico and Baja California are popular 3-5 day trips.
- Longer voyages to Hawaii, the South Pacific, and Alaska also originate here.
- Book early for best cabin selection and deals on balcony or suite upgrades.
- Check terminals: Most ships sail from the Port of LA in San Pedro.
📑 Table of Contents
- Which Cruise Lines Depart from Los Angeles for Your Next Adventure
- Top Cruise Lines Departing from Los Angeles
- Luxury and Premium Cruise Options from Los Angeles
- Expedition and Specialty Cruises from Los Angeles
- Seasonal and Repositioning Cruises: Maximizing Your Options
- Data Table: Cruise Lines Departing from Los Angeles (2024–2025)
- Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cruise Line from Los Angeles
Which Cruise Lines Depart from Los Angeles for Your Next Adventure
Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is more than just a hub of entertainment and culture—it’s also one of the most popular cruise departure ports on the West Coast of the United States. With its year-round mild climate, bustling international airport (LAX), and proximity to major tourist attractions like Santa Monica, Hollywood, and Disneyland, Los Angeles offers travelers the perfect pre- and post-cruise experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical escape to the Mexican Riviera, an exotic journey through the South Pacific, or a scenic Alaskan adventure, Los Angeles serves as a gateway to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.
But with so many cruise lines offering sailings from the Port of Los Angeles and nearby Port of Long Beach, how do you choose the right one for your next vacation? From family-friendly megaships to intimate luxury vessels, the options are vast and varied. This comprehensive guide will walk you through which cruise lines depart from Los Angeles, highlighting key features, itineraries, onboard amenities, and insider tips to help you plan your ideal cruise vacation. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find valuable insights to match your travel style, budget, and destination dreams.
Top Cruise Lines Departing from Los Angeles
Carnival Cruise Line: Fun, Affordable, and Family-Friendly
Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most recognizable names in the cruise industry, and it maintains a strong presence in Los Angeles with regular sailings from the Port of Long Beach. Known for its “Fun Ships,” Carnival offers a high-energy, casual atmosphere perfect for families, couples, and budget-conscious travelers. The line’s flagship vessels, including the Carnival Panorama and Carnival Radiance, are homeported year-round in Southern California, offering convenient access for West Coast cruisers.
Visual guide about which cruise lines depart from los angeles
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Carnival’s Los Angeles departures primarily focus on Mexican Riviera itineraries, with 3- to 7-night cruises visiting popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Ensenada. These sailings are ideal for sun-seekers and those looking to combine beach relaxation with vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences. The Carnival Panorama, launched in 2019, features a sky zone trampoline park, water slides, a massive outdoor movie screen, and the popular Guy’s Burger Joint—all designed to keep guests of all ages entertained.
Insider Tip: Book a balcony stateroom on a 7-night Mexican Riviera cruise during the spring or fall shoulder seasons for the best weather and fewer crowds. Carnival also offers “Faster to the Fun” add-ons that allow early embarkation and priority access to dining and activities.
Princess Cruises: Elegant Voyages with a Focus on Enrichment
Princess Cruises is another major player in the Los Angeles cruise market, operating out of both the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach. Known for its refined ambiance, excellent service, and innovative onboard programs, Princess caters to travelers seeking a more relaxed, sophisticated experience. The line’s “MedallionClass” ships feature wearable technology that enables keyless stateroom entry, contactless payment, and personalized service—making the boarding and cruising experience seamless.
Princess offers a wide range of itineraries from Los Angeles, including:
- Mexican Riviera: 5- to 10-night cruises to Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlán
- Hawaii: 14- to 16-night round-trip voyages with stops in Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island
- California Coastal: 4- to 7-night sailings to San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Ensenada
- Alaska: One-way or repositioning cruises to the Last Frontier, often combined with land tours
One standout feature is Princess’s Discovery at SEA program, which includes stargazing events, culinary demonstrations, and enrichment lectures. The line also partners with local chefs and cultural experts in port cities to offer authentic shore excursions. For example, a Cabo San Lucas tour might include a tequila tasting at a family-run distillery, while a Hawaii cruise could feature a traditional luau with Polynesian dancers.
Royal Caribbean International: Innovation and Adventure Await
Royal Caribbean brings its signature blend of innovation, entertainment, and adrenaline-pumping activities to Los Angeles with seasonal sailings from the Port of Los Angeles. While Royal Caribbean doesn’t homeport year-round in LA, it frequently deploys ships like the Navigator of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas for repositioning cruises and select Mexican Riviera itineraries.
What sets Royal Caribbean apart is its cutting-edge onboard features:
- FlowRider surf simulators
- Rock-climbing walls
- Ice-skating rinks (on select ships)
- Robotic bars with Bionic Bartenders
- Virtual balconies in interior staterooms
From Los Angeles, Royal Caribbean offers 4- to 8-night cruises to the Mexican Riviera, with stops in Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada. The Navigator of the Seas, which underwent a major dry dock in 2019, features a 30-foot-tall water slide, a 40-foot-tall zip line, and a revamped pool deck with a splash zone for kids. The ship also hosts Broadway-style shows, including a production of Grease, and offers themed dining nights like “Mexican Fiesta Night.”
Insider Tip: If you’re booking a repositioning cruise (e.g., from LA to Hawaii or Alaska), consider a “cruisetour” package that includes a few days in a land destination. Royal Caribbean’s partnerships with hotels and tour operators make these combos both convenient and cost-effective.
Luxury and Premium Cruise Options from Los Angeles
Holland America Line: Classic Elegance and Global Itineraries
Holland America Line has a long-standing tradition of cruising from Los Angeles, dating back over a century. Today, the line operates several mid-sized vessels from the Port of Los Angeles, including the Eurodam, Koningsdam, and Nieuw Amsterdam. Known for its refined ambiance, spacious staterooms, and emphasis on cultural enrichment, Holland America appeals to travelers seeking a more traditional, unhurried cruise experience.
Holland America offers a diverse range of itineraries from LA:
- Mexican Riviera: 7-night cruises with overnight stays in Cabo San Lucas
- Alaska: One-way cruises to Vancouver or Seattle, often paired with 3- to 7-night land tours in Denali or the Yukon
- Hawaii: 14- to 18-night round-trip voyages with extended port times
- South Pacific: Longer repositioning cruises to French Polynesia, New Zealand, and Australia (seasonal)
The line’s Music Walk program features live performances in multiple venues, from jazz in the B.B. King’s Blues Club to classical music in the Lincoln Center Stage. Holland America also partners with the Culinary Arts Center to offer cooking demonstrations and wine tastings led by expert chefs. For families, the Club HAL program provides age-appropriate activities for kids and teens.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising with Flexibility
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) brings its “Freestyle Cruising” concept to Los Angeles with seasonal sailings from the Port of Los Angeles. This means no formal dining times, no assigned tables, and the freedom to dress casually throughout the day. NCL’s Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore have both made appearances in LA, offering a mix of Mexican Riviera and repositioning itineraries.
NCL stands out for its flexible dining options, including over 20 restaurants per ship—from Brazilian churrascaria to French bistros. The line also features:
- Go-kart tracks (on Bliss and Encore)
- Broadway-caliber shows like Jersey Boys and Footloose
- Spa suites with private terraces and hot tubs
- Studio staterooms for solo travelers (no single supplement)
From Los Angeles, NCL offers 4- to 8-night cruises to Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas, as well as longer repositioning voyages to Alaska, Hawaii, and the South Pacific. The Norwegian Bliss, for example, sails a 7-night Mexican Riviera itinerary with two days in Cabo—perfect for snorkeling, zip-lining, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Insider Tip: Book NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion, which includes perks like free specialty dining, shore excursion credits, or free Wi-Fi—great for maximizing value on longer cruises.
Expedition and Specialty Cruises from Los Angeles
UnCruise Adventures: Small-Ship, Eco-Friendly Exploration
For travelers seeking an intimate, nature-focused experience, UnCruise Adventures offers unique small-ship expeditions departing from Los Angeles. Unlike large cruise ships, UnCruise vessels carry only 22 to 86 guests, allowing for personalized service and access to remote, off-the-beaten-path destinations. The company specializes in eco-tourism and active adventures, with itineraries that emphasize wildlife viewing, kayaking, hiking, and cultural immersion.
From LA, UnCruise offers:
- Baja California: 7-night expeditions exploring the Sea of Cortez, known as the “Aquarium of the World”
- Mexico’s Pacific Coast: Cruises to the Revillagigedo Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and prime diving location
- California Coastal: 5- to 7-night sailings to Channel Islands National Park and Monterey Bay
Onboard, guests enjoy gourmet, locally sourced meals, expert naturalist guides, and a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Activities might include snorkeling with sea lions, whale watching (gray whales migrate past LA in winter), or exploring ancient cave paintings in Baja. The small group size (typically 10–12 per guide) ensures an immersive experience without disturbing the environment.
Insider Tip: UnCruise itineraries often sell out months in advance, especially during whale season (December–April). Book early and consider a mid-week departure for slightly lower prices.
Crystal Cruises and Regent Seven Seas: Ultra-Luxury All-Inclusive Experiences
While not year-round, Crystal Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises occasionally deploy their luxury vessels to Los Angeles for repositioning cruises and special voyages. These lines cater to discerning travelers who value all-inclusive pricing, spacious suites, and personalized service.
Key features of these ultra-luxury lines include:
- All-inclusive fares (covering drinks, gratuities, shore excursions, and even airfare on select sailings)
- Butler service in every suite
- Fine dining with menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs
- Spacious staterooms with walk-in closets and marble bathrooms
From Los Angeles, these lines offer:
- Hawaii: 14-night round-trip voyages with overnight stays in Maui
- Alaska: One-way cruises to Vancouver or Seattle with glacier viewing
- South Pacific: 10- to 14-night repositioning cruises to Tahiti or New Zealand
For example, Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer offers a 14-night “Hawaiian Islands” cruise from LA with stops in Honolulu, Kauai, and Hilo. The ship features a caviar bar, a theater with live performances, and a Canyon Ranch spa. Crystal’s Crystal Serenity, meanwhile, offers a 10-night “Alaska Inside Passage” cruise with expert naturalists and Zodiac boat excursions.
Seasonal and Repositioning Cruises: Maximizing Your Options
Understanding Seasonal Itineraries
One of the biggest advantages of cruising from Los Angeles is the seasonal variety of itineraries. While Mexican Riviera cruises run year-round, other destinations are only available during specific times:
- Alaska: Late April to early September (peak season: June–August)
- Hawaii: Year-round, but most frequent in spring and fall
- South Pacific: Primarily during winter and spring (November–April)
- California Coastal: Year-round, with increased sailings in summer
Repositioning cruises—when ships move between regions for seasonal operations—are a great way to experience longer itineraries at lower prices. For example, a 14-night “Alaska to LA” repositioning cruise might cost 20–30% less than a comparable round-trip Alaska cruise from Seattle. These voyages often include multiple sea days and unique ports, such as Prince Rupert or Sitka in Alaska.
Tips for Booking Seasonal and Repositioning Cruises
To make the most of seasonal and repositioning options:
- Book early: Repositioning cruises often sell out quickly due to their popularity and lower capacity.
- Check for open-jaw flights: If you’re flying to LA but the cruise ends in Seattle (or vice versa), book one-way flights to save money.
- Look for cruise-tour combos: Many lines offer land extensions (e.g., 3-night Denali tour after an Alaska cruise).
- Pack for variable weather: A repositioning cruise from LA to Alaska might start in 75°F and end in 45°F—layering is key.
For example, a 14-night repositioning cruise from LA to Vancouver on Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam includes stops in San Francisco, Seattle, and Juneau, with a full day in Ketchikan. The ship departs LA in late September, offering fall foliage views along the Pacific Northwest coast.
Data Table: Cruise Lines Departing from Los Angeles (2024–2025)
| Cruise Line | Ships Homeported | Key Itineraries | Best For | Average Price (7-night) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnival Cruise Line | Carnival Panorama, Carnival Radiance | Mexican Riviera (3–7 nights) | Families, budget travelers, first-time cruisers | $600–$900 |
| Princess Cruises | Discovery Princess, Ruby Princess | Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, Alaska | Couples, enrichment-focused travelers | $900–$1,500 |
| Royal Caribbean | Navigator of the Seas (seasonal) | Mexican Riviera, repositioning | Adventure seekers, families with teens | $800–$1,300 |
| Holland America Line | Eurodam, Koningsdam | Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico | Traditional cruisers, cultural travelers | $1,000–$1,800 |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Bliss (seasonal) | Mexican Riviera, Alaska | Flexible dining, solo travelers | $700–$1,200 |
| UnCruise Adventures | Various small vessels | Baja California, Sea of Cortez | Nature lovers, eco-tourists | $4,000–$6,000 |
Note: Prices are approximate and vary by season, stateroom category, and promotions.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cruise Line from Los Angeles
Los Angeles is more than just a departure point—it’s a launchpad for unforgettable adventures across the Pacific. Whether you’re drawn to the high-energy fun of Carnival, the elegant enrichment of Princess and Holland America, the adrenaline-pumping activities of Royal Caribbean, or the intimate, eco-focused voyages of UnCruise, there’s a cruise line and itinerary perfectly suited to your travel style.
When deciding which cruise lines depart from Los Angeles, consider your priorities: Are you traveling with kids? Do you value luxury and all-inclusive pricing? Are you seeking cultural experiences or adrenaline-fueled activities? Use the data and insights in this guide to compare ships, itineraries, and onboard features. Remember to book early for the best rates, take advantage of seasonal repositioning cruises, and explore pre- and post-cruise stays in LA to enhance your journey.
With so many incredible options just a short drive or flight away, your next cruise adventure is closer than you think. Pack your bags, embrace the Pacific breeze, and set sail from the City of Angels to discover the world—one port at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise lines depart from Los Angeles?
Majors lines like Carnival, Princess, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean offer regular departures from Los Angeles. Smaller operators like Viking and Celebrity also sail from the port, providing diverse itineraries to Mexico, Hawaii, and the Pacific.
What are the most popular cruise lines leaving from Los Angeles?
Cruise lines like Princess and Carnival are top choices due to their frequent departures and family-friendly amenities. Norwegian and Royal Caribbean are also favored for their luxury options and longer international voyages.
Do any luxury cruise lines depart from Los Angeles?
Yes, luxury options include Celebrity Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises, which offer premium experiences from LA. These lines focus on high-end service, gourmet dining, and curated shore excursions.
Are there budget-friendly cruise lines from Los Angeles?
Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line are known for affordable fares and frequent sales. Both provide value-packed voyages without sacrificing essential amenities or onboard entertainment.
Which cruise lines from Los Angeles offer short getaways?
Carnival and Princess specialize in 3- to 5-day cruises to Baja California and Mexico. These quick trips are perfect for weekend escapes or first-time cruisers.
Can I find round-trip cruises to Alaska from Los Angeles?
Yes, Princess and Holland America Line offer extended round-trip Alaska itineraries from Los Angeles. These cruises often include scenic stops in ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.