LA Lights & Vancouver Vistas

Los Angeles, a sprawling Southern California city, is famed not only for its influence on the entertainment industry but also for its diverse cultural offerings and sunny coastline. Highlights include the Getty Center, where art and stunning architecture meet in an expansive hilltop setting, and the historic Griffith Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.

For those embarking mid-afternoon, a stroll through the vibrant streets of Santa Monica or a visit to the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk provides a perfect slice of local life. Both are excellent spots to enjoy the quintessential SoCal sun, sand, and surf, complete with shops, street performers, and seaside eateries.

Explore the captivating Catalina Island, a serene haven just 35km/22mi off the Southern California coast. Unwind amidst swaying palms, white-sand beaches, and enchanting sunsets.

The island is renowned for its vibrant marine life, including dolphins and seals. Visitors can explore by water with snorkelling, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, all available to rent at Descanso Beach.

Traverse the island's interior and explore the rugged terrain by golf cart, catching breathtaking views from the Skyline Drive. Enjoy a stroll along Crescent Avenue in the town of Avalon, which is lined with quaint shops and cafes.

The Avalon Pier facilitates easy tender access to and from the ship, ensuring a seamless transfer at this port of call.

The Port of San Francisco annually hosts more than 80 cruise ships at the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) and nearby Pier 35. The terminal is in a prime location, with easy access to popular attractions including Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, the Ferry Building and Union Square.

One of the most spectacular things about cruising from San Francisco is passing under the Golden Gate Bridge. Make sure you are on the lido deck for the sailaway party. It’s certainly a ‘hold your breath’ moment as the ship sails under the bridge.

With Victorian-era homes etched into hills overlooking the Columbia River, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Surrounded by forests, boasting three rivers and situated a stone’s throw away from the Pacific, Astoria is a fishing village meets Victoriana that is chock-a-block with forts, museums and great local brews. Ships dock at the Port of Astoria.

Top Things to Do in Astoria:

• visit the Tillamook Air Museum
• ride the Astoria Riverfront Trolley
• enjoy a beer at a local brewery
• explore Lewis and Clark National Park

Victoria, capital of British Columbia, sits on the southern end of Vancouver Island, framed by an attractive harbour and surrounded by grand buildings.

With abundant parkland, it’s known for outdoor activities. The city's British colonial past shows in its Victorian architecture, including stately Craigdarroch Castle mansion. Butchart Gardens, with 55 acres of vivid floral displays, plus statuary, water features and a carousel, is one of many formal gardens in the city.

Vancouver is the ideal home port to begin or end an Alaskan adventure. Blessed with stunning vistas and exciting activities, Vancouver offers the perfect blend of urban and natural experiences. Vancouver is a must for any cruise itinerary, and because it's a compact, walkable city right on the edge of nature, adding on just a couple of extra days to explore will give you an authentic taste of what makes this place so attractive to visitors.

Located in the heart of Vancouver’s waterfront, 'Canada Place' (cruise terminal) can service up to three luxury cruise ships at any given time.