How Long Is a Cruise From California to Japan?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning to take a cruise from California to Japan, one of the first questions you might have is how long the journey will take. The answer depends on a few factors, including your departure port and the specific cruise line and itinerary you choose. Let’s take a closer look at some of these factors and explore your options for a transpacific cruise.

Departure Ports

There are several ports in California that offer cruises to Japan, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The distance between these ports and Japan can vary significantly, so your choice of departure port can have a big impact on the overall length of your cruise.

San Francisco

If you depart from San Francisco, you can expect your cruise to take around 14-16 days each way. This is because San Francisco is located further north than other California ports, so it takes longer to cross the Pacific Ocean from this starting point.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a popular departure port for cruises to Japan, as it offers a more direct route across the Pacific. Cruises from Los Angeles typically last around 10-12 days each way.

San Diego

San Diego is located even further south than Los Angeles, which means it offers an even shorter journey time to Japan. Cruises from San Diego typically take around 8-10 days each way.

Cruise Lines

The specific cruise line and itinerary you choose can also impact the length of your trip. Some lines offer direct sailings between California and Japan, while others may include stops in other destinations along the way.

Direct Sailings

If you’re looking for the shortest possible journey time, your best bet may be to choose a direct sailing with a cruise line like Princess or Celebrity. These cruises typically take around 10-12 days each way, regardless of your departure port.

Transpacific Itineraries

If you’re interested in exploring more destinations along the way, you may want to consider a transpacific itinerary with a line like Holland America or Norwegian. These cruises may stop in ports like Hawaii, Alaska, or Russia before arriving in Japan, which can make for a longer journey time. Depending on your specific itinerary and departure port, these cruises can take anywhere from 14-30 days each way.

Conclusion

So, how long is a cruise from California to Japan? As we’ve seen, the answer depends on several factors including your departure port and cruise line.

Direct sailings from Los Angeles or San Diego typically take around 10-12 days each way, while transpacific itineraries can last anywhere from 14-30 days each way depending on your route. No matter which option you choose, however, a cruise to Japan offers an unforgettable experience that combines stunning ocean views with fascinating cultural experiences.