Do Cruise Ships Stop at Catalina Island?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a cruise to Southern California, you may be wondering whether your ship will make a stop at Catalina Island. The good news is that many cruise lines do include a visit to this idyllic island on their itineraries. Let’s take a closer look at why Catalina Island is such a popular destination and which cruise lines offer stops there.

Why Visit Catalina Island?

Catalina Island is located just off the coast of Southern California and is known for its stunning natural beauty, charming small towns, and laid-back vibe. The island is home to rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Visitors can also explore the quaint shops and restaurants in Avalon, the island’s main town, or take part in outdoor adventures like hiking and zip-lining.

Cruise Lines That Stop at Catalina Island

Several major cruise lines include stops at Catalina Island on their itineraries. These include:

  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Holland America Line
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean International

Carnival Cruise Line:

Carnival offers several different itineraries that include stops at Catalina Island. One popular option is the Mexican Riviera cruise, which departs from Long Beach and visits ports like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta before stopping at Catalina Island on the way back.

Disney Cruise Line:

Disney’s cruises to the West Coast typically include a stop at Ensenada, Mexico as well as a visit to Catalina Island. The island is a great spot for families with kids, as there are plenty of activities geared toward younger travelers.

Holland America Line:

Holland America’s Pacific Coastal cruise stops at several ports along the West Coast, including Vancouver, Seattle, and San Francisco. The itinerary also includes a stop at Catalina Island, where passengers can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and charming small towns.

Norwegian Cruise Line:

Norwegian’s Pacific Coastal cruises typically include stops at San Francisco and Victoria, British Columbia, as well as a visit to Catalina Island. The island is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore the island’s rugged terrain.

Princess Cruises:

Princess offers several different itineraries that include stops at Catalina Island. One popular option is the California Coastal cruise, which departs from Los Angeles and visits other California ports like Santa Barbara and San Diego before stopping at Catalina Island on the way back.

Royal Caribbean International:

Royal Caribbean’s cruises to the West Coast typically include a stop at Catalina Island as well as other popular destinations like Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas. The island is a great spot for travelers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some time in nature.

Conclusion

If you’re planning a cruise to Southern California, be sure to check whether your itinerary includes a stop at Catalina Island. With its natural beauty, charming small towns, and laid-back vibe, the island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this part of the world. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or simply want to relax on the beach, Catalina Island has something for everyone.