What Is a Pacific Coastal Cruise?

By Robert Palmer

A coastal cruise along the Pacific Ocean can be an unforgettable experience for any traveler. Such a journey can take you through breathtaking landscapes, introduce you to new cultures, and offer a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of daily life. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what a Pacific Coastal Cruise is all about.

What Is A Pacific Coastal Cruise?

As the name suggests, a Pacific Coastal Cruise is a type of cruise that takes you along the western coast of North America. This route covers areas such as California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia in Canada, and Alaska. It’s a popular option for those who want to enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife while experiencing different cultures and cuisines.

Itinerary

The itinerary for a Pacific Coastal Cruise varies depending on the cruise line you choose. However, most cruises start from San Francisco or Los Angeles in California and end in either Vancouver or Seattle in Canada. The journey typically lasts between 7-10 days.

Some of the popular ports of call on this route include Astoria (Oregon), Victoria (British Columbia), Juneau (Alaska), Ketchikan (Alaska), San Diego (California), Santa Barbara (California), Monterey (California), and Seattle (Washington).

Activities On Board

While on board your ship during a Pacific Coastal Cruise, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Most cruises offer live entertainment shows, casinos, spa treatments, swimming pools, and fitness centers.

If you’re traveling with kids or family members who prefer kid-friendly activities, most ships have dedicated youth programs that provide fun activities such as arts & crafts classes and games.

Excursions

One of the best things about taking a Pacific Coastal Cruise is getting to explore different destinations along the way. Many cruises offer shore excursions, which allow you to explore each port of call and get a taste of the local culture.

Some popular excursions include whale watching tours in Juneau, visiting the Butchart Gardens in Victoria, exploring the Redwood Forest in California, and taking a scenic train ride along the White Pass & Yukon Route in Skagway (Alaska).

What To Pack

When packing for a Pacific Coastal Cruise, it’s essential to consider the weather conditions for each of your destinations. While some ports may be warm and sunny, others can be chilly and rainy.

Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions, as well as clothes suitable for different weather conditions. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun when needed.

The Bottom Line

A Pacific Coastal Cruise is an excellent way to experience stunning landscapes and diverse cultures along the western coast of North America. With plenty of activities on board and exciting excursions at each port of call, this type of cruise is perfect for anyone seeking adventure or relaxation. Don’t forget to pack appropriately, so you’re prepared for any weather conditions you may encounter along the way.