Where Do the Cruise Ships Leave From in San Francisco?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a cruise trip from San Francisco, the first thing you need to know is where the ships depart from. San Francisco is a major port city, and many cruise lines operate out of its ports. Here’s a guide to the different ports and terminals in San Francisco where you can board your cruise ship.

Port of San Francisco

The Port of San Francisco is located on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay. It’s one of the largest and busiest ports in California, handling both cargo and passenger ships. The port has several terminals that serve different cruise lines.

James R. Herman Cruise Terminal

The James R. Herman Cruise Terminal is located at Pier 27 on the Embarcadero. It’s a state-of-the-art terminal that can handle large ships up to 1,000 feet long. This terminal serves as the primary homeport for Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line.

Pier 35

Pier 35 is located on the Embarcadero between Bay Street and North Point Street. It’s a popular terminal for smaller ships that can’t dock at Pier 27 due to size restrictions. This terminal serves as homeport for Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Crystal Cruises.

Alameda Terminal

Located across the bay from San Francisco, Alameda Terminal is another popular departure point for cruise ships.

Alameda Harbor Bay Ferry Terminal

The Alameda Harbor Bay Ferry Terminal is located on Bay Farm Island in Alameda, about 10 miles south of Oakland International Airport. This terminal serves as homeport for Windstar Cruises.

  • Note: Some smaller ships may also dock at other piers in San Francisco.
  • Tip: If you’re flying into San Francisco, it’s best to arrive a day early and stay in a hotel near the port so you don’t have to worry about transportation on the day of your cruise.

In Conclusion

San Francisco offers several ports and terminals for cruise ships. Whether you’re embarking on a large or small ship, there’s a terminal that will suit your needs.

Knowing where your ship departs from is the first step to planning a successful cruise vacation. Bon Voyage!