Tips For Taking A San Diego Harbor Cruise
Wednesday afternoons are particularly good for a San Diego harbor cruise, when lots of local sailboats may be out for the weekly “beer can” races. The local yacht club’s “opening day” also brings out the boats for a big race.
Take layered clothing along on your harbor cruise. It’s always colder on the water than on land, and even if the weather is warm when you leave the dock, fog can come in quickly, and the temperature drops with it. Don’t forget sunscreen and water, and something to tether your hat, so the strong breezes don’t rip it off your head.
To avoid traffic and parking hassles, take the San Diego Trolley to Santa Fe Depot and walk to the bay cruise dock.
Should You Take A San Diego Harbor Cruise
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I have to tell you, friends, our San Diego getaway was nothing short of fabulous. When we planned our trip, I knew that San Diego would definitely not be on the list of the cheapest places to live in California, nor would it be one of the cheapest places we have ever visit. Despite that, I really wanted to visit San Diego and take in some of the amazing sites and participate in a San Diego harbor cruise during our visit!
We escaped the Texas cold and headed for the California sun over the Christmas break, and boy were we glad we did. I just love that there are so many great hotels and gorgeous San Diego Airbnbs to choose from. Just choosing my accommodations got me excited for this trip!
Not only that, but after researching all of the things to do in San Diego, I was even more excited.
*This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. That Texas Couple is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. In addition, this is a sponsored post. Marty and I were hosted by Hornblower Cruises, but as always, all opinions are our own.
City Cruises San Diego
For nearly thirty years, City Cruises San DIego has provided thousands of people a harbor or ocean cruise with spectacular views aboard their dinner cruises, champagne brunch cruises, harbor tours, whale watching adventure cruises and private yacht charters for weddings and corporate events. Savor, indulge and unwind on a San Diego City Cruise, where you can enjoy the finest in gourmet cuisine, surrounded by spectacular bay views on one of these magnificent yachts. As an added bonus, you can also enjoy a private yacht charter for a corporate event, wedding, wedding reception or rehearsal dinner. City Cruises is a perfect venue for any occasion.
City Cruises offers the best sights and sounds of the magnificent San Diego bay. Cruises depart daily from the Embarcadero Downtown. Call or visit CityExperiences.com for more information or to make reservations.
Dinner and Brunch CruisesCity Cruises San Diego offers exciting dining experiences, where the celebration begins the moment you step aboard. Your Sunday brunch or nightly dinner cruise begins with a glass of chilled champagne on deck, where you can relax as their gracious crew transports you to a world of culinary delights and relaxation. Perfect for a weekend brunch cruise, a dinner cruise, or to celebrate a holiday on San Diego Bay. Book your Dining Cruise.
Discount pricing is available at the California Welcome Center Oceanside, please call for current offers and rates.
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Admiral Charter Ratesmaximum 700 Guests
The rates featured below are basic hourly rates to give you a basis to start with. Our yacht charter coordinators and captains are very flexible and can customize a package for your event or occasion based on your needs and desires. Additional accommodations can be made for catering, cocktails, and entertainment.
Hornblower San Diego Cruises
Hornblower Cruises was founded in California over 40 years ago, and in that time theyve grown into a major tour company that operates quality sightseeing cruises in cities all over the United States. In San Diego, they offer a wide range of tours catering to a variety of interests, tastes, and budgets. They are perhaps best known for three primary San Diego tours: the One-Hour Harbor Cruise & Sea Lion Adventure, the Best of the Bay Ninety-Minute Harbor Tour, and the Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventure. However, beyond these three popular cruises, they also do sunset cruises, dining cruises, private events, attractions packages, and more.
Save on your visit to the Hornblower San Diego Cruises!Hornblower San Diego Cruises is included on the Go San Diego Pass. Save an additional 10% on the Go City Pass with Coupon Code: CMGOCITY10 The discount stacks on top the current sale prices! Promo expires on August 31st.
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Q: Your Sunset Dinner Cruises Sound Incredible Can You Tell Us More About Them
A: Absolutely! We offer Sunset Dinner Cruises every single night, seven days a week. You can enjoy the gorgeous sunset out on the water during this time of year. With it being daylight savings time, the timing is perfect! Our dinner cruises are from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and theyre timed perfectly for you to catch that amazing sunset over the water with the Coronado Bridge in the background, and enjoy all the beautiful sights of San Diego Bay.
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San Diego Harbor Cruise
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Additional race information can be found at .
Enjoy a 2-hour sightseeing harbor cruise with close up views of Star of India, USS Midway, Coronado Bay Bridge, sea lions and famous San Diego Landmarks. Price includes a light snack.
Kids 3 & Under are FREE. No need to register them
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Event is held at Hornblower Cruises and Events. 970 N. Harbor Drive
– Parking can be tough in this area. There is metered street parking available. make sure to arrive in plenty of time!
any problems please call the work cell phone: 619.359.9603
* All sales are final. There will be no refunds issued for this activity.
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Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight:
We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best prices on flights. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines all over the world to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.
Book Your Vacation Package:
If you want to book an entire vacation package, then we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.
Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP. BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!
For full guided vacations including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all of your needs while ensuring that you have a great experience.
Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great one-stop-shop.
Book Your Accommodations:
We always begin our search by checking out the honest review on hotels at TripAdvisor. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site as well!
From Our Partnersset Sail On A Hornblower Cruise In The San Diego Bay
The sensation of cool wind blowing through your hair, whales leaping from the water, a fiery sunset just about to set, and a cocktail in hand are just a taste of what its like to step foot on a Hornblower Cruise in San Diego.
A day or night spent with Hornblower Cruises and Events is unlike any other offering an impressive fleet of seven ships for both public cruises and charter yacht rentals. Visitors can choose from daily one and two hour Harbor Cruises, Whale & Dolphin Watching tours, Sights & Sips and Rock The Yacht! Cocktail Cruises, Champagne Jazz Brunches and nightly Sunset Dinner Cruises. To learn about the exciting new cruises available starting in April, PHOENIX magazine spoke with Marketing Manager of Hornblower Cruises and Events, Sophie Shrader.
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Why Choose A San Diego Harbor Cruise
I have to tell you that we did not originally plan to do a Harbor Cruise with Hornblower Cruises. We planned on going on a whale-watching cruise as December was prime migration season for whales. Even if you only had one day in San Diego, how awesome would it be to spend the day watching whales?
Unfortunately, I had to put a damper on these plans. I get extremely motion sick so the thought of several hours out on open seas did not appeal to me.
I know what youre thinking take some Dramamine, Michelle, youll be fine. Normally I would agree with you but I had just recovered from a bad case of vertigo that had me bedridden for weeks so I was not willing to risk it.
I told Marty to go ahead without me but, of course, he would not do that. Being that a harbor cruise is one of the top things to do in San Diego, we opted for the harbor cruise instead and we were both super excited to get out on the water!
How To Get There
Most cruises depart from Harbour Drive and you can reach here either via bus, trolley or taxis, in addition to driving yourself.
Flagship Cruises
Flagship Cruises depart from 970 N Harbour Drive.
Parking: Metered parking is available closeby. Other options include parking at the USS Midway Parking Lot, B Street Pier parking lot , Spring Hill Suites & InterContinental Hotel , Ace parking lot among others
Taxi, Pedicab, and Dropoffs: These transportation options can be availed at Broadway pier.
Trolley: The pier is two blocks away from Santa Fe Depot Train Station & Trolley Stop.
Hornblower Cruises
Hornblower Cruises depart from two locations: Pier 1 and Pier 2 both on Harbour Drive, depending on your tour. So be sure to check the Reservation Confirmation issued to you.
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Official sites
You can book tickets on the official websites of the cruise companies: Flagship Cruises and Hornblower Cruises. Tour prices typically start from USD 28.
Third-party sites
Tickets to San Diego Harbour Cruises are available at third-party sites as well. Groupon often has discounted tickets for both Flagship and Hornblower cruises as does Goldstar and aRes Travel, among others. You can also opt to book via sites like Viator.
At boarding location
Tickets can be purchased at the windows available at the respective boarding piers of both companies.
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Q: What Makes A Cruise From Hornblower Cruises And Events Unique In Terms Of Amenities And Events
A: We have seven different ships available and a variety of amazing cruises to choose from, like our Brunch Cruises all weekend-long, and our Sunset Dinner Cruises which go out every single night and you can spot the best sunsets while relaxing on the San Diego Bay. Beginning in April, well offer live jazz music on our Brunch Cruises and also begin Cocktail Cruises on Friday and Saturday nights which Im very excited for. We also offer Harbor Tours six times every day and Whale & Dolphin Watching tours seasonally. Right now, you can spot gray whales on our tours until the end of April. In the summer, youll be able to spot blue whales. Aside from all of these incredible public offerings our ships are available to host private, totally customizable events such as a milestone birthday, wedding or a corporate outing. You name it. We can make it happen for you and your group!
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San Diego Harbor Cruises By Flagship & Hornblower Prices Dress Code
Planning a holiday? Find out the best hotels to stay in San Diego
San Diego Harbor Cruises is the best way to explore the San Diego Bay area, a natural harbor, and a deepwater port.
These cruises are professionally narrated tours that take you under the Coronado Bridge, past military ships, waterfront landmarks, etc., for an in-depth look at San Diegos scenic beauty.
Visitors can choose from numerous options dinner cruises, champagne cruises, speed boat rides, drive-your-own speedboats, and more.
In this article, we share everything you must know before booking your San Diego Bay Harbour Cruise.
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Frequently Asked Questions About San Diego Harbor Cruise By Hornblower
Do I get to choose the south or north cruise for my One Hour Harbor Cruise?Does the Two Hour Harbor Cruise cover both the North and South Routes?If one or more people in my party are not able to make it or we miss the cruise departure time will we receive a refund?Is gratuity included?What happens if it rains or snow?Are there any age restrictions on your cruises?Do you offer any children discounts?What is the dress attire for the cruises?What time do I board the ship?Is smoking allowed?Can we meet the Captain and visit the pilot house?Are you regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard?Are life preservers on board?Is the ship handicapped accessible?Will I get seasick?Where are you located?
- Our main ticket booth is located at 970 N. Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Our secondary ticket booth is located at Grape Street Pier at 1800 N. Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Our offices and event space are located at The Abbey at 2825 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103
Does Hornblower validate parking?
Faqs About The San Diego Flagship Cruise
What is the history of Flagship Cruises San Diego?
Since 1915, Flagship Cruises has been offering a multitude of harbor excursions and adventures for locals and visitors. They are San Diegos longest-running harbor tour company.
What is your favorite Flagship Cruise?
One of our favorites is the combination Two-Hour, Full-Bay harbor tour on the Spirit of San Diego, Flagships second-largest yacht. This cruise offers guests the best of both San Diegos north and south scenic spots, all expertly narrated by a knowledgeable guide in a relaxed, comfortable setting. We have been on both day trips and sunset sails, and though theyre both phenomenal, our last sunset trip was spectacular. It didnt hurt that Mother Nature was very cooperative full explanation to follow!
Where can I find Flagship Cruise Tickets?
You can book tickets in various ways. You can buy tickets in person at the booth right by the San Diego Harbor. However, I recommend booking them in advance. Especially right now with limited capacity to ensure social distancing and in the summers during the high season, tickets can go days in advance. I often find great deals on Groupon and Viator. Take a look here to find great deals:Whale-Watching and Jet Boat Combo Ticket
How many cruises are offered daily?
There are six daily tours, and though walk-ons may be accommodated, advance tickets are highly recommended. Guests may also choose a one-hour northern or southern route if time is limited.
Where can I park?
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Whale & Dolphin Cruises Offered Year Around
Hornblower Cruises and Events in partnership with the San Diego Natural History Museum offer an incredible Blue Whale and Dolphin cruise. Youll board at the Embarcadero at 1800 N. Harbor Dr. in downtown San Diego . With its many years of experience, they offer the best venue for an exciting whale and dolphin watching excursion off the coast of San Diego. Its offered daily throughout the year.
Offered are a Blue whale and Grey whale and dolphin watching year round with departures at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. daily. Tours are three-and-a-half hours long and include a video and whale exhibits featuring fossils. Cost is weekdays and weekends for adults seniors and military receive off and weekdays and weekends for children 417. Children under 3 are admitted free. Blue whale watching is every day December through April from 8:45 a.m.1 p.m for adults on Sat. and Sun. and on Mon. and Fri.
Definitely recommended is an expedition on a Hornblower Yacht to see the amazing California Gray Whales and Blue Whales. This 31/2 hour Whale Watching cruise is an educational experience. Its offered December through April. This is the time of the year when whales trek south from the artic and pass within a few miles off the coast of San Diego. Without a doubt, this is the most exhilarating up-close whale watching experience you will ever see. Book your cruise.
Where To Sit Best Seating
Both indoor and outdoor seating is available. Most people choose to sit up top. If you decide to view the bay from the top deck, you might want to bring along a sweater or jacket. It can get chilly even on a sunny San Diego day. You can always sit below and view the bay from the large windows and sip a warm cup of coffee.
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