The Port of San Diego and Holland America Line have launched the 2024-2025 cruise season, an annual maritime celebration poised to bring an influx of travelers and economic benefits to the region. According to a statement obtained by the Port of San Diego, this season is set to feature 75 different voyages, with a projected guest count reaching approximately 265,000 by the season's close in spring.
The partnership between Port and Holland America is long-standing, and a shared enthusiasm marks it for tourism and regional promotion. "We are thrilled to kick off our cruise season here in San Diego with our long-time homeport partner, Holland America," Commissioner Sid Voorakkara of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners told the Port of San Diego. He anticipates that the collaboration will yield unforgettable travel experiences while simultaneously showcasing the splendor of San Diego Bay and its waterfront.
Passengers embarking from San Diego will have the opportunity to explore a variety of destinations, including the Pacific Coast, Mexico, the Panama Canal, Hawaii, and, for the particularly intrepid, the South Pacific—embodied by Holland America's 51-day South Pacific cruise, the longest excursion of the season. "We love sailing from San Diego and are thrilled to kick off the 2024/2025 cruise season," Holland America Line's chief commercial officer Beth Bodensteiner conveyed in a statement noted by the Port of San Diego. The economic ripple effect of these cruises is profound, with each ship's berth contributing nearly $378,000 to the local economy during their stay, totaling an estimated $11.3 million infusion throughout the season.
The cruise season is not only ushered in by Holland America Line but also by notable industry players such as Disney Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Viking Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, among others. San Diego will also welcome Viking Neptune and Viking Sea this year for their inaugural visits. Despite its position as the third busiest cruise port in California, trailing behind Long Beach and Los Angeles, San Diego boasts strategic proximity to Mexico, facilitating less travel time and more adventure in the Mexican Riviera. The city's cruise terminals are ideally situated in the bustling heart of the North Embarcadero. They have seamless access to local attractions and historic neighborhoods like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter, enriching travelers' experience as they transition from sea to land.
