18-Day Baja Peninsula, Mexican Riviera & Pacific Coast

Itinerary

Day 1 Mar 25, 2028 San Diego, California Departs 17:00 Free from smog and jungle-like freeways, San Diego sits gracefully around a beautiful curving bay. Although affluent and conservative, this second largest city in California is also amiable and easygoing. San Diego has a vibrant and active downtown area, and since the late 1970s several blocks of early 20th century architecture have been stylishly renovated, while the sleek modern bank buildings symbolize the city's growing economic significance on the Pacific Rim. San Diego is the birthplace of California. Portuguese explorer Juan Rodrigues Cabrillo landed here in 1542; since then, San Diego has been under Spanish, Mexican and after 1846, American rule. The city really took off with the arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad in the 1880s, but in terms of trade and significance it has long played second fiddle to Los Angeles. However, during World War II the U.S. Navy made San Diego their Pacific Command Center and the military continue to dominate the local economy, along now with tourism. Within easy reach of the downtown area, encompassing 1,400 acres of cultural, recreational and environmental delights, San Diego's Balboa Park is a sumptuous place with trees, gardens, traffic-free promenades and a large concentration of Spanish-colonial style buildings. The Hillcrest area is the lively and artsy center of the city, and Old Town San Diego is now a historical park where the city's Spanish and Mexican history and heritage are most evident. The Gaslamp Quarter, once the heart of frontier San Diego, is today filled with smart streets lined with chic cafés, antique stores, art galleries and gas lamps (powered by electricity). Most of the eastern part of the county is taken up by the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert. Another must-see is the city's most famous attraction, the San Diego Zoo. San Diego, California port guide Search cruises visiting San Diego, California

Day 3 Mar 27, 2028 Cabo San Lucas 11:00 – 18:00 7.0 hrs ashore Found at the tip of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is where the desert meets the ocean. Although it has received a makeover of modern Americana in recent years, this place is still a world away from everywhere else in Mexico. A trip to Cabo (the San Lucas is optional) will not leave you disappointed. With swaying palm trees, turquoise seas and long ribbons of white sand, this is a resort that ticks every box: great food, great nightlight which equal great times – for some. Others may prefer to scratch the surface just a bit deeper and travel along the peninsula that is known for its dramatic scenery of desert terrain and rugged coastline marked by many unusual formations. The sweeping views of the bay are simply sensational. A quick turn inward takes you to San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas’ older and more grown up sister. Offering a very much calmer and much more authentic atmosphere, just half an hour along the coast leaves you in its desert terrain, and leaves a very different impression from the lively beachfront bars and cafes of San Lucas. Perhaps one of the most stunning ways to see Cabo though is from the water. With the Arco de Cabo San Lucas featuring highly on many must-see lists, a trip around the bay is a must. The braver among you might also like to indulge their inner adrenalin junkie and swim with whale sharks – a memorable and totally risk-free experience if there ever was one. End your day of sightseeing with a fabulous sunset, a (tequila) sunrise in hand, watching the fishermen come home from their adventures. Cabo San Lucas port guide Search cruises visiting Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas photo — Day 3 Mar 27, 2028 Cabo San Lucas 11:00 – 18:00 7.0 hrs ashore Found at the tip of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is where the desert meets the ocean. Although it has received a makeover of modern Americana in recent years, this place is still a world away from everywhere else in Mexico. A trip to Cabo (the San Lucas is optional) will not leave you disappointed. With swaying palm trees, turquoise seas and long ribbons of white sand, this is a resort that ticks every box: great food, great nightlight which equal great times – for some. Others may prefer to scratch the surface just a bit deeper and travel along the peninsula that is known for its dramatic scenery of desert terrain and rugged coastline marked by many unusual formations. The sweeping views of the bay are simply sensational. A quick turn inward takes you to San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas’ older and more grown up sister. Offering a very much calmer and much more authentic atmosphere, just half an hour along the coast leaves you in its desert terrain, and leaves a very different impression from the lively beachfront bars and cafes of San Lucas. Perhaps one of the most stunning ways to see Cabo though is from the water. With the Arco de Cabo San Lucas featuring highly on many must-see lists, a trip around the bay is a must. The braver among you might also like to indulge their inner adrenalin junkie and swim with whale sharks – a memorable and totally risk-free experience if there ever was one. End your day of sightseeing with a fabulous sunset, a (tequila) sunrise in hand, watching the fishermen come home from their adventures. Cabo San Lucas port guide Search cruises visiting Cabo San Lucas

Day 4 Mar 28, 2028 La Paz, Mexico 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore The port of Pichilingue sits just over 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of La Paz, a city of 215,000 on the Baja California Peninsula. The name La Paz translates as "peace," but it is possible that the Spaniards chose that with some sense of irony. The first Spanish conquistadores landed here in 1535, yet it took them nearly 200 years to build the first settlement due to resistance from the indigenous people in the area. Modern La Paz, however, certainly lives up to its name. The capital of Baja California Sur is a friendly, vibrant city nestled into a calm bay along the Sea of Cortez. The palm-lined malecón stretches along the waterfront, perfect for a stroll or bike ride, and the bustling city center boasts broad boulevards where you can shop the wares of artisans at local markets. Whale-watching and fishing expeditions depart from the harbor, or you can choose to go sea kayaking around nearby islands. The Regional Museum of Anthropology and History provides an introduction to the Baja Peninsula, from the prehistoric indigenous cultures who lived here to the state’s role in the Mexican Revolution. The new Whale Museum, opened in 2016, explains the differences between the six whale species that migrate to Mexico’s Pacific Coast every winter. La Paz, Mexico port guide Search cruises visiting La Paz, Mexico

La Paz, Mexico photo — Day 4 Mar 28, 2028 La Paz, Mexico 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore The port of Pichilingue sits just over 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of La Paz, a city of 215,000 on the Baja California Peninsula. The name La Paz translates as "peace," but it is possible that the Spaniards chose that with some sense of irony. The first Spanish conquistadores landed here in 1535, yet it took them nearly 200 years to build the first settlement due to resistance from the indigenous people in the area. Modern La Paz, however, certainly lives up to its name. The capital of Baja California Sur is a friendly, vibrant city nestled into a calm bay along the Sea of Cortez. The palm-lined malecón stretches along the waterfront, perfect for a stroll or bike ride, and the bustling city center boasts broad boulevards where you can shop the wares of artisans at local markets. Whale-watching and fishing expeditions depart from the harbor, or you can choose to go sea kayaking around nearby islands. The Regional Museum of Anthropology and History provides an introduction to the Baja Peninsula, from the prehistoric indigenous cultures who lived here to the state’s role in the Mexican Revolution. The new Whale Museum, opened in 2016, explains the differences between the six whale species that migrate to Mexico’s Pacific Coast every winter. La Paz, Mexico port guide Search cruises visiting La Paz, Mexico

Day 5 Mar 29, 2028 Loreto 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore This ancient and beautiful destination, cradled by the lush hills of the Sierra de la Giganta and the cobalt waters of the Sea of Cortez, immerses you in history and culture from the moment you step onto its shores. Dating back nearly 12,000 years, Loreto is thought to be the oldest human settlement on the Peninsula of Baja California, and you can explore its fascinating cave paintings and petroglyphs. It is also where the Jesuit missionaries landed, founding the first Mission of Baja California and establishing the Church of Our Lady of Loreto, which still anchors the town. Mexican heritage and colonial influences can both be seen as you wander through the quaint streets, browsing curio shops, sampling local fare and meeting the friendly people. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring Loreto's sun-drenched and scenic surroundings. Sparkling beaches and dramatic cliff-top vistas invite thrill-seekers and eco-travelers alike to discover the local flora and fauna and the abundant water activities. Kayaking, snorkeling, sailing and sport-fishing are popular, as are more extreme off-road adventures and, in the winter months, whale watching. Come experience the unspoiled beauty of Loreto for yourself! Loreto port guide Search cruises visiting Loreto

Loreto photo — Day 5 Mar 29, 2028 Loreto 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore This ancient and beautiful destination, cradled by the lush hills of the Sierra de la Giganta and the cobalt waters of the Sea of Cortez, immerses you in history and culture from the moment you step onto its shores. Dating back nearly 12,000 years, Loreto is thought to be the oldest human settlement on the Peninsula of Baja California, and you can explore its fascinating cave paintings and petroglyphs. It is also where the Jesuit missionaries landed, founding the first Mission of Baja California and establishing the Church of Our Lady of Loreto, which still anchors the town. Mexican heritage and colonial influences can both be seen as you wander through the quaint streets, browsing curio shops, sampling local fare and meeting the friendly people. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring Loreto's sun-drenched and scenic surroundings. Sparkling beaches and dramatic cliff-top vistas invite thrill-seekers and eco-travelers alike to discover the local flora and fauna and the abundant water activities. Kayaking, snorkeling, sailing and sport-fishing are popular, as are more extreme off-road adventures and, in the winter months, whale watching. Come experience the unspoiled beauty of Loreto for yourself! Loreto port guide Search cruises visiting Loreto

Day 11 Apr 4, 2028 Mazatlan, Mexico 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Book a Mexico Cruise with Holland America Line and sail to the port city of Mazatlán, where the best of traditional Mexican architecture, food and culture is found alongside contemporary conveniences, amenities and attractions. There's a reason why Americans and Canadians flock here, particularly in winter: It's a warm and welcoming place with plenty to keep visitors entertained for a vacation getaway. Cruise to Mazatlán and explore an array of activities on a Mazatlán shore excursion. There really is something for everyone here, from golfing, fishing and zip lining to sampling agave-based spirits on a distillery tour or learning more about local history at the archaeological museum. There are plenty of cultural opportunities, too, from performances at the Teatro Ángela Peralta to witnessing death-defying cliff dives that will make you hold your breath until divers resurface from the churning surf. On a cruise to Mazatlán don’t forgot to taste some local cuisine. Mazatlán keeps visitors' appetites sated; thanks to the city's coastal location, seafood is freshly caught, and shrimp-based dishes are a particular specialty in local restaurants. And if you can't head home without a souvenir, there's locally made liquor or handmade crafts that can fit neatly into your luggage.

Day 12 Apr 5, 2028 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Located in the center of Mexico's Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is one of the country's most picturesque cities and holiday destinations. Its cobblestone streets and red-roofed, white adobe-style buildings nestle between palm-covered mountains and the vast Banderas Bay. Stretches of white sand beaches are among the best in Mexico and the climate is consistently warm and sunny. For years, vacationers who had discovered the beauty of Puerto Vallarta tried to keep the "good news" from spreading. The arrival of a major film company and two of the world's best-known stars, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, changed Puerto Vallarta from a laid-back town to a famous getaway destination almost overnight. In addition to its visual appeal, Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of cultural entertainment and a lively nightlife. Take time to see the sights of the city. Downtown spreads around the small Isla Cuale, which lies in the middle of the Cuale River; the heart of the city is a few blocks north around the Municipal Square. A crown-topped cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, rises behind the square; a wide seaside promenade, known as the Malecon, hugs the oceanfront. A seahorse statue welcomes visitors to the downtown beach area. The statue and the prominent church tower have become symbols of Puerto Vallarta, or PV as locals call their town for short. Puerto Vallarta grew from an existing fishing village with a history dating back some 100 years. Because of its veritable heritage as a Mexican pueblo, the town tends to offer more of the country's artistic and cultural tradition than other Mexican resorts. The origin of the charro (traditional costume), the national beverage tequila and the typical music of the mariachi bands are credited to Puerto Vallarta. It is considered the most Mexican of all the country's resort towns. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico port guide Search cruises visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico photo — Day 12 Apr 5, 2028 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Located in the center of Mexico's Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is one of the country's most picturesque cities and holiday destinations. Its cobblestone streets and red-roofed, white adobe-style buildings nestle between palm-covered mountains and the vast Banderas Bay. Stretches of white sand beaches are among the best in Mexico and the climate is consistently warm and sunny. For years, vacationers who had discovered the beauty of Puerto Vallarta tried to keep the "good news" from spreading. The arrival of a major film company and two of the world's best-known stars, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, changed Puerto Vallarta from a laid-back town to a famous getaway destination almost overnight. In addition to its visual appeal, Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of cultural entertainment and a lively nightlife. Take time to see the sights of the city. Downtown spreads around the small Isla Cuale, which lies in the middle of the Cuale River; the heart of the city is a few blocks north around the Municipal Square. A crown-topped cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, rises behind the square; a wide seaside promenade, known as the Malecon, hugs the oceanfront. A seahorse statue welcomes visitors to the downtown beach area. The statue and the prominent church tower have become symbols of Puerto Vallarta, or PV as locals call their town for short. Puerto Vallarta grew from an existing fishing village with a history dating back some 100 years. Because of its veritable heritage as a Mexican pueblo, the town tends to offer more of the country's artistic and cultural tradition than other Mexican resorts. The origin of the charro (traditional costume), the national beverage tequila and the typical music of the mariachi bands are credited to Puerto Vallarta. It is considered the most Mexican of all the country's resort towns. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico port guide Search cruises visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Day 18 Apr 11, 2028 Victoria, British Columbia, Canada 14:00 – 21:00 7.0 hrs ashore Of all the cities in Canada, Victoria may be the furthest from Great Britain, but it has the most British vibe. Between sipping afternoon tea, visiting flower gardens and castles and stopping in at pubs, one could easily forget about the Pacific Ocean lapping at the other side of Vancouver Island. The influence of the First Nations culture is also strong here in Victoria, with totem poles taking a front-and-center position on the Inner Harbour and in Beacon Hill Park. Extensive galleries are devoted to the history of the First People at the Royal British Columbia Museum, too, one of Victoria's top tourist attractions. Other waves of immigration besides that of the English are evident in the streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown here, as well as on the menus of the city’s many restaurants, pizzerias and tavernas. Start your visit to Victoria's sights and attractions at the Inner Harbour. Whale-watching cruises and sightseeing floatplanes take off and return from their excursions here and government buildings, museums, the Visitor Centre and the grand Fairmont Empress provide a dignified welcome. Just around the point, Fisherman’s Wharf offers a lively contrast with working fishing boats, barking harbor seals and busy seafood restaurants serving up the catch of the day. Take time for a jaunt to the famous Butchart Gardens, a truly stunning show garden developed on the site of a depleted quarry. Enjoy afternoon tea or a walk in the park or a shopping trip to Market Square or along Government Street. However you choose to spend your day here or decide where to go in Victoria, the city’s civilized delights will charm you. Victoria, British Columbia, Canada port guide Search cruises visiting Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada photo — Day 18 Apr 11, 2028 Victoria, British Columbia, Canada 14:00 – 21:00 7.0 hrs ashore Of all the cities in Canada, Victoria may be the furthest from Great Britain, but it has the most British vibe. Between sipping afternoon tea, visiting flower gardens and castles and stopping in at pubs, one could easily forget about the Pacific Ocean lapping at the other side of Vancouver Island. The influence of the First Nations culture is also strong here in Victoria, with totem poles taking a front-and-center position on the Inner Harbour and in Beacon Hill Park. Extensive galleries are devoted to the history of the First People at the Royal British Columbia Museum, too, one of Victoria's top tourist attractions. Other waves of immigration besides that of the English are evident in the streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown here, as well as on the menus of the city’s many restaurants, pizzerias and tavernas. Start your visit to Victoria's sights and attractions at the Inner Harbour. Whale-watching cruises and sightseeing floatplanes take off and return from their excursions here and government buildings, museums, the Visitor Centre and the grand Fairmont Empress provide a dignified welcome. Just around the point, Fisherman’s Wharf offers a lively contrast with working fishing boats, barking harbor seals and busy seafood restaurants serving up the catch of the day. Take time for a jaunt to the famous Butchart Gardens, a truly stunning show garden developed on the site of a depleted quarry. Enjoy afternoon tea or a walk in the park or a shopping trip to Market Square or along Government Street. However you choose to spend your day here or decide where to go in Victoria, the city’s civilized delights will charm you. Victoria, British Columbia, Canada port guide Search cruises visiting Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Day 19 Apr 12, 2028 Vancouver, Canada Arrives 07:00 Boasting mountains, sea, culture, art and so much more, many cities claim to have it all, but few can back it up like Vancouver. Famously livable, just visiting this highrise city - surrounded by staggering natural beauty - is a thrill. Offering all of the creature comforts of an ultra-modern, worldly metropolis - even downtown has a hint of mountain-freshness to its air - and part of Vancouver's appeal is how easily you can swap the skyscrapers for whale-filled oceans and mountain-punctured skies. View less Head up to the Vancouver Lookout Tower for the ultimate 360-degree views of the city glistening, amid the beautiful embrace of the beckoning wilderness beyond. But what to see first? Art lovers might choose the Vancouver Art Gallery or the Contemporary Art Gallery. Nature lovers might rush for the ferry to visit Vancouver Island - where they can encounter grizzly bears, whales and orcas. Culture vultures, on the other hand, will probably head for the sights and sounds of Canada's biggest Chinatown. From steaming dim sum for lunch to Chinese apothecaries offering herbs to soothe any illness, it’s all here thanks to the migrant workers of the 19th century. The one-of-a-kind treasure of Stanley Park brings wild wonder and natural beauty to this cosmopolitan city's doorstep, and the pine-tree clad park offers isolated trails and amazing views. Wander the Seawall that encircles it - a 20-mile coastal path, full of joggers, whizzing skaters and wandering couples. Grab a bike and cycle between Coal Harbour and Kitsilano Beach. You can top up your tan on the shore, as you soak in the glorious views of the mountains and cityscape from the sands. Vancouver, Canada port guide Search cruises visiting Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver, Canada photo — Day 19 Apr 12, 2028 Vancouver, Canada Arrives 07:00 Boasting mountains, sea, culture, art and so much more, many cities claim to have it all, but few can back it up like Vancouver. Famously livable, just visiting this highrise city - surrounded by staggering natural beauty - is a thrill. Offering all of the creature comforts of an ultra-modern, worldly metropolis - even downtown has a hint of mountain-freshness to its air - and part of Vancouver's appeal is how easily you can swap the skyscrapers for whale-filled oceans and mountain-punctured skies. View less Head up to the Vancouver Lookout Tower for the ultimate 360-degree views of the city glistening, amid the beautiful embrace of the beckoning wilderness beyond. But what to see first? Art lovers might choose the Vancouver Art Gallery or the Contemporary Art Gallery. Nature lovers might rush for the ferry to visit Vancouver Island - where they can encounter grizzly bears, whales and orcas. Culture vultures, on the other hand, will probably head for the sights and sounds of Canada's biggest Chinatown. From steaming dim sum for lunch to Chinese apothecaries offering herbs to soothe any illness, it’s all here thanks to the migrant workers of the 19th century. The one-of-a-kind treasure of Stanley Park brings wild wonder and natural beauty to this cosmopolitan city's doorstep, and the pine-tree clad park offers isolated trails and amazing views. Wander the Seawall that encircles it - a 20-mile coastal path, full of joggers, whizzing skaters and wandering couples. Grab a bike and cycle between Coal Harbour and Kitsilano Beach. You can top up your tan on the shore, as you soak in the glorious views of the mountains and cityscape from the sands. Vancouver, Canada port guide Search cruises visiting Vancouver, Canada

Ship

Your ship Koningsdam 5★ **2,650** guests Built **2016** The first of Holland America Line’s Pinnacle-class ships, Koningsdam combines 21st- century elegance and nautical tradition. Inspired by music, her design features fluid lines, light-filled spaces and innovative, new dining and entertainment venues—from the dazzling, two-story World Stage to Music Walk, with Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club and Billboard Onboard. Truly a destination all her own, there’s much to explore on Koningsdam. Koningsdam ship guide Search cruises on Koningsdam

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	from $3,364 $186 / night	Mar 20, 2027Voyage K717A

Name	Supplier code	Type
Verandah Stateroom	V	Balcony
Verandah Stateroom	VA	Balcony
Verandah Stateroom	VB	Balcony
Verandah Stateroom	VC	Balcony
Verandah Stateroom	VD	Balcony
Verandah Stateroom	VE	Balcony
Verandah Stateroom	VF	Balcony
Verandah Stateroom (Partially Obstructed View)	VH	Balcony
Verandah Spa Stateroom	VQ	Balcony
Aft-View - Verandah Stateroom	VS	Balcony
Large Interior Stateroom	I	Inside
Large Interior Spa	IQ	Inside
Standard Inside Stateroom	J	Inside
Standard Inside Stateroom	K	Inside
Standard Inside Stateroom	L	Inside
Standard Inside Stateroom	N	Inside
Large Oceanview Stateroom	C	Oceanview
Large Oceanview Spa	CQ	Oceanview
Large Oceanview Stateroom	D	Oceanview
Large Oceanview Stateroom	E	Oceanview
Large Oceanview Stateroom	F	Oceanview
Family Oceanview Stateroom	FA	Oceanview
Family Oceanview Stateroom	FB	Oceanview
Single Oceanview Stateroom	OO	Oceanview
Vista Suite	A	Suite
Aft-View - Vista Suite	AS	Suite
Vista Suite	B	Suite
Vista Suite	BC	Suite
Pinnacle Suite	PS	Suite
Neptune Suites	SA	Suite
Neptune Suites	SB	Suite
Neptune Suites	SC	Suite
Neptune Spa Suite	SQ	Suite
Signature Suite	SS	Suite
Signature Suite	SY	Suite

18-Day Baja Peninsula, Mexican Riviera & Pacific Coast

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