12-Day Historical Baja Peninsula

The 12-Day Historical Baja Peninsula is a 12-night US West Coast cruise aboard Zaandam, operated by Holland America Line. Departing San Diego, California on December 7, 2026, the voyage visits 9 ports. Fares start from $1,984 per person.

Length: 12 nights
Departs: Dec 7, 2026
Returns: Dec 19, 2026
Ports of call: 9
Days at sea: 3

from $1,984

$165 / night per person, incl. taxes & fees

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Itinerary

Day 1 Dec 7, 2026 San Diego, California Departs 15:00 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 Dec 9, 2026 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 Dec 9, 2026 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 Dec 10, 2026 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 4 Dec 10, 2026 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 6 Dec 12, 2026 Topolobampo 04:00 – 23:00 19.0 hrs ashore Have you heard of Topolobampo? Good, don't tell anyone. Holland America Line is the only major cruise line to call on this peaceful port on Mexico's Sea of Cortez. Awaiting your arrival: playful bottlenose dolphins; the mansion of Don Diego de la Vega, "El Zorro"; grand visions of the Chihuahua-al-Pacifico Railway, a luxury train through Mexico's scenic Copper Canyon. Sample shore excursions: Copper Canyon by Train; Land of Zorro & Native Culture; Bay, Birds & Dolphin Cruise. Topolobampo port guide Search cruises visiting Topolobampo

Topolobampo photo — Day 6 Dec 12, 2026 Topolobampo 04:00 – 23:00 19.0 hrs ashore Have you heard of Topolobampo? Good, don't tell anyone. Holland America Line is the only major cruise line to call on this peaceful port on Mexico's Sea of Cortez. Awaiting your arrival: playful bottlenose dolphins; the mansion of Don Diego de la Vega, "El Zorro"; grand visions of the Chihuahua-al-Pacifico Railway, a luxury train through Mexico's scenic Copper Canyon. Sample shore excursions: Copper Canyon by Train; Land of Zorro & Native Culture; Bay, Birds & Dolphin Cruise. Topolobampo port guide Search cruises visiting Topolobampo

Day 7 Dec 13, 2026 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 7 Dec 13, 2026 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 8 Dec 14, 2026 Mazatlan, Mexico 10:00 – 18:00 8.0 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 9 Dec 15, 2026 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 9 Dec 15, 2026 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 12 Dec 18, 2026 Ensenada 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Ensenada, the third-largest city in the state of Baja, and its environs are famed for many things. One is the sunny and mild weather, which helps yield fine wines considered to be the best in Mexico. Another is the surf. Ensenada boasts several celebrated surfing spots, including San Miguel Beach and Three Ms, or Tres Emes. A third lure is off-road racing, with the Baja 1000 being held every year in November and the Baja 500 taking place in June. Rivaling Carnival in Rio and Mardi Gras in New Orleans is Ensenada’s Carnaval, bringing thousands of revelers to the streets for six fun-filled days. Migrating gray whales draw their fair share of travelers as well. Certainly, this is only a partial list of Ensenada’s seasonal and perennial attractions. During your visit, you are sure to discover additional reasons Ensenada is called the “Cinderella of the Pacific.” Ensenada port guide Search cruises visiting Ensenada

Ensenada photo — Day 12 Dec 18, 2026 Ensenada 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Ensenada, the third-largest city in the state of Baja, and its environs are famed for many things. One is the sunny and mild weather, which helps yield fine wines considered to be the best in Mexico. Another is the surf. Ensenada boasts several celebrated surfing spots, including San Miguel Beach and Three Ms, or Tres Emes. A third lure is off-road racing, with the Baja 1000 being held every year in November and the Baja 500 taking place in June. Rivaling Carnival in Rio and Mardi Gras in New Orleans is Ensenada’s Carnaval, bringing thousands of revelers to the streets for six fun-filled days. Migrating gray whales draw their fair share of travelers as well. Certainly, this is only a partial list of Ensenada’s seasonal and perennial attractions. During your visit, you are sure to discover additional reasons Ensenada is called the “Cinderella of the Pacific.” Ensenada port guide Search cruises visiting Ensenada

Pricing

Lowest fare we've tracked over the observed 95-day span: $1,864 · range $1,864–$1,984

Lower than 94% of peers This longer-duration sailing's from-price per night is lower than 94% of comparable sailings.

same cruise line and duration · from-price per night · as of Jun 27, 2026 · Broader cohort: same cruise line and duration, compared by from-price per night.

Current prices

Per person · 2 guests · incl. taxes & fees

Inside

from $1,984

$165 / night

Fare rows

Large Interior Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $1,984

$165 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Interior Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,064

$172 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Interior Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,104

$175 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Interior Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,124

$177 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Interior Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,144

$178 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Interior Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,164

$180 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Interior Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,184

$182 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Oceanview

from $2,134

$177 / night

Fare rows

Large Ocean view Stateroom (Fully Obstructed View)

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,134

$177 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,184

$182 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom (Partial Sea View)

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,214

$184 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,224

$185 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom (Porthole View)

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,254

$187 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,264

$188 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,304

$192 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,344

$195 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,384

$198 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,424

$202 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Large Ocean view Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $2,464

$205 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Balcony

Not available

Suite

from $3,684

$307 / night

Fare rows

Vista Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $3,684

$307 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Vista Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $3,814

$317 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Vista Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $3,944

$328 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Vista Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $4,074

$339 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Vista Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $4,204

$350 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Neptune Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $7,484

$623 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Neptune Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $7,874

$656 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Prices verified Jun 27, 2026

Prices come from third-party data feeds via Holland America Line and may differ from the cruise line's current fare. Confirm the final price before booking. How our pricing works

Show all 26 cabin grades

Cabin grades and pricing
Name	Supplier code	Type
Large Interior Stateroom	I	Inside
Large Interior Stateroom	J	Inside
Large Interior Stateroom	K	Inside
Large Interior Stateroom	L	Inside
Large Interior Stateroom	M	Inside
Large Interior Stateroom	MM	Inside
Large Interior Stateroom	N	Inside
Large Ocean view Stateroom	C	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom	D	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom	DA	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom	DD	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom	E	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom	EE	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom	F	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom	FF	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom (Porthole View)	G	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom (Partial Sea View)	H	Oceanview
Large Ocean view Stateroom (Fully Obstructed View)	HH	Oceanview
Vista Suite	A	Suite
Vista Suite	AA	Suite
Vista Suite	B	Suite
Vista Suite	BB	Suite
Vista Suite	BC	Suite
Pinnacle Suite	PS	Suite
Neptune Suite	SA	Suite
Neptune Suite	SB	Suite