Cruising from the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27): San Francisco, California
the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) is located at Pier 27, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111. It's used by Princess, Holland America, and seasonal Alaska sailings from several lines, so it's worth double-checking which terminal your specific cruise line uses before you head there on embarkation day.
Pier 27 sits right along the Embarcadero near Fisherman's Wharf, and San Francisco mainly serves as a seasonal embarkation point for Alaska and Mexican Riviera cruises rather than a year-round hub.
Because San Francisco mainly runs seasonal Alaska departures rather than year-round sailings, double-checking your exact embarkation date and terminal assignment with an advisor at +1-800-406-8495 is worth the extra step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) located?
the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) is at Pier 27, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111, in San Francisco, California.
Which cruise lines sail from the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27)?
the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) is used by Princess, Holland America, and seasonal Alaska sailings from several lines.
What time should I arrive for embarkation?
Lines tend to be shortest in the first hour or two after boarding opens and busiest in the early afternoon, so an earlier assigned window is worth taking if you have a choice.
Is parking available at the port?
Parking availability is rarely an issue outside of peak holiday weekends, but reserving ahead removes any uncertainty and is a good habit regardless of when you're sailing.
Can I get dropped off instead of parking?
Definitely - many locals prefer dropping off rather than dealing with cruise-line parking rates, especially if the terminal is a short drive from home.
What documents do I need at the terminal?
A valid passport or government ID, your cruise line's boarding documents, and any visa or entry forms specific to the countries on your itinerary are the essentials to have ready.
Who can confirm my exact terminal and check-in details for the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27)?
Our advisors are available at +1-800-406-8495 to confirm terminal, parking, and check-in specifics for your exact cruise line and sailing date.
Are there hotels near the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) for a pre-cruise stay?
Yes, most cruisers heading to the San Francisco Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) book a hotel near the port or airport the night before, especially if they're flying in, to build in a buffer against travel delays.
What happens if I arrive at the terminal late?
If you miss the boarding deadline, the ship will not wait, and you'd be on your own to arrange travel to meet it at the next port, which is both costly and stressful - arriving early avoids this entirely.
Can luggage restrictions affect what I pack for embarkation day?
Cruise ships generally don't impose airline-style baggage weight caps, though heavier bags can be harder for porters to manage, so reasonably packed luggage still makes embarkation smoother for everyone.