The Best Holiday Cruises in San Diego

If you’re looking for something a little different to do in San Diego this holiday season, City Cruises just came out with a lineup of festive cruises that feel very San Diego. Think waterfront views, mild winter nights, and the city's signature easygoing vibe. From Christmas cruises to cocktail sailings and classic holiday dinners, this year’s offerings give you a fresh way to celebrate with friends, family, or out-of-town guests.

These holiday cruises run along San Diego Bay, with spectacular views of the harbor and the Coronado Bridge as the city lights up for the season. If you’ve hit your limit on restaurants, bars, or the same few holiday events on land, a harbor cruise is such a fun change of pace.

The Best Holiday Cruises 2025

Here are some of the best cruise options for locals, visitors, and anyone looking for a new way to experience San Diego California during the holidays. They're scenic, a little unexpected, and true to the San Diego culture.

Holiday Lights & Sips Cocktail Cruise (Dec. 11 & 18)

This festive harbor cruise is the most “San Diego” option of the whole lineup. You get skyline views, holiday cocktails, music, and the chance to see the city glow from the water. It’s social, fun, and a great pick if you want something seasonal without committing to a full dinner cruise. There's even an ugly sweater contest!

If you’re celebrating the season with friends or hosting visitors from out of town, this is a perfect low-pressure option.

Where to meet: Pier 2, 970 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA

Holiday Sunset Dinner Cruise (Dec. 13 & 20)

If you want something more classic, the holiday dinner cruise includes a full buffet, drinks, music, and a slow 2.5-hour sail across San Diego Bay. It's a calmer, more scenic way to celebrate the holidays. This option is ideal for friends, family, or anyone who prefers a festive evening over a packed restaurant.

It also works well as a gift idea for someone who doesn’t need more stuff.

Dress code is cocktail attire.

Where to meet: Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA

Holiday Lunch Cruise (Dec. 12 & 19)

For a lighter daytime option, try the holiday lunch cruise, a festive holiday-themed buffet on the water. This one’s perfect for groups, coworkers, or families looking for something seasonal that won't take up their entire evening.

Where to meet: Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA

Why These San Diego Holiday Cruises Are Worth It

• You get peak California views. With pastel skies, calm water, and the skyline decorated with holiday lights, winter memories on the bay are hard to beat.

• They're effortless but special. Holiday events can get chaotic, but a cruise gives you that festive atmosphere without the stress of planning.

• They work for families, friends, and couples. Some are lively and festive, while others are quiet and dinner-forward. Whatever your holiday energy is, there’s a version that matches it.

• They’re a reminder of why the San Diego holiday season is so incredible. A gorgeous cruise on the bay is a unique holiday moment you don’t want to miss.

Details, Parking, and What to Know

• Parking: There's metered parking on Grape Street and Broadway, along N Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway, but spots fill up fast on weekends and during peak holiday nights. If you don't want the headache, rideshare might be the way to go.

• Timing: Arrive 30 minutes early. Holiday weekends get crowded, and boarding moves quickly once the doors open.

• Dress code: Each cruise has its own dress code, so be sure to double-check the details before you go. Even in San Diego, evenings on the water can get chilly, so bring a light jacket or sweater just to be safe.

• Tickets: These cruises do sell out. If you have your eye on a specific cruise, book early to lock in your date and time.

My Take

Celebrating the holidays in San Diego is always a good time, and these festive cruises are such a unique way to do so. You get the holiday energy without the crowds, waterfront views without fighting for a restaurant reservation, and a fun, memorable way to celebrate with friends or family.

And honestly? In a city where winter barely feels like winter, a sparkling night out on the water is about as close as San Diego gets to holiday magic. It’s a small, special reminder of what makes this city special.

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