Historical Baja Peninsula

Pricing is based on departure date: 07 December 2026

Sail through the shimmering waters of the Sea of Cortez, where desert mountains meet turquoise bays and hidden coastal towns preserve centuries of history. Wander through colonial missions in Loreto, watch dolphin0s play in secluded harbours, discover authentic Mexican culture in vibrant seaside cities and explore destinations rarely visited by mainstream cruises. From Cabo San Lucas to Puerto Vallarta, this unforgettable journey reveals the beauty, wildlife and soul of Baja California and Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Itinerary Map

Itinerary highlights

San Diego, California, US

With more than 300 days of sun every year, renowned surf spots like Del Mar and La Jolla, and a bustling culinary and craft beer scene, San Diego is a surfer's paradise and a feast for foodies. Explore distinct neighborhoods and enjoy the city’s laid-back charm on cruises to San Diego, California.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Los Cabos—or the Capes—sits at the southernmost tip of the Baja California Peninsula, a narrow strip of land whose varied geography makes for plenty of interesting and unusual activities. You can ride a camel, or enjoy more predictable pursuits including fishing, golfing and whale-watching. On your Cabo cruise you can visit picture-perfect El Arco, an arch that may look familiar thanks to its cameo on postcards and advertisements. North of the capes, you can drop by the famed Hotel California. And if you've worked up an appetite on your Cabo cruise, you won't be disappointed: Los Cabos offers plenty to enjoy at the table as well, with farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and, of course, seafood being the mainstays here. Regardless, Holland America Line makes sure that Cabo cruises have plenty of new and traditional things for guests to experience.

Loreto, Mexico

Peaceful seaside Loreto dates to 1697, when it became the first colonial settlement on the Baja Peninsula and the capital of the Spanish colony of the Californias. These days, the town has spread beyond its colonial origins, but it retains beautiful relics from the past, especially of the Dominican, Franciscan and Jesuit orders, all of which were active here. These include the Mission of Our Lady of Loreto, which stands at the beginning of the famous Camino Real connecting the Spanish missions in both Baja and Alta California. Loreto, tucked between the rugged Sierra de la Giganta range and the calm waters of the Sea of Cortez, is also blessed with spectacular natural scenery. Just offshore, a string of islands beckon divers, snorkelers and sea kayakers with secluded coves, dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear waters that are protected within Loreto Bay National Marine Park. And a day trip into the mountains offers the opportunity to see cave paintings from pre-colonial indigenous groups, some of which are now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a paddling adventure offshore or a trek into the mountains, take a stroll along the malecón, Loreto’s waterfront boardwalk, where you can have a drink or a plate of fish tacos overlooking the water.

Guaymas, Mexico

Guaymas lies in a quiet bay in the sparkling Sea of Cortez. Step back in time as you tour the neoclassic San Fernando Church and the Moorish 13 de Julio Plaza in the historic town center. Explore the popular beaches and picturesque bays in nearby San Carlos. Visit a world class pearl farm or journey to magical Las Barajitas Canyon, home to three separate ecosystems. Sample shore excursions: San Carlos Desert Discovery; Dolphin Swim & Sea Lion Show; Coastal Nature Cruise.

Topolobampo, Mexico

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

Pichilingue (La Paz), Mexico

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.

Mazatlan, Mexico

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, 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 locals’ death-defying cliff dives. On Mazatlán cruises, 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 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

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Cruise to Puerto Vallarta and find yourself immersed in dynamic culture and history. Unlike other coastal resort towns in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta ("PV" to locals), retains quite a bit of its colonial-era charm. Its town square, Plaza de Armas, and the gorgeous church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, serve as the loveliest representations of bygone ages. While on your Puerto Vallarta cruise, take in these echoes of the past and more modern attractions, including an ambitious public art project along the seaside walkway (the malecón) and trendy restaurants such as La Leche, serving contemporary Mexican cuisine. Round these out with plenty of fun-in-the-sun outdoor activities on and along Banderas Bay (whale-watching! snorkeling! jet-skiing!), cruise excursions that reveal the best of Puerto Vallarta's flora and fauna, and a side trip to one of Mexico's pueblos mágicos (magical towns, a designation conferred by the government to recognize smaller towns that possess historical and cultural value), and you'd be hard-pressed to find a more pleasant place to spend part of your cruise to Puerto Vallarta.

Your Ship: Zaandam

This comfortable “R” Class ship’s perfect size makes it ideal for Grand Voyages, and its musical décor features guitars signed by Rock ’n’ Roll legends Eric Clapton, Iggy Pop, and the Rolling Stones.

What’s included with your vacation
Your vacation essentials are always included. Savor a variety of delectable complimentary dining options. Enjoy captivating entertainment, from live shows and music to themed dance parties and more.

• Standard beverages like water and coffee
• Complimentary meals and snacks available in a variety of restaurants
• Live shows and entertainment
• Most onboard activities and games

San Diego, Cabo San Lucas, Loreto, Guaymas, Topolobampo, Pichilingue (La Paz), Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta, San Diego

All fares are displayed in AUD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.