Zaandam: 7-Night Cruise from San Diego - April 17, 2027

You'll have 10 hours hours to explore Avalon, Catalina Island, California, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM - a solid full day ashore. That's enough for 2-3 attractions and a sit-down lunch without rushing. Tackle the most distant spot first, then work your way back toward the port. Descanso Beach Club is Avalon's most popular place to relax by the water.

The Zaandam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Santa Barbara, California are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. Walk along State Street to enjoy boutique shopping, local galleries, and a variety of cafes and restaurants.

Your ship arrives in Astoria, Oregon at 8:00 AM, one of the most common arrival windows. If you've booked a morning excursion, aim to be among the first off. If your plans are flexible, waiting 30-45 minutes lets the initial wave pass. The riverwalk follows the Columbia and offers sweeping views of passing ships, bridges, and distant hills.

With 13 hours hours in Victoria, British Columbia - from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM - you have a full day ashore with room to breathe. Go beyond the typical tourist stops: neighborhoods, local dining, and cultural sites that most cruise visitors never reach. Leave time for unstructured wandering. The Inner Harbour is the heart of Victoria and a wonderful place to start.

Your cruise ends in Vancouver, British Columbia, where the Zaandam is scheduled to dock at 7:00 AM. On a smaller ship, the disembarkation process moves quickly - most passengers are off within one to two hours. If you're flying out, book your flight at least four hours after the ship's scheduled arrival. Rich cultural offerings include museums, galleries, and indigenous heritage sites, making Vancouver a well-rounded destination that appeals to both adventure seekers and culture lovers.