Cali & Cruise

It’s time for some California dreamin’ in Santa Monica. A balmy beachside haven packed full of boutique shops, tempting eateries and buzzing bars. Perhaps rent a bike and spend a day soaking up the sunshine cruising The Strand. A 22-mile beach path for walkers and bikers with dreamy coastal and mountain views, it’s the perfect way to experience the best of this laid-back beach town.

Need to cool down? We recommend a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean before heading to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you can watch surfers catching waves, experience the rides at Pacific Park, and spot sea lions playing near local fishermen.

Film buffs won’t want to miss a classic movie screening at The Aero Theatre, a historic Art Deco landmark with a throwback feel to the Golden Age of Hollywood! After a busy day of sightseeing, enjoy a spot of shopping and people-watching on 3^rd Street Promenade, also an open-air foodie paradise where you can tuck into fresh, organic fare. Delicious!

It’s time to set sail from the Los Angeles World Cruise Centre in San Pedro aboard the revamped Navigator of the Seas®. As your ship stretches her legs out to sea, you’ll have time to explore and soak up the vacation-vibes on this award-winning Voyager-class cruise ship. She’s packed full of thrilling entertainment like The Blaster® – officially the longest waterslide at sea! We love the vast pool deck with whirlpools, swaying hammocks, in-pool loungers and colourful cabanas. And let’s not forget the endless array of delectable dining options and fun-filled nightlife spots like El Loco Fresh® and The Lime and Coconut®.

Spend the day in paradise on the sun-drenched island of Santa Catalina. It’s the ultimate island retreat, with white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, crystal-clear waters and fresh ocean air. Summit the lofty peak of Mount Orizaba for breathtaking views of the Californian coast or snorkel your way around Lover’s Cove, a marine preserve filled to the brim with curious creatures, including the graceful stingray and vibrant Garibaldi. You won’t want to leave Catalina Island without sampling the local seafood at Bluewater Avalon and a signature Wicky Wacker cocktail or two at Luau Larry’s.

Wake up to the beautiful port city of Ensenada on Mexico’s Baja California peninsula. Cruise the waterfront ‘Malecon’ boardwalk and admire the once casino and now historical monument, Riviera del Pacifico. Known as ‘The wine capital of Mexico’, a visit to Baja’s oldest winery - Bodegas de Santo Tomas – for a little wine tasting, is a must when in town. Nature buffs and adrenaline junkies will love the exciting activities on offer in Ensenada, from surfing to zip-lining and. when in season, swimming with whale sharks! No trip to Ensenada is complete without indulging in some oh-so-fresh ceviche tostadas and two-for-one margaritas at Hussongs, the oldest bar in Baja California!