The James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27 is one of the most beautifully situated cruise terminals in the world — right on the Embarcadero waterfront in San Francisco, with views of the Bay Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city's famous skyline. It is a short walk from Fisherman's Wharf and the Ferry Building.
San Francisco is primarily a seasonal cruise port, with Alaska and California coastal itineraries dominating the schedule. Princess, Holland America, and Norwegian are regular callers. Arriving early in San Francisco is one of the great pre-cruise experiences in the US.
What's New for 2026
- 🚢 San Francisco's cruise season runs primarily spring through fall for Alaska and California Coast itineraries
- 🌁 Book Golden Gate Bridge views early — the deck fills quickly on outbound sailings
Hot Tip
Stay at Fisherman's Wharf or the Embarcadero — you can walk to Pier 27 on departure morning with your luggage. No rideshare needed, and you're in the heart of SF's waterfront the night before.Port of San Francisco, California – Quick Facts
Port of San Francisco, California Cruise Terminals
Know your terminal before you arrive — each serves different cruise lines.
Getting to Port of San Francisco, California
Transportation options from nearby airports, train stations and downtown.
From SFO Airport
San Francisco International Airport is 14 miles from Pier 27 — about 25–35 minutes by car. Major international and domestic hub served by Delta, Southwest, JetBlue, and many international airlines.
Taxi ~$65 · Rideshare ~$35–$55From Oakland Airport (OAK)
Oakland International is about 20 miles across the Bay — about 35–45 minutes. Domestic airlines including Allegiant and Spirit fly into OAK. Often has cheaper fares than SFO.
Taxi ~$85 · Rideshare ~$45–$65BART from SFO
BART connects SFO directly to downtown San Francisco. Take BART to Embarcadero Station, then walk or take a short taxi to Pier 27. A cost-effective option if travelling light.
BART ~$10–$12 from SFO · ~30 minutesShared Shuttles
Shared shuttle service from SFO averages ~$17 per person. No advance reservation needed at SFO — vans wait outside Departures/Ticketing. No SF area hotels offer free shuttle service to the port.
Shared shuttle ~$17/person from SFOPlan Your Visit
Everything you need for a smooth departure from Port of San Francisco, California.
Parking
On-site garages connect directly to your terminal. Off-site lots offer free shuttles at lower daily rates. Hotel+park packages can be the best value of all.
See Parking Options →Hotels Near the Port
Fisherman's Wharf and the Embarcadero have excellent hotels within walking distance of Pier 27. North Beach is also a great neighborhood for a pre-cruise night …
See Hotels →Shore Excursions
Book shore excursions before you board for best availability and pricing. Day trips, city tours, snorkelling, and more departing from Port of San Francisco, California.
See Excursions →Things To Do
San Francisco is one of the world's great cities — plan at least a full day before your cruise. 🦞 Fisherman's WharfSan Francisco's famous waterfront district…
See Things To Do →Port of San Francisco, California – Frequently Asked Questions
Everything cruise passengers ask before sailing from Port of San Francisco, California.
Where is the San Francisco cruise terminal?
The James R. Herman Cruise Terminal is at Pier 27 on the Embarcadero in San Francisco. It is steps from the Ferry Building, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Embarcadero BART station.
How do I get from SFO to the cruise terminal?
BART from SFO to Embarcadero Station takes about 30 minutes and costs $10. From Embarcadero Station, Pier 27 is a 5-minute walk. This is far more practical than driving and parking in SF.
Which cruise lines sail from San Francisco?
Princess Cruises and Holland America have the largest presence. Norwegian, Celebrity, and others make seasonal calls. Itineraries primarily cover Alaska and the California Coast.
When is cruise season in San Francisco?
Cruise season runs primarily May through October. Alaska sailings are the most popular — book early as summer departures fill up well in advance.