Luxury cruising on Holland America  & Crystal Cruise

[Updated] As we have developed faster and faster ways to get where we need to go, vacation has become less about the journey and more about the destination. Time spent in planes, trains, and automobiles is reduced to a brief intrusion into our plans. And while we are now able to get to more places faster, we can sometimes miss the possibility of the voyage. 

Holland America luxurious cruise travel

Thankfully, luxury cruise liners have preserved the art of travel, allowing for days spent on the open seas devoted entirely to relaxation and rejuvenation. And there is no shortage of voyages departing from southern California. Accompanying the luxury of balmy weather is our privy access to the port of San Diego, which welcomes travelers from all over the world. Those looking for an escape can book a cruise that sails between new and exciting ports.

Holland America Line, which still boards out of the Port of San Diego during the wintertime, has nearly 140 years of experience sailing the open seas. In fact, the oldest cruise ship line in the world—P&O Cruises—only pre-dates Holland America by 36 years. And thanks to its "Signature of Excellence" program, Holland America has upgraded amenities, improved dining options, expanded the youth facilities, and added larger cabins, providing an option of luxurious travel.

Gone are the days of small portholes and crammed beds. On Holland America Line, guests can book a grand suite the size of a two-bedroom apartment, devoting nearly 1,300 square feet of personal space on the ship. The penthouse Verandah Suites include a king-sized bed, a Jacuzzi bathtub with shower, a separate living room, dining room, expansive windows, and a private verandah—all enhanced by luxurious décor. Guests also have access to 24-hour concierge service at their fingertips.

Out of the Port of San Diego on Holland America, guests have a choice of a seven-day excursion to the Mexican Rivera or a 21-day cruise to the Hawaiian Islands. And the indecisive can choose both with the 21-day Mexico and Hawaii Collectors’ trip. Beginning off the shores of Mexico, this voyage docks in Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, before island hopping in Hawaii, dividing the days among Hilo, Lahaina, Honolulu, and Nawiiwii in Kauai. For those who cherish nothing more than the vast blue horizon and the ship parting the Pacific Ocean, this trip offers 10 days out at sea between the ports in Hawaii and Mexico.

For a longer and more adventurous cruise, take the quick drive up the coast to Los Angeles Port, from which Crystal Cruises departs. This luxury cruise line has options for traveling to many ports all over the world, including the "Los Angeles To London Explorer Combination." This 33-day excursion takes guests halfway around the world, including port stops in Mexico, Costa Rica, the British West Indies, New York, Iceland, and Norway.

Crystal Cruise lines have amazing destinations

Amazing suite on Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises fine dining on the deck

See this changing landscape from Crystal Cruises’ well-appointed staterooms and suites, which boast private verandahs, Internet access, and the softest linens, including plush Frette robes and personal slippers. The Crystal Penthouse has separate living and dining areas, a private workout studio, three flat-screen televisions, and a personal butler to anticipate every need.

When all you have to do is walk on board, travel becomes a moment to be savored, a relaxing retreat that can change your worldview. As Miriam Beard said, "Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living."

And living is about the journey.