Cruise terminal to Airport

Question

Hi there,

We will be arriving on a Holland America cruise ship and then flying to Salt Lake City - how long would you allow to get from the cruise terminal to the airport and how do you connect? Are there shuttle buses?

Thanking you for any advice!

Answer

Traveling from the cruise terminal in San Diego to the airport is generally straightforward, but there are several factors to consider when planning your timing and transportation.

Timing: The cruise typically docks early in the morning, but disembarkation can take some time depending on the number of passengers and any customs procedures. For a domestic flight, it is advisable to allow at least 3 to 4 hours from the time you leave the ship to your flight departure. This accounts for disembarking, waiting for luggage, traveling to the airport, and going through airport security.

Transportation Options: There are several ways to get from the cruise terminal to San Diego International Airport (SAN):

Shuttle services: Some cruise lines offer pre-booked shuttle transfers to the airport. Holland America often has options you can book in advance, which drop you directly at your terminal. This is convenient but slightly more expensive than other options.
Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are available at the cruise terminal. The drive to the airport is usually around 10–15 minutes in light traffic, but can take longer if departing during peak morning hours.
Private car services: You can pre-book a private car or limo service, which provides a stress-free option if you have luggage or want guaranteed timing.
Public transportation: It is possible to use public transit, but it is not recommended with luggage or tight flight schedules due to multiple transfers and time unpredictability.

Additional tips:

Confirm your shuttle or rideshare pick-up location at the cruise terminal in advance; the port is busy and it can take a few minutes to get picked up.
Check traffic conditions in San Diego, as morning traffic can add a few extra minutes to your travel time.
For international flights, increase your buffer to 4–5 hours.

Overall, most travelers find that leaving the ship, collecting luggage, and taking a rideshare or shuttle allows plenty of time for a domestic flight with minimal stress, provided you plan for potential delays during disembarkation.