May Cruises from San Francisco 2026
May offers excellent value as summer vacation hasn't started. Alaska hits full season, Mediterranean warms up, and Caribbean enters low season with great deals before hurricanes.
Why Cruise from San Francisco in May?
May offers low pricing and low crowd levels for cruises from San Francisco. Cruise from the Golden Gate to Alaska, Mexico, Hawaii, or the California coast.
During May, the weather in North America is spring season. Perfect Alaska weather. Mediterranean warming nicely. Caribbean hot with rain starting. Hurricane season officially begins.
Where to Go from San Francisco in May
Benefits of May
- Lower prices pre-summer
- Alaska in full swing
- Mediterranean pleasant
- Less crowded ships
Things to Consider
- Memorial Day expensive
- Caribbean hurricane season begins
- Some ports very hot
San Francisco Port Highlights
Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge
Alaska and Mexico cruises
Wine country nearby
Tech hub convenience
Cruise Lines from San Francisco
Planning Your May Cruise from San Francisco
May is an excellent value month for cruises from San Francisco, United States. With low pricing and low crowd levels, it's ideal for budget travelers. Popular destinations from San Francisco in May include Alaska, Mexican Riviera, Hawaii.
Perfect Alaska weather. Mediterranean warming nicely. Caribbean hot with rain starting. Hurricane season officially begins. Cruise prices in May typically range from €600 - €2,200, making it a great value.3+ cruise lines operate from San Francisco during May, including Princess Cruises, Holland America, Celebrity Cruises.
The port of San Francisco offers sail under the golden gate bridge and alaska and mexico cruises. Convenient access via SFO - San Francisco International. Book early for the best selection, especially for May departures which can sell out quickly during popular weeks.
Explore More Cruise Options
Explore more cruise options and find your perfect voyage
Browse all cruise deals from this port
Other Months
Popular Durations
Popular Destinations
Can't find what you're looking for? Browse all cruise deals
Frequently Asked Questions
Is May a good time to cruise from San Francisco?
▼
May is an excellent time to cruise from San Francisco. Expect low pricing and low crowds. Perfect Alaska weather. Mediterranean warming nicely. Caribbean hot with rain starting. Hurricane season officially begins.
What's the weather like in May for cruises from San Francisco?
▼
May is spring season in North America. Perfect Alaska weather. Mediterranean warming nicely. Caribbean hot with rain starting. Hurricane season officially begins. Average temperatures range from 70-85°F.
How much do May cruises from San Francisco cost?
▼
May cruise prices from San Francisco range from €600 - €2,200, with low pricing compared to other months. This is one of the best value months to cruise.
What should I pack for a May cruise from San Francisco?
▼
For May, pack versatile clothing for warm days and cool evenings, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Don't forget: passport, medications, formal night attire, and refillable water bottle.
Which cruise lines operate from San Francisco in May?
▼
Princess Cruises, Holland America, Celebrity Cruises, and 0+ other cruise lines operate from San Francisco in May. Popular destinations in May include Alaska, Western Mediterranean, North Europe.
What to Pack for May Cruises
Essentials
- Valid passport (must be valid 6+ months after return)
- Cruise documents and boarding pass
- Credit card for onboard account
- Prescription medications (in original bottles)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+, reef-safe for Caribbean)
- Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions
- Layers for varying temperatures
- Formal/smart casual outfits (1 per formal night)
- Swimsuit and cover-up
- Phone charger and adapter (US outlets on most ships)
Nice to Have
- •Refillable water bottle
- •Day backpack for excursions
- •Waterproof phone case
- •Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- •Travel insurance documents
- •Seasickness medication (even if you don't usually need it)
- •Power strip (limited outlets in cabins)
- •Magnetic hooks for cabin metal walls
- •Highlighter for daily cruise planner
- •Small bills for tipping porters
When to Book May Cruises
12+ months before
Best cabin selection, lowest deposits, early saver rates up to 30% off
6-12 months before
Good availability, competitive pricing, ideal for Wave Season deals (Jan-Mar)
3-6 months before
Limited cabin choice, but potential for unsold inventory discounts
1-3 months before
Very limited options, mostly inside cabins, last-minute deals rare on popular dates
What's Included in Your Cruise Fare
Included in Fare
- Stateroom accommodation for cruise duration
- Main dining room meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Buffet and casual dining venues
- Pool, hot tubs, and fitness center access
- Most onboard entertainment (shows, live music, movies)
- Kids clubs and youth programs
- Room service (may have late-night fee)
Extra Costs
- Alcoholic beverages and specialty coffee
- Specialty restaurants ($25-75 per person)
- Shore excursions ($50-200+ per excursion)
- Spa services and salon treatments
- Casino and bingo
- Photos and professional photography
- Gratuities ($12-18 per person/day)
- Wi-Fi packages ($15-30 per day)
Get the Best Cruise Deals on the App
Download ChooseCruise for real-time price drop alerts, exclusive deals, and AI-powered cruise recommendations.