September
San Francisco
Low Prices

September Cruises from San Francisco 2026

September offers the year's best value as kids return to school. Alaska season ends, Mediterranean enters shoulder season with perfect weather, and Caribbean still has hurricane risk but improving deals.

Month
September
From
San Francisco
Pricing
Low
Crowds
Low

Why Cruise from San Francisco in September?

September 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 September, the weather in North America is fall season. Peak hurricane season but odds lower late month. Mediterranean perfect. Alaska season ends. Fall weather beautiful.

Where to Go from San Francisco in September

Alaska
Mexican Riviera
Hawaii

Benefits of September

  • Lowest prices of year
  • Perfect Mediterranean weather
  • Less crowded ships
  • Shoulder season deals

Things to Consider

  • Peak hurricane season
  • Alaska season ending
  • Labor Day expensive
  • Some weather risk

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

Princess Cruises
Holland America
Celebrity Cruises

Planning Your September Cruise from San Francisco

September 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 September include Alaska, Mexican Riviera, Hawaii.

Peak hurricane season but odds lower late month. Mediterranean perfect. Alaska season ends. Fall weather beautiful. Cruise prices in September typically range from €400 - €1,600, making it a great value.3+ cruise lines operate from San Francisco during September, 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 September departures which can sell out quickly during popular weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is September a good time to cruise from San Francisco?

September is an excellent time to cruise from San Francisco. Expect low pricing and low crowds. Peak hurricane season but odds lower late month. Mediterranean perfect. Alaska season ends. Fall weather beautiful.

What's the weather like in September for cruises from San Francisco?

September is fall season in North America. Peak hurricane season but odds lower late month. Mediterranean perfect. Alaska season ends. Fall weather beautiful. Average temperatures range from 70-85°F. Be aware of hurricane season (June-November) in the Caribbean.

How much do September cruises from San Francisco cost?

September cruise prices from San Francisco range from €400 - €1,600, with low pricing compared to other months. This is one of the best value months to cruise.

What should I pack for a September cruise from San Francisco?

For September, pack versatile clothing for warm days and cool evenings, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Don't forget: passport, medications, formal night attire, rain jacket, and refillable water bottle.

Which cruise lines operate from San Francisco in September?

Princess Cruises, Holland America, Celebrity Cruises, and 0+ other cruise lines operate from San Francisco in September. Popular destinations in September include Western Mediterranean, Eastern Caribbean, North America East Coast.

What to Pack for September 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 September Cruises

12+ months before

Early bird pricing

Best cabin selection, lowest deposits, early saver rates up to 30% off

6-12 months before

Standard booking window

Good availability, competitive pricing, ideal for Wave Season deals (Jan-Mar)

3-6 months before

Last minute deals possible

Limited cabin choice, but potential for unsold inventory discounts

1-3 months before

Final booking window

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)

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