Launched in 2008, the Carnival Splendor is one of the newer ships in the Carnival fleet. This ship was built for enjoyment. Featuring an outdoor movie theater, golf simulator, casino and 22 clubs and lounges, adults will have no problems finding something to keep them busy during sea days. This family friendly cruise has clubs for teens, a climbing wall, basketball court and mini-golf course.
While in the ports of Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, activities abound. In Cabo where the desert meets the ocean, you can golf or ride ATVs on the beach. In Mazatlan, shopping or lounging on the beach is just a short ride bus or taxi ride away. While in Puerto Vallarta, certified divers can dive at Los Acros, while non-divers can snorkel above.
Carnival Cruise Lines
(888) 227-6482
carnival.com
Although she is an older ship, first launched in 1997, the 13-deck Celebrity Mercury still features the modern luxury you expect from a cruise ship. This includes a fitness center with jogging track, spa, salon and children/teen spaces. In addition, several berths are wheelchair-accessible with roll-in showers.
As the ship cruises up to Juneau, you will have three days at sea to enjoy all the ship as to offer. After Juneau, your ports of call include Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria, British Columbia. In addition to your ports of call, the ship also sails through the rugged Tracy Arm Fjord, Then returns to Los Angeles.
Celebrity Cruises
(800) 647-2251
celebritycruises.com
If a weekend cruise is more your style, the Carnival Paradise leaves on Friday and is back on Monday. After an overnight sailing down the California coast, the Paradise makes port in Ensenada. While there, you can go on an ATV adventure, take a Mexican cooking class or play a round of golf at a scenic coastal golf resort.
Before returning to Los Angeles, you will have a sea day to relax. Take in a show or indulge in multiple therapies at the spa. Then at night, you can live the life of the high roller at the on-board casino. When you settle in at your desk after the long weekend, your co-workers will wonder where you got that tan.
Carnival Cruise Lines
(888) 227-6482
carnival.com
