Pacific Coastal Cruise 5 Nights • Vancouver, British Columbia • Serenade of the Seas

If you’re sailing on a cruise out of Vancouver, definitely spend a few days discovering all the cool sights and activities this vibrant Canadian city has to offer. Spoiler alert: it’s a lot. Located in British Columbia’s lower mainland region, hugging the Burrard Inlet, this northern gem offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventures and metropolitan delights. Start your day with a fresh and hearty breakfast at a local farmers’ market, then soar above the city on the Skyride cable car to Grouse Mountain’s 3,700-foot-tall summit and stay at the to enjoy one of the best of Vancouver views. If you’re craving adventure in the great outdoors, climb to St. Mark’s Summit for more incredible views of majestic Howe Sound. The trailhead is just a 30-minute drive from Vancouver. If you’d rather explore on the water, visit Horseshoe Bay and hop on a wildlife-spotting boat tour. Keep your eyes peeled for seals, dolphins and whales as you zip past towering cliffs and rocky isles.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:00 p. m., so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Get a feel for this city's maritime spirit as you stroll along the Astoria Riverwalk: Take in views of the Columbia River as you make your way to 36th Street, where sea lions lounge on the sunny pier. The quaint, Scandinavian-influenced downtown is just a short walk from here — stop into the Heritage Museum housed in Old City Hall to learn about the city's roots before you stop into a dockside restaurant for clam chowder or head to Buoy Beer Co. for a cold, locally brewed pint.

The vibrant city of San Francisco offers so much to explore. Indulge in authentic dim sum in Chinatown before hitting the streets to explore. Stop in Alamo Square and spot the Painted Ladies — a row of colorful Victorians famous for appearing in the "Full House" intro reel. Then, head over to Golden Gate Park and enjoy the cool, sunny weather as you stroll past lakes and gardens.

Before leaving this SoCal mega city, there are a few things you can't miss. Hike one of the many coastal trails like Sunset Cliffs. Marvel at the unique landscapes in Torrey Pines Natural Reserve, with untouched dunes and steep, sandy cliffs. Or head to the San Diego Museum of Man, where you can climb the 125 steps to the top of the California Tower for sweeping 360-degree views of the mountains, the ocean and the city.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.