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California Zephyr & Mexican Riviera Cruise

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Cross the mountains and deserts of the great American West by rail and see vibrant Mexico by sea.

You are viewing the 2021 itinerary. Select your departure year
20212022
15 days From $2,815 per person

2021 Tour code: WC-ZMRW-21

About the tour

On this 15-day rail-cruise vacation, you'll cross the mountains and deserts of the great American West by rail and see vibrant Mexico by sea. Explore the world-class cities of Chicago and San Francisco before departing on a tour of Mexico's premier destinations aboard the splendid Grand Princess cruise ship. With ports of call like popular Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, as well as off-the-beaten path destinations like Mazatlan and Manzanillo, sun, sand, and adventure are guaranteed!

Highlights

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What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 - Chicago

Arrive today in Chicago. The day is at your leisure, so make the most of your time in the Windy City! Shop along the Magnificent Mile, stroll along the shore of Lake Michigan, admire the city's famous architecture, and check out the view from the top of the formidable Willis Tower. This evening, check out Chicago's world-famous restaurant scene, or laugh the night away at Second City. Overnight Chicago.

Day 2 - Board California Zephyr

Today, bid farewell to Chicago as you head to Union Station for your departure aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr. Settle into your onboard accommodations and prepare to set out on your exciting westward journey. Overnight train.

Day 3 - Onboard California Zephyr

Wake up today to views of the magnificent Rocky Mountains. Mingle with other passengers in the Sightseer Lounge, grab a bite to eat in the Café or Dining Cars, or simply relax and watch the splendid scenery of the American West roll by. Overnight train.

Day 4 - San Francisco

Today, arrive in San Francisco. The hills, the cable cars, the Victorian homes, and the smell of the sea air: San Francisco's indelible romance makes it a world-class destination. Explore the city's famous Chinatown, or get a photo with the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge at Vista Point. Overnight San Francisco.

Day 5- Board Ship

Enjoy your morning in San Francisco before your 4:00 pm departure aboard the Grand Princess. Settle into your cabin and discover the ship's endless amenities as you set sail for Mexico. Overnight ship.

Days 6-8 - At Sea

Spend your time at sea taking in spectacular ocean views, mingle in the Italian-style Piazza, read in the library, learn something new in a [email protected]® enrichment class, or unwind in the Lotus Spa Pool. This is your time to kick back and relax. Overnight ship.

Day 9 - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Warm, glamorous, and full of adventure, Puerto Vallarta is today's port of call. Stroll along the Malecon boardwalk and peruse the artists' wares, learn how tequila is made, or make some lively new aquatic friends at the Dolphin Adventure. There are endless opportunities for fun and exploration in Puerto Vallarta. Overnight ship.

Day 10 - Manzanillo, Mexico

Welcome to Manzanillo! For years, this small city has been a secret destination for fishermen. Now, the secret is out. Featuring some of the world's best fishing as well as mountains covered with jungle and miles of pristine beaches, Manzanillo is becoming a hot new vacation spot. Overnight ship.

Day 11 - Mazatlan, Mexico

Situated between the wild Pacific and the dramatic Sierra Madres, Mazatlan is a world-class destination. From its scenic beauty to its rich culture, the city is absolutely captivating. Visit the Pacifico Brewery, admire the Gothic and Moorish architecture of the Cathedral Basilica, and relax on one of the white-sand beaches. Overnight ship.

Day 12 - Cabo San Lucas

One of Mexico's best-known resort cities, Cabo San Lucas really has it all. In Cabo, you'll discover a legendary nightlife, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery. Go snorkeling, and encounter swirls of colorful marine life, or take advantage of the rich waters through sport fishing. You won't waste a moment at this spectacular destination. Overnight ship.

Days 13-14 - At Sea

Enjoy your last days sailing through the Pacific! Make the most of the ship's amenities, including the various restaurants and dining rooms. Overnight ship.

Day 15 - Disembarkation in San Francisco

This morning, arrive back in San Francisco. Depart San Francisco on your own, or choose to extend your stay in the City by the Bay.

Additional information

Pricing Plans

Amtrak accommodations are available in Coach class, Roomette, and Bedroom.

Coach accommodations include a reclining seat with leg rest.

Roomette accommodations include a private cabin featuring two comfortable seats beside a picture window during the day, converting to an upper and lower berth at night. Bedroom accommodations feature a sofa and chair by day, and upper and lower berth by night.

Bedroom accommodations also include a sink and self-enclosed toilet and shower. All travelers have access to the Sightseer Lounge. Roomette and Bedroom accommodations include all meals aboard the train. 

Oceanview: Travel aboard the Grand Princess is in an Oceanview stateroom which is approximately 163 to 171 square feet and features a picture window for memorable views. The Oceanview stateroom is richly appointed with fine amenities.

Mini Suite: Travel aboard the Grand Princess is in a Mini-Suite which offers approximately 323 square feet of comfort and a separate seating area with a sofa bed for lounging or sleeping a third passenger. The spacious balcony is approximately 61 square feet and the bathroom offers a combination tub and shower.

Please note

Please be aware Amtrak may experience occasional schedule changes and service disruptions.  Vacations By Rail recommends visiting the Amtrak web site prior to your departure for the latest information.

Vacations By Rail can supply connecting rail from your closest Amtrak Station. Valid government-issued photo ID and birth certificate (or valid USA passport) are required for cruises starting and ending at a US port. Port taxes are not included. Princess reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement of up to $9 per person per day on all passengers if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel, even if the fare has been paid in full. Please be advised that passengers traveling on California Zephyr trains may encounter delays of approximately three to six hours due to heavy congestion, speed restrictions and other operating conditions.

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Hotels

Palmer House Hilton, Chicago

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InterContinental Mark Hopkins, San Francisco

InterContinental Mark Hopkins, San Francisco

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Train

Amtrak's California Zephyr

Ship

Grand Princess

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Global Rail Adventures Brochure

Global Rail Adventures Brochure

The definitive guide to our 2021/22 Global Rail Adventures

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