Upon arrival make your way to your hotel either by San Francisco’s train from airport to downtown, BART or taxi and spend the rest of the day exploring the city.

San Francisco is one of the most exciting cities in the United States and has something for everyone. Marvel at the Golden Gate and Bay bridges, experience the eight hairpin turns of Lombard Street, take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and explore Fisherman’s Wharf.

After collecting your hire car from downtown San Francisco, drive the coastal road to Monterey and ensure your route includes the stunning 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach. On arrival, walk the Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf and look for the sea otters and other wildlife on the beaches and in the ocean.

Please remember there is a charge to enter 17-Mile Drive - $11.25 per vehicle - which is reimbursed with a purchase of $35 or more at most Pebble Beach Resort restaurants.

The highlight of today’s drive will be the rugged stretch of coastal road from Carmel to San Simeon through famous Big Sur, the perfect coastal road, surrounded by plunging cliffs and dramatic scenery. With beautiful state parks and breathtaking Bixby Creek Bridge, which spans a 270-foot canyon, the drive provides unforgettable views. At your destination of Pismo Beach, take a stroll through this classic Californian beach town.

Your drive south continues to historic Santa Barbara. In this city, Spanish influences are evident everywhere, particularly in the architecture of Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Old Mission. With many fine wineries and the Santa Ynez Mountains only a short drive away, why not make a trip to sample some of the wines that are on offer?

Los Angeles has it all, from the Hollywood Sign to Universal Studios, the Beverly Centre to Rodeo Drive. Find your favourite spot to relax along Santa Monica Beach or Venice Beach, or if you’d like to show off your strength, head to the world-famous Muscle Beach. Those who like the glitz and glamour should visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame or a Hollywood Homes Tour, whilst the thrill seekers will love Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia - just a short 45-minute drive to the north of Hollywood.

As you continue your drive down the stunning Pacific coastline to San Diego, stop off at Laguna Beach and Dana Point for lunch. As you continue your journey you will pass by delightful small towns such as Del Mar, which hosts famous Horse Track Racing during the summer. Upon arrival into San Diego, drop your car off in readiness for embarking on your cruise adventure.

Today you will check out of your hotel and board Holland America Line MS Koningsdam ready for your afternoon sailing.

One of California's Channel Islands, Catalina, lies southwest of LA. The island's distinctive landscape is mostly undeveloped outside the charming port town of Avalon. Today most of the island is owned by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which works hard to preserve its flora and fauna. The main street is lined with boutiques and restaurants in brightly painted bungalows.

Today you will enjoy a day at sea, marvelling at the Californian coastlines from a different perspective. There’s also plenty to do onboard, so see what takes your fancy.

Today you will return to San Francisco and have the chance to return to your favourite city spot, or discover new ones. Explore San Francisco and Sausalito with a scenic 3-hour guided bike tour that takes you over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge with multiple photo opportunities along the way.

Your southbound journey starts here as you head towards the Mexican City of Ensenada.

Nicknamed the Pearl of the Pacific, Ensenada is located on the Pacific Coastline of Baja California, Mexico. Take one of the onshore excursions to discover wineries or marine geysers, or relax on the beach or go shopping.

Disembark at the end of your cruise and enjoy a couple of final days in San Diego. With world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld and the USS Midway Museum, there is plenty of exploring still to be done. You may choose to explore the Gaslamp Quarter - a lively downtown neighbourhood with restaurants, clubs, dive bars and cocktail lounges - or head to Spreckels and Balboa theatres, offering music, comedy and drama.

There’s still some time for final adventures before heading to the airport for your homebound flight.