Sonoma Wineries

For a more laid-back experience, Sonoma offers visitors a delightful alternative to Napa. Known for its less crowded atmosphere, shorter wait times and exceptional wines, Sonoma combines California’s best flavors with a slower pace — perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Guests can enjoy the Sonoma Wine Country excursion on Princess, which takes you to hidden gems in this picturesque area. Here, you can visit locally beloved wineries, sample artisan wines and enjoy beautiful vineyard views—all with the ease and comfort of a guided experience through Princess.

Santa Barbara wine tasting

If you’re craving a taste of California’s wine country with an ocean breeze, Santa Barbara delivers. Often called the American Riviera, this coastal gem is famous for its sun-soaked vineyards and standout Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. On Princess’s Santa Barbara & Los Olivos: California’s Riviera Food & Wine excursion, you’ll sip your way through boutique wineries in charming Los Olivos, a picturesque town known for its tasting rooms and relaxed vibe. Between pours, explore Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean-style architecture, oceanfront views and a delicious local food scene. It’s the perfect way to experience world-class wine — without the Napa price tag.

As California’s most famous wine region, Napa Valley delivers unforgettable vineyard views, renowned wineries, and elegant dining options. California shore excursions that go to Napa Valley let guests explore iconic wineries and award-winning restaurants in the region, taking in the breathtaking scenery that has made Napa world-famous. Here, wine connoisseurs can indulge in tastings at top-rated wineries, each offering a unique glimpse into the artistry of California winemaking.

You may be a Napa Valley aficionado or you could simply be looking to discover the charm of Sonoma and Santa Barbara — whatever the case, Princess Cruises’ excursions immerse you in California wine country’s finest offerings.

California wine country is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique for wine enthusiasts—though harvest season often takes the cake for many travelers. From August through October, vineyards come alive as grapes reach peak ripeness, creating a festive atmosphere with harvest parties, vineyard tours and exclusive tastings. Many people consider this the best time to visit California wine country as wineries celebrate the year’s hard work and allow guests to witness the winemaking process up close. While crowds are larger during these months, the excitement of harvest season is hard to resist for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the full wine country experience.

For a quieter, more intimate visit, consider exploring wine country from November to April. During these months, cooler temperatures and fewer visitors create a relaxing ambiance that lets you enjoy unhurried tastings and conversations with winemakers. Winter and early spring also bring lush green landscapes and blooming wildflowers, adding a serene beauty to the scenery. Off-season travel can be an ideal choice for guests seeking a more personal experience — and for those looking to enjoy tastings without the summer crowds.

A wine-tasting journey in California wine country is more than just sampling exceptional wines — it’s an exploration of the region’s rich culture, flavors and scenic beauty. Whether you’re interested in a self-guided tour of boutique wineries or a luxurious, chauffeur-driven tasting experience, California wine country offers options for every visitor.

Tasting tours

Wine country California invites visitors to experience its vineyards in a variety of ways. Self-guided tours allow guests to explore at their own pace, perfect for discovering smaller, lesser-known wineries. Group tours, on the other hand, offer a social setting where wine lovers can learn and taste together. These are often led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the winemaking process and local history. For an extra touch of elegance, private tours with a luxury chauffeur take you to some of the most sought-after wineries, offering a personalized and intimate wine-tasting adventure.

 Special experiences

A California wine-tasting journey wouldn’t be complete without a few extra memories. Especially for those celebrating an occasion with a California honeymoon or anniversary, there are some additional activities that can make your trip even more special. Some wineries offer food and wine pairings, where carefully crafted dishes highlight the unique flavors of each wine. Educational tours also allow guests to dive deeper into winemaking techniques, grape varieties and the region’s distinct terroirs. 

Princess’s Sonoma Wine Country excursion makes these experiences easy to access, offering curated tastings and expert-led tours that capture Sonoma’s welcoming spirit. For a more laid-back day, enjoy a vineyard picnic, complete with panoramic views and a glass of locally produced wine.

Want to know what California is known for, beyond the world-famous tasting rooms? From outdoor adventures to cultural landmarks, California is a great destination to extend your trip before or after your cruise.

Outdoor adventures

California’s wine country is surrounded by natural beauty, with plenty of outdoor activities for nature fanatics. Scenic hiking trails, like those at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, reward hikers with panoramic views of vineyards and rolling hills. Cyclists can explore quiet backroads through vineyard valleys, while kayakers will enjoy a serene paddle down the Russian River, meandering through lush landscapes. You’ll find some of the best beaches in California for families on your excursions — you could even try snorkeling in California while you’re on shore. Cruises from California allow guests to seamlessly extend their wine adventure with these outdoor activities.

Day trips to nearby destinations

There are all kinds of other places to visit in California. If you’re embarking or debarking in San Francisco, consider visiting some of Northern California’s other famous sites. Yosemite National Park, with its stunning granite cliffs and waterfalls, is a bit too far for a day trip during a port call but is perfect for those extending their stay. You might also explore Sacramento, where attractions like the California State Railroad Museum and Sacramento Zoo offer a family-friendly day out. Each of these destinations adds another layer of discovery to your wine country adventure.

Historic and cultural landmarks

For history enthusiasts, wine country boasts a variety of cultural treasures. In Santa Barbara, the American Riviera, you can walk through the city and find both local and Spanish culture in the murals and architecture around you. Combine your love of history, wine and chocolate on the Wine & Chocolate Historical Walking Tour excursion, which will put you at the heart of this artsy city. Art enthusiasts can also explore downtown Sonoma’s galleries, featuring local artists and craftspeople inspired by the region’s natural beauty.

From the moment you set sail, Princess brings the flavors of the renowned wine country to life, both onshore and onboard. Our carefully curated wine excursions allow guests to explore top wineries in Napa, Sonoma and Santa Barbara, where each tasting room and vineyard showcases the artistry of California winemaking.

Onboard, your wine adventure continues. Princess offers an award-winning selection of wines from around the globe, and our main dining room recently earned Wine Spectator’s 2023 Award of Excellence for its expertly curated wine list. Paired with locally inspired dishes, every meal on board becomes an exploration of flavors. You can also enjoy wine-tasting events, culinary demonstrations and exclusive wine-pairing dinners.

Don’t miss out on this chance to explore Wine Country California in style—book your California Coast cruise today.