Carnival Cruise Line primarily departs from the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27 in San Francisco. Located along the iconic Embarcadero, Pier 27 is a modern, environmentally friendly terminal that serves as the primary hub for most large cruise ships visiting the city. On high-volume days when Pier 27 is occupied, ships may also utilize the older Pier 35, which is located just a few blocks north, near Fisherman's Wharf. It is vital for passengers to check their specific cruise documents, as "The Port of San Francisco" encompasses both locations. A major tip for those departing from San Francisco is that there is no official on-site parking at Pier 27 or Pier 35; travelers are usually advised to use nearby public garages (like the one at 80 Francisco Street) or utilize rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. The terminal's location is ideal for tourists, as it is within walking distance of Pier 39, the Ferry Building, and many of the city's most famous seafood restaurants, allowing for easy pre-cruise sightseeing.