I apologize if this has already been asked a million times but we're staying overnight in San Diego in November 2008 before a 14 day Panama Canal/South America cruise and we're hoping someone has had luck with a hotel close to the cruise terminal yet near good food, interesting sites etc. which they can recommend. We're hoping to find one with transportation to the ship but that might be too much to ask!!! Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

I stayed here.

They have airport shuttle. The airport is less than 2 miles. The cruise terminal is across the street. You can walk from the hotel to the Gaslight district and to the Seaport shopping complex, or take a quick taxi. The walk to Seaport is along the water.

I am currently in San Diego on business and am staying in the Gaslamp District. I agree with Cruise Fanatic's choice of hotel that is closer to the terminal. While the Gaslamp District is lovely, it is pricey. There's also a lot to do near the pier. I walked over there this afternoon, and it was quite nice. Enjoy your planning!