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The Port of San Juan in the island of Puerto Rico has a good number of highlights appealing to cruise passengers with the most diverse interests. If your ship is docked at Old San Juan Cruise Piers you could use the free trolley to take you to the city centre. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.
Old San Juan walking tour
Sea Cloud Spirit to Homeport in Puerto Rico in 2025 - Porthole Cruise and Travel
Sea Cloud Spirit to Homeport in Puerto Rico in 2025.
Posted: Thu, 01 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
GPH operates ports that include a different range of major cruise hubs such as Barcelona and Singapore, to high-traffic marquee ports such as Nassau and Antigua. At the same time, with an ‘all stakeholder’ philosophy, GPH brings a mindful approach to the development and promotion of its ports’ destinations, as well as contribute to the development of the cruise industry. The Pan American Pier has two modern two-tiered passenger terminals (I & II), located in Isla Grande, next to the Isla Grande Airport and near the Puerto Rico Convention Center. Depending on your cruise line and cruise ship traffic, your ship may arrive and dock here for the day and will most likely embark from here if San Juan is the home departure port. Home Port cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney, Princess) often use San Juan as their departure port, thus cruises embark from San Juan. Transit ships are those docking for a day or two originating from another homeport.
Touring around San Juan
Some cruise ships offer tours, however, you may wish to compare prices, since often they cost more than booking with local operators, most can be booked ahead and paid later, and they’re easy to cancel if needed. San Juan cruise port schedule has booked ships operating mainly on Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries leaving roundtrip from Florida USA ports. San Juan is also homeport to several major cruise companies operating roundtrips out of Puerto Rico. Cruise passengers on ships docking at the piers in Old San Juan, will find that the major historical landmarks of the town are just around the corner.
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Old San Juan features a mix of traditional souvenir shops, outlet stores, and local boutiques, making it an ideal place for shopping. Fortaleza, Cristo, and San Francisco are the main commercial avenues where you can purchase arts, fashion, jewelry, and souvenirs. The port plays a vital role in Puerto Rico’s economy, contributing significantly to the local tourism sector. Cruise tourists account for approximately 7.1% of Puerto Rico’s economy, bringing in an estimated $250 million in revenue annually. There are private driving tours, and we recommend them for visitors with mobility challenges or visitors that wish to enjoy Old San Juan suited to their needs and only their group.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (aka El Morro)
The 3 piers right by Old San Juan are perpendicular to the shore and two of them have terminal buildings. The exit gates of the piers and terminals are less than 500 feet (150 meters) from the gangway. The two-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis has it all—a rich history, lush rainforests, soft sand beaches, and even a majestic volcano. Hike a beautiful rainforest to reach the crater of a dormant volcano and be rewarded with breathtaking views on a rugged island tour. Sail along the gorgeous coast of St. Kitts in a sleek catamaran, then jump in the ocean for a snorkel adventure.
What amenities and services are offered at the San Juan Cruise Port Terminal?
Maybe we’ll never know the true story behind this legendary chapel.Right next to the chapel is Parque de las Palomas (Pigeon Park), the perfect spot to enjoy a magnificent view of the harbor, city and mountains. There are numerous safe overnight parking garages in Old San Juan around the Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel & Casino, located across from the Old San Juan cruise piers. The Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino offers overnight parking for the Pan American Pier. Old San Juan is a shopper’s paradise, offering a mix of local boutiques, eclectic shops, and classic cruise port stops. Food enthusiasts can indulge in local flavors at various restaurants and cafes scattered across the city. If you’re staying a few days in Puerto Rico before or after your cruise, having a car rental gives you the most freedom to experience the island.
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Thanks to its convenient position, the port provides quick access to Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fascinating history, one-of-a-kind shops, delicious local food, and fun things to do. The San Juan cruise pier in Puerto Rico is conveniently located in front of the old city center. From here you can easily walk into the historical center and explore the town by foot. Read our full San Juan cruise port guide for information about transportation options and tips on what to see and do. There are two port facilities in San Juan -- one is a 10-minute ride, close to the airport, called the Pan American terminal, while the main cruise terminal (Piers 1, 3 and 4) is just a short walk from downtown Old San Juan. A 10- to 15-minute walk will get you to most restaurants and attractions (about 25 minutes to El Morro).
Or, take a day trip to Nevis, the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, and explore the history museum with a break for lunch. San Juan became a Spanish colonial settlement in the 16th century, and today's cruise visitors primarily disembark in what is one of the Caribbean's best-preserved historic districts, known as San Juan Viejo, or Old San Juan. The quarter features imposing city walls, massive forts, cobblestone streets and terraced mansions. Visitors will find just walking about is a great way to spend time in the city. San Juan Old Town is the crown jewel of Puerto Rico, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located in the heart of Old San Juan, the cathedral features impressive religious and historical artifacts and holds the tomb of the city founder Juan Ponce de León. It is said that Ponce de León moved here and was later buried in this same church. From El Morro fortress, you can walk back towards the cruise terminal and pass through the Old Spanish military barracks building on your way to the 16th-century San Juan Cathedral (Cathedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista). History buffs visiting Old Town San Juan can explore the second-oldest church in the Western Hemisphere and the oldest church on U.S. soil. While the church’s history dates back to 1521, the building of San Juan Bautista that you’ll see today was built in 1540. There are often musicians playing in the street, restaurants, and cocktail bars to stop and snack at.
We would also recommend taking a break from strolling the streets to sample some of the unique cocktails. You can even take a distillery tour or a cocktail lesson to learn how to impress your guests at your next dinner party. If alcoholic beverages aren’t your thing, sample some locally roasted coffee. La Fortaleza allows explorers to see one of the oldest and best-preserved mansions in the Americas.
It would be odd to come to Puerto Rico and not go to the beach, admit it! Nevertheless, some of the island’s most stunning beaches are actually outside of San Juan. Hosts and tour guides are very friendly and informative, so you’ll learn about the history of the property and its biodiversity. There is a small kiosk where you can refresh yourself after your tour, and purchase local souvenirs if you wish. Once you arrive at the destination, get a map and explore on your own the walking trails that will take you past La Coca Falls, La Mina Falls, the Yokahu Observation Tower, and the Mount Britton Lookout Tower observation point. You can opt for an easy nature walk (Juan Diego Creek trail) or a 1-hour hike on one of several hiking trails, out of which Big Tree trail is the most popular one.
Many Caribbean cruises have a port call in this historic city, including Carnival, Celebrity, Disney Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, Costa, and AIDA. The port of San Juan has two cruise terminals, one in San Juan Bay and the other (Pan American Terminal) across from the bay. In this post, I share the best things to do in San Juan on a cruise, including shore excursions and inexpensive and free activities. You’ll also learn everything you need to know about visiting the San Juan cruise port for the day and get answers to commonly asked questions. With cobblestone streets and bright-colored Spanish colonial buildings, you will feel like you have traveled back in time.
With up to nine ships berthing in a single day at two terminals, it’s important to review your specific cruise line's boarding documents to verify which terminal and pier you need to arrive at for embarkation day. Old San Juan houses several historical landmarks, including the Fuerte San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and the Castillo de San Cristobal – both part of the San Juan National Historic Site. These forts offer a glimpse into the island’s military history and provide panoramic views of the city and the ocean. The San Juan Cathedral and the San Jose Church are other historical sites worth visiting. The morning arrival of cruise ships in San Juan is a sight to behold, with the natural port of San Juan offering a delightful view. If you’re an early riser, don’t miss this opportunity to take in the beautiful landscape as your ship sails into the port.
If you have the time and the desire to explore farther away from the port, a car rental is an excellent option. Because Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, if you are an American citizen, you don’t need a passport to travel to the island. You should always have a valid ID (such as a driver’s license) with you. Before you arrive in Puerto Rico, visit the shore excursions desk onboard your ship or check your cruise line’s official website, as you can pre-book a wide range of exciting activities for your time in San Juan.
During a walking or self-guided tour at the San Juan Historic Site, you can view the fortifications, including forts and walls designed to defend San Juan during the 17th and 18th centuries. If you’re looking to explore San Juan on your own, consider getting a taxi or booking a shuttle service. As you disembark your cruise ship, taxi drivers will be available to take you where you want to go. Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, so you can freely spend US dollars. We recommend bringing some cash if you plan to sample different dishes from street food vendors or purchase handmade souvenirs from a roadside stall.
With more than 4,000 Uber drivers on the island, you won’t have to wait long for an Uber driver to find you. Rentals include a helmet and bike lock, but beware that rain might shorten your bike expedition. Only about 20% of Puerto Ricans speak English fluently, but many people involved in the tourism trade are bilingual. Founded in 1521 by Spanish Colonists, San Juan is the oldest European-established city under United States Sovereignty (it is neither a sovereign nation nor a U.S. State) and is the capital of Puerto Rico. Within a short distance of the San Juan Cruise Port, you can find the Balneario el Escambron beach. The white sand beach is lined with picture-perfect palm trees, and there are plenty of activities to do here.
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