Pan American Pier & Cruise Terminals
The Pan American Pier has two modern two-tiered passenger terminals and is located on Isla Grande, besides the Isla Grande Airport and near the Puerto Rico Convention Center. Two mega-ships can dock at the Pan American Pier terminals. 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. The only thing within reasonable walking distance is the Isla Grande Airport, Puerto Rico Convention Center, Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino, and the Hyatt House Hotel. You will have to take a taxi or book a tour in order to visit the historic Old San Juan or New San Juan. It is a 10-15 minute ride into Old San Juan and will cost you $10 if your cruise line does not pay for it. The most convenient hotels to stay at near the Pan American Pier terminals are the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino and Hyatt House Hotel.
Guidelines And Tips For Experiencing Island Activities
- Masks are required in all indoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status .
- Starting September 2, all businesses will be closed from 12:00 am – 5:00 am except for emergencies. Pharmacies and gas stations are excluded. Restaurants may operate delivery services during this time, and restaurants at hotels can remain open only for guests. Alcohol sales/consumption will be prohibited during these hours. This includes social activities, such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, among others similar in public and private establishments.
- Enjoyment of attractions and tours:
- Public beaches and natural reserves are open, following social distancing guidelines. Masks are required in all indoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status.
- Visitors should connect with their tour operators directly for additional information about operation status and specific protocols.
What Pier Will My Cruise Ship Dock At Or Embark From In San Juan
In general, arriving transit ships that are day-docking for one afternoon/ evening in San Juan usually dock at the Old San Juan Piers , so you can walk right out into Old San Juan and avoid taking a taxi. We believe an exception to this rule to be Celebrity Cruises which typically day-dock at the Pan American Pier. Cruises that start in San Juan usually leave from the Pan American Pier Terminals I or II. However, Carnival cruises embark from the Old San Juan Pier 4 terminal if San Juan is the home departure port. Again, be sure to contact your cruise line or call the San Juan Cruise Port at 787-723-2260 to verify the arrival or departure pier location.
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Cruise Ships In San Juan
San Juan has two cruise terminals, one in San Juan Bay and the other at the Pan American terminal across from the bay. Between them, the ports host around 500 cruise ships per year. Many of the cruises that make a voyage through the Caribbean make a port call in Puerto Rico, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, Costa, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Windstar, Norwegian Cruise Line, AIDA, Seabourn, Silbersea, MSC Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and even Disney Cruises.
The San Juan Bay terminal has a capacity to receive up to seven ships at once. The location of the piers gives visitors easy access to explore the historic city of Old San Juan. This may be the most convenient port of call for people only spending a day on island because many attractions, restaurants, bars, and landmarks are within walking distance.
The Pan American terminal has a pier that accommodates two cruise ships. It is located near Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in Isla Grande, next to the Puerto Rico Convention Center, the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel and Casino, and the Hyatt House Hotel. Getting in and out of the city requires either a taxi or rideshare, and if San Juan is your point of departure, your cruise ship will likely embark from there.
Cruise ships at the fast-growing Ponce Cruise Port.
Reasons Why You Should Cruise To Puerto Rico
- Caribbean
One of the cruise meccas in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, is a popular starting or stopping point on numerous Caribbean cruise itineraries. The islands name literally means rich port in English, which is a strong indication for the beautiful nature and culture youll get to enjoy on a cruise to Puerto Rico.
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Top Family Cruise Routes To Puerto Rico
The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is well known for its beautiful weather, stunning beaches, historic buildings, as well as fantastic food and welcoming people. All of these factors combine to make Puerto Rico a great destination for travelers, families, honeymooners, and more. There truly is something there for everyone.
Cruises, in particular, are a great way to experience Puerto Rico. Its easy to pack light because so many amenities that you might need while on vacation will be readily available right there on your cruise ship. Taking a cruise with the family is an easy way to include activities that both kids and adults will love. Lets dive in and take a look at a few of the routes to Puerto Rico that families can take.
San Juan Puerto Rico Cruise Holidays
The Caribbean has always been a magnet for people seeking sunshine and smiles. In light of the impact of the recent hurricanes, we’re doing all we can to support the region by continuing to visit. Most of our ports of call were unaffected and whilst we’re continuing to work with the affected islands to help where we can, we have arranged alternative ports where necessary to ensure you can make the very most of what the iconic Caribbean has to offer. About San Juan. Dating back to 1521, El Viejo San Juan – or Old San Juan – is not only the most attractive part of the Puerto Rican capital but it is also one of the most fascinating historic areas in the whole Caribbean. Best of all, you can walk there from San Juans cruise port. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with 16th and 17th century Spanish colonial houses, with plants trailing from wrought-iron balconies. These give some welcome shade from the ever-shining sun as you make your way to the 16th century fortress, El Morro, still seemingly on guard against invaders from the sea. A hugely atmospheric place with 20ft thick walls, you will be amazed at the medieval nooks and crannies, dungeons, lookouts, courtyards, ramps, hidden staircases and gun turrets it conceals. As one of the Caribbean’s larger islands, Puerto Rico has enough room for an enchanting 27,000-acre rainforest: El Yunque.
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Traveling To The San Juan Cruise Terminal
San Juan Luis Muñoz MarÃn International Airport services the island of Puerto Rico. It is the islands main international gateway, and its main connection to the mainland United States. The Airport is located approximately 10 miles from the Pan American Pier and 11 miles from the OSJ Piers . It usually takes about 15-25 minutes in a taxi for the trip, dependent upon traffic.
The Tourism Taxi Program, recently instituted by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, has simplified the fare structure between the airport and several major tourism zones, including the piers. When coming out of the airport, go to the taxi stand and theyll give you a slip with your set rate on it. The rates are per taxi and many are vans or minivans, which can accommodate up to 6 or 7 people. There are additional charges for baggage.
Puerto Rico Museum Of Art
Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico or Puerto Rico Museum of Art is one of the places that you can explore Puerto Ricos artistic side. The museum here features an interesting collection that depicts the islands history, culture and politics.
Hosted in a grand building that was once a hospital the visual layout of this museum is rather appealing. The main floor of the museum showcases classical art from the 17th century to date, mostly by master artists while the upper floors consist of temporary exhibitions that showcase modern contemporary art.
This museum is both educative and fun even for young kids. It especially has a kid-themed exhibition and hosts an interactive art function for families every once in a while.
The art also transcends to the outdoors where there is a beautifully sculpted garden outside the museum. You can learn more about planning your visit right here.
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Explore El Capitolio And Snap A Pic Or Two
Visit the capital of San Juan just outside the old walls. This is the only state capital that faces the water. Here is where you go to learn the political history of the nation. The all-marble building which features intricate designs and murals on its dome-shaped ceiling United States Capital State building. There are free tours and its a great place to get some Instagram worthy snaps.
Cruise Ships In Ponce
In a recent move to expand cruise options to the island, the southern city of Ponce now receives the Serenade of the Seas and Celebrity Cruise four times per year. If you choose to make this town your port of call, you can enjoy historical sites such as El Parque de Bombas an iconic fire station-turned museum and other landmarks. Or, enjoy a day at La Guancha boardwalk, where there are plenty of seafood restaurants, fritter carts, live music, and other activities.
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Day Trip To Vieques Island
You havent truly enjoyed the best that Puerto Rico has to offer until you set foot in the tropical island of Vieques. Located southeast of the mainland, Vieques is a small island 20 miles long and 7 miles wide.
The heavy military presence which had occupied two-thirds of the island for many years kept most of Vieques untouched. As such, it retains an old tropical Caribbean island vibe and bears plenty of untouched beach coves perfect for your exploration. Its not surprising to meet with wild horses in Vieques, the island is full of them.
Other than beaches and clear turquoise waters, Vieques has the largest national wildlife refuge. This refuge covers a whopping 3100 acres in size. But the biggest draw to the island is its bioluminescent bay in Mosquito Bay.
Popular Shore Excursions In Puerto Rico
The best shore excursions to do before cruises from San Juan embark or during ports of call in Puerto Rico are ones that highlight the culture of the island as well as its lovely nature.
Walking Tour of Old San Juan
San Juan is flanked by two imposing forts: Castillo San Cristobal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Both forts helped secure Puerto Rico from threats, and were even used for military purposes as recently as World War II. These days, they serve an educational purpose and are open for the public to explore.
Rainforest Adventure
Puerto Rico isnt just colorful cities and historic forts. It is also home to natural wonders. One of the top things to do is to take a shore excursion to El Yunque National Forest and do a nature walk to see native plants and animals. If you want to get your adrenaline up, you can also zipline above the trees.
Bacardi Rum Distillery Tour
Rum drinks are a popular libation in the Caribbean and Puerto Rico is no exception. To learn more about how rum is made in Puerto Rico and to try some of the worlds most popular rum, take a distillery tour at the Bacardi Rum Factory located in San Juan.
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Puerto Rico Cruise Deals
Your first glimpse of Puerto Rico will be the beautiful of San Juan, only a short distance from the port, where the colourful streets, shops and restaurants are dotted with historic landmarks. The San Felipe del Morro Fort is a hit amongst tourists with its views across the city, while the San Juan Cathedral is also well worth a visit. To explore more of what the country has to offer, a trip to the El Yunque forest with its rainforest and spectacular waterfalls is sure to make you fall in love with the natural beauty of the region. It goes without saying that the beaches on the Caribbean coastline are stunning, two popular stretches being Escambron Beach and Playa Condado, but your trip would not be complete without a taste of the mouth watering Puerto Riican cuisine, washed down with some famous Bacardi from a local distillery.
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Cruise Ships Canceling Calls To San Juan
According to El Nuevo Dia, Royal Caribbean is canceling 90 calls to San Juan, Puerto Rico for the 2020 and 2021 season. The news was released by Fermin Fontanez, the director of the Authority for Public-Private Partnerships that these cancellations would happen.
However, the cruise line has apparently confirmed to the site that no itineraries have been changed and they are still standing on the same full itineraries.
The reason for the cancellations is the privatization of the cruise docks in San Juan due to much-needed maintenance that is needed. Around $250 million investment is needed to make sure cruise ships can continue to dock there in the years to come. There is an urge for governer Wanda Vazquez to not go ahead with the privatization so this news is fluid.
We will have to see how this works out as the port authorities and Royal Caribbean usually have an open dialogue and it has come as a surprise with the cancellations.
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The 90 canceled visits to the eastern Caribbean island would mean 360,000 fewer tourists and in turn, would have an economic impact of $44 million. Authorities have also stated that an additional 30 departures from San Juan are being canceled and that apparently includes Freedom of the Seas which is operated by Royal Caribbean.
Cruise Hive will keep an eye on developments and keep readers updated.
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Charlotte Amalie United States Virgin Islands
Charlotte Amalie, located on the island of St. Thomas, is the capital and the largest city of the United States Virgin Islands, founded in 1666 as Taphus . In 1691, the town was renamed to Charlotte Amalie after Charlotte Amalie of Hesse-Kassel , queen consort to King Christian V of Denmark-Norway. It has a deep-water harbor that was once a haven for pirates and is now one of the busiest ports of call for cruise ships in the Caribbean, with about 1.5 million/plus cruise ship passengers landing there annually. Protected by Hassel Island, the harbor has docking and fueling facilities, machine shops, and shipyards and was a U.S. submarine base until 1966. The Town has been inhabited for centuries. When Christopher Columbus arrived in 1493, the area was inhabited by Caribs, Arawaks, Ciboney and Taíno native peoples. It is on the southern shore at the head of Saint Thomas Harbor. In 2010 the City had a population of 18,481, which makes it the largest city in the Virgin Islands Archipelago. Hundreds of ferries and yachts pass by the Town each week. – Wikipedia
Things to do in Charlotte Amalie
Places to stay in Charlotte Amalie
Carnival Adds New One Way Cruises From New York To Puerto Rico
A round trip cruise from New York to San Juan, Puerto Rico would take much longer than the eight-night cruise that Carnival is now offering. Thats why the cruise line is now offering a one way cruise from New York to Puerto Rico that will have several stops along the way.
This itinerary on the Carnival Splendor will allow for stops at great ports like St Kitts, St Maarten, St Thomas, and the islands of Antigua. For those that want to cruise back to New York instead of flying they can also book cruises from Puerto Rico to New York and make it a 2 week vacation.
The first New York-to-San Juan cruise will take place on Oct. 24, 2014 and there will be two more on Jan. 12 and Feb. 13, 2015. Three San Juan-to-New York voyages will depart on Nov. 1, 2014 and on Jan. 20 and Feb. 21, 2015.
Currently Carnivals 7 or 8-night round trip cruises that sail out of New York are only able to go as far south as Florida and the Bahamas because of the distance, so these one-way cruises will give New Yorkers grater variety in exploring the southern Caribbean.
The cruise line also announced that it would offer new 4, 5 and 7-day cruises on the Carnival Splendor to Canada and New England. The dates for these cruises will take place from June to October 2014.
What do you think about one-way cruises? Would you take one and fly back or would you just book another one-way cruise to get back home? Let us know in the comments section below.
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Processes For Symptomatic Travelers :
- If a symptomatic traveler who is not vaccinated or is traveling internationally arrives on the Island, the Puerto Rico National Guard will conduct a PCR molecular COVID-19 test at the airport and it will be mandatory for the traveler to quarantine and cover their own medical expenses/possible extended stay.
- The quarantine is mandated until the traveler receives the negative test result and digitally uploads proof of a negative PCR molecular COVID-19 test result to the Puerto Rico Health Departments online portal. A list of testing sites in Puerto Rico will be available at the airport and can also be found here. Those who test positive will not be able to travel until the Health Department releases them.
Additional airport processes include: