Overview San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico, an island in the Caribbean. The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (Puerto Rico's official name) is actually a United States semi-autonomous territory. Because of this, when flying into Puerto Rico from the US you do not need a passport if you're a US citizen.
Pre- and/or post-cruise hotel stays are a very popular option among cruisers that take a cruise departing from San Juan. This is because San Juan is a vacation destination in itself, so adding on a few days in this tropical and historic city is a nice option available to travelers.
The average year-round temperature in San Juan is 82 °F (28 °C), while it's typically 90 °F (32 °C) or higher during the summer.
By far, the Southern Caribbean is the most common cruise itinerary offered for a cruise departing from San Juan. This is because of San Juan's location, as it allows for a 7-Night cruise to exotic islands (such as Barbados and Aruba) that can't normally be reached in a one week cruise from a mainland US cruise departure port.
Destinations The following destinations can be visited on a cruise leaving from San Juan, Puerto Rico:
Caribbean (Southern)
Panama Canal
Transatlantic
Currency The official currency of Puerto Rico is the US dollar, since it's a semi-autonomous territory of the United States.
Language The official languages are English and Spanish.
Tourist Attractions Old San Juan is the historic colonial area of San Juan. This part of San Juan is the most popular attraction among tourists. This part of San Juan is filled with narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings that are hundreds of years old. There are many churches, such as the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, in this area as well. Old San Juan is actually located on a small island (called Isleta de San Juan) just off of the main island, connected by two bridges and a causeway.
The Bacardi Rum Distillery is located near San Juan, in Cataņo. Also known as "The Cathedral of Rum," it's popular among tourists to visit and take a tour. While on the tour you'll learn about the history of the company, you'll view a movie about the company, and you'll be able to sample a variety of their products. The tour does not actually enter the area where the rum is actually produced, as it's given in a few indoor and outdoor areas made specifically for the tour. At the end of the tour you will be able to check out the Bacardi merchandise shop.
The Puerto Rico Arts Museum is one of San Juan's most beautiful landmarks. Within this building is the largest collection of contemporary art in Puerto Rico.
Of course, being a Caribbean island, San Juan offers typically beautiful weather year-round, along with numerous beaches.
There are casinos in a few of the hotels in San Juan. Because of this many tourists choose to spend time in them. However, typically cruisers don't overdo it, as most cruise ships already have a casino onboard.
Port Location & Parking Fees San Juan International Airport (SJU) is located about 8 miles from the port in Old San Juan, with about a 45 minute travel time between them. All driving times are estimates, subject to change based on traffic conditions.
Taxis are available at the airport to take you to the pier. The approximate cost from SJU to the port in Old San Juan is usually $18 to $20 (one way). Another option is to purchase ground transfers through the cruise line.
Address:
Paseo Concepcion de Garcia
Pier (Muelle) #4
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Parking Fees (subject to change):
There are no parking facilities for cruise passengers.
