Tips for Puerto Rican Cruises

Recently I had the opportunity to sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico with Disney Cruise Line. Based on my personal experience, I wanted to share some of the things you should keep in mind when sailing on a cruise that begins or ends in San Juan. 

Cruise Port Location: 
The Port of San Juan is conveniently located close to the city center.  There are several hotel options available to choose from located near the port. I also like that they are also a short taxi ride to the airport! If you need a hotel recommendation, the Hilton Caribe provided my family excellent accomodations. My kids loved that this property had multiple pools to choose from and a beach area.   

Getting Around:
Taxi service in Puerto Rico is highly regulated and safe for use. I do like that the fares are set between the port, airport, and hotels. This is great because it eliminates the unknown of taxi fares.

Uber is another option to consider. However, they are not able to pick up passengers on hotel, airport or cruise port properties.  If you are willing to walk off property Uber is an option.  While your fare may be slightly less with Uber I still tend to recommend the use of taxis.

Things to Keep in Mind About the Cruise Terminal:
The cruise terminal facilities at the Port of San Juan are not the same as Port Canaveral so be prepared!  When you arrive you will first need to go through security screening and present cruise and citizenship documentation to immigration officials.  Keep in mind that the check in area is much smaller and there is not nearly enough seating to accommodate all of the guests.  I recommend arriving at or after your port arrival time (PAT) so that you don't have to wait around.

Boarding the Ship:
When you board the ship, you do not board on the same level you do at other ports.  On the Disney Magic you board on deck 4, not deck 3 in the main foyer.  They still announce your name and welcome you aboard but it is in a much smaller scale and regular cruisers may find that disappointing.

Beware of the Iguanas!: 
Watch out for the iguanas!  They can be found at many of the hotels.  They are very docile unless food is around.  One jumped up onto my pool chair to try to get my food.  Do not leave food out - they will get it!

Build in Extra Time to Explore:
San Juan is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. Consider a tour of the Bacardi Factory, historical sites, forts, etc.  I definitely recommend adding extra time in your travel itinerary to explore the city. You won't want to miss all that this Caribbean paradise has to offer!

Contact your Whitney World Travel Advisor for more information on cruising to/from San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

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About the Author:

Emily Hooke- Travel Advisor
Emily is a well versed traveller.  She has been to 5 continents, 34 states and countless cities.  Needless to say, Emily is passionate about traveling.  When not working as a school teacher or planning your vacations, Emily is on a plane or in the car with her kids and husband somewhere.   Emily has taken that passion for always having a well planned trip into her desire to help others.  Let her help you plan your next vacation.  Emily is a graduate of American University and has her Masters from Sacred Heart University. ​