Visiting from United States? 
Visiting from United States?
Cruises from San Juan are your all-access pass to the vibrant soul of Puerto Rico, an island encircled by white-sand beaches, laced with rainforest trails, and crowned by rugged mountain peaks. Just 100 miles long, Puerto Rico is packed with unforgettable experiences: the sensual rhythms of salsa, coral reefs that teem with tropical fish, and ancient forts that guard centuries-old secrets. What’s more, the culinary scene in this buzzing, multicultural spot is as diverse as it is delicious.
Step aboard one of our award-winning ships and let cruises from Puerto Rico transport you in style to some of the most exquisite islands in the Caribbean. Bask on Antigua’s beaches, one for every day of the year, or step back in time at Nelson’s Dockyard. Lace up your hiking boots for a rainforest trek on St. Lucia’s dramatic Pitons, then trade them in for flip-flops on St. Thomas, where seductively beautiful Magens Bay delivers pure romance. Wherever your ship takes you, there’s a new paradise to discover every day.
Antigua is encircled by 365 beaches, each with its own charm, from the sparkling water of Ffryes Beach to the beach cricket played on the sands of Fort Bay. Delve into the island’s Georgian history at 18th-century Nelson’s Dockyard. While you’re in the south, head up to Shirley Heights for sweeping views over the island. In the capital, St. John's, browse the shops, galleries, and cafés at Redcliffe Quay, or join a tasting of Antiguan rum.
Dramatic St. Lucia is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean, its western shore defined by the jagged Pitons, two towering volcanic plugs cloaked in lush rainforest. Feeling adventurous? The hike up Gros Piton will give you jaw-dropping views of neighboring St. Vincent. Elsewhere, you could join a chocolate-making workshop, or admire the colorful produce in Castries Market. Or simply relax on one of the many gorgeous beaches; Reduit Beach is one of the prettiest.
The U.S. Virgin Islands are scattered like emeralds across the blue Caribbean, with bustling St. Thomas at their heart. In Charlotte Amalie, the capital, delve into the island’s history at 17th-century Fort Christian and learn about the infamous Blackbeard and associates at the Pirates Treasure Museum. Bask on the sweep of white sand that fringes Magens Bay or hop on the ferry over to laid-back St. John and swim off Honeymoon Beach, looking for sea turtles in the aquamarine water.
On our cruises from San Juan, you’ll explore the islands of the Caribbean in style. Sail on Celebrity Apex or Celebrity Beyond and enjoy uninterrupted island and ocean views from the Magic Carpet, cantilevered over the side of the ship. It’s the perfect spot to sip your morning coffee or a favorite cocktail in the fresh air. Listen to mellow acoustic tunes at the Sunset Bar and savor the flavors of globally-inspired cuisine in the many onboard restaurants.
Spend your time at sea unwinding by the sparkling pool or on the fragrant grass of the Lawn Club on Celebrity Eclipse. Renew mind and body in the serene spa. Elevate your entire vacation with The Retreat, which includes accommodation in a beautiful suite, access to a private sun deck (on select ships) and lounge, and dining in the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat.
Overlooking sprawling green lawns, the 16th-century Castillo San Felipe del Morro guards the entrance to San Juan Bay. Explore the citadel’s old sleeping quarters, dungeons, and maze-like tunnels. Climb up to the massive ramparts, still guarded by some of the original cannons, and take in sweeping views of the city and the Atlantic. El Morro, as it’s known locally, is more than a fortress; it’s a symbol of the islanders’ strength and resilience.
Dating back to 1521, the elegant Cathedral de San Juan Bautista is the second-oldest cathedral built in the Americas and the oldest on U.S. soil. The structure you see today was started in 1540, the original having been destroyed by a hurricane. Inside, you’ll see the marble tomb of Juan Ponce de Leon, Spanish conquistador and the first governor of Puerto Rico. Next to the cathedral is a leafy little park where locals gather in their finery on Sundays.
Located at the end of Paseo de la Princesa in Old San Juan, the impressive Raices Fountain was unveiled in 1992, commemorating 500 years since the arrival of the Spanish in Puerto Rico. The sculptural monument is adorned with statues of gods and goddesses reflecting Puerto Rico’s cultural influences: the original Tainos, the Spaniards themselves, and people of African descent. Raices means “roots”, acknowledging Puerto Rico’s multicultural heritage.
A stroll around Old San Juan, an area filled with candy-colored buildings, pretty plazas, and cobblestone streets, is essential if you want to feel the heartbeat of the city. Explore the two dramatic forts and the Catedral de San Juan, the second-oldest church in the Americas. Snap selfies in colorful Calle de la Fortaleza, shaded by kites, or sometimes umbrellas, in rainbow shades. Stop for coffee or piña coladas, snack on warm-from-the-oven empanadas, and listen to the music on the breeze.
Immerse yourself in the cuisine of Puerto Rico in a mofongo masterclass. Mash green plantains with a pestle and mortar, adding in garlic and pork rinds, or chicharrón. Your creation is rolled into balls and served in a pilón, or wooden bowl. For a true taste of local living, wash it down with a refreshing mojito.
San Juan is fringed by golden beaches, some pounded by dramatic surf, others bordering the limpid Laguna del Condado, the perfect spot for stand-up paddleboarding or a gentle kayak trip. Isla Verde is one of the loveliest spots, shaded by palms and busy with locals on weekends, when the cocktail bars are buzzing and the beat of reggaetón fills the air. Balneario El Escambrón, protected by a coral reef, is perfect for snorkeling, with everything you need from gear rental to sun umbrellas.
