Puerto Rico Cruises

Discover the Magic of Puerto Rico with CruiseAway

Welcome to **Puerto Rico**, a vibrant Caribbean paradise that seamlessly blends rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. This beautiful territory of the United States is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and historic forts. Visiting **Puerto Rico** by cruise allows you to immerse yourself in its unique culture while enjoying the convenience of travelling between its spectacular harbours. Fun fact: Puerto Rico is home to **El Yunque National Forest**, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. With so much to explore, your cruise experience will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Top Harbours to Explore in Puerto Rico

When your cruise docks in **Puerto Rico**, you’ll discover several breathtaking harbours to explore. Here are five highlights:

• San Juan: The capital city is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Don’t miss **Old San Juan**, where cobblestone streets lead you to historical sites like **El Morro** and **San Cristóbal Forts**. Take a stroll along the **Blue Cobblestones**, grab a local pastry known as **mofongo**, and soak in the vibrant street art. Insider tip: Visit during the evening for a vibrant atmosphere with live music and bustling eateries!
• Ponce: Known as the “Pearl of the South,” Ponce boasts beautiful colonial architecture and a lively cultural scene. Explore the **Ponce Museum of Art**, home to a vast collection of European and Puerto Rican art, and visit the vibrant **Plaza Las Delicias**. Pro tip: If time allows, check out the **Parque de Bombas**, an iconic firehouse turned museum that’s beautifully painted in red and black.
• Fajardo: A gateway to stunning beaches and natural beauty, Fajardo is perfect for those looking to escape into nature. Take a day trip to **Ile de Vieques** or explore the **Bioluminescent Bay** for a magical kayaking experience under the stars. Insider tip: Make sure to book your excursion in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons!
• Isla Verde: Close to the capital, Isla Verde offers beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife. Relax on the sandy shores, and indulge in your choice of water sports such as snorkelling or paddleboarding. Don’t miss the restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes. Pro tip: Grab your sunscreen for a day of sunbathing; it gets hot and sunny on the beaches!
• Vieques: This smaller island, accessed by ferry or small plane, is known for its stunning beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Playa Flamenco is a must-visit, offering postcard-worthy views. Pro tip: Plan an evening visit to **Mosquito Bay**, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, for an unforgettable glow-in-the-dark kayaking experience.

Best Times to Cruise to Puerto Rico

The prime time for a cruise to **Puerto Rico** is between **December and April**, with pleasant temperatures ranging from **25°C to 30°C**. This is when you’ll experience dry weather, making it perfect for exploring the islands. During the **summer months from June to August**, temperatures can climb up to **32°C**, and while it’s still enjoyable, be prepared for afternoon showers and increased humidity. To maximize value, consider cruising during the shoulder seasons of **May and November**, where temperatures remain comfortable but prices for cruises and accommodations tend to be lower.

The Cost of Cruising in Puerto Rico

For a one-week cruise to **Puerto Rico**, expect prices to range from **$1,500 to $2,800**, while a two-week cruise may cost anywhere from **$3,000 to $5,500**. Luxury cruises typically start at **$5,000** for a one-week experience. Cruises during peak holiday times, particularly around Christmas and New Year, tend to be the most expensive. Meanwhile, travelling around late spring or early fall can yield substantial savings as prices drop. Dining out in Puerto Rico averages about **$15 to $40** per meal depending on the venue, with local food trucks often offering budget-friendly yet authentic cuisine.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Experiences in Puerto Rico

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **8** sail to **Puerto Rico**. The **Grand Princess** and **Caribbean Princess** offer frequent itineraries, departing frequently from **Fort Lauderdale** and **San Juan**. Known for their extensive onboard activities and family-friendly experiences, Princess Cruises also emphasises local culture with shows and culinary offerings inspired by Caribbean cuisine.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: Featuring **29 ships**, **17** provide journeys to **Puerto Rico**. Notably, the **Brilliance of the Seas** and **Rhapsody of the Seas** make this voyage regularly, departing most often from **San Juan** or **Miami**. Famous for their thrilling onboard activities, from rock-climbing walls to surf simulators, Royal Caribbean ensures adventure awaits both on and off the ship.
• MSC Cruises: The fleet consists of **23 ships**, with **seven** sailing to **Puerto Rico**. The **MSC Seaside** and **MSC Seascape** often depart from **Miami** or **Port Canaveral**. MSC appeals particularly to families and couples looking for a mix of elegance and excitement onboard, offering a range of dining options and entertainment experiences.
• Holland America Line: With **11 ships** total, **eight** sail to **Puerto Rico**. The **Zuiderdam** and **Nieuw Amsterdam** frequently set sail from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Miami**. Holland America Line is known for its exceptional culinary experiences and immersive shore excursions, allowing you to delve deeper into the rich culture and history of the Caribbean.
• Virgin Voyages: This new cruise line features **four ships**, all offering itineraries to **Puerto Rico**. The **Valiant Lady** and **Resilient Lady** frequently depart from **San Juan** or **Miami**. With an adults-only atmosphere, Virgin Voyages focuses on unique experiences and a modern vibe, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more upscale cruise.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of **two ships**, both, **EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II**, sail to **Puerto Rico**. Departures most often take place from **Miami** or **San Juan**. Known for its luxurious onboard experience and focus on personalized service, Explora Journeys allows guests to enjoy the unique steps taken to preserve the Caribbean’s natural beauty through sustainable cruising practices.
• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line operates **eight ships**, with **six** that showcase **Puerto Rico**. The **Vista** and **Insignia** frequently set sail from **Miami** or **Civitavecchia (Rome)**. Oceania is celebrated for exceptional culinary experiences, with a fine dining atmosphere that mirrors Caribbean flavors while offering rich cultural excursions.
• Silversea: With **13 ships**, **four** travel to **Puerto Rico**, including the **Silver Ray** and **Silver Moon**. They commonly depart from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Bridgetown**. Silversea prioritises luxury experiences, providing a small-ship atmosphere that allows for an intimate exploration of each port, with top-notch service and gourmet dining onboard.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Featuring a fleet of **six ships**, **four** visit **Puerto Rico**. The **Seven Seas Navigator** and **Seven Seas Mariner** frequently depart from **Miami** or **San Juan**. Known for its all-inclusive luxurious offerings, Regent provides everything from gourmet dining to excursion opportunities at no additional cost, ensuring a lavish experience at every turn.
• Seabourn: With a fleet size of **six ships**, **two** focus on **Puerto Rico**. The **Seabourn Ovation** and **Seabourn Venture** typically depart from **San Juan** or **Bridgetown**. Seabourn’s cruises are designed for sophisticated travellers seeking an upscale experience, providing unique itineraries and exclusive shore excursions tailored to small groups.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If a cruise to **Puerto Rico** has captured your interest but you want to explore other stunning destinations, consider these five alternatives:

• Caribbean: Known for its idyllic beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture, the Caribbean has a variety of experiences awaiting cruisers.
• Florida: From sunny beaches to vibrant theme parks, Florida is a fantastic destination for those looking for a diverse range of activities, both on and off the water.
• Mexico: Steeped in history and known for its stunning coastlines, Mexico offers delicious cuisine, exciting excursions, and welcoming atmosphere.
• Eastern Caribbean: This region provides a delightful escape with beautiful islands, unique cultures, and eclectic markets waiting to be explored.
• Southern Caribbean: Renowned for its culture, history, and stunning landscapes, the Southern Caribbean is an excellent alternative for a relaxed yet rewarding cruise experience.

**Puerto Rico** offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural richness, making it a must-visit cruise destination. With **CruiseAway**, planning your getaway is effortless—book today and begin your Caribbean adventure!