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San Juan (Puerto Rico)

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Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-04-07 22:14

Port San Juan cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from San Juan, Puerto Rico. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

San Juan is Puerto Rico's principal/main port (locode PRSJU), as well as the largest city (population around 350,000) and the country's capital. San Juan is the second-oldest capital (after Santo Domingo Dominicana ) that the Europeans/Spaniards established in the Caribbean.

Originally the island was named San Juan and the port - Ciudad de Puerto Rico. They swapped over time.

San Juan cruise port schedule has booked ships operating mainly on Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries leaving roundtrip from Florida USA ports. San Juan is also homeport to several major cruise companies operating roundtrips out of Puerto Rico. Among the most popular Caribbean island port destinations often combined with Puerto Rico are Windward Islands ( St Lucia , Dominica , St Vincent ,  Barbados , Tobago , Grenada ), Leeward Islands ( St Maarten , Guadeloupe , St Kitts ) and Dutch Antilles ( Curacao , Bonaire , Aruba ).

All Puerto Rico beaches are open to the public. However, public beaches (served by lifeguards and with facilities) are called here balnearios. They are free of charge (no entry fees) but charge for parking, as well as lockers and showers. The most popular are El Escambron and Isla Verde.

In early April 2017 was announced the RCG-Royal Caribbean Group's partnership with Puerto Rico Ports Authority (government-owned corporation) for improving the Port's cruise pier "Pan American Wharf 2". The decision followed RCCL's announcements about homeporting Freedom of the Seas in San Juan (starting May 2018). To needed development investments will optimize the port's cruise docking infrastructure. The works will include boarding bridge improvements, safety checkpoints improvements, restrooms improvements, mooring improvements, new passenger registration desks, building improvements, enlarging the terminal's baggage inspection area, also dredging in the pier's ship docking area.

In August 2022, GPH-Global Ports Holding (2003-founded, UK-based corporation, currently the world's largest cruise port operator) signed a 30-year concession agreement with Puerto Rico Ports Authority for the San Juan Cruise Port.

• Under the concession terms, GPH agreed to pay an upfront fee of USD 75 million.
• During Investment Phase I, GPH agreed to spend ~US$100M on critical cruise dock repairs (at Pier 1, Pier 4, and the Pan American Piers), rebuilding and upgrading all terminal facilities and the walkway.
• During Investment Phase II, GPH agreed to invest ~US$250M in expanding the Port's capacity by building a new cruise pier and a new terminal (at Pier 11 and Pier 12) with capacity to handle the world’s largest passenger liners.
• Through its wholly-owned subsidiary SJCP (San Juan Cruise Port Ltd) GPH started operations on February 15, 2024.

During season 2015-2016, Royal Caribbean ships alone brought to Port San Juan 574,140 passengers. During season 2017-2018, this number reached 700,000. In 2019 (before the Coronavirus crisis) the cruise port handled ~1,8 million tourists.

The cruise port was visited by 6,8 million cruise tourists in 2008-2009, 7,9M (2014-2015) and 1,5M (2015-2016). Cruise tourists contribute around 7,1% to Puerto Rico's economy. To be able to handle the world's largest cruise vessels , Port San Juan invested ~USD 8 million in building a 3rd dock. On December 28, 2016, the port was visited by Harmony of the Seas (max capacity 6314 pax / 2300 crew).

For FY2018, Puerto Rico estimated that ~1,7 million cruise ship tourists will arrive on the scheduled 540 ship calls, generating around USD 250M for the local economy. The tourism industry represents ~7% of the country's economy. 2018 ended with handled nearly 1,8 million cruisers via 517 ship calls (21% increase over 2017).

In late-September 2020, PRPA (Puerto Rico Ports Authority / managing company) issued a request for proposals for Isla Grande's Pier 15 drydock (southeast from the cruise port). The future project includes the facility's repair (overhaul), maintenance and operation. The drydock was originally built (in the early-1940s) and operated by the US Navy, acquired by PRPA in the late-1990s and not used since 2000. The project could generate ~USD 20M (in private investments), ~USD 16M (annual impact) and support ~400 local jobs. The renovated drydock could be used for general maintenance works and refurbishments of various ship types (including cargo, smaller-sized cruisers, ferries , superyachts). The drydock has length ~600 ft (183 m), width 102 ft (31 m) and depth 26 ft (10 m), which allows it to serve ships with max LOA length 400 ft (121 m).

By annual passenger traffic (statistical data 2019), the Caribbean's top-10 largest airports are:

• Luis Munoz Marin Airport/aka Isla Verde (San Juan Puerto Rico) with ~9,5 million pax
• Punta Cana Airport ( Punta Cana Dominicana ) with ~7,2M pax
• Jose Marti Airport ( Havana Cuba ) with 5,7+M pax
• Sangster Airport ( Montego Bay Jamaica ) with ~4,8M pax
• Lynden Pindling Airport ( Nassau Bahamas ) with ~4,1M pax
• Las Americas Airport ( Santo Domingo Dominicana ) with ~4M pax
• Piarco Airport ( Port-of-Spain Trinidad ) with 2,8+M pax
• Queen Beatrix Airport ( Oranjestad Aruba ) with 2,5+M pax
• Pointe-a-Pitre Airport ( Pointe-a-Pitre Guadeloupe ) with ~2,5M pax
• Grantley Adams Airport ( Bridgetown Barbados ) with ~2,3M pax

This explains why these port cities are used as seasonal turnaround ports for homeporting (roundtrip itineraries) by many major cruise companies with ship deployments in the Caribbean.

San Juan cruise terminal

San Juan cruise port terminal has three piers – Old San Juan piers (Pier 1, 3, 4, 6), "Navy Frontier Pier" and "Pan American Pier" (wharf 2).

All tour operators in San Juan provide guides trained through "Aquila's Center for Cruise Excellence". This is a staff training program that helps cruise port destinations and local tour operators to achieve highest standards of service.

Old San Juan Piers

They are located at Marina Street, the center of Old San Juan. All the major sightseeing places are within easy walking distance.

• Pier 1 has a modern terminal building with facilities like shops, baggage gangways, parking and elevators.
• Pier 3 mainly serves Royal Caribbean line and transit cruise vessels.
• Pier 4 is located at the north shore. Carnival Cruise Lines manages the terminal.
• Pier 6 is a marginal dock with length 1196 ft (365 m).

In 2014, Pier 3 was expanded to allow berthing of the world's largest cruise vessels (RCI's Oasis-class). In 2016, on Pier 3 (port's 3rd cruise dock) started construction works for a new, 2-story terminal building housing restaurants, galleries, entertainment venues, a large duty-free shopping complex. The USD 8 million project was an investment by Duty Free Americas (US travel retail stores chain with over 180 shops). The port additionally invested US$1M for security equipment. RCI / Royal Caribbean also participated in the project, which completion was scheduled for 2018.

In 2019, Bacardi Global Travel Retail created a new Bacardi-dedicated rum bar within Pier 4's SMT Duty-Free (retail store). The new Bacardi Bar also offers cocktails sampling and branded merchandise (hats, T-shirts, memorabilia).

Frontier Pier

Frontier Pier has only one berth. It serves cruise liners and also commercial (cargo) ships.

Pan America Pier

Pan America Pier is located to the south of Old San Juan. The modern San Juan cruise ship terminal building at Pan America Pier is in Isla Grande. It serves larger cruise vessels.

Port San Juan also has drydock facilities (used for ship repairs and refurbishments ) located between Pier 15 and Pier 16.

• El Morro Fort: the huge fort dates from 1539. It main service was to protect Port of San Juan from pirates. It is named after the Spanish patron – saint King Phillip. The full name of the fort is Castillo San Felipe del Morro.
• San Cristobal Fort: dates from the 18th century.
• La Fortaleza: dates from 1540 and it is the most ancient fort in San Juan. It used to be the governor’s official residence.
• Cathedral de San Juan: dates from 1592. The neoclassical cathedral is situated on Calle Cristo.
• Paseo de la Princesa and Paseo de la Muralla: take a walk along the old walls of the city. Both paths are to the waterfront.
• Escambron Beach: spent a leisure day at that beautiful beach. Enjoy breathtaking views along all the coastline (including El Morro Fort).
• Shopping: there are a lot of stores in Old San Juan. The main shopping streets are Fortaleza, Cristo and San Francisco. You can buy souvenirs, arts, fashion and jewelery from the craft markets at the Plaza de la Darsena and on Paseo de la Princesa. Located close to San Juan cruise port (Pier 1).

Old and New San Juan (Royal Caribbean) is an optional guided tour that includes visiting Condado (neighborhood), Isla Verde Beach, residential areas, Window of the Seas (square with a sidewalk resembling Hollywood Blvd), Old San Juan (Capitol Building, 5th Centenary Plaza, San Cristobal Fort or the shopping district).

Pirate Treasure Hunt (Royal Caribbean) is a family tour (pirate-themed and guided) on the trail around Old San Juan (leading to Castillo San Felipe del Morro (fortress).

Campo Rico ATV Adventure (Royal Caribbean) is an ATV (4x4) guided driving tour through the countryside and includes driving through a private ranch (with plantation house), mangroves, lagoons, mountains, forests, wildlife viewing, visiting Mi Casa (traditional sugarcane plantation home), short breaks for photos, operational ranch (with Paso Fino horse stables), stopping at Mojito Bar.

San Juan Food and Culture Tour (Royal Caribbean) is an Old San Juan walking tour (for a small group) themed on local foods, architecture, cultural traditions, shopping. Each cruise tourist receives a coupon booklet for additional savings in local restaurants and shops.

San Juan tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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San Juan, Puerto Rico

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Cruises from San Juan, Puerto Rico offer a magical blend of natural island charm and man-made wonders. Historic San Juan, once nothing more than cobblestone streets and the distinctive architecture of the Spanish who founded it, is now a modern world capital. And, as you’ll see on Carnival’s cruises from Puerto Rico, it’s kept these classical features! Among the peaceful shaded courtyards and commanding colonial fortresses of El Morro and San Cristobal, urban explorers will find a cosmopolitan city of wide boulevards, lively cafés, highly-regarded galleries and designer boutiques… not to mention gold-sand beaches and nearby rainforest jungles. San Juan, Puerto Rico is where the old world meets the new — and you can enjoy them both when you choose one of our cruises from San Juan.

• Castillo San Felipe del Morro (a.k.a. “El Morro”) features amazing history and the best view of the San Juan harbor.
• The Bacardi distillery ® spans 127 acres of land, and over 100 years of history.
• Vieques is an island's island — literally, featuring amazing beaches and found off the coast of Puerto Rico.
• Munch on mofongo , a fried plantain delicacy, a staple of menus throughout San Juan.

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San Juan, Puerto Rico

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Founded in 1521, San Juan's picturesque cobblestone streets, plazas and chapels reflect its Spanish heritage. But the second oldest city in the Americas also boasts fine beaches, lush rainforests, verdant mountainsides, imposing forts and a lovely tropical climate. Looking for a cruise to San Juan? Read all about why you should cruise from San Juan .

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The island of Puerto Rico pulsates with music and color. Embracing the best of its Spanish and American influences, the culture exudes confidence and joy. You’ll find imposing 16th-century fortresses and vibrant street art, as well as a rich culinary scene, rolling coffee plantations, and rum distilleries. Everywhere you go, you’ll be captivated by music, from the sensual beat of salsa to cumbia, merengue, and the local genre, bomba.

Cruises to and from Puerto Rico will reveal the island’s natural beauty, too. The dense rainforest and tumbling waterfalls of El Yunque National Park are an easy drive from San Juan, while at the Escambrón Marine Park, you can swim among sea turtles and colorful fish. There are beaches for sun-lovers and beaches for surfers, as well as hiking, kayaking, and zip-lining for the adventurous. Little wonder that the locals here seem so cheerful. Explore this enchanting island on a Caribbean cruise with Celebrity.

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Natural beauty.

Puerto Rico is endowed with exceptional natural beauty, from endless white sand beaches to rugged mountains and rainforest. Visit El Yunque National Park, the only tropical forest in the U.S., where jungle trails reveal massive tree roots, giant ferns, tumbling waterfalls, and cool rock pools. The coast is fringed with mangroves teeming with life, a dream for birdwatching enthusiasts. Join a starlit kayaking tour to marvel at Mosquito Bay, one of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world.

Old San Juan

Partly encircled by 16th-century walls, Old San Juan is an enchanting and walkable neighborhood. Brightly colored houses with painted balconies and flower-filled patios line the cobblestone streets, which lead to leafy plazas and 16th-century churches. Art galleries sit side-by-side with cool, boho boutiques, while inviting bars and cafés serve fresh-ground coffee and ice-cold daiquiris.

Creative Cuisine

You’ll find a lively culinary scene all over Puerto Rico. Try local specialties, which include fresh fish, seafood paella, mofongo (mashed green plantain stuffed with anything from crab meat to chicken), and lechón asado, slow-roasted pork. Do as the locals do and have a quesito with your coffee—a puff pastry tube stuffed with sweetened cheese and drizzled with honey or chocolate. Join a rum distillery tour to learn how rum is matured in barrels, followed by a tasting.

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Celebrity offers numerous ways to explore Puerto Rico. You could sail round-trip from either Fort Lauderdale or Miami, or join a Panama Canal cruise between San Diego and San Juan. Some voyages also start and finish in San Juan, visiting Southern Caribbean ports including St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Antigua, St. Lucia, and Barbados. Itineraries last from six to 15 nights, with the majority seven or eight nights in duration.

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Why cruise to puerto rico with celebrity cruises.

Enjoy the best of Puerto Rico on a Caribbean cruise with Celebrity. You’ll sail on a luxurious, contemporary ship offering everything from a sun-drenched pool deck to al fresco dining, cool bars, and glittering entertainment. Choose an Edge-series ship and head for the Magic Carpet, cantilevered over the side of the ship with uninterrupted ocean views. Upgrade your experience with The Retreat for the ultimate in luxury living at sea, which includes access to a serene lounge, a private sundeck, and Luminae, along with suite accommodation.

During your time in San Juan, you’ll have endless opportunities to discover Puerto Rico’s vibrant culture. Explore the city, take in a museum, shop for art and fashion in Old San Juan, dance to local bomba music, or head for the beach. If your cruise begins or ends here, you could extend your stay and make the most of this fascinating island.

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Cruises From San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan, capital of Puerto Rico, The Isle of Enchantment San Juan is the capital of and the largest city of Puerto Rico. Located on the north coast of the island, it is the second-oldest capital established by Europeans in the Caribbean (the oldest is Santo Domingo of the Dominican Republic). The Spanish originally called the seaport Ciudad de Puerto Rico and the whole island San Juan. Over time, everyday usage has swapped over one with the other. Today San Juan is the major seaport for Puerto Rico, and also serves as the country's center for tourism, finance, culture and manufacturing. The old city of San Juan offers an authentic Old World feel with over 400 renovated Spanish 16th and 17th century buildings, and many historic sights. The area also is home to many shops, casinos and restaurants for the enjoyment of tourists and Puerto Ricans alike.

San Juan Cruise Ship Terminals There are three major pier areas used by cruises from San Juan. Old San Juan piers 1 through 6, the Pan American pier, and Navy Frontier pier. Normally cruise ships visiting San Juan dock at the Old San Juan Piers, so passengers have easy access to Old San Juan. Cruise ships originating from San Juan will dock at the Pan American Pier or Navy Frontier piers, both about a 15 minute cab ride from Old San Juan.

Cruises From San Juan There are a wide range of cruises from San Juan. Knowledgeable cruise vacationers often pick San Juan as an alternative to a Florida departure port as, thanks to its central Caribbean location, the island offers quick access to fabulous Southern Caribbean ports, like the Windward Isles and the Netherland Antilles. A short flight is often a better alternative to the long cruise to these destinations from mainland USA. The wide choice of cruises available from San Juan includes the Eastern Caribbean (the Leeward Isles of the USVI, St Maarten, St Kitts, and Antigua), the Southern Caribbean comprising the Windward Isles (Dominica, St Lucia, Barbados, St Vincent, Grenada,Tobago), together with the Netherland Antilles off the northern coastline of Venezuela (Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire). Several cruise lines offer cruises from San Juan, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, PO Cruises, Princess Cruises, Silversea and Celebrity Cruises.

Travelling to San Juan's Ports From the Airport San Juan airport is positioned about 9 miles from the Pan American quay and 12 miles from the Old San Juan piers. It usually takes around half an hour for the cab trip. The fare is around $20. Supplemental charges apply for luggage.

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• You dislike the look and feel of the newest mega-cruise ships
• You need ziplines, thrilling waterslides or active diversions
• You want wall-to-wall entertainment; these ships are quieter
• You like your ships big on features but manageably sized
• You want lots of activities suitable for families of all ages
• You want a cruise with consistent service and good value
• You are looking for the latest jaw-dropping onboard features
• You need lavish cabins and suites with lots of space

10 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

• You like bright, open public rooms with plenty of live music
• You love books; Viking Sea is a veritable floating library
• You appreciate soothing design elements and great service
• You want to gamble; Viking Sea doesn't have an onboard casino
• You need diversions like waterslides and poolside games
• You need kids programs; Viking Sea is an adult-centric ship

11 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean

• You think Regent's other luxury ships carry too many people
• You enjoy ships with a more nautical, clubby atmosphere
• You appreciate consummate service and excellent cuisine
• You prefer the all-out-grandeur of the line's newer luxury ships
• You want a ship with the latest and greatest ultra-luxe features

14 Night Cruise to Around the World

• You want to sail on an intimate, former luxury cruise ship
• You don't care about the sails on Windstar's other ships
• You love relaxing on-deck and chatting with fellow guests
• You're prone to seasickness; these small ships can roll around
• You really like the idea of Windstar's hybrid sailing ships
• You need cabins and suites with real step-out balconies

11 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

• You want to dine at any time and wherever you want, at no extra cost
• You want gratuities included in the cost of the cruise
• You'd like to get a tattoo onboard your cruise ship
• You don't like vibrant and late-night nightlife
• You are traveling with anyone under the age of 18
• You want a cruise longer than five nights

13 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

• You want to sail on one of Norwegian's slightly smaller but more spacious next generation of ships
• You seek the greatest selection of activities, bars, dining (al fresco included) and entertainment options
• You like a refined social atmosphere with places to escape to like a traditional observation lounge
• You prefer a smaller ship with fewer fellow passengers
• You are turned off by The Haven exclusives separate from public amenities
• You want even more included without the need to pay for extras

14 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

10 night cruise to the eastern caribbean, 14 night cruise to transatlantic.

• You hate lines; you'll barely find any on this small ship
• You appreciate fine wines and exceptional culinary offerings
• You want an educational, adult-oriented cruise to unique places
• You enjoy vibrant nightlife with Broadway-style spectacles
• You prefer the sumptuous luxury found on Oceania's bigger ships

12 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

• You want to sail on the most lavish luxury ship Seabourn offers
• You appreciate a multitude of dining experiences and options
• You want an adult-oriented experience in charming surroundings
• You prefer the smaller passenger count of Seabourn's older ship
• You need pampering butler service; there are none onboard

Explore San Juan

• San Juan Cruises

Resilient Lady is *officially* coming to San Juan.

Even though we know 2024 just started, we want to send it off the right way – by celebrating the arrival of our award-winning Resilient Lady ship in San Juan. People are fond of saying, “new year, new me.” Well, as 2025 approaches, we’ll be saying “new year, new ports and itineraries.” Launching from San Juan means unlocking a whole new Caribbean experience, with nine new itineraries sailing from San Juan starting on December 6. 

In the spirit of the season, these won’t be just any sailings. They’ll also include two special holiday sailings, four brand new ports to explore, and perhaps the greatest gift of all: the all-included luxury of our award-winning Resilient Lady ship (recently awarded Best New Ship by Cruise Critic). That means new onboard entertainment, too, like the immersive Persephone play, and Another Rose, a one-of-a-kind acrobatic love story. 

Even if you’ve sailed to the Caribbean before, we guarantee you’ve never done it quite like this. Whether you’re celebrating the holiday season or ringing in 2025, there’s no better way to do it than by checking out our new ports. 

Philipsburg, St. Maarten – the gateway to one of the Caribbean’s most unique islands. A fascinating blend of Dutch and French, the small island is known not only for its rich cultural offerings, but for its abundance of beautiful beaches.

Kingstown, St. Vincent - The capital of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Kingstown is known for its 18th-century Botanical Gardens, the historic Fort Charlotte (with panoramic island views), local produce market, and 19th-century churches. 

Cartagena, Colombia  - A blend of Caribbean and Latin American culture, Cartagena is defined by its colorful colonial architecture, lush landscapes, and narrow stone walkways. It’s also surrounded by an archipelago of small islands that can be explored by boat.

Roseau, Dominica - Dominica is known as “The Nature Island” for a reason. The small island is famous for its lush rainforest hikes, waterfalls, Emerald Pool, and Boiling Lake – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting Dominica feels like being plopped into Pirates of the Caribbean, and indeed, scenes from the movies were even filmed here.

The best way to explore these new ports is on one of our 9 new itineraries, set to launch December 6. See the colorful stone streets of Cartagena on our Idyllic Caribbean Isles & Colombia voyage, and dive into the historic landmarks of Kingstown on San Juan, St. Vincent, Barbados, & More. Don’t forget our holiday itineraries, either. Trade a white Christmas for a blue and yellow pastel Christmas aboard the Resilient Caribbean Holidays voyage, visiting St. Kitts and Nevis, Martinique, St. Lucia, Barbados, and St. Maarten, or ring in the new year on Resilient New Year’s Ahoy – a 7-night journey to Antigua, BVI, St. Lucia, Barbados, and St. Maarten.

But don’t wait until 2025 is around the corner to book. These exciting new voyages will be available starting February 29th, 2024, so book early and give yourself a reason to look forward to next winter.

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San Juan, Puerto Rico

Port schedule.

San Juan, Puerto Rico cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship’s estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship’s next port-of-call.

The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise ship arrivals from all major cruise lines. In order to find out more about the cruise ship itineraries such as ports, dates, and arrival/departure times just follow the ship’s link.

San Juan Cruise Port Guide Info

San Juan is among the top tourist destinations in the Caribbean, and one of the largest home-based cruise ports in the region with a total capacity to accommodate 9 cruise ships at once.

• Celebrity Apex 3.373 passengers 08 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Carnival Mardi Gras 6.338 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 07:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 11:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 12:00
• ms Eurodam 2.525 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 13:00
• Celebrity Ascent 3.950 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Carnival Celebration 6.338 passengers 10 Apr 2024 - 10:00
• Carnival Vista 4.716 passengers 11 Apr 2024 - 07:00
• SeaDream Innovation 220 passengers 13 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Brilliant Lady 2.860 passengers 13 Apr 2024 - 06:30
• Norwegian Getaway 4.819 passengers 15 Apr 2024 - 07:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 15 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Carnival Mardi Gras 6.338 passengers 16 Apr 2024 - 07:00
• MSC Seascape 5.877 passengers 16 Apr 2024 - 10:00
• Carnival Sunshine 3.765 passengers 17 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Brilliant Lady 2.860 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 06:30
• Carnival Venezia 5.145 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 07:00
• Disney Magic 2.456 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 07:30
• MSC Meraviglia 5.386 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 11:00
• Celebrity Apex 3.373 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 15:30
• Celebrity Apex 3.373 passengers 08 Apr 2024 - 22:30
• Carnival Mardi Gras 6.338 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 22:00
• ms Eurodam 2.525 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 22:00
• Celebrity Ascent 3.950 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 23:30
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 23:59
• Carnival Celebration 6.338 passengers 10 Apr 2024 - 19:00
• Carnival Vista 4.716 passengers 11 Apr 2024 - 14:00
• Brilliant Lady 2.860 passengers 13 Apr 2024 - 22:00
• Norwegian Getaway 4.819 passengers 15 Apr 2024 - 15:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 15 Apr 2024 - 23:00
• Carnival Mardi Gras 6.338 passengers 16 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• MSC Seascape 5.877 passengers 16 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Sunshine 3.765 passengers 17 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Venezia 5.145 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Disney Magic 2.456 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Brilliant Lady 2.860 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 22:00
• Celebrity Apex 3.373 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 22:30
• MSC Meraviglia 5.386 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 23:00

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Why Your Next Cruise Should Depart From Puerto Rico

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San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is rich in Spanish heritage, whether you’re wondering the cobblestone streets and plazas of the Old Town, or exploring the nearby beaches or lush rainforests, you’ll soon realise why this Caribbean island is one of the most popular departure ports for cruise passengers from around the world.

When is the best time to cruise from Puerto Rico?

Cruises from Puerto Rico are seasonal, with most ships operating from the island between the months of November through to April. Escaping on a Caribbean cruise during the cold British winter months is the perfect antidote to cure those winter blues. If you’re looking to celebrate the festive season in style why not cruise over the Christmas and New Year period, swapping the cold weather for warm Caribbean sunshine.

Which cruise lines sail from Puerto Rico?

Two of the newest ships at sea will call Puerto Rico home in the coming months. Norwegian Cruise Line ‘s newest ship, the Norwegian Viva , will spend her maiden winter season in the Caribbean sailing 7-night port-intensive itineraries from San Juan. Another brand new vessel will make her debut in Puerto Rico, Virgin Voyages ‘ Brilliant Lady will kick start her first sailings with a winter season exploring the Southern Caribbean on 7-night itineraries.

Royal Caribbean ‘s family-friendly ship Jewel of the Seas will also sail out of San Juan from November 2023 through to March 2024 whilst those looking for a more luxurious adult cruising experience can opt for select sailings with Regent Seven Seas , Viking and Ritz Carlton.

Where do cruises from Puerto Rico go to?

From Puerto Rico, you’ll be able to explore some of the Southern and Eastern Caribbean’s most beautiful islands. Whereas cruises from the mainland USA tend to need a few days at sea before they reach the Caribbean, cruising from Puerto Rico allows you to experience a more port-intensive itinerary.

From the beautiful beaches of Barbados to the tropical vibes of Trinidad and Tobago, you’ll be sure to wake up on a different slice of paradise each day of your cruise. Some itineraries even call into the stunning ABC islands, the group of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, the three westernmost islands of the Leeward Antilles in the Caribbean Sea.

What should you do whilst you’re in Puerto Rico?

Welcome to San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico and one of the most beautiful cities in the Caribbean, rich in Spanish heritage with its 17th-century architecture and historic buildings. You’ll have the opportunity to stroll around the grounds of one of the biggest fortifications built by the Spaniards in the New World, Fort San Cristobal. Explore its Main Plaza, “Garitas” watchtowers and authentic mortor balls.

A trip to Puerto Rico wouldn’t be complete without indulging in one of the island’s most popular exports. Catch a ferry across the bay from Old San Juan and join a guided tour of the distillery that produces most of the Bacardí rum consumed worldwide (which is A LOT considering it’s the number one rum in the world). You’ll be greeted with a Welcome Cocktail at the bat-winged Pavillion and can choose between three tour options: Historic Tour, Rum Tasting, or a Mixology Class. In the gift shop, you can even bottle your own premium rum directly from the barrel.

Cocktail lovers will want to make sure they head to the Caribe Hilton Hotel, which is the setting for two of the origin stories of the piña colada. The Caribe Hilton insisted that the recipe was crafted by Ramón “Monchito” Marrero, a bartender who worked at the hotel’s Beachcomber Bar and was commissioned to create a signature cocktail back in 1954. But, Ricardo García, another bartender at the Caribe Hilton at the time, alleged that he came up with the refreshing recipe that same year as a result of a coconut shortage that forced him to improvise. Either way, what better excuse to sip on a cocktail or two?

If you’re wanting to keep the drinks flowing and celebrate late into the night you should definitely head for Santurce’s market, La Placita, which is recognised as the centre of San Juan’s nightlife scene. The historic market plaza and its neighbouring roads host what becomes a bustling street party, particularly busy on Thursday and Friday nights. Alternatively, you could visit one of “The World’s 50 Best Bars,” La Factoria is a must for cocktails and salsa dancing. Located in the heart of Old San Juan, this lively speakeasy features craft drink variations and was even featured in the video to Luis Fonsi’s hit song “Despacito”.

Extend your stay?

Looking to explore further afield from Puerto Rico’s capital San Juan? Why not spend a few days exploring the Eastern side of the island. For energetic travellers, it doesn’t get much better than a hike through El Yunque – the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. – followed by a refreshing swim in a cool waterfall pool. There are also options to go rock climbing, abseiling etc.

Meanwhile, the northwest corner of the island is home to numerous beaches, offering a range of activity options. If you’re looking to relax why not spend a day on one of the island’s beautiful beaches, whilst for those looking to stay active you could always try your hand at surfing at María’s Beach. Then there’s Steps Beach for snorkelling and diving and the nearby Tres Palmas Marine Reserve for the best spot to look out for colourful marine life.

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San Juan, Puerto Rico

Winter 2023-24: Two Brand New Ships to Sail from Puerto Rico

• April 15, 2023

The winter 2023-24 cruise season from the San Juan homeport will see a total of four cruise ships calling the Puerto Rico city home for the entire season; two of them will be brand new, including the Norwegian Viva and Virgin’s Brilliant Lady.

Here are the ships set to sail from San Juan in 2023-2024:

Norwegian Viva Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line Capacity: 3,215 guests Tonnage: 142,500 Built: 2023 Itineraries: Week-long cruises to the Southern and Eastern Caribbean visiting St. Thomas, St. Lucia, Barbados, St. John’s, St. Maarten, Tortola and more Sailing Season: December 15 to March 31

Brilliant Lady Cruise Line: Virgin Voyages Capacity: 2,770 guests Tonnage: 110,000 Built: 2023 Itineraries: Week-long cruises to St. Kitts, Martinique, Aruba and Curaçao, as well as seven-night cruises to Tortola, St. John’s, Guadeloupe, Barbados and St. Lucia Sailing Season: December 30 to April 13

Jewel of the Seas Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International Capacity: 2,000 guests Tonnage: 90,000 Built: 2004 Itineraries: Seven-night cruises to the Southern Caribbean visiting St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, Trinidad and Scarborough Sailing Season: November 18 to March 23

Viking Sea Cruise Line: Viking Cruises Capacity: 930 guests Tonnage: 47,000 Built: 2016 Itineraries: Ten-night cruises to Southern and Eastern Caribbean as well as 12-night, one-way cruises to Brazil visiting the Amazon and French Guiana Sailing Season: November 16 to March 15

Disney Dream Cruise Line: Disney Cruise Line Capacity: 2,500 guests Tonnage: 128,000 Built: 2011 Itineraries: Six-night repositioning cruise from New York City, as well as a seven-night cruise to Aruba, Curaçao, St. Kitts and St. John’s followed by another repositioning cruise Fort Lauderdale Sailing Season: November 5 to November 17

Other ships sailing from San Juan during the 2023-2024 winter season include:

• Explora I (Explora Journeys)
• Silver Nova (Silversea Cruises)
• SeaDream I (SeaDream Yacht Club)
• Seven Seas Splendor (Regent Seven Seas Cruises)
• Disney Magic (Disney Cruise Line)

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The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship

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Thinking of booking a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line ? You have a lot of choices. The Miami-based line operates vessels in almost every corner of the world, with a wide range of itineraries in many destinations.

You’ll find Norwegian ships everywhere, from the Caribbean and the Bahamas to Europe, Asia and Australia. The line is also a big player in Hawaii.

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In addition, Norwegian is particularly known for cruises to Bermuda out of Boston and New York City, and it offers Canada and New England cruises regularly. It also operates some Panama Canal sailings and trips from the West Coast of the U.S. to the Mexican Riviera.

In North America, Norwegian ships sail from a relatively wide range of home ports, including Boston; New York City; Miami and Tampa; San Juan, Puerto Rico; New Orleans; San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco; Seattle; Honolulu; Vancouver, British Columbia; Quebec City and Quebec in Canada; and Seward, Alaska.

Here is a look at the best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

Some of Norwegian’s most exciting itineraries are in Europe, where the line is a significant player. It offers a wide range of itineraries in the Mediterranean and across northern Europe.

Norwegian will typically deploy around half of its 19 ships to the continent from spring to fall, making Europe its biggest focus for more than half the year. Norwegian also sometimes offers Europe cruises in the winter — albeit typically with just one ship.

Norwegian’s Mediterranean sailings provide the chance to see such iconic destinations as Barcelona in Spain; and Florence, Rome and Naples in Italy in a single cruise. Or, you can sign up for a Mediterranean cruise that focuses on the Greek Islands.

In northern Europe, Norwegian will take you to such famed Baltic cities as Stockholm; Tallinn, Estonia; and Helsinki in a single sailing.

In past years, such Baltic trips have also included a multiday call at St. Petersburg, Russia — traditionally the highlight of any Baltic sailings. However, like all major cruise lines, Norwegian pulled St. Petersburg from Baltic itineraries for 2022 and 2023 in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

As of the publishing of this guide, Norwegian had opened bookings for all of its Baltic sailing through late 2025, and St. Petersburg remains off the schedule for all of them. The line hasn’t said when it might return to St. Petersburg.

For those looking to explore northern Europe, Norwegian also offers itineraries that zero in on Iceland, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Norwegian’s Europe voyages range widely in length from just three nights to a whopping 19 nights.

Among the longest sailings that Norwegian offers that include calls in Europe are one-way trips between Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens), and Dubai. Typically lasting 18 or 19 nights, these will often include stops in Israel and sometimes Greece, as well as visits to Egypt, Jordan, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

In Northern Europe, Norwegian ships mostly sail out of Amsterdam, Stockholm, Copenhagen, England’s Southampton and Reykjavík in Iceland.

In the Mediterranean, the line’s hubs are Barcelona, Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) and Venice in Italy, Piraeus (the port for Athens) in Greece, and Istanbul.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Norwegian ships

The Caribbean and the Bahamas

The Caribbean and the Bahamas have always been a big area of operations for Norwegian. In fact, for a long time, the regions were so much the focus that the line included “Caribbean” in its name. Up until 1987, Norwegian was known as Norwegian Caribbean Line.

These days, Norwegian usually keeps just two of its 19 vessels in the Caribbean and the Bahamas year-round (in recent years, the year-round ships have been Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Escape, both sailing to the Caribbean and the Bahamas from Florida ports). However, it really ramps things up in the region in the winter, when it deploys a large portion of its ships to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Norwegian currently has 15 of its 19 ships scheduled to sail to the Caribbean and the Bahamas for at least part of 2024 — including its newest and most advanced ship, the 3,219-passenger Norwegian Viva.

Related: I’ve sailed on nearly every Norwegian ship. Here are my first impressions of Norwegian Prima

Norwegian offers a broad range of Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries from more than half a dozen home ports. If you’re looking for something short, the line has you covered in the form of lots of quick, three- and four-night trips from Miami to the Bahamas.

It also offers an abundance of seven-night sailings to Caribbean and Bahamian ports, as well as a handful of longer trips in the region that range from nine to 14 nights.

At the core of the line’s Caribbean and Bahamas program are its seven-night sailings, which break down into three broad categories:

• Eastern Caribbean voyages
• Western Caribbean voyages
• Southern Caribbean voyages

A typical seven-night Norwegian sailing to the Eastern Caribbean includes stops in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island in the Bahamas.

Norwegian’s seven Western Caribbean voyages will typically include a visit to Roatan, Honduras; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico.

The line’s Southern Caribbean itineraries will often bring visits to Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, St. Lucia and St. Kitts. They typically begin and end in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

When sailing to the Caribbean, Norwegian ships generally sail out of Miami, Port Canaveral and Tampa in Florida; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The line also offers Caribbean sailings out of New Orleans, New York City and, occasionally, Panama City, Panama.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian’s Latitudes Reward loyalty program

Norwegian is the undisputed leader in Hawaii cruises. Most cruise lines that offer sailings to Hawaii only offer a limited number of such trips during a few months each year. Norwegian, by contrast, offers sailings around the Hawaiian Islands out of Honolulu every week of the year — the only cruise line in the world to do so.

Norwegian’s Hawaii voyages are also more intensely focused on Hawaii than the Hawaii trips offered by most other lines. This is because Norwegian offers its Hawaii cruises on one of the only cruise ships in the world that meets the regulatory requirements allowing it to spend all its time in the destination.

Norwegian’s Hawaii trips take place on Norwegian’s 2,186-passenger Pride of America, which has the rare distinction of being both U.S.-flagged and U.S.-crewed. By law, only such a vessel can cruise full-time in Hawaii without regularly traveling long distances to foreign ports.

An iconic presence in Hawaii, Pride of America has been permanently dedicated to the archipelago since its debut in 2005. It offers a repeating seven-night itinerary that begins each Saturday in Honolulu and brings the chance to visit four different Hawaiian islands on a single seven-night trip.

Beginning and ending on the island of Oahu, the itinerary includes two days each on the islands of Maui, Kauai and Hawaii. The two-day visit to Maui involves an overnight stay at the port of Kahului.

The two-day visit to Kauai involves an overnight stay at the port of Nawiliwili. The two-day visit to Hawaii is split between a call at Hilo and a call at Kona.

Related: The 8 classes of Norwegian ships, explained

Norwegian isn’t the biggest player in Alaska cruises. The giants of cruising to Alaska are Princess Cruises and Holland America , which are sister lines that control a large percentage of the market.

Still, Norwegian typically sends three to five vessels to Alaska every summer, and its big, activity-filled ships are a popular pick with families looking to visit the destination.

The Alaska cruise season is a short one, lasting roughly from May to early October.

For 2024, Norwegian plans to deploy four ships to the Alaska market for the full season:

• Norwegian Encore : Norwegian’s biggest vessel will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Seattle. It will call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, plus Victoria, British Columbia. It will also visit Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing.
• Norwegian Sun: This ship will operate a mix of nine- to 11-night sailings to Alaska out of Seattle. The list of port calls varies based on the length of the trips.
• Norwegian Bliss : The 4,002-passenger vessel will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Seattle. On most sailings, it will call at Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point in Alaska, plus Victoria, British Columbia. It will also visit Alaska’s Endicott Arm for glacier viewing. Some sailings at the start and end of the season substitute a visit to Skagway and Glacier Bay National Park for the stops in Sitka and Icy Strait Point, and drop the visit to Endicott Arm.
• Norwegian Jewel. The 2,376-passenger ship will operate one-way voyages to Alaska between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seward, Alaska. The trips typically include stops in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, plus a visit to either Glacier Bay National Park or Icy Strait Point.

In recent years, the 2,018-passenger Norwegian Spirit also has spent its summers sailing in Alaska, but its Alaska voyages for 2024 were canceled as a result of the vessel being chartered to another company.

The appeal of the one-way sailings on Norwegian Jewel is that they can be combined with Norwegian-organized land tours of Alaska lasting from three to six days to create 10- to 13-night “cruisetours.”

The land tour portion of such trips brings visits to such well-known interior Alaska locations as Denali National Park and the town of Fairbanks.

Related: The ultimate Alaska cruise guide  

Norwegian usually deploys two ships on Bermuda runs every year — one out of New York City and one out of Boston.

In both cases, the sailings offered are mostly seven nights in length and include a two-night stay in Bermuda.

For 2024, Norwegian will devote one of its biggest and newest ships, the 3,802-passenger Norwegian Joy, to Bermuda. It will run out of New York. The line’s 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem will sail to Bermuda out of Boston.

In addition, the line’s 3,969-passenger Norwegian Getaway will operate a handful of sailings to Bermuda out of New York during the early part of 2024, and the 3,963-passenger Norwegian Breakaway will operate a few sailings to Bermuda out of New York toward the end of 2024.

The line’s relatively new Norwegian Prima will operate a single Bermuda sailing out of New York at the end of 2024.

While most of Norwegian’s Bermuda sailings are seven nights in length, the line also sometimes offers a few shorter four- and five-night Bermuda sailings and, occasionally, a longer, nine-night Bermuda sailing.

Note that the shorter Bermuda sailings can offer very little time in the country, sometimes as few as nine hours.

Bottom line

Norwegian offers a wide range of itineraries in destinations around the world, from the Caribbean to Asia. However, you’ll find the most choices among Norwegian itineraries in the Caribbean and Europe.

The line is also well-known for voyages around Hawaii and to Bermuda. Its Hawaii sailings, in particular, are something of a rarity in the industry.

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Holland America Extends 2025-2026 Sailings on Pinnacle-Class Ships

Andrea Santillan

• April 3, 2024

Holland America Line (HAL) recently announced its 2025 to 2026 sailings. Passengers can take advantage of longer cruises, nearly 30 different itineraries, and sail onboard its 3 Pinnacle-class ships.

From October 2025 to April 2026, cruisers can choose from almost 30 itineraries that explore different Caribbean regions. Miami, Florida, has been added as a home port, while the main home port is Port Everglades. 

As the Koningsdam returns to Florida , HAL Commercial Chief Officer Beth Bodensteiner pointed out how the deployment brings their Pinnacle-class vessels together for 9- to 14-day voyages. 

If 14-day itineraries are too short, HAL lets guests extend their vacations with back-to-back trips with different routes and special discounts.

Sailings bound for the Eastern Caribbean will leave for roundtrip voyages from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Ports of call include Grand Turk Cruise Center , Turks and Caicos; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Amber Cove, Dominican Republic. 

Western Caribbean voyages comprise roundtrip sailings from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. These are all seven days long and will stop at Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Cozumel, Mexico, and Grand Cayman.

Leaving Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Southern Caribbean cruises will head to Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. Longer itineraries feature visits to Amber Cove and Grand Turk.

For those hoping to explore the Panama Canal without journeying from coast to coast, the Panama Canal Discovery offers a partial exploration of the historic waterway that starts and ends from Fort Lauderdale. Along the way, cruisers can experience Colon, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; Grand Cayman, Curaçao; and Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.

All itineraries will stop at Half Moon Cay , Holland America’s exclusive retreat in the Bahamas.

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Cruises see a fair amount of overboard incidents: Are ships equipped?

Mental health crises can happen anywhere. But what happens if you're stuck in the middle of the ocean?

Between 2009 and 2019, there were 212 overboard incidents – when a guest or crew member goes over the edge of a ship – according to  statistics compiled for Cruise Lines International Association  by consulting firm G.P. Wild (International) Limited. "In discussions with cruise line representatives, they indicated that in every case where the cause of the (overboard) was established following a careful investigation it was found to be the result of an intentional or reckless act," the report said, noting that motives could not be determined in some cases.

There were also numerous reports of suspected suicides among crew trapped at sea during the COVID-19 pandemic. And while cruise lines have protocols and services in place to support to guests and crew members, some experts say they are lacking.

Cruise ships feature a range of amenities, from roller coasters and go-kart tracks to spas and dining, but passengers may not always know where to find mental health resources on board.

‘It’s really, really, really needed’

Cruise ships may be designed to prioritize fun and relaxation, but not everyone responds the same to that approach.

For some passengers, being around family members or away from their day-to-day routine can be stressful, said Dr. Tia Dole, Chief 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Officer at Vibrant Emotional Health. “But for other people who might have been struggling with their mental health … going on a vacation actually takes you out of your environment, it makes you feel better,” she said.

The widespread presence of alcohol and gambling in onboard casinos may also prove challenging for some travelers, said Dr. Michelle Riba, a clinical professor at the University of Michigan Medical School's Department of Psychiatry and former president of the American Psychiatric Association.

"People have to be self-reflective and talk to their loved ones about how problematic it might be to be on a ship where there's easy access to that," she said.

And when it comes to the kinds of overboard incidents that appear in news reports with some frequency, she said jumping into the water has perhaps been featured prominently in films and TV shows, and cruises may provide another "access point" to impulsive suicides.

Travis Heggie, a professor at Bowling Green State University who studies tourist health and safety issues, said it's difficult to draw concrete comparisons, however, between rates at sea and on land due to a lack of comprehensive statistics. Riba added that it would be hard to compare the two, given varying demographics and other factors.

Still, suicide on cruise ships is a “growing concern” for Heggie, among both guests and crew. He has recommended adding mental health care to cruise ship infirmaries in his research .

“It’s really, really, really needed,” he said.

Dole also emphasized that “the reasons why people die by suicide are as unique as a fingerprint” and said it’s important not to generalize.

"The circumstances that lead up to completed suicide, and the things that sort of push people over the edge are incredibly unique," she said.

Do cruise ships have mental health resources?

If passengers find themselves in need of mental health support during a cruise, some lines do have resources available.

Passengers sailing with Carnival Corp., the parent company of brands including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, can contact onboard medical staff “who are available 24/7 for mental health support and other medical needs,” a spokesperson for the company said in an email.

“With a referral from the shipboard medical team, guests may also access tele-psychiatrist services for face-to-face consultations with these licensed specialists within 24 hours if needed,” the spokesperson added. The consultations are offered through a third-party company that connects passengers with U.S.-based psychiatrists (the company did not respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment).

While training in mental health care varies among onboard medical staff, they can “fulfill recommendations made by the psychiatrists.” There is a pharmacy on board with many medications used to treat mental health problems, and those not carried on the vessel can be ordered in a port.

Like other medical care, passengers have to pay for any costs associated with mental health services. “Travel insurance coverage varies by provider and typically covers acute-need services but usually includes limitations for pre-existing illnesses,” the spokesperson said. “We urge travelers to contact travel insurance providers directly for specific terms and conditions.”

Crew members can also see psychiatrists via telehealth with a referral from the onboard medical team. The company also has an employee assistance program that allows them to access free mental health services.

Royal Caribbean Group, another major cruise line operator, and Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group, did not answer questions regarding onboard mental health resources before publishing. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. did not respond to a request for comment.

Cruise ships may also quarantine passengers deemed to be a threat to themselves or others, according to Michael Winkleman, a maritime attorney with Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A.

“Our team of onboard medical professionals safeguards the health and well-being of our guests and crew (including mental health), which may include placing a patient under secure watch in the medical center or in a cabin depending on the risk,” the Carnival Corp. spokesperson said.

While there are major differences – namely, being in the middle of the ocean – Winkleman said there are some commonalities between cruise lines’ approach and that of hotels or resorts, which often do not have on-site mental health providers. “They are just expecting to provide a fun, safe vacation for their guests,” he said.

Crises on cruises, like an overboard incident, for example, may also get outsized attention given their setting, Heggie added. "People are expecting to go and have a good time and have the vacation or holiday mindset, and, 'Oh, something bad happened.' "

However, Winkleman said he thinks cruise lines “could do a lot more” to provide mental health support to crew, many of whom work rigorous schedules on months-long contracts.

How passengers can care for their mental health

Travelers can take proactive steps to care for their mental health before a trip if need be. If passengers have a mental health provider, Dole recommends speaking with them beforehand and making sure they have any medication they might need.

Passengers can also reach out to their therapists mid-cruise to schedule a session as needed – though state laws regarding telehealth vary and could prevent them from accessing care. “But generally speaking, it's really about where the person resides,” Dole said. “So (if) you're on a work trip, and you're like, ‘I need to see my therapist,’ they'll see you.”

Riba noted that it may be more difficult to coordinate than at home with spotty cell service and possible time differences.

The 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline also works in U.S. states as well as territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

How safe are cruise stops?: Travel advisories are only one marker for destinations

Checking in with your fellow travelers can also be helpful. Dole said, “One of the biggest clues someone is struggling” is a change in behavior. Typically, that takes the form of withdrawal, but it could also manifest in people engaging in risky or dangerous behaviors.

“‘I noticed something is different,’” she suggested saying. “‘Is there something happening that you feel comfortable talking to me about?’ And that that's not going to make people be defensive as much as, ‘What's wrong? Are you okay? What's happening?’”

Dole recommended framing the question in a way that avoids sounding judgmental or accusatory. “But actually asking the question, especially for young people, can save someone's life,” she said.

If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call  988  any time day or night, or chat online.   Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Cruise to San Juan, Puerto Rico

San juan shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in san juan.

CASTILLO DE SAN FELIPE DEL MORRO

Woman Leaning on Fort El Morro to Enjoy the view, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Strong and beautiful, this fort has helped guard the shore for nearly five centuries while overlooking some of the island’s best scenery. Explore it via spiral staircases between levels, and grab a photo at one of the iconic garita sentry boxes that line the outer walls.

CATEDRAL DE SAN JUAN BAUTISTA

Founded in 1521, this can’t-miss landmark is one of the oldest churches in the Americas. It houses the tomb of Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon and the mummified remains of religious martyr St. Pio.

Local Cuisine

In Old San Juan, you’ll find plenty of island fare and criolla cuisine— home cooking flavored by Spanish and African influences. Try some mofongo, mashed fried green plantains often stuffed with meat, or snack on some codfish fritters, called bacalaitos.

During your San Juan cruise, head to the blue-hued cobblestone streets of Old San Juan for your pick of boutiques offering handmade lace and hand-rolled cigars, plus duty-free luxury items like diamonds, gemstones and watches.

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Puerto Rico’s biggest port starts $62 million dredge project that’s expected to deliver $400 million economic boost

A $62 million project to dredge Puerto Rico’s biggest and most important seaport began Wednesday amid fierce opposition from environmentalists and a pending lawsuit.

Crews with California-based Curtin Maritime will remove nearly 3 million cubic yards (76 million cubic feet) of marine floor to open the San Juan Bay to larger vessels including tankers that will serve a new liquid natural gas terminal on Puerto Rico’s north coast.

The dredged material will be deposited into the Atlantic Ocean 2 nautical miles (4 kilometers) north of the U.S. territory in a move approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, officials said.

Gov. Pedro Pierluisi said the project overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is expected to give a $400 million boost to the local economy, adding that the dredging will be completed by October.

He dismissed concerns by environmentalists who have said the project would endanger wildlife and humans. “This already was authorized at all federal levels, including any environmental impact it might have,” he said.

In August 2022, the Arizona-based nonprofit Center for Biological Diversity  filed a federal lawsuit  against the U.S. government, saying the project threatens to destroy corals and seagrass beds and suck up turtles and other marine life.

The lawsuit is pending at a U.S. District Court in Washington, with a hearing last held in January.

“We are hoping for a decision soon,” Catherine Kilduff, an attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity, said in a phone interview.

“The dredging itself causes sediment that can kill corals,” she said. “Those corals have been impacted by diseases and warming waters, and so we’re worried that this dredging project…could be a death knell.”

Kilduff said the center also is concerned about manatees that swim in the San Juan Bay, where they depend on seagrass for food and are struck by ships.

She said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers last dredged the bay in the early 2000s, promising they would plant an acre of seagrass.

“They still haven’t done that,” she said.

Kilduff noted that the federal government held a public comment period on the dredging project when  Hurricane Maria  struck Puerto Rico as a Category 4 storm in 2017, leaving the island without power or passable roads.

A USACE spokesperson did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

As the governor shared details about the project on Wednesday, a dredging vessel began operations in the background.

Officials said it would dig up to 46 feet (14 meters), with some areas in the San Juan Bay currently at depths ranging from 36 feet (11 meters) to 42 feet (13 meters).

“San Juan harbor is an economic engine and vital lifeline for Puerto Rico,” U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Col. Charles Decker said in the announcement. “It’s a phenomenal investment in the future of Puerto Rico.”

The Corps is investing almost $45 million in the project, with the government of Puerto Rico providing the rest.

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