Puerto Rico Cruises

Puerto Rico, a vibrant Caribbean island, is teeming with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a warm, welcoming culture. With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and lively cities, Puerto Rico is a fantastic destination for cruise enthusiasts looking for adventure and relaxation. Fun fact: Puerto Rico is the only territory of the United States where Spanish is the primary language, giving it a unique blend of cultures! A cruise to Puerto Rico allows you to explore its stunning coastlines, historical forts, and rich culinary scene—all while enjoying the luxurious features of your ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Puerto Rico

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 7 that sail directly to Puerto Rico. The Grand Princess and Caribbean Princess are particularly popular, boasting a wide array of amenities and entertainment options, including poolside movies and immersive culinary experiences. The Grand Princess is known for its beautiful Piazza, which hosts live performances. Most cruises typically depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, providing convenient access for eager travellers.
• MSC Cruises features a fleet of 23 ships, with 7 dedicated to itineraries that include Puerto Rico. The MSC Seascape and MSC Virtuosa are notable for their immersive entertainment choices and family-friendly amenities. The MSC Seascape offers an extensive aqua park and interactive experiences across its public areas. Departures are mainly from Miami or New York, setting the stage for your Caribbean adventure.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises operates a large fleet of 29 ships, with 4 that frequently visit Puerto Rico. The Rhapsody of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas stand out for their exciting onboard activities such as rock climbing walls and diverse dining options. With a focus on family fun, these ships also flaunt fantastic entertainment choices. Departures generally occur from San Juan or Miami, allowing for easy embarkation into your tropical adventure.
• Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 ships, with 8 featuring itineraries that include Puerto Rico. The Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam provide refined cruising experiences while focusing on cultural enrichment activities, giving guests a deeper understanding of the island’s heritage. Most cruises typically depart from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, providing easy connections to this vibrant Caribbean island.
• Carnival Cruise Line includes a fleet of 27 ships, with 9 focused on itineraries involving Puerto Rico. The Carnival Venezia and Carnival Magic are favourites for their fun-filled atmosphere and a variety of onboard entertainment, catering to families and adults alike. Departures are commonly from Port Canaveral or Miami, ensuring smooth access to the lovely Caribbean waters.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options to Puerto Rico

• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, both featuring itineraries that include Puerto Rico. The EXPLORA I and II are known for providing upscale, luxurious cruising experiences with a focus on wellness and outstanding culinary fare. Departures typically occur from Miami or San Juan, ensuring an elegant embarkation point for your journey into Caribbean splendour.
• Oceania Cruises consists of 8 ships, with 6 offering itineraries to Puerto Rico. The Vista and Sirena are known for their luxurious atmosphere, personalised service, and exquisite dining showcasing regional flavour. Departures typically occur from Miami or New York, providing seamless transitions into your Caribbean cruise experience.
• Azamara Cruises features a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 dedicated to itineraries that spotlight Puerto Rico. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward offer unique cultural experiences and late-night port stays, allowing guests to delve into the island’s nightlife. Departures typically occur from Miami or Barbados, facilitating charming entries into the region.
• Seabourn boasts a fleet of 5 luxury ships, with 1 focusing on itineraries that include Puerto Rico. The Seabourn Ovation is acclaimed for its all-inclusive luxury experience and superior service, guaranteeing a serene and indulgent atmosphere aboard. Departures primarily happen from Barbados, creating a sophisticated starting point for exploring the captivating Caribbean.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 offering itineraries featuring Puerto Rico. The Balmoral and Bolette are loved for their classic cruising experience and warm, personal service. Departures usually occur from Liverpool or Southampton, providing convenient options for UK travellers eager to explore the Caribbean for the first time.

Top Harbours and Activities in Puerto Rico

• San Juan – The capital and largest city of Puerto Rico, San Juan is rich in history and vibrant culture. Explore the historic Old San Juan, with its colourful buildings, cobblestone streets, and sites like Castillo San Felipe del Morro, which overlooks the sea. Don’t miss the chance to sample local delicacies such as mofongo or lechón and enjoy a refreshing piña colada at a nearby café.
• Fajardo – Known for its natural beauty, Fajardo offers visitors a wealth of outdoor adventures. Visit the Fajardo Bio Bay to take a night kayak tour through the bioluminescent waters, or spend a day at the beach at Seven Seas Beach. The local seafood restaurants serve delicious catch-of-the-day options for a true taste of the Caribbean!
• Ponce – Often referred to as the “Pearl of the South,” Ponce is known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Ponce Museum of Art for an impressive collection of European and Puerto Rican art, or explore the colourful Plaza Las Delicias. Take time to indulge in local treats such as piraguas (shaved ice) and flan de queso.
• Cabo Rojo – This charming coastal town is known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches. Visit the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse for spectacular views of the coastline, or relax on the idyllic Playa Buyé beach. Don’t forget to sample local dishes at beachfront eateries to enjoy Caribbean favourites.
• Vieques – Known for its beautiful beaches and the famous Mosquito Bay, Vieques offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle. Explore the stunning beaches, visit the wild horses of the island, or take a guided night tour to experience the mesmerizing bioluminescence of Mosquito Bay. A visit to Vieques is indeed a highlight for any cruiser exploring Puerto Rico!

The Best Times to Cruise to Puerto Rico

The climate in Puerto Rico is tropical, providing warm and pleasant weather year-round. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 24°C to 29°C; this period is ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Spring (April to June) offers similar temperatures but can be warmer and more humid as summer approaches, making it perfect for local festivals and outdoor fun. The summer months (July to September) can be hot, with temperatures reaching around 30°C, but this is also the peak tourist season, full of lively celebrations. Autumn (October to December) sees temperatures drop slightly to between 23°C and 29°C, making it a convenient time to witness beautiful foliage and enjoy slightly cooler weather.

Cost of Cruising to Puerto Rico

A one-week cruise to Puerto Rico typically costs between £700 and £1,500, depending on the cruise line and accommodations chosen. Luxury cruises generally start at around £3,000, with prices increasing based on amenities and service levels. While on the island, expect to spend approximately £10 to £30 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks usually cost between £3 and £10, allowing you to indulge in delicious local flavours during your stay.

With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and hospitable locals, Puerto Rico is an unforgettable destination waiting to be explored. Now is the time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on an amazing Caribbean adventure!