Royal Caribbean has issued a new update to guests who are concerned about the status of San Juan, Puerto Rico in the aftermath of damage caused by the 2017 hurricane season.
The cruise line reports that, "tremendous progress has been made with recovery efforts across the island," and that rebuilding tourism and consumer confidence is a top priority.
The Puerto Rico Tourism Company continues to collaborate with government agencies to make strides towards a full recovery. Hotels, communities, and local organizations have focused their efforts on the restoration of tourist areas to ensure guests receive a fantastic vacation experience. Most hotels are fully operational and Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is fully functional welcoming domestic and international visitors.
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding cruising in or out of San Juan. This information was up to date as of July 24, 2018.
Is the port of San Juan open and fully functional?
Yes, San Juan Harbor is open and has resumed all homeporting operations.
Have airports in Puerto Rico returned to normal flight patterns?
Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan is fully operational with scheduled domestic and international flights. Other airports in surrounding areas are functioning, as well. In addition, main transportation companies, as well as taxi drivers, are available and providing ongoing service to visitors
Have hotels reopened?
At this time, most of the hotels are available and fully operational across the island. In addition, over 4,000 restaurants and approximately 200 casinos and other tourist attractions are open.
Has electrical power been restored across the island?
Though some residential communities throughout Puerto Rico remain without power, San Juan has been restored and is fully operational.
What attractions and/or tours are available for cruise guests to participate in?
The capital city of San Juan is currently the best vacation destination in Puerto Rico and is tourist ready. The beaches of San Juan and nearby Isla Verde make it easy to understand why Puerto Rico is referred to as “The Island of Enchantment” and “The Land of a Thousand Blessings”. There are nearly 60 shore excursions available to choose from, including but not limited to the following:
- Old San Juan / Old City shops
- Plaza Las Americas (Mall of San Juan)
- Biking, Segway, & Walking tours
- Food tours
- Yoga on the Green
What humanitarian efforts are available should cruise guests wish to assist?
Tourism plays an instrumental role in the recovery of Puerto Rico’s overall economic status, impacting local jobs and livelihood. Now more than ever, recovering Caribbean islands need you.
