As Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas sails through its ambitious global itinerary, it’s not all smooth sailing. From cramped living quarters to preferential treatment complaints, the cruise is making waves for all the wrong reasons.
A Passenger’s Online Outcry
Marc Sebastian, a TikToker among the passengers on Royal Caribbean’s 274-night “Ultimate World Cruise,” has been catapulting into the viral spotlight, chronicling the not-so-glamourous aspects of his prolonged sea voyage.
Initially excited about joining Serenade of the Seas for the first leg of its journey, fully sponsored by Atria Books, his posts soon revealed a tide of challenges, including cramped accommodations to itinerary disruptions.
“I’m going to tell you ‘the good, the bad, and the ugly’ but in my own way, which is ‘fabulous, pressing charges, and prison, honey,’” Sebastian (@marcsebastianf) begins many of his reviews.
In one post, Sebastian says, “You know when you’re out to dinner and someone comes up to you at the worst possible time and asks, ‘How is everything?’ while your mouth is stuffed with food? That happens on a loop here.“
He goes on to add, “It’s an eternal hell. [Expletive] drink packages. [Expletive] internet packages. I want a package where I have a little sign that sits on my table and says, ‘I am fine. Thank you,’ so 14,000 people don’t come up to my table every four minutes going, ‘How’s everything?’”
Sebastian’s candid coverage of his 18-nights on the South American and Antarctic segment, which cost his sponsors $8,500, has resonated with his 1.6 million followers. Yet, his critiques, sometimes seen as controversial, have sparked debate among other influencers and cruisers alike, highlighting a divide between expectations and reality of the high seas.
Says @dutchworld_americangirl, who has more than 880k followers and lives on a cruise ship, in response, “This person has been put on the Royal Caribbean cruise for 18 days looking for the drama – “the tea” – of living on a ship. I’ve been doing it for the last 12 years of my life. There’s no drama or tea on a ship but he’s been put there to get drama or tea.”
Unrest Over Preferential Treatment
Sebastian is not alone in his grievances. Other passengers have voiced their dissatisfaction, particularly around the perceived preferential treatment of Pinnacle members, the highest tier in Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program. Accusations of exclusive privileges and priority boarding have created an atmosphere of inequality onboard.
The discontent extends to passengers like Sebastian, known as segmenters, who join the cruise only for a specific leg, being excluded from certain activities and social media groups, essentially feeling like outsiders on their own vacation.
This sentiment is exacerbated by the fact that only about 700 passengers aboard the 2,143-passenger Serenade of the Seas are sailing the full 9-month voyage.
Following the Journey Through Influencer Eyes
“The Ultimate World Cruise” has morphed into a digital spectacle, with passengers turning to social media to document their experiences. The mix of everyday travelers and seasoned influencers on platforms like TikTok is crafting a real-time narrative of the journey, watched by millions.
Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas extensive route, the longest of its kind, spans all seven continents, with over 150 destinations in 65 countries. Sebastian’s segment, the “Ultimate South America & Antarctica Cruise,” which completes January 23 in Valparaiso, Chile, drew particular attention for its passage through the challenging Drake Passage to Antarctica, sparking content around the ship’s handling of extreme conditions.
Future segments, exploring regions from Central America to the Mediterranean, are still available, with journeys ranging from 9 to 28 nights in length. The cruise continues until September 10, 2024.
The SS United States, one of the most storied ocean liners in history and an iconic symbol of America’s ingenuity, continues to be in danger over a rent dispute, but the SS United States Conservancy is now heading to court in an effort to protect the ship.
The federal court case began on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, and will hopefully draw enough attention that a resolution can be reached to save the vessel.
Court Case for SS United States
The SS United States – “America’s Flagship” – has been embroiled in a rent dispute with Penn Warehousing, the landlord over the berth space the ship is using in Philadelphia since she was first docked there in 1996.
The ship’s rent was doubled in 2021, from $850 to $1,700 (USD) per month, a level that appears unsustainable for the non-profit organization overseeing the vessel.
Also part of the dispute is back rent owed for the ship’s berth, which has contributed to the legal conflict.
The SS United States Conservancy is taking the matter to court, hoping to resolve the debts favorably and help protect the ship. The bench trial case is being heard in US District Court in Philadelphia.
“The Conservancy regrets that its rent dispute with Penn Warehousing is going to trial,”a statement from the Conservancy read.“Our first priority is the safety and security of this irreplaceable symbol of America.”
SS United States
A projected timeline for the trial has not been released, but the outcome could be decided in a matter of days. Depending on the verdict, the next steps for the ship may take weeks, months, or even longer to effectively plan and implement.
Fate of the SS United States
If the Conservancy is found liable for the back rent and increased rent rates, the ship may be forced to be moved. While a plan to do just that is being developed, next steps have not yet been confirmed and the ship may be in jeopardy. It is possible the vessel could even be seized or its ownership changed to settle the outstanding debts.
The Conservancy hopes to keep the ship moored in Philadelphia, as the vessel was designed by the city’s own William Francis Gibbs. Susan Gibbs, granddaughter of the naval architect, is the current president of the SS United States Conservancy.
The Conservancy’s mission is ultimately to redevelop the ship and preserve not only its hull, but its enduring legacy of history for new generations to discover.
“As an organization we will continue to work tirelessly to advance the preservation and redevelopment of the SS United States as a world-class destination and museum,”the Conservancy said.“At a time when Philadelphia plans to celebrate our country’s 250th birthday and draw people from around the world for the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the loss of the SS United States should be unimaginable.”
SS United States Concept
It is hoped that the publicity of the trial may raise awareness and compel local leaders and officials to take notice and join the effort to save the ship.
“We hope that Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro, Philadelphia Mayor Parker, PhilaPort officials, and other leaders throughout this country will recognize the economic potential and national historic significance of the SS United States,”said the Conservancy.
“Joined by our thousands of proud supporters across the nation and around the globe, we look to government leaders to assist with our ongoing efforts to relocate the ship to a different temporary or permanent location.”
Where that new location may be is still up for speculation, though New York City is a top choice. Other port cities may also be options, depending on how any plans may be developed.
The outcome of the trial will have a huge impact on the fate of the SS United States, and hopefully her storied past can be preserved.
Royal Caribbean International’s Harmony of the Seas helped rescue six fishermen and their dog on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 while the cruise ship was en route to its first port of call on the current 7-night Western Caribbean sailing. The stunning rescue comes nearly two days after the fishing boat had been reported lost.
Harmony of the Seas Rescues Stranded Fishermen
The small fishing vessel Aris experienced an engine failure over the weekend, with six people reported onboard. Communication with the vessel was initially lost on Sunday, January 14, 20 miles from Cape Catoche, the northernmost tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
According to Cambio 22, local officials and community members immediately launched search efforts, but without success. Word was also spread through social media to help locate the fishermen.
“With all your heart if you go fishing tomorrow don’t forget to look up to the horizon, in case you see a boat drifting or floating in the sea,”CZM Noticias posted on Tuesday morning, January 16, alerting various local fishing fleets to the ongoing situation.
It was with great surprise and celebration, then, when Aris was spotted by Harmony of the Seas just hours later. The cruise ship had left Galveston, Texas on Sunday for a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise, and both Monday and Tuesday are days at sea on the itinerary.
Harmony of the Seas immediately sent out a rescue craft to check on the smaller boat, and found seven castaways in reasonably good health – six fishermen and their dog, Canelo.
All the individuals – including Canelo – were safely rescued and soon transferred to the Mexican Navy. The fishermen will be returned home to Cozumel, where their families will be very happy for the miraculous reunion.
There has been no reported impact on Harmony of the Seas‘ itinerary. The 226,963-gross-ton ship, third of the Oasis-class vessels, will be visiting Roatan, Honduras and both Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico before returning to Galveston on Sunday, January 21.
The ship can welcome 5,479 guests aboard at double occupancy or up to 6,687 passengers when fully booked with all berths filled, though there is always room for rescued individuals if the need arises.
Safety at Sea
The rescue so long after the fishing vessel initially lost contact with authorities is nothing short of amazing. This also emphasizes the need for all oceangoing craft – of any size or purpose – to have appropriate emergency beacons, communication equipment, and safety gear aboard in case of difficult situations or mechanical malfunctions.
International maritime law requires all vessels to render assistance whenever necessary, regardless of the location, nationalities involved, reason for the emergency, or any other circumstances.
Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas (Photo Credit: KPegg / Shutterstock)
Cruise ships regularly offer such assistance to refugee craft, fishing vessels, pleasure boats, or anyone else needing the help anywhere in the world after engines fail, equipment malfunctions, leaks develop, or bad weather causes navigational problems.
At times, cruise ships will perform the complete rescue operation themselves, while at other times they respond to calls for assistance from local navy officials or other craft and offer support, such as additional eyes to search, lifeboat availability, medical care, or supplies. Large cruise ships may even be used as windbreaks in bad weather so smaller official vessels can complete rescues more safely.
Cruise Hive commends those aboard Harmony of the Seas who were instrumental in this fantastic rescue, as well as all cruise ship crew members everywhere who help ensure the seas are safe for everyone.
Holland America Line has sent notices to travel agents and made changes to its website confirming increases of the crew appreciation automatic gratuity rate for all voyages beginning on or after February 14, 2024. The cruise line last changed gratuity rates on February 1, 2023.
While this may or may not indicate an annual increase trend, it is sure to be the first of several major cruise lines to make such increases in the months to come.
Holland America Line Increasing Crew Gratuities
Effective from Wednesday, February 14, 2024, guests sailing with Holland America Line will have a higher crew appreciation service charge no matter what type of cabin they are staying in.
Updates to the cruise line’s website, as well as notices sent to travel agents, have confirmed the change as well as the new gratuity amounts.
“Crew Appreciation is a daily (adjustable) amount added to your onboard account and pooled in order to recognize the many team members throughout our fleet who contribute to the guest experience,”the website notice reads. “As of January 15, 2024, the daily Crew Appreciation charge is $17.00 per guest per day for non-suite stateroom guests and $19.00 per guest per day for suite guests.”
It must be noted that the date the rates will actually increase is from February 14, 2024; sailings booked prior to January 15, 2024 will remain at the current, lower gratuity rate.
Previously, the rate was $16 for non-suite staterooms and $17.50 for suites, a rate that had been in effect from February 1, 2023. This new increase is 6% for non-suites and 8% for suites from the most recent rate.
Holland America Line Ships in Victoria, British Columbia (Photo Credit: The Bold Bureau / Shutterstock)
When compared to the gratuity rates from January 2023, however, the difference is even more extreme – non-suite gratuities were $15.50 and suites were $17.00 at that time, making the increase in just over one year (with two separate gratuity adjustments) 9% and 11% for non-suites and suites, respectively.
Holland America Line does note that “the charges are subject to change without notice,” as is standard with any pricing structure. It should also be noted that these rates are per passenger, per day.
At this time, the 18% service charge added to beverage purchases, specialty restaurant charges, and spa or salon services remains unchanged.
Gratuity “Wars”
When one cruise line institutes a gratuity increase, other lines often follow suit, especially within the same family of cruise lines. As Holland America Line is owned by Carnival Corporation & plc, it is possible that similar rate increases may be forthcoming for Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, and other cruise lines owned by Carnival.
Carnival-Owned Cruise Ships (Photo Credit: Ian Dewar Photography / Shutterstock)
At the moment, service gratuities for other lines are as follows:
Carnival Cruise Line – $16 for standard staterooms, $18 for suites
Princess Cruises – $16 for standard staterooms, $17 for mini-suites and Reserve Collection, $18 for suites
Royal Caribbean International – $18 for non-suites and Junior Suites, $20.50 for suites
Celebrity Cruises – $18 for standard staterooms, $18.50 for Concierge and AquaClass, $23 for The Retreat
Norwegian Cruise Line – $20 for standard staterooms, $25 for suites and The Haven
Disney Cruise Line – $14.50 for standard staterooms, $15.50 for concierge staterooms and suites
This puts Holland America Line’s increase well above the gratuity rates for other Carnival-owned lines, but still below the rates posted for other major cruise lines. What surprises many cruise travelers is the comparatively low rate for Disney Cruise Line’s suggested gratuities, but it should also be noted that Disney Cruise Line’s overall pricing can be significantly higher than similar lines.
Seeing these service gratuity charges side-by-side it is easy to note that increases are likely coming for other Carnival-owned cruise lines in the near future. Whether or not other cruise lines will also raise service charge rates will be subject to individual line’s policies, financial considerations, and overall decision-making.
Virgin Voyages’ second ship, Valiant Lady, is making her debut in a number of popular Caribbean destinations on her recent sailings. Over the weekend, the distinctive ship sailed into the British Virgin Islands for the first time, bringing guests to beautiful Tortola for a tropical winter getaway.
In addition to the ship’s first visit, the occasion was also the first visit by a new cruise line to the British Virgin Islands in 2024, making it an even more notable event.
Valiant Lady Visits British Virgin Islands for the First Time
Valiant Lady had a remarkable visit to Tortola on Sunday, January 14, 2024. Not only was it the first port of call on the ship’s first departure from her new homeport of San Juan, Puerto Rico, but it was also the first port of call on the 7-night Southeastern Caribbean itinerary.
Most impressive, however, is that it was the ship’s very first-ever call to the British Virgin Islands. This special visit also makes Virgin Voyages the first new cruise line to call on the British Virgin Islands in 2024.
The ship, with 2,374 guests and 1,161 crew members aboard, was brilliantly welcomed to the port, with the cruise line’s founder Sir Richard Branson, also in attendance at the event.
The Premier and Minister of Finance, the Honorable Dr. Natalio Wheatley presented Sir Richard Branson and the master of Valiant Lady, Captain Justin Lawes, with a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion, while accepting plaques in return. This time-honored tradition marks relationships between cruise lines and individual vessels with the ports they visit.
Valiant Lady in the British Virgin Islands (Photo Credit: BVI Ports Authority)
The exchange ceremony took place aboard Valiant Lady while she was docked in Tortola. The ship remained in port from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Onward in the port-intensive itinerary, the ship will also visit Guadeloupe, Barbados, St. Lucia, and Antigua before returning to San Juan on Saturday, January 20.
Cruise ships often receive plaques, photos, small sculptures, keys, or other symbolic items whenever visiting a new destination. These items may be displayed onboard in a gallery, atrium, hallway, or other spot for guests to enjoy, or they may be moved to the cruise line’s headquarters or other shoreside facilities, especially when many such items are collected.
Viewing the collection of a ship’s inaugural calls can be a fun way to discover the sailing history of a cruise ship and where she has visited, and a neat way for travelers to learn more about the vessel they are enjoying.
Second Inaugural Visit in a Week
The inaugural visit to Tortola is the second such first visit for Valiant Lady in one week, albeit on two different sailings. Just six days earlier, on Monday, January 8, the ship made her maiden visit to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas.
While the 110,000-gross-ton “ladyship” had sailing in the Bahamas previously, she typically visited Bimini and hadn’t yet been welcomed to the island nation’s thriving capital, despite the millions of cruise guests that visit the port annually.
Valiant Lady Cruise Ship in Nassau, Bahamas
Because Valiant Lady is a relatively new vessel – having just begun welcoming travelers in early 2022 – it isn’t unusual for her to still be making inaugural visits to popular ports of call. It would be more unusual for an older ship to be a first-timer at a port, such as happened recently when Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas made her inaugural call to Aruba after 14 years of sailing.
Valiant Lady will remain homeported from Puerto Rico through March, offering a total of 10 7-night Eastern and Southeastern Caribbean sailings to various ports. In March, she will then return to Miami for diverse 4- and 5-night sailings through October 2024.
Her future itineraries past that date have not yet been released, but are sure to include even more popular destinations and possibly more inaugural visits.
Chatter is beginning to make waves at the shipyard with recent whispers that Carnival may be looking to secure a contract for a massive new build ship in the coming months. The new vessel would likely be delivered in 2027 or early 2028, and would be the largest cruise ship ever built in Italy.
Now, information has come to light that a massive new ship – actually a series of ships – may soon be on order through Fincantieri. According to Shipping Italy, the reports indicate a size estimated at 208,000 gross tons – well above the 183,000 gross tons of Carnival Cruise Line’s Excel-class ships Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.
Such a massive ship could easily accommodate as many as 7,000 guests and 2,500 crew members – or more. The estimated price tag for each vessel could be as high as $1.6 billion or more, with a speculated four ships to be ordered together in the series for a contract worth nearly $7 billion.
Photo Via: Meyer Turku
It should be noted, however, that Carnival has not confirmed details of any new orders and will not comment on speculation. In a statement provided to Cruise Hive, a Carnival Corporation & plc spokesperson said:“We expect to order newbuilds for delivery – probably beginning in 2027 – at a rate of one to two per year.”
No details on size, cost, guest capacity, or what cruise line such ships might be earmarked for have been confirmed by Carnival Corporation & plc. We’ll have to hold our excitement on what a new large class ship could be like for the coming months.
How a New Ship Could Compare
If a possible 208,000-gross-ton ship is correct, the new size would dwarf the largest ships of other cruise lines that are part of Carnival Corporation & plc as follows (Note: Gross tonnage varies slightly for individual vessels based on overall features and construction materials):
P&O Cruises Australia – Grand class, 109,000 gross tons – Pacific Adventure (2001), Pacific Encounter (2002)
Princess Cruises – Sphere class, 175,500 gross tons – Sun Princess (delivery expected January 2024)
Seabourn Cruises – Encore class, 42,000 gross tons – Seabourn Encore (2016), Seabourn Ovation (2018)
Sun Princess Cruise Ship
By comparing across Carnival’s various fleets, it is obvious that many new ships are currently serving the various cruise lines, with a variety of sizes to meet guests’ preferences and to offer a wide range of cruise vacation experiences.
However, even a massive 208,000-gross-ton vessel would not take the title of the world’s largest cruise ship – a record that will belong Royal Caribbean’s 250,800-gross-ton Icon of the Seas when the ship officially welcomes guests from January 27, 2024. Similarly, the second ship in the Icon class, Star of the Seas, is expected to have a size comparable to Icon of the Seas.
Three New Ships to Join Carnival Family – Without New Orders
Even without any new contracts for ship construction, three new ships are slated to join the Carnival family in the upcoming months, in addition to the delivery of the gigantic new Sun Princess for Princess Cruises, which is just days away. A second Sphere-class ship will also be joining Princess Cruises as Star Princess in summer 2025.
Two additional ships are almost ready to make their debuts as well. Carnival Cruise Line will welcome Carnival Firenze to the Fun Ship fleet after the vessel completes her last sailing for Costa Cruises and undergoes weeks of transformation and renovation. Carnival Firenze will begin sailing from Long Beach, California in April 2024.
Cunard Line will also welcome Queen Anne in May 2024, the first new ship for the iconic cruise line since Queen Elizabeth debuted in 2010. At this time, no new ships are on order for any other line of Carnival Corporation, including Carnival Cruise Line.
As it takes many months to construct a new ship from the time a shipyard order is confirmed, it is highly unlikely that any new vessels would join the company in 2025 or 2026, but timelines would depend on a ship’s size and complexity, as well as shipyard operational capacity.
With the recent news that Disney Cruise Line actively discourages the guest-led game of cruising ducks hidden onboard their ships, travelers have wondered whether or not other cruise lines will do the same.
This has led to rumors and speculation, and Carnival Cruise Line has quickly announced its position on the cruising duck phenomenon.
Carnival Cruise Line Talks Cruising Ducks
Cruise passengers have recently noted that Disney Cruise Line discourages cruising ducks. While rubber ducks are not explicitly prohibited from being brought onboard, travelers are “requested” not to hide them around Disney Cruise Line ships.
“We kindly request that guests are not allowed to hide items such as rubber ducks in public areas or staterooms,”a statement from Disney Cruise Line read.
Effectively, this “request” bans cruising ducks from Disney ships. This has led frequent cruisers to wonder whether or not the fun pastime may no longer be welcome on other cruise lines, and rumors have begun to spread that Carnival Cruise Line will soon be announcing its own duck ban.
Reactions have been mixed, with those in support of such a ban considering the ducks as trash or litter, possibly “disease-riddled,” and just being an overall nuisance if the ducks must be taken home after a cruise.
It should be noted, however, that the informal rules of cruising ducks do state “take or leave, you decide” and no one is obligated to keep any ducks they might find, or even to participate at all if they prefer not to do so.
Nevertheless, the rumors have come to the attention of John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, who has responded to the speculation that Carnival may soon ban ducks onboard.
“I am surprised that the beards at Disney have banned the ducks,”Heald said.“I didn’t know that, I wonder if Donald had something to say about that. Look, they are a brilliant cruise line and have their own rules of course, but so many have been asking me [if Carnival will ban ducks] I thought it best I respond.”
“The answer is no, we are not going to ban the hiding of ducks. I know this is not for everyone,”he continued.“I also know it gives so many people joy so why would we stop the spreading of joy?”
No Carnival guest – or guest on any cruise line – has to participate with cruising ducks, whether bringing the fun trinkets aboard to hide, searching for them onboard, rehiding ducks for others to discover, or taking them home as souvenirs of a fun sailing.
Too Many Ducks?
While the vast majority of cruise passengers have no problem with ducks – if they don’t want to participate, they simply pass by any ducks they might see – some travelers have brought up concerns.
One of the top concerns is whether or not ducks might be taking over, with some guests going “overboard” and bringing dozens onto every cruise they take.
On a cruise ship with 4,000 guests, if only 1% of passengers bring ducks onboard, this means that 40 travelers might have a flock to share. If these 40 guests are so excited that each one brings 25 ducks onboard, there will be 1,000 ducks winging their way around a single ship on a single sailing.
These numbers might seem silly, but social media groups about cruising ducks routinely have travelers showing off their flocks of far more than 25 ducks ready to go on their next cruise, often complete with tags, ribbons, and embellishments.
This could seem overwhelming and might even dilute the enjoyment of the scavenger hunt if one sees a duck nearly every time they turn around. Too many ducks might also lead to more of the toys simply being discarded, and they could end up overboard as marine debris.
Any litter tossed overboard is a violation of Carnival Cruise Line’s cruise ticket contract as stated in section 9(i): “Any dumping or pollution of any kind including discharge of any item into the ocean and/or waterways is strictly prohibited.”
The fee for such an incident can be extreme, starting with a $500 fine charged to a guest’s onboard account for each item overboard. Additional fees could also be imposed if the cruise line must clean up the debris, and guests might even be disembarked at the next port of call or banned from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line in the future.
“This is completely untrue,” Heald said.“If any crew member throws anything overboard they would be in serious trouble and would for sure face disciplinary action.”
While it is unlikely that such extreme actions would be taken over something as simple and seemingly innocent as cruising ducks, it is possible if a situation were to escalate, such as if a guest were tossing many ducks overboard at once.
Have you joined in cruising ducks? Do you think the phenomenon is out of control? Share your thoughts on the Cruise Hive boards!
San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico. Extending outwards from this beautiful city is the San Juan Cruise Port. In many ways, this bustling seaport acts as the gateway to the city and the beautiful countryside beyond it.
For many reasons, the port is one of the busiest cruise destinations in the entire Caribbean. Whether you’re embarking or disembarking in San Juan or your cruise ship simply visits this beautiful port city as part of a larger itinerary, we want to help you experience the best it has to offer.
The San Juan cruise port is nestled right in the central section of the city of San Juan. It is built directly into a natural peninsula extending into the San Juan Bay.
The port is grouped intotwo terminals and four cruise ship piers, each catering to various cruise lines. This makes it easy for cruise lines to organize embarkation and disembarkation processes and refueling and resupplying.
Not only is this large-scale and sophisticated port capable of dealing with high cruise passenger volumes, but it is also a short distance from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, which is another reason why it is such a popular homeport for so many cruise ships.
Aerial View of San Juan, Puerto Rico (Photo Credit: Bogdan Dyiakonovych)
For passengers, one of the best features of the San Juan cruise port is the simple fact that it is located close to San Juan. As we will discover, this city offers plenty of culture and excitement that can complement any cruise vacation.
One mile southeast of the San Juan cruise port on the other side of the San Antonio Canal is the Pan American Pier, which can hold two more cruise ships.
When you get off the ship at the San Juan Cruise Port, you will only need to walk about seven blocks to get to the attractions in Old San Juan. The Pan American Pier is a little farther away. You’ll need to get a taxi or book an excursion to get there; it’s about a ten to fifteen-minute ride.
San Juan Cruise Port Amenities and Services
The cruise terminal facilities available to cruise passengers are actually quite impressive, especially relative to what you would typically expect from a Caribbean port.
You will find staffed check-in counters for all cruise lines operating within the port, duty-free shops, and passenger lounges. Public washroom facilities are also easy to find, and there are plenty of vending machines and food counters.
Cruise Piers in San Juan (Photo Credit: RandomHartz)
For those arriving by taxi cab or shuttle, there are plenty of nearby parking facilities and drop-off zones. For those staying in the nearby hotels as they wait to board their cruise ship, transportation couldn’t be easier.
The San Juan port provides a comfortable and organized setting for embarking and disembarking cruise passengers, and you can get a great view of the city and shoreline from certain locations. Murals throughout the terminals also celebrate the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico.
What to Do Beyond the San Juan Cruise Port
If you are arriving in the San Juan cruise port as part of a larger itinerary and want to make the most out of your limited time in the area, you have plenty of options. Here are just a few of our top recommendations:
Explore Historic Old San Juan
If you are arriving at the San Juan cruise port as a port of call, there is a good chance you will arrive at one of the three piers near historic Old San Juan. If you are lucky enough to arrive here, there is plenty to do, as Old San Juan, also known as Old Town, has a genuinely enchanting quality.
Old San Juan is so impressive and historically significant that parts are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This section of the city has a rich and complex history dating back over 500 years, evidenced by the abundance of incredibly well-preserved Spanish architecture and monuments.
Downtown San Juan (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
With cobblestone streets and bright-colored Spanish colonial buildings, you will feel like you have traveled back in time. For aspiring photographers or Instagram enthusiasts, Old San Juan’s vibrant colors and historic charm make it easy to capture incredible photographs.
While you can certainly choose to walk around the city and shop for delicious food and handmade souvenirs, there are also a few highlights we would recommend checking out these sites:
El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal
Explore the El Morro and Castillo San Cristobal forts. Not only is this a memorable experience for any history buff, but you can climb to the top of the San Cristobal for an incredible view of the city and the ocean beyond it. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (Photo Credit: Logan Bush)
La Fortaleza
La Fortaleza allows explorers to see one of the oldest and best-preserved mansions in the Americas. While you can explore it on your own, we recommend taking a guided tour, as it will provide you with a detailed history of the building itself, as well as San Juan and the rest of Puerto Rico.
Calle del Cristo
Take a stroll down Calle del Cristo. This historic and vibrant street features numerous shops, galleries, and boutiques where you can purchase a one-of-a-kind memento from your time in Puerto Rico.
Shop and Explore the Nearby Neighborhoods
While San Juan’s Old Town justifiably attracts its fair share of attention, the rest of the city offers plenty for those less interested in history and architecture.
Thanks to Puerto Rico’s unique relationship with the United States and its high abundance of tourists, it is home to some of the best shopping you will find anywhere in the Caribbean.
Shopping Street in Downtown San Juan (Photo Credit: yuriyt)
For those looking to shop for the latest fashions, you will find outlets for famous brands, like Coach, Louis Vuitton, and Versace, in the Mall of San Juan.
If you would prefer to stroll the streets and do a little bit of window shopping, there are plenty of shops lining the streets near the main cruise terminal. Don’t forget you will also find numerous duty-free shops within the port terminals, so save some time to browse before you board.
Immerse Yourself in the Local Flavors
No trip to San Juan is complete without trying the local cuisine! Puerto Ricans tend to be very proud of their dishes, and for good reason – Puerto Rican food is as unique as it is delicious.
With Spanish, African, Taino, and even American influences, San Juan’s food scene offers foodies an opportunity to indulge. Plus, the island provides some of the freshest ingredients you’ll find anywhere.
With plenty of sidewalk food vendors lining most streets and high-end gourmet restaurants just a short walk from the main tourist areas, you will be able to find dining experiences that match your exact preferences.
Puerto Rico Dining (Photo Credit: Antony McAulay)
We encourage you to save space for mofongo – Puerto Rico’s signature dish. It combines fried plantains, savory pork cracklings, and mashed olive oil. Trust us, it’s delicious! Cool off with some freshly made ice cream that is widely available for those with a sweet tooth.
We would also recommend taking a break from strolling the streets to sample some of the unique cocktails. You can even take a distillery tour or a cocktail lesson to learn how to impress your guests at your next dinner party. If alcoholic beverages aren’t your thing, sample some locally roasted coffee. Puerto Rican coffee packs plenty of flavor.
If you are spending the night in San Juan, either at the beginning or end of your voyage, spend an evening taking in the sounds and tastes of La Placita de Santurce – a two-tiered market square over 100 years old. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, and street food vendors selling empanadas and other local treats here.
Hit the Beach
Take advantage of the fact that San Juan shares an idyllic coastline with the Caribbean Sea. Puerto Rico is famous for its beaches, so you don’t want to miss your opportunity to soak up the sun in the perfect setting!
Within a short distance of the San Juan Cruise Port, you can find the Balneario el Escambron beach. The white sand beach is lined with picture-perfect palm trees, and there are plenty of activities to do here.
Isla Verde Beach, Puerto Rico (Photo Credit: Israel Pabon)
You may even find that some water sports excursions you could book on your cruise ship take place on this beach. Other beach options include Isla Verde Beach and Condado Beach.
Speaking of excursions, if you want to dive or snorkel with tropical fish, there are plenty of nearby options for those arriving at the San Juan cruise port.
Before you arrive in Puerto Rico, visit the shore excursions desk onboard your ship or check your cruise line’s official website, as you can pre-book a wide range of exciting activities for your time in San Juan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it easy to get to the San Juan cruise port from within the city?
Yes, the San Juan cruise port is incredibly accessible and well-connected to the city and its many attractions. Taxi cabs, hotel, airport shuttles, and various forms of public transportation are easily available.
Not only does this make it easy to get to the terminal where your cruise ship is docked, but it also ensures that cruise ship passengers can easily explore San Juan without too much confusion.
Which type of currency will I need while visiting San Juan?
Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, so you can freely spend US dollars. We recommend bringing some cash if you plan to sample different dishes from street food vendors or purchase handmade souvenirs from a roadside stall. Other than that, the majority of stores and restaurants accept all of the major credit cards.
Final Words
The San Juan cruise port offers plenty of modern cruise terminals, so you will not have to worry about feeling out of place while waiting to board your cruise ship. Being situated between the beautiful city of San Juan and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, it is also the ideal location for any port of call visit.
Whether you want to explore historical landmarks, sample delicious Puerto Rican dishes, catch some rays on a blissful beach, or wander and explore what the city has to offer, visiting San Juan can enhance any Caribbean cruise!
Nestled right on the southern edge of the Caribbean, Bonaire is one of many stunning southern Caribbean Islands that are becoming hot spots for cruise tourism.
At the heart of this tourism boom is the Bonaire Cruise Port, capable of servicing full-sized cruise ships, so their passengers can explore this picturesque Caribbean treasure.
With its turquoise waters teeming with tropical fish and the rich cultural tapestry found on land, the Bonaire cruise port offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and excitement, making it a must-visit location for any cruise enthusiast.
Today, we are going to take a deep dive into this bustling cruise port so you can discover why it is considered by many to be the Caribbean’s best-kept secret. So, if you’re ready to discover paradise, let’s dive right in.
As the name implies, the Bonaire cruise port is located on the island of Bonaire. Alongside Aruba and Curacao, it is one of the “ABC Islands” dependent on the Netherlands. The three islands sit right at the southern edge of the Caribbean, so they are relatively close to the coast of Venezuela.
The Bonaire cruise port sits right at the center of the capital city, Kralendijk, on the island of Bonaire. Thanks to its location right at the island’s heart, it acts as a gateway to its unique offers.
While most experienced cruise travelers will already know about Aruba and Curacao, relatively few know much about Bonaire. However, that does not mean it cannot be as beautiful and memorable to visit as the more well-known constituent parts of the ABC Islands.
What Does the Bonaire Cruise Port Look Like?
The port consists of two main docking areas – the Northern and Southern Pier. Both piers can handle full-sized cruise ships, but larger vessels tend to be directed to the Southern Pier. In recent years, the port has decided to move towards only allowing a single cruise ship to dock at a time, intended to reduce crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for passengers as they disembark their ship.
With that said, both piers feature modern port facilities and equipment, including well-maintained washroom facilities, but you will be directed a short distance from them once you arrive.
This is to avoid overcrowding, but don’t worry, directions are very clear on where you should go, and there is plenty to do within a few steps of leaving the port itself. For those with mobility issues requiring assistance, there are also shuttle buses that can take you to public areas.
Cruise Ship Docked at Port of Kralendijk Bonaire. (Photo Credit: Jill McIntire)
As mentioned, the Bonaire cruise port is a short distance from some of Kralendijk’s main attractions. This includes an open-air shopping area, numerous tourist-friendly restaurants and bars, cafés, and a museum.
Just outside of the port, you will also find representatives of a wide range of tours and excursions you can quickly and easily book, but we would still recommend booking these types of experiences before you board or while you are on your cruise ship, as the cruise line will have partnered with local operators that understand the arrival and departure time of your ship.
Those looking to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling excursions can take a dedicated water taxi directly to Klein Bonaire, where these snorkel and diving experiences occur. Don’t worry; they are very well-marked and will not come with an additional fee if you have pre-booked your experience.
What Does Stopping at the Bonaire Cruise Port Offer to Cruise Passengers?
Thanks to the southern location of the island, it offers the same year-round sunshine you would expect from both Aruba and Curacao, but it also offers its own unique charm.
The following are just some of the reasons why any fan of adventure and exploration should seriously consider visiting Bonaire.
Stunning Natural Beauty
One of the best things about a stop at the Bonaire cruise terminal is to experience the pristine natural beauty the island offers. Despite its relatively tiny size, Bonaire has dedicated significant resources towards protecting its white sand beaches and unique marine environment. Some of the best beaches in the area are Te Amo Beach, Sorobon Beach, and Pink Beach.
Bonaire’s coral reef is considered to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is partly thanks to the island’s efforts to preserve the varied and unique marine ecosystems off its coast.
Te Amo beach on the Caribbean island of Bonaire (Photo Credit: Erika Cristina Manno)
Not only do you get the eye-catching turquoise waters found throughout the coastlines of the Caribbean, but you can also have the opportunity to see pristine marine environments firsthand.
Whether you are into snorkeling or scuba diving or want to witness the untouched beauty of a natural reef from land or a glass-floored boat, you will find everything you are looking for and more by visiting Bonaire.
The locals understand the appeal of the marine beauty, so there are plenty of shore excursion options you can book that will allow you to see marine life for yourself. Colorful tropical fish, dense coral formations, sea turtles, and even sharks are all things you can have the opportunity to see during a stop at the Bonaire cruise terminal.
While the beaches and marine ecosystems may steal the show, there is plenty to do within the port itself and beyond! Cruise passengers should check out Wilhelmina Park or Bonaire Marine Park, one of the oldest marine reserves in the world.
A Rich Cultural Experience
By stopping at the Bonaire cruise port, you can explore Bonaire’s capital city. Kralendijk offers visitors the chance to experience a unique and colorful culture.
Numerous bars and restaurants make it easy and affordable to try local dishes and drinks and some of the freshest seafood you are likely to find anywhere on the planet. The booming dining scene also caters to all budgets and preferences.
Capital City Kralendijk (Photo Credit: Leonid Antonia)
If you want a high-end dining experience, It Rains Fishes offers guests gourmet seafood with first-class service. For those looking for a more low-key experience, the famous Karel’s Beach Bar is directly on the water and offers a mixture of local dishes and crowd-pleasing favorites. For beer lovers, there’s even a microbrewery called the Brewery Bonaire that you can visit.
While the food is incredible, it is not the only thing Bonaire’s capital city has to offer. The streets are also lined with historical Dutch architecture that will have you feeling like you have traveled back in time. The colorful buildings and murals also create the ideal setting for any photography enthusiast.
As you walk the streets, you can purchase eye-catching, hand-made souvenirs and hear the unique sounds of local street musicians. If experiencing different cultures is your thing, make time to visit the Bonaire Museum, which is also located in Kralendijk.
Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks
Bonaire’s marine ecosystems are great for those who want to see reefs, beaches, and marine life, but some cruise ship passengers want to enjoy more land-based natural beauty after spending time at sea.
Fortunately, the Bonaire cruise port can also act as the gateway to a wide range of natural environments you can enjoy on land.
Washington-Slagbaai National Park (Photo Credit: Jannie1994)
Depending on how much time you have, you can always explore the dramatic coastlines and rock formations found in the Washington Slagbaai National Park.
Plenty of excursions will take you for a drive through the park and give you plenty of opportunities to get out and take photographs. Once you reach the park, you can also take ATV tours to some of the park’s highlights.
Flamingos in Bonanire (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)
The unique island is also home to a world-famous flamingo sanctuary. This protected area is home to over 10,000 flamingos and flocks of many other bird species. Take the opportunity to see and photograph these colorful birds in their natural mangrove habitat. The sanctuary truly is a bird-watcher’s paradise!
Is Visiting Bonaire Considered to Be a Standard Caribbean Cruise Port of Call?
While it is growing in popularity as a cruise destination, it is still relatively uncommon as a port of call. This is partly due to its location at the southern edge of the Caribbean Sea and the fact that nearby Aruba and Curacao have more robust ports.
Cruise Ship Docked in Bonaire (Photo Credit: Cristina Boban)
That said, it is not difficult to find a cruise line that offers itineraries that stop in Bonaire, as Carnival Cruise Line, P&O, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and other major cruise lines all visit Bonaire.
If visiting Bonaire and the other two ABC Islands appeals to you, we recommend booking between October and late April, as these are considered the best months to visit, so more cruise lines make stops during this part of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What currency will you need if you visit Bonaire?
Fortunately for most visitors, Bonaire recognizes the US Dollar as its official currency. You should also have no difficulty using major credit cards if dining in larger restaurants or purchasing in most stores. With that said, we would still recommend making sure you have some cash, as smaller, hand-made souvenirs will be much easier to purchase if you have a few dollars.
If you do not have cash, the Bonaire cruise port and Kralendijk are teeming with ATMs. You should not have any difficulty pulling out money, especially near Kaya Grandi, the city’s main shopping district.
Which language do they speak in Bonaire?
Bonaire is a unique island in many ways. One of its oddities is that it has three officially recognized languages – Dutch, Papiamento, and English.
For English speakers, you should not have any difficulty communicating with locals, as most have a decent understanding of English. You will also find that most locals working in stores, restaurants, and tourist information kiosks fluently understand English. The same can be said for those hired to act as tour guides and excursion operators.
Is Bonaire safe to explore?
Yes! Bonaire is very safe. In fact, according to the US Department of State’s travel advisory, it has the lowest threat rating, meaning you should practice standard precautions that you would at home.
That said, we always recommend staying in the main tourist areas while stopping at any port of call, including the Bonaire cruise port.
Final Words
Bonaire is an island paradise that offers visitors a unique blend of cultural enrichment and natural beauty. Thanks to its environmental preservation efforts on both land and sea, it is a stunning place to add to the itinerary of your next cruise vacation.
If you get the chance, take the time to explore this beautiful island and its surrounding waters. You might make memories that last a lifetime!
