San Juan, Puerto Rico is the Caribbean’s number one embarkation point for cruise ships, with over 1.2 million cruise passengers embarking on 700 cruises each year. The cruise terminal in San Juan easy to reach and very modern. Yes, it’s a longer flight for most people, but consider the benefits:
┬À As you start further south than a cruise leaving from the U.S. mainland, all of the Caribbean is within easy reach. Visit exotic islands like Antigua, Barbados, Curacao, St. Kitts/Nevis, St. Lucia, St. John and St. Maarten.
┬À With so many islands close by, you’ll have fewer sea days and more onshore adventures!
┬À No matter the time of year, you’ll have warm weather every day of your cruise (not always the case from ports in Texas and New Orleans).
┬À Lower cruise rates. For instance a 10-night cruise on the lovely Celebrity Galaxy will cost approximately $720.00 per person for an ocean view stateroom that includes these exotic ports of call: San Juan, Puerto Rico | Road Town, Tortola, B.V.I. | Philipsburg, St. Maarten | Castries, St. Lucia | Bridgetown, Barbados | Willemstad, Curacao | Oranjestad, Aruba. (These may be offset by higher airfare, however. But if you have frequent flier miles, you can get the best of both worlds).
┬À Unusual Shore Excursions. For example, Regent Seven Seas offers tours for the motorcycle enthusiast on the island of St. Maarten. Choose between the legendary Fat Boy and Heritage Classic motorcycles for a ride you will never forget. Follow your guide on a scenic tour past the Simpson Bay Marina, home to many luxurious mega-yachts, and then continue on through Maho, Mullet Bay and the lowlands that are famous for their appeal to many visiting celebrities. The convoy arrives at the French capitol of Marigot, where you’ll have the opportunity to see Ft. Louis. Your ride continues across the north coast of the island through Grand Case en route to Orient Bay, where a stop will be made for a quick dip on its popular beach.
After this refreshing break, you’ll continue riding through the countryside and back to the Village Plantation. After your ride, relax with a late lunch and variety of refreshments. When you are ready, a transfer bus will take you back to the ship.