Southern Caribbean Cruise 7 Nights • San Juan, Puerto Rico • Brilliance of the Seas

Cruises from San Juan are always special because they begin in a city that doubles as a top vacation destination. The vibrant capital of Puerto Rico, San Juan offers something for every traveler — world-famous beaches with crystal clear waters, incredible cuisine, rugged natural beauty and a rich history that goes back 500 years. With its ancient fortresses and colorful colonial-era buildings, San Juan makes it easy to feel as though you’ve slipped into the past. Life moves at a slower pace along the sunny cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, and salsa beats seem to waft perpetually from open windows. If you’re craving a hike, head to El Yunque National Forest. And if you’re more in the mood to unwind, set your sights on the beautiful shores of Isla Verde or El Condado. Mealtime is also an adventure, with so many delicious options to try — from mofongo and pastelon to chillo frito and alcapurrias. Pair every bite with a piña colada — Puerto Rico’s national drink.

Your ship departs promptly at 8:00 p. m., so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Tortola blends British roots, West Indies flair and a colorful history built upon pirate lore. Explore the capital city of Road Town. Charter a boat for a scenic sail. Or take a ferry to the neighboring islands of Virgin Gorda, Anegada or Jost Van Dyke.

In the capital of St. John, you can peek into local craft shops or explore a centuries-old British naval base in Nelson’s Dockyard. If beachcombing is more your speed, choose from any of Antigua’s 365 beaches. The island offers the best of both worlds, from bustling markets and candy-colored colonial buildings to winding rainforest trails and hidden coves.

Aquatic adventurers should not miss Grenada’s wonders. Relax on a white-sand beach or sail the surrounding seas while basking in the famous trade winds. Explore the lush landscapes of volcanic mountains, lakes and hot springs. And savor the island’s culture with visits to a historic spice estate and a water-powered mill distillery whose signature rum is unforgettably potent.

There are so many things to do in Kingstown, St. Vincent — like exploring the centuries-old Fort Charlotte or strolling through the Grenadines Botanic Gardens. But it’s worth venturing out beyond the capital to experience some of the island’s more secluded wonders, like snorkeling the reefs off Indian Bay Beach or hiking the trails around Mount Soufrière.

Dominica’s endless jungles, mountains and waterfalls will keep you wandering for hours. If you’re more of an urban explorer, jam out in the capital of Roseau, where the streets are filled with the sounds of reggae, calypso, soka and zouk. And bring an appetite, because when it comes to comfort food, Dominica nails it island style.

Puerto Rico’s 500-year-old capital is a history buff’s dream come true. The Spanish settled this harbor as a New World home base, and that influence is still evident, from the fortress walls lining the coastline to the rainbow of colonial buildings along narrow streets. Venture further out from the old town and nature unfolds. You can scale high into the jungled mountains of El Yunque Forest, or keep to the foothills on a riverside horseback ride. If despacito is more your speed, pick a pristine beach and recline with codfish fritter and rum drink in hand. San Juan cruises give you the perfect outpost to dial up or dial down your vacation.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.