Southern Caribbean Cruise 7 Nights • San Juan, Puerto Rico • Rhapsody 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 pm, 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.

The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix has it all— gorgeous natural scenery and colonial towns perfect for wandering. Walk the cobbled streets of Frederiksted and Christiansted for a taste of Dutch Victorian architecture. Or roam sprawling plantations and crumbling sugar mills dotting the countryside. And don’t miss the island’s white powder beaches, like Cane Bay and Rainbow Beach.

Oranjestad is best known for its colorful Dutch Colonial ‘gingerbread’ houses painted in bright Caribbean hues, powdery white beaches and crystal-clear aquamarine water. Explore Aruba’s unique geological formations amid desert-like landscapes. Or discover aquatic wonders under the waves on a snorkeling excursion or a thrilling submarine ride. Sun-seekers can choose the beach that best suits their style, from the activity-filled De Palm Island to resort-studded Palm Beach, one of the island’s most glorious stretches of sand.

The small island of Bonaire is just 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela and packs both idyllic weather conditions and a layered culture into 111 square miles in the Caribbean Sea. As part of the Dutch ABC islands (which also includes Aruba and Curaçao), a trip to Kralendijk will uncover the influences of the Dutch as well as French, Spanish, African, Amerindian, Portuguese and British. Among the things to do in Kralendijk, observe this unique blend of cultures as you shop the local craft market, dine on fresh seafood or take in a museum. A drive through the island reveals the technicolor nature of pink lakes, while snorkeling or diving gives way to unspoiled underwater reefs.

Discover the colonial-era fortresses and other landmarks of Willemstad on a trolley ride before exploring more on your own. Go on a distillery tour to sample the island’s signature spirit, Blue Curaçao, or make some new marine friends at the Sea Aquarium. Enjoy the island’s stunning turquoise seas on a boat, snorkeling or just relaxing on the sands.

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.