The port of San Juan recently celebrated one of its most bustling days in history, marked by the arrival of a cutting-edge cruise ship. This significant event signals a new chapter for the island's maritime tourism, showcasing its enhanced capabilities to accommodate modern, large-scale vessels and attract a substantial volume of international visitors.
Royal Caribbean's magnificent Star of the Seas made its much-anticipated first call at San Juan's Pier 3. This momentous occasion not only celebrates the vessel's advanced design but also highlights Puerto Rico's escalating importance within the global cruise landscape. This initial visit, alongside five more scheduled stops, is projected to inject over $3.5 million directly into the local economy, significantly boosting the region's financial health.
The Star of the Seas, renowned for its capacity to host 6,200 travelers and 2,350 crew members, contributed significantly to a record-breaking day. Concurrently with the Celebrity Beyond, the island welcomed more than 13,000 individuals. This massive arrival of tourists is estimated to generate nearly $800,000 in revenue in a single day, with the Star of the Seas alone accounting for approximately $600,000.
Local government and tourism authorities were present to commemorate this pivotal moment. Puerto Rico Tourism officials emphasized that the ship's arrival represents not merely a symbolic achievement but a tangible economic opportunity, aligning perfectly with Governor Jenniffer González Colón's comprehensive development strategies. The Port Authority confirmed that recent upgrades at Pier 3 and a thorough review by the U.S. Coast Guard were crucial in facilitating this visit.
Clarivette Díaz, General Manager of San Juan Cruise Port, hailed the visit as a "moment of celebration for Puerto Rico's entire tourism sector." She underscored the importance of ongoing investments and a forward-thinking approach that have enabled the island to host the newest generation of cruise ships. Disembarking passengers were treated to live Puerto Rican melodies and showcased local artisanal crafts, providing an authentic cultural immersion from their very first moments on the island.
With its homeport in Port Canaveral, Florida, the Star of the Seas offers over 20 distinct lodging options, including spacious family suites, elegant lofts, and panoramic staterooms featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Its inaugural journey to San Juan further solidifies Puerto Rico's reputation as a leading and dynamic cruise destination within the vibrant Caribbean region.