Silversea Luxury Cruises Nach SAN JUAN

Spend the day discovering and tasting one of San Juan's most famous products- Bacardi Rum.

Your tour begins with a transfer to the south side of San Juan Harbor, where you will enter the beautifully manicured grounds of the Bacardí Rum Distillery, the world's largest distiller of natural spirits. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to your classroom for a private Rum Mixology Seminar led by your Bacardi Brand Specialist, a Master in Rum. For the next 45 minutes to an hour, the conference speaker will lead your group in the preparation and understanding how each of the signature cocktails is created - typically Bacardi Cuba Libre, Bacardi Mojito and a Bacardi Flavors Drink are presented and prepared, though this is subject to change. Each participant will be standing and acting as bartender and at the end will receive a Bacardi University Rum Mixology Certificate.

Following the seminar, you will continue to the interior patio of the Bacardi Visitor's Center. After passing through a large room containing a fountain and three large prints with historical representations, you will enter the theater and view a short film covering the Bacardí Family history as well as that of the Bacardí Corporation. You will then enter a replica of an old distillery that houses an excellent display; here your guide will provide commentary and answer questions. And you will have the opportunity to smell that final product; you will enjoy the aroma of the different type of rums that are bottled at Bacardí.

Your tour will continue to the Bacardí cocktail lounge, which resembles a 1920's bar in Cuba (the era of the prohibition). A bartender will explain and show you how to prepare the first three cocktails ever made with Bacardí: "Cuba Libre", "Daiquiri" and "Mojito Cubano", and you'll learn what inspired Bacardí in the preparation of these three cocktails as well as how they got their names.

As you exit, you will board an open-air tram who will take you to the open-air pavilion, where you will be treated to complimentary rum drinks. Adjacent to the pavilion is the Casa Bacardí gift shop where one can purchase Bacardí Rum as well as many other Bacardí products.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of activity, and is suitable for those with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair. This tour is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18. Guests may be required to show identification. Please be aware that the Barcardi Distillery is under construction and some of the visitation areas mentioned above after the seminar may be modified, unavailable or substituted for new galleries without notification.

Explore the karst region and subterranean cave systems of Puerto Rico during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion to Cueva Ventana.

San Juan, Karst Region, Arecibo, Rock Formations, Nature Walk

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 75-minute drive to Puerto Rico's karst region, which features subterranean cave systems created by water, and Cueva Ventana, a natural cave in Arecibo. Located at the northwest side of the island, Cueva Ventana is accessible via a guided, uphill nature walk surrounded by native flora.

Cave Walk, Rock Formations, Trails, Native Flora and Fauna

Upon arrival, meet your guide, receive your helmet and commence your guided exploration of the area. During a guided walking tour through one of the caves, see fascinating rock formations and learn about the wildlife, including birds, bats, lizards, spiders, and snakes, found in this area. A large opening at one end of the cave allows light to filter through part of the cave, creating beautiful photo opportunities. Leaving the first cave, continue along the trails whilst learning about the plants and trees native to this region en route to the next cave system, the entrance of Cueva Ventana.

Cueva Ventana Walk, Taino Wall Art, Arecibo Valley, Local Eatery and Specialities

Upon arrival, climb down a rather steep set of natural steps in order to access this fascinating hidden world. Your guide gives you a flashlight to light your path through the dimly-lit caverns and covers various points of interest along the way, including the Taino art on the walls, uneven floor, reason for its pattern, and face in the rock formations at the top of the cave. Your trail leads you to the highlight of the tour, a breath-taking window overlooking the Arecibo Valley. Following your visit to this fascinating underworld, proceed for refreshments and authentic Puerto Rican specialities at a local roadside eatery. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 55-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.5 miles (about 2.4 kilometres), at times over uneven, slippery, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the coach, and several sets of steps and stairs at Cueva Ventana. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone claustrophobia, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, and a sweater or light jacket from the ship; flip-flops are not permitted. Guests must be at least six years old to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Safety helmets and flashlights are provided. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Take a journey into history, enjoy Old San Juan and have the opportunity to assemble your own Puerto Rican Lunch on this half-day tour.

Begin your tour from the ship with a walking tour of Old San Juan with a focus on the architecture, history and legends of this Spanish colonial city that is more than 500 years-old.

As you are walking and building up an appetite, the last stop of the tour will take you to a local restaurant for lunch. Upon arrival, you are greeted by the Chef who will welcome you with a fresh Mojito followed by a tasty appetizer. Then the chef will provide you with the necessary ingredients and instructions to mix and shape your own Mofongo lunch.

Discover the magic of 'cocina criolla,' the main culinary style of Puerto Rico, by learning how to create a local favourite: Mofongo. It is a delightful mash of fried green plantains and chicken broth into which chicken is added. Each participant will learn about and have a hand in the final steps of the preparation of this local Puerto Rican dish. After helping preparing your meal, join your fellow guests at the table to enjoy your lunch. This is the perfect ending to your historical and cultural experience in Old San Juan.

Following your lunch, make the stroll back to the pier and your awaiting ship.

Please note: This tour involved extensive walking over cobble-stones and uneven surfaces along with some inclines. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or for those who utilise a wheelchair. We suggest guests wear lightweight comfortable clothing, flat walking shoes and sun protection. Your menu consists of one Mojito cocktail, an appetizer, house salad, plantain Mofongo filled with chicken, one soft drink, a delicious dessert and coffee. Guests under 21 years will not be able to sample the Mojito. One Mojito is included in the price, additional beverages may be purchased on site.

Experience the magical waters of the fascinating, bioluminescent Laguna Grande at sunset during this unforgettable, half-day kayaking excursion.

San Juan, Las Croabas Village, Kayaking Preparations

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to the small fishing village of Las Croabas. Upon arrival and following a brief comfort stop, fill out your waiver and put on your insect repellent. Afterward, receive your safety and kayaking instructions, along with all of the essentials, including two-seat kayaks, paddles with leashes, lifejackets, safety lights, backrests, insect repellent, and two interpretive tour guides.

Kayaking Journey, Fisherman's Cove, Las Cabezas de San Juan Reserves, Mangroves

Your guided, approximately 1.75-hour kayaking journey begins with a ride across a small fisherman's cove to the entrance of Las Cabezas de San Juan Reserve. This reserve is the only place on the island of Puerto Rico where you can enjoy and learn about the combination of seven ecosystems interacting together in the same location. Here, enter a mystical channel leading to a peaceful place where the mangroves create natural tunnels, and the sights and sounds of wildlife surround them.

Mangrove Channel, Laguna Grande, Rainforest and Fajardo Lighthouse Views, Glowing Waters

Paddle along the edge of the mangrove forest channel en route to a breakpoint, and a stop at Laguna Grande. One of only three bioluminescent bodies of water in Puerto Rico and its only bioluminescent lagoon, Laguna Grande also offers splendid views of the rainforest and Fajardo Lighthouse. Here, learn about the diverse mangrove and bird species, iguanas and marine life that inhabit this natural reserve. In addition, see the sparkling swirls of water created by the paddles' flow through the water, and touch the waters glowing with dinoflagellate, the organism responsible for the bioluminescence. At the conclusion of your visit, paddle back to the starting point and return your equipment. Following refreshments and snacks, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of easy paddling for approximately 1.5 hours and a moderate amount of walking for approximately 200 yards (about 183 metres), at times over uneven, natural and sandy surfaces, and in knee-deep water at the shoreline, standing for the approximately 40-minute orientation, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the kayak, and four steps at the venue. This tour is recommended for guests who in good physical condition, know how to swim and can get in/out of a kayak without assistance. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory problems, guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with flat, non-slip boat shoes, sandals or flip-flops they won't mind getting wet, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, and a towel from the ship. Guests must be at least six years old to participate on this tour; minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. This kayaking tour operates in two-seat kayaks. Guests weighing more than 240 pounds (about 109 kilograms) cannot participate on this tour. Guests taller than 6-foot, two-inches (about 1.9 metres) in height cannot participate on this tour. The maximum weight per two-seat kayak is 475 pounds (about 227 pounds) per couple. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife and marine life sightings are not guaranteed. Two-seat kayaks, paddles with leashes, lifejackets, safety lights, backrests, and two interpretive tour guides are provided. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. As a natural element the bioluminescence, visibility may fluctuate due to ocean currents, amounts of rain, moon phases, and weather-related conditions, in which cases this tour may offered as a Night-Kayaking Eco-Adventure focused on the ecology and not the bioluminescence. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore the highlights along cobblestone streets and gain a fascinating guided look at the history of Old San Juan during this walking tour of the old city.

Fort San Cristobal

Upon disembarkation, meet your experienced guide who will lead you through the historical Old City including a visit to Fort San Cristobal, a fortification that successfully defended the old city from attack by the British and Dutch in centuries gone by.

Next, walk into the City through one of the side streets and commence on a stroll through history. Getting just off the beaten track offers some fascinating finds that eludes most visitors that never leave the main streets.

Plaza San Jose

Walk uphill through the cobblestone streets until you reach the Plaza San Jose, with its statue of Juan Ponce de Leon that was made from melted down British cannons. The next stop, the Quincentennial Plaza, is a celebration of the discovery of Puerto Rico.

Casa Blanca

Continue to Casa Blanca, the first fortification ever built in old San Juan and the Ponce de Leon family home. Here you explore the almost Romanesque gardens and fountains.

La Plazoleta de la Rogativa

Exit the gardens of Casa Blanca through a partially hidden access to Calle Sol. After making the tight descending turn downwards, you suddenly find yourself in the most beautiful section of the entire old city - the Plaza of the Procession. Dominating this little park area is a statue commemorating the miraculous saving of the old city from sacking by the British in the 16th century.

This vantage point offers views of the Governor's Mansion, the El Cañuelo fortress across the port entrance and the Bacardi distillery. A short walk down hill through San Juan Gate takes you to the water's edge. As you return through the San Juan gate continue to San Juan Cathedral, retracing the steps of the original conquistadores. Your guide will walk you to the corner of Cristo & Fortaleza Streets; at this point you decide if you wish to have the guide escort you back to the ship or if you wish to stay to explore the many boutiques and shops that line the cobblestone streets of the old city and return to the ship at your leisure.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, lasting approximately 3 hours, over uneven surfaces and steep inclines and is thus recommended for guests in good physical condition. It is not suitable for guests with heart or respiratory conditions, leg, knee, neck, back problems, or limited mobility, or those who utilise a wheelchair. The order of sites visited may vary. If Casa Blanca is closed, a visit to Cuartel Ballaja, the last building the Spanish built in the Americas and now a cultural museum, will be substituted. It is recommended that guests bring bottled water from the ship for this tour.

Enjoy the scenery as you drive through one of the most beautiful old cities in the New World with a short visit to Fort San Cristobal and additional time to explore the city on own before you return home.

New San Juan

See modern San Juan as you drive in air-conditioned comfort through the areas of Isla Verde, Condado, past Fort San Gerónimo and on into Old San Juan, a beautiful city and filming location for big-budget movies starring such luminaries as Will Smith, George Clooney, Johnny Depp and Morgan Freeman.

Fort San Cristobal

Your first stop is for a short visit to Fort San Cristobal, a mainstay of the San Juan fortification system, from which the Spanish successfully defended their city from British and Dutch attacks as well as frequent assaults from various and sundry pirates. Be sure to watch their historical video on the area. In addition, search out the dungeon where there are centuries old graffiti representing images of Spanish galleons drawn on the walls.

Old San Juan

As you continue your drive through the old city, you'll see the beautiful 17^th-century Spanish ironwork on the restored homes and note the blue-black glazed cobblestones that were brought to San Juan as ballast for the Spanish galleons, and were used to surface the narrow streets of the Old City.

In addition, armed with our Map of Old San Juan, you have time to explore some of the many interesting shops, boutiques and art galleries that have made this historic area their home. Following your free time, re-join your coach for the drive to the airport.

Please note: This tour involves moderate walking over cobblestone and uneven surfaces. We suggest guests wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, walking shoes and sun protection. This tour is suitable for guests with flights departing San Juan after 2:00 p.m.

Explore the vibrant history, flavours, and culture of Puerto Rico on-foot during this scenic and fun-filled, half-day culinary excursion in Old San Juan.

San Juan, Old San Juan, Culinary Walking Tour

Depart the pier for a culinary walking tour along the historic, cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. During your leisurely, guided stroll, explore your surrounds through the eyes of a local, and learn about and indulge your senses with the culture, gastronomy, history and architecture of Puerto Rico.

Visits to Local Food Venues, Tastings of Puerto Rican Specialities

Five stops are made along the way for tastings at a variety of independently-owned and operated businesses. Each venue visited showcases its most delicious dishes, many of which are off the menu, and prepares them by utilising mainly fresh, locally-grown fruit, meat, fish, and other ingredients. Sample up to nine different Puerto Rican specialities, Tastings vary but may include local coffee, mofongo, roasted pork, rice and beans, stuffed avocado, empanadas, quesito, Mallorca, mojito or piña colada, ice cream pops and more!

Notable Old San Juan Landmarks

In addition to tastings of local specialities, see the second-oldest Cathedral in the Americas, oldest Governour's Mansion in the Western Hemisphere, Plaza de Armas, City Hall, La Rogativa, Capilla del Cristo, Cuartél de Ballajá, Paseo de la Princesa, and other notable landmarks. At the conclusion of your culinary walking tour, commence the short walk back to the pier with the best advice on what to eat, see or skip during your next visit to San Juan.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately one mile (about 1.6 kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to access certain venues. This tour is not suitable for guests with food allergies, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least three years old to participate on this tour; infants are welcome and free-of-charge, but do not participate in the tastings. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

This accessible San Juan shore excursion is a wonderful way to experience authentic Puerto Rican history, culture and landmarks. Explore the spectacular San Cristobal Fort, enjoy a panoramic driving tour of several historic Puerto Rican landmarks and explore the lower part of Old Town San Juan, Paseo de la Princesa.

Start your day by meeting your guide and accessible van at the San Juan cruise dock. From here, you will head out on a short drive to the first stop of your day, the historic Fort San Cristobal. Escorted by your tour guide, you will learn about Puerto Rico's battles with the Spanish, English, Dutch and Americans, and the majestic military fortifications of the 16^th through 20^th centuries. Although the fort has steep ramps and stairs, you tour route here will follow step-free routes. The theatre and exhibition area are fully accessible and an elevator will take you to the main level of the actual fort.

After some time of exploration here, you will be picked up by your driver and accessible van and head out on a panoramic driving tour, experiencing some of the best historic landmarks of the city. From the comfort of your accessible van you will see the breathtaking El Capitolio, the famous Casa Olimpica and other popular highlights.

The final part of the day will be spent exploring the lower parts of Old Town San Juan with a leisurely stroll down Paseo De La Princesa. This beautiful boulevard is peppered with market stands on the weekends and offers beautiful water views and historic exhibits. Admire the old fort walls, learn about the many popular statues and see the famous Raices fountain at the end of the Boulevard.

Please Note: This tour is designed to be accessible for all guests. It is suitable for guests on a wheelchair who can transfer to a seat. Full time wheelchair users, are kindly requested to contact shoreconcierge@silversea.com in order to provide further details and determine if the tour is suitable for them. The tour route avoids steps and stairs. Accessible bathrooms with wide doors for wheelchairs are present along the tour route. An accessible vehicle with a wheelchair lift or ramp will be used for transportation. Guides are not allowed to push wheelchairs. The number of accessible vehicles is extremely limited and guests are encouraged to make their accessible shore excursion reservations in advance. A minimum participation of 6 guests is required to operate the excursion at the advertised rate.

Explore San Juan at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Driver/guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 8 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore San Juan at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Driver/guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 8 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Sheraton Hotel and Casino

Sheraton Hotel and Casino is a beautiful, modern property, located near the convention center and marina. Situated in the midst of the Puerto Rico Convention Center District and next to the port, the hotel is a district centerpiece that is conveniently located just 10 minutes from the international airport and five minutes from historic Old San Juan.

Our Simply Hotel selection is the perfect choice for those who want a centrally located setting from which to discover - or rediscover - the city. Rooms in these 4.5 and 5-star properties are generally Standard Double or King rooms that provide comfortable accommodations and superior service for those who wish to extend their trip with a cultural or shopping experience in some of the world's most iconic cities.

For your convenience, we can easily organize transfers between the airport and hotel or between the hotel and the pier so that you only have to decide how much or how little you wish to do.

Hotel brands that we consistently feature include Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Fairmont or the Conrad Group.