Trip Reports
Duration
8 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
8 Ports
8 February
Setting sail from San Juan
Founded by the Spanish in 1521, Puerto Rico's capital is the second oldest European settlement in the Americas. Modern San Juan is a bustling city, home to over a third of the island's population, but the cobbled streets of the Old Town remain the biggest tourist draw. The colonial-era fortifications have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, crowned by the imposing waterfront El Morro fortress, and the Old Town is full of attractive, brightly coloured houses. Outside of the Old Town you can find designer shopping on Avenida Ashford, and the north of the city is fringed by beautiful beaches, including fashionable Condado with its hip hotels and bars.
Don't miss
Here in Puerto Rico it’s all about the history and the sea – you can’t miss the fabulous beaches, and you will enjoy the historic military buildings.
9 February
At sea
10 February
Saint Lucia: Soufrière
Soufrière is Saint Lucia’s oldest city, founded by the French in 1746 in the stunning south of the island. Nearby natural wonders include the iconic Piton mountains, the Diamond Botanical Gardens and the world’s only drive-in volcano, where you can soak in the restorative sulphur springs.
11 February
Martinique: Fort-de-France
The volcanic French Caribbean island of Martinique is a land of contrasts, from the lush rainforests of the north to the busy streets of the capital, Fort-de-France. There are plenty of lovely beaches geared towards relaxation, and the French influence also means that the cuisine is a cut above the usual Caribbean fare.
12 February
Dominica: Portsmouth
13 February
Antigua and Barbuda: St John's
Antigua is famously home to 365 beaches - one for every day of the year - and there is an undeniable allure to the many white sand coves dotted along the coast. The capital, St John's, is worth a look, but if you've got time to visit the south coast you'll find historic Nelson's Dockyard a lot more interesting.
14 February
Saint Kitts and Nevis: Basseterre (Saint Kitts)
Laid back and low key, Saint Kitts is an island typified by rolling green hills, characterful beach bars and the lingering remnants of the sugar cane trade that once dominated here. Attractions include the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill fortress, the 18-mile Scenic Railway and the faded Georgian elegance of the capital, Basseterre.
15 February
U.S. Virgin Islands: St Croix
St Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands, lies slightly off the tourist trail, and is all the better for it. Highlights include beautiful beaches, verdant rainforest and dozens of rum distilleries. The island also has an interesting Danish heritage, reflected in place names like Frederiksted and Christiansted.
16 February
Arriving in San Juan
Our tip
Hunt out the very best chuletas Can-Can and pastelillos – local food at its best is great. Don’t settle for sorry imitations.
Your home from home
The second and third yachts from Ritz-Carlton, Ilma and Luminara, are a little larger with 228 suites, all with private terrace.
What we love
While details on the new yachts are still being kept tightly under wraps, we know that the ships will be fitted with dual fuel engines, using liquefied natural gas (LNG) as their main fuel source, and you can expect stylish suites and public areas on board, including a diverse choice of dining venues.
| Capacity | 456 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew |
TBC |
| Style | An extension of The Ritz-Carlton brand, with a resort style on board and stylish, Scandi-influenced decor. |
| Inclusions |
|
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Puerto Rico
If you want to stay in San Juan itself, El Convento is definitely the nicest choice. For resort hotels, we love the Ritz Carlton Reserve at Dorado Beach.
Explore Puerto Rico
In the El Yunque rainforest you will find the habitat of Puerto Rico's endangered wildlife - not to mention beautiful views.
