We are a couple from UK. And flew in from London the day before. Stayed at the Caribe Hilton which was good.
we arrived at the Port around 12.30 and there was quite a crowd so we left our luggage with a Porter and strolled around San Juan. Returned half hour later and embarkation was swift due to having a suite. Love the suite, same layout as Valor and very spacious and comfortable. Kept immaculate by our Steward with lots of little extra touches. We chose suite 7231 as it's very close to the front and usually not a lot of late night passengers going by. Bags arrived promptly and we got organised and had a light meal. Afterwards we went back into San Juan.
Muster was a bit of a nightmare, seemed to go on forever. With all the pushing and shoving that went on over the 7 days I doubt it would work in an emergency! Not being used to the 5 hour time change we were very tired so had a stroll around and to bed. Was woken at 1.30 am. by loud shouting outside our room. Opened the door after about 15 mins and there were 10 people all trying to talk at once. In my best Spanish I suggested they go elsewhere if they wanted to chat! The first two days we didn't hear any passengers speaking English.
San Juan is one of my favourite Ports. Don't miss the Forts. Free trolley bus is great.
Took a taxi to Morning Star beach near the Marriot. Not many cruisers there. Loved it.
Taxi to Paynes beach. Ok but a lot of beach sellers.
Taxi to Pigeon Island, our favourite. Small quiet excellent beach and good restaurant. Lots of ruins of the Fort.
Taxi to a close beach. Disappointing as huge boulders in the sea. Nice town to walk around and good prices in duty free.
Love this place. Paid $7 for return on ferry. Great beach. $20 for 2 loungers and 6 drinks.