Royal Caribbean leadership recently returned from visits to St. Thomas, San Juan, and St. Maarten. They continue to be impressed with the progress the islands are making to rebuild, and are excited to announce their return to St. Thomas with Adventure of the Seas on November 10, as well as their return to San Juan with Freedom of the Seas on November 30. While it was their desire to also return to St. Maarten in November, the island needs a little more time to recover, and they will be returning to this beautiful destination on December 17 with Grandeur of the Seas.
Royal Caribbean anticipates no further changes to their scheduled calls in St. Thomas and San Juan, December 1 onward, and to their calls in St. Maarten post December 17 for all vessels with the exception of Oasis class. Oasis class vessels will return to St. Maarten after the first of the year as more time is needed to repair the gangways that are specifically designed for those ships.
Unfortunately, due to the devastation in Dominica, they will be canceling their calls through June of 2018, and continue to work with the local government on a return date to this destination. While St. Croix is also still recovering from the impact of the storms, they are excited to be able to resume their calls to this beautiful destination with Jewel of the Seas on January 8.
ST. THOMAS
Upon arrival in St. Thomas guests will be able to enjoy a vast array of activities, dining and shopping. Downtown shops are open and have full power, the majority of restaurants and bars are also open, and the boats and catamarans that are used to enjoy the waters of the Caribbean are ready for guests. Royal Caribbean is also partnering with the USVI government to restore Magen’s Bay, one of St. Thomas’ most popular tourist attractions. The beach will have its pre-opening coinciding with Adventure’s arrival on November 10. Magen’s Bay will be joined by Secret Sands Beach, Secret Harbor Beach Club, Lindquist Beach, Honeymoon Beach on Water Island, and Abi Beach – all open for guests to enjoy.
SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
For guests visiting the island destination of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Royal Caribbean will be returning when the power is fully restored. Historic landmarks El Morro and San Cristobal will be ready to welcome guests as will the majority of restaurants, bars and shops in Old and New San Juan. For guests looking for more adventure, biking, walking, food and Segway tours will be available as well.
ST. MAARTEN
On their return to St. Maarten, guests will find the majority of downtown Philipsburg shopping and cafes open, as well as Philipsburg based tours such as the Old Trolley Train and the Open Top Double Decker Bus Tour. Kimshaw Beach is also ready to welcome guests and there are boats and catamarans available to enjoy the Caribbean Sea.