Following over a year of diversion and cancellations, San Juan Cruise Port has restored its only berth capable of handling RCI-Royal Caribbean’s Oasis‑ and Icon‑Class vessels. The reopening, announced on June 27 after a comprehensive structural inspection meeting U.S. Coast Guard standards, marks a major milestone for the port and the regional cruise industry.
Pier 3 West had been closed since April 2024, when an MSC Cruises ship collided with its dolphin mooring structure. U.S. Coast Guard agents subsequently assumed control, keeping the pier closed until all structural repairs and assessments were completed. In the meantime, Royal Caribbean was compelled to reroute several Icon of the Seas sailings to alternative ports like Ponce or Philipsburg, and Disney Cruise Line also altered its itineraries to avoid San Juan.
Clarivette Díaz, General Manager of San Juan Cruise Port, acknowledged the lengthy process, emphasising that all regulatory safety requirements were prioritised to ensure the safe return of the world's largest cruise ships. Port authorities extended thanks to the technical teams, consultants, and agencies involved and reaffirmed San Juan’s strategic role as a Caribbean homeport.
With the reopening, Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas is tentatively scheduled to dock on August 6, 2025, followed by Icon of the Seas on August 12. The restoration of Pier 3 West also restores options for Oasis-class vessels, strengthening San Juan’s position as one of the world’s leading cruise ports.
In the interim, cruise pilgrims and locals alike had voiced growing frustration at itinerary disruptions—but the resumption of full pier operations signals a return to normalcy and a boost for San Juan’s tourism-focused economy. Port infrastructure upgrades, including the recent US$100 million investment plan, have enhanced the port’s resilience and capacity to support mega‑ship operations now and into the future.
All restrictions on Pier 3 West have been lifted, restoring full operational capability. Royal Caribbean has yet to issue formal confirmation of its resumed San Juan schedule, but Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas are pencilled in for August visits. The broader infrastructure enhancements underway should further support larger ships and greater passenger throughput in coming seasons.