San Juan Cruise Port Begins Development of New Cruise Terminal at Piers 11 and 12
The project represents an investment of more than $200 million and marks the next phase of San Juan’s long-term port transformation.
A new chapter is beginning for San Juan Cruise Port.
In partnership with the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, San Juan Cruise Port (SJCP) has announced the start of development for a new cruise terminal at Piers 11 and 12. The project will expand the port’s capacity to welcome the largest cruise ships in the world while creating an improved experience for passengers, cruise lines, and the broader port community.
With an investment of more than $200 million, the new terminal represents a major component of SJCP’s broader $425 million investment plan to modernize Puerto Rico’s cruise infrastructure and prepare San Juan for the industry’s long-term evolution.
The Next Phase of San Juan’s Port Transformation
Since assuming operations, San Juan Cruise Port has been advancing a comprehensive modernization program across the port’s facilities. The development of Piers 11 and 12 moves that vision into its next phase.
The project is intended to strengthen San Juan’s operational capacity, provide the infrastructure required by the world’s largest cruise vessels, and support the port’s continued growth as both a leading Caribbean homeport and a strategic port of call.
Cruise ships and passenger expectations continue to evolve. Ports must be prepared to respond with facilities that are efficient, reliable, welcoming, and capable of supporting increasingly complex operations. The new terminal will help position San Juan to meet those needs while remaining competitive within the global cruise market.
Creating a Stronger Gateway to Puerto Rico
For many cruise passengers, the terminal will shape their first impression of Puerto Rico.
The experience of arriving at a destination begins before visitors leave the port. Passenger flow, accessibility, operational efficiency, comfort, and the overall quality of the terminal environment all influence how travelers experience San Juan and the island.
The development of Piers 11 and 12 is therefore about more than increasing capacity. It is an opportunity to create a modern gateway that reflects Puerto Rico’s identity, strengthens the passenger experience, and establishes a positive connection with the destination from the moment visitors arrive.
An Investment with Broader Economic Impact
Cruise infrastructure plays an important role in Puerto Rico’s tourism economy. Each ship call creates activity that reaches far beyond the port, supporting transportation providers, tour operators, restaurants, retailers, attractions, hospitality businesses, and other local partners.
By expanding San Juan’s capacity and strengthening its position as a cruise destination and homeport, the new terminal can help generate additional opportunities throughout this ecosystem.
The project also reinforces the importance of long-term infrastructure investment as a driver of tourism development, local business activity, and economic growth. A stronger port allows Puerto Rico to compete for future cruise activity while supporting the businesses and professionals who contribute to the visitor experience.
A Public-Private Partnership Moving Projects Forward
The development of Piers 11 and 12 is being advanced through San Juan Cruise Port’s Public-Private Partnership with the Government of Puerto Rico and the Puerto Rico Ports Authority.
This collaboration combines public-sector oversight with private investment, technical expertise, and international cruise port experience. Through this model, the partners are working to renew critical infrastructure and deliver projects that support Puerto Rico’s long-term interests.
San Juan Cruise Port recognizes the Government of Puerto Rico and the Puerto Rico Ports Authority for their continued support, collaboration, and confidence in the partnership. Their involvement remains essential as the project advances through its development stages.
Built with and for Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s people remain central to the port’s transformation.
The progress taking place across San Juan Cruise Port is powered by a workforce of talented Puerto Rican professionals whose knowledge, experience, and commitment help shape every stage of the port’s development and operations.
As planning and development for the new terminal move forward, SJCP remains focused on creating infrastructure that serves the cruise industry while delivering lasting value for the island.
The development of Piers 11 and 12 represents the beginning of an important new chapter: greater capacity, a stronger passenger experience, expanded economic opportunity, and a port prepared for the future of cruise travel.
Cruising together, into the future.
