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Old San Juan Sailing Tour: Experience the Enchantment of Old San Juan Like a Pirate
San Juan is one of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean, and for good reason. This beautiful city is steeped in history, with cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and enchanting views of the ocean. Visitors are often overwhelmed by the many things to do and see. One activity that stands out is the Old San Juan Sailing Tour.
What is the Old San Juan Sailing Tour?
The Old San Juan Sailing Tour is a unique way to explore the beauty of the city. The tour takes you aboard the “Amazing Grace” topsail schooner, an 85-foot sailing vessel that crisscrosses the waters around Old San Juan. The tour offers a unique perspective on the city, allowing visitors to see important sites and landmarks from the perspective of the water.
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, during which you can relax and enjoy complimentary drinks onboard. The tour takes you past some of the most important landmarks in the city, including El Morro, La Fortaleza, and the Paseo de la Princesa. Your tour guide will provide you with interesting facts about the history and culture of these sites, and you can sit back and relax while soaking in the beautiful views.
What are the Highlights of the Tour?
The Old San Juan Sailing Tour provides a unique and memorable experience that you will remember for years to come. Some of the tour highlights include:
- Sailing aboard an 85-foot topsail schooner
- Getting a pirate’s perspective of Old San Juan
- Viewing the most important landmarks of Old San Juan
- Relaxing on board with complimentary drinks
Why Should You Take the Old San Juan Sailing Tour?
The Old San Juan Sailing Tour provides visitors with a unique perspective on this beautiful city that they wouldn’t get from land. The tour takes you past some of the most important landmarks in the city, giving you an opportunity to admire the city’s beauty from a new angle.
Whether you are visiting San Juan for the first time or are a seasoned traveler to the city, this tour is an excellent opportunity to take a break from the busy streets and relax on the water. The crew is friendly and knowledgeable, and they will ensure that your experience is memorable.
If you are looking for a memorable activity to do in San Juan, look no further than the Old San Juan Sailing Tour. Book your tour today and experience the enchantment of this beautiful city like a pirate!
Insider’s Guide to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Old San Juan is a historic district and major tourist destination in Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. Its narrow streets and colorful colonial buildings draw visitors from around the world to experience the unique blend of Spanish, African and indigenous Taino culture that is found in this enchanting city. In this insider’s guide, we will reveal the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Old San Juan that you should not miss.
Attractions
Old San Juan is a fascinating destination with many attractions, including historical sites, museums, and outdoor spaces. Here are some of the top attractions to see during your visit:
– El Morro: A six-level fortress built by the Spanish in the 16th century, El Morro is a must-see attraction in Old San Juan. You can walk through the citadel, explore the barracks, and take in the sweeping views of the ocean and the city.
– San Juan Cathedral: Located in the heart of Old San Juan, this cathedral was built in the early 1500s and is one of the oldest churches in the Americas. Its ornate façade and beautiful interior make it a memorable stop on any walking tour.
– La Fortaleza: This stunning 16th-century fortification is the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico. Visitors can tour the property and learn about the rich history of this important landmark.
– Casa Blanca: Once the home of the first governor of Puerto Rico, Casa Blanca now operates as a museum showcasing Puerto Rican art, culture, and history.
– Paseo de la Princesa: A scenic waterfront promenade that stretches from the port to the San Juan Gate, this charming walkway is lined with street vendors, musicians, and local artisans.
Dining
The food scene in Old San Juan is vibrant, with a range of local and international cuisine to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some top dining spots to try during your visit:
– Marmalade: For an upscale culinary experience, head to Marmalade, a fine-dining restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients to create inventive dishes.
– La Factoria: This trendy bar is famous for its mixology, with a menu of creative cocktails that feature local spirits and ingredients.
– Jose Enrique: A favorite of locals and tourists alike, Jose Enrique is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Puerto Rican dishes.
– El Jibarito: This casual eatery serves up hearty Puerto Rican fare, including mofongo, a dish made with mashed plantains and a variety of fillings.
Cultural Experiences
To fully appreciate the unique culture of Old San Juan, make sure to explore some of these cultural experiences:
– Bomba y Plena: Puerto Rico has a rich musical tradition, and Bomba y Plena is a unique genre of Afro-Puerto Rican music and dance. You can catch a live performance of Bomba y Plena at one of the many venues around Old San Juan.
– Casa de la Familia Reyes: This family-owned workshop creates intricate masks used in the traditional Puerto Rican art form known as Vejigante. You can visit the workshop to learn about the history of this art form and watch the artists at work.
– Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico has a long history of art and culture, and this museum showcases the best of it. From pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary art, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico has something for everyone.
Local History
Old San Juan has a rich history dating back to the colonial era, and there are many ways to explore the city’s past. Here are some ways to experience the local history:
– National Historic Site: Old San Juan is designated as a National Historic Site, and you can learn about the city’s fascinating past at the on-site visitor center.
– Casa del Libro: This historic building was once a bookstore and publishing house, and now operates as a museum showcasing Puerto Rican literature and history.
– Museo del Mar: If you are interested in maritime history, the Museo del Mar is a great place to explore the nautical history of Puerto Rico.
Off-the-Beaten-Path
If you want to venture off the main tourist path in Old San Juan, here are some suggestions:
– The Umbrella Street: Located on Calle Fortaleza, this colorful installation of umbrellas is a popular spot for photos.
– Cafe Cola’o: This rustic cafe is tucked away on a quiet street and serves up delicious coffee, sandwiches, and pastries.
– Playa Escambron: Located outside of Old San Juan, Playa Escambron is a beautiful beach with crystal clear waters and stunning views of the city.
In conclusion, Old San Juan is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and adventure. With its fascinating attractions, world-class dining, and unique cultural experiences, Old San Juan is unlike any other destination in Puerto Rico. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there is always something new to discover in this enchanting city.
