Legend of the Seas to make two inaugural calls in Ponce

Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas, which can carry up to 7,000 passengers and a crew of roughly 2,350, is expected to generate an estimated $1 million in economic activity during its two visits to the Port of Ponce next year.

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón and Puerto Rico Tourism Company (CTPR by its initials in Spanish) Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel announced Wednesday that Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas, the new Icon‑class vessel entering service in 2026, will dock at the Port of Ponce on March 31 and April 14, 2027.

González Colón described the announcement as a “vote of confidence” in Puerto Rico’s tourism sector and in the long‑term potential of the south coast. The ship, which can carry up to 7,000 passengers and a crew of roughly 2,350, is expected to generate an estimated $1 million in economic activity during its two visits.

“The arrival of the world’s largest cruise ship to Ponce underscores the strength of our tourism industry and the growing appeal of the region,” the governor said, noting that the administration continues to push initiatives aimed at expanding cruise operations across the island.

Robles Cancel emphasized that the planned calls reflect Puerto Rico’s positioning as a leading cruise destination in the Caribbean and the interest of major cruise lines in expanding their routes to regional ports. She added that the visits are the result of sustained collaboration between the CTPR and industry partners to diversify tourism and bring its benefits to more municipalities.

During each stop, the Legend of the Seas will arrive at 10 a.m. and depart at 6 p.m., giving thousands of visitors time to explore Ponce’s historic and cultural attractions as well as destinations throughout the southern region.