Puerto Rico expands role as Caribbean cruise home port

The ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, will use the Port of San Juan as their home port for Caribbean itineraries.

By THE STAR STAFF

Puerto Rico will become the home port for two vessels operated by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) beginning in the winter 2026-2027 season,Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC) Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel announced this week.

The ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, will use the Port of San Juan as their home port for Caribbean itineraries.

Norwegian Prima will begin homeport operations in San Juan on Nov. 15 of this year, generating an estimated economic impact of more than $23 million during fiscal year 2027. Meanwhile, the combined impact of operations for both the Prima and the Viva during fiscal year 2028 -- beginning on Nov. 13 and Nov. 14, 2027, respectively -- is projected at nearly $40 million.

“Norwegian Cruise Line’s decision to use San Juan as a home port for 57 of its Caribbean sailings demonstrates the shared vision we have regarding Puerto Rico’s relevance, appeal, and quality as a tourist destination,” Robles Cancel said. “In addition to representing a significant economic injection, these operations foster the creation of pre- and post-cruise stay packages, thereby amplifying the impact and benefits that the tourism industry brings to the island’s economic development.”

Frank Medina, vice president and head of sales for Latin America, Brazil, and the Caribbean at NCL, highlighted the destination’s appeal to the company’s guests.

“The vibrant island of Puerto Rico is a very popular destination among our guests,” he said. “We are very excited to expand our presence in the region with the return of Norwegian Viva to the island and the launch of homeport sailings for Norwegian Prima in November 2026. The Island of Enchantment offers a wide variety of experiences, adventures, and spectacular places where travelers can enjoy the island through its gastronomy, music, culture, and people.”

Puerto Rico Ports Authority Executive Director Norberto Negrón, meanwhile, underscored the strategic importance of San Juan Bay as the Caribbean region’s “most important cruise hub.”

Norwegian Prima’s itineraries will include Saturday departures with stops in Tortola, St. Maarten, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, and St. Thomas, while Norwegian Viva will operate more southerly routes, including stops in Aruba and Curaçao.

Both ships belong to NCL’s Prima Class, the company’s newest generation of vessels, distinguished by a modern design and a more personalized guest experience. Each ship has a maximum capacity of up to 3,950 passengers and offers a wide range of entertainment, dining and wellness amenities.