Explore Puerto Rico's rich legacy and rum-making process during this tour of Old San Juan and the Bacardi Rum Distillery.
Depart the pier for the drive to the south side of San Juan Harbor for a visit to the Bacardí Rum Distillery, the world's largest distiller of natural spirits. Upon arrival, you and your guide will board an open-air tram for the ride to the Visitor's Building. During your tour, you will see audio and video displays about the history of Bacardí and the rum-making process, visit a gallery displaying old documents, family portraits, rum bottles and other items.
At the Bacardí cocktail lounge, which resembles a 1920s Cuban bar, you will watch a bartender prepare cocktails using Bacardí rum, see some of Bacardi's greatest commercial ads in a room filled with lights and music, and send video e-mails to your friends. Your tour will conclude at the open-air pavilion for some complimentary rum drinks. Bacardí Rum and products may be purchased in the Rum N' Things gift shop next to the pavilion.
Next, your drive will continue through portions of New San Juan en route to Old San Juan, an island connected by bridges to mainland Puerto Rico. Upon arrival, you will drive past Fort San Geronimo to charming Old San Juan, then on to Fort San Cristobal to explore this centuries old fort. Visit the dungeon and Plaza Mayor with your driver/guide and then self explore the many displays available. After approximately 40 minutes you will re-board your vehicle for a city overview seeing many historic sites, including El Morro Fort, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, San Jose Church, and Capilla de Cristo. Along the way, you will also see beautiful 17th-century Spanish ironwork on the restored old homes, and blue-black glazed cobblestones lining the narrow streets of the Old City. You will be dropped off at Plaza de Armas, the colorful central plaza of the Old City, located in front of City Hall then receive a shopper's map of Old San Juan, and have some free time to browse the interesting shops, boutiques and art galleries or you can also walk to some of the many interesting historical spots inaccessible by vehicle such La Fortaleza, San Juan Cathedral, the door of San Juan or La Rogativa. Following your visit to Old San Juan, you may opt to re-board the coach and return to the ship, or stay a little longer and return to the ship at your own expense.
Please note: Guests will not enter Bacardi's distillery or production area; the tour will be of the Visitor's Building. The walking portion of the tour in Old San Juan involves travel over some uneven pavement and steep inclines, especially within the fortress. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilize a wheelchair. Guests must be at least 21 years of age to be served alcoholic beverages.