Ponce Shore Excursions
4 & 5* Ponce Shore Excursions
Ponce
Let me show you MY Island Tour With visit to El Yunque
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 - 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 95.00
Ponce
El Yunque Rainforest and Waterfall Guided Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 72.00
Ponce
Small Group El Yunque Half Day Tour with Transport: Waterslide
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 - 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 89.25
Ponce
El Yunque Off the Beaten Path Tour with Transportation
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 79.00
Ponce
Old San Juan and El Morro Castle Walking Tour
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 54.00
Ponce
El Yunque Rainforest Guided Day Tour from San Juan
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 85.00
Ponce
Epic Guided Adventure in El Yunque National Rainforest & Beach
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 69.00
Ponce
Discover El Yunque National Park: Half-Day Rainforest Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 115.00
Ponce
El Yunque National Forest Guided Tour with Transport
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 80.00
Ponce
El Yunque Rainforest with Waterslides and Transport from San Juan
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 75.00
Ponce
San Juan Highlights: Private Driving Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 315.00
Ponce
The Old, The New and The Now; The Updated San Juan City Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 145.00
Ponce
From San Juan: El Yunque Rainforest Hiking Adventure
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 93.00
Ponce
River Caving at Arenales Charco Azul, Indian Cave and waterfall
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 125.00
Ponce
El Yunque: Waterslide and Plus Beach Round Trip
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 68.00
Ponce
Concrete Jungle to the Actual Jungle, The Complete Package Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 - 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 280.00
Ponce
Old and New San Juan History City and Street Art Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 199.00
Ponce
Puerto Rico: Lifestyle, Art, and Cultural Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 145.00
Ponce
El Yunque Rainforest and Zipline Canopy Combo Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 10 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 259.00
Ponce
Lagoon Cave and Secluded Beaches Tour in Puerto Rico
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 - 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Hard
Free cancellation
From USD 145.00
Ponce
The Best of Puerto Rico Private Day Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 318.00
Ponce
Private El Yunque Waterslides and Luquillo Beach Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 145.00
Ponce
El Yunque Rainforest Tour with Waterslides and Beach
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 - 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 79.00
Ponce
El Yunque Rainforest Guided Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 3 - 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 75.00
Ponce
The Barrilito Rum Factory Experience Transportation Included
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 1 - 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 99.00
Ponce
Toro Verde 7-Zipline Tour Plus the Monster with Transport
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 195.00
Ponce
Puerto Rico's First and Only Craft Beer Brewery Tour!
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 150.00
Ponce
San Juan Guided Turtle Snorkel Tour and Complimentary Videos
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 49.00
Ponce
Top Rated El Yunque Rainforest & Waterslide – SmallGroup Tour
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 45.00
Ponce
Authentic Flavors of San Juan Food Tour
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 165.00
Related destinations to Ponce
What should I know about Ponce if this is my first time on a shore excursion?
For a first-time visitor, Ponce offers a compact, walkable historic core and nearby natural attractions ideal for short port calls. Expect a mix of cobbled plazas, museums, colourful Spanish-colonial architecture and coastal viewpoints within easy reach of cruise terminals. Many operators advertise Ponce shore excursions that last from two to eight hours; choose timing that leaves a buffer for embarkation and disembarkation. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection and a small bag, and plan key priorities in advance to make the most of limited time ashore without rushing.
What are the top attractions to include on a Ponce visit?
Explore Ponce’s main sights within a compact area: Plaza Las Delicias with its iconic Parque de Bombas and cathedral, the Museo de Arte de Ponce with notable European and Caribbean collections, and the historic 19th-century firehouse. Stately mansions line Ponce’s old centre and provide photographic opportunities, while nearby landmarks such as Castillo Serrallés narrate sugar-era history. Many visitors select curated Ponce tours to combine these highlights with coastal viewpoints or a short drive to natural sites. Allow time for leisurely walks and museum stops to appreciate architectural details and local stories.
Should I choose a half-day or full-day excursion in Ponce?
Deciding between half-day and full-day options depends on priorities and port schedule. Half-day Ponce shore excursions typically focus on the historic centre and one nearby attraction, allowing two to four hours of sightseeing and return time to the ship. Full-day options add further natural sites like nearby beaches, the lava-like cliffs at Caja de Muertos or inland reserves, plus more relaxed dining. Consider travel times, your energy level and how much museum time you want. Keep a margin for delays and select an itinerary that balances depth of exploration against the need to reboard comfortably.
How rich is Ponce in culture and history?
Local history blends colonial architecture, civic pride and art traditions concentrated in Ponce’s compact centre. Visitors encounter 19th- and early 20th-century buildings, plazas used for civic life and museums showcasing both Puerto Rican and European influences. Cultural narratives include the sugarcane economy, Creole families and maritime connections that shaped the city. Many curated Ponce tours include guided museum visits, narrated walks and explanations of public monuments that provide context. Take time to read plaques, ask questions of guides and visit a small local museum to deepen understanding of Ponce’s layered past.
What natural scenery can I expect near Ponce?
Nearby natural highlights include coastal viewpoints, nearby islands and protected reserves that contrast with Ponce’s urban centre. Short boat trips or drives can reach Caja de Muertos island with its beaches and dunes, while inland foothills offer forests and birdwatching opportunities. Many operators list Ponce shore excursions combining city sightseeing with scenic stops, so you can experience shoreline vistas, mangrove fringes and occasional coastal wildlife in a single outing. Pack binoculars, water and insect repellent, and be prepared for sunny, windy or humid microclimates that change between urban streets and seaside locations.
What food and local dishes should I try in Ponce?
Expect a mix of traditional Puerto Rican flavours and southern coastal influences when sampling Ponce’s food scene. Street-side fritters, fresh seafood, tostones and local stews appear alongside small bakeries selling pan sobao and traditional sweets. Market stalls and modest restaurants offer authentic tastes, often accompanied by tropical fruits and coffee. Many Ponce tours include tastings or stop at recommended eateries, which helps with understanding local ingredients and dining etiquette. Try dishes slowly, ask about spice levels and share plates to sample more variety while respecting local customs and the relaxed pace of mealtimes.
What activity level should I expect on Ponce shore excursions?
Activity levels vary widely, from gentle walking tours around the historic centre to more active options like hiking trails or beach exploration. Many Ponce shore excursions are designed to be moderate, featuring cobbled streets, short staircase climbs and strolls through museums and plazas. Choose options labelled 'easy' if you prefer minimal walking, or select an active excursion if you are comfortable on uneven surfaces and hot conditions. Check duration, walking distances and vehicle transfers before booking, and bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes to match the planned exertion level.
Are Ponce attractions accessible for travellers with mobility needs?
Most historic streets and main museums in Ponce have partial accessibility but expect cobbled pavements and occasional steps in older areas. Mobility needs vary by site; some plazas and newer museum wings provide ramps, accessible restrooms and level entry, while colonial buildings may be more challenging. Many Ponce tours note accessibility details on itineraries and can accommodate portable mobility aids, but private transport or tailored arrangements are often needed for full independence. Contact providers or local visitor centres ahead of time, request specifics about transfers and pick-up points, and allow extra time for movement ashore.
When is the best time of year and day to visit Ponce?
Early morning and late afternoon are often the most pleasant times to explore Ponce because temperatures are milder and light is best for photography. Dry season months typically run from December through April, offering lower rainfall and calmer seas, which can make boat trips more reliable. When planning Ponce shore excursions consider cruise schedules, local festivals and weekday openings for museums. Afternoon heat and occasional tropical showers during summer require sun protection and flexible timing. Be aware of seasonal closures or maintenance at attractions and check local forecasts before leaving the ship.
Should I take a guided tour or explore Ponce independently?
Guided options bring local knowledge, historical context and logistical ease, which can be especially useful for first-time visitors wanting efficient use of limited port time. Independent exploration gives flexibility to linger at favourite spots, choose spontaneous meals and set your own pace, but requires researching routes, museum hours and transport. Many Ponce tours offer a middle ground with small-group formats, timed entries and recommended independent segments. Weigh your comfort with navigating unfamiliar streets, language needs and the desire for commentary against the freedom of unguided wandering when selecting the best approach for your visit.
Which cruise lines visit Ponce?
Marella Cruises will all visit Ponce this year.
What cruise ships will sail to Ponce in 2026?
Ponce will be visited by Marella Discovery.