CAN WE MAKE IT ???
 

I need some opinions on the following potential problem. We are planning to go on a cruise out of San Juan on the 18th of December. Getting there on time for departure is not a problem. However, getting back may be. According to the schedule we disembark at 8:30 on the morning of the 24th. Our flight out of San Juan back to the states departs at 10:47. I understand that Royal Carribean will allow those with short flight connections to disembark first. Considering a 20 minute cab ride to the Airport, do y'all think we can make our flight? A later flight is not an option due to the arrival time back in Dallas on the other end. Haven't been on a cruise in 10 years or so and never out of San Juan. Please give me your best advice. Thanks for your time.

Shrink

That's cutting it pretty close. You first of all have to assume that they WILL start to disembark at 830. We've done noon flights after a cruise but, IMO, 1047 could be iffy. Good luck.

That's really cutting it close. You rarely if ever disembark "on-time". Traffic could also be a problem at that time of day. Be aware SJU airport can get very crowded and you are going to be there on one of the busiest days of the year (Christmas Eve) so the will be even more people travelling. I've seen check-in lines that are so long they go out the door. You'll encounter those same lines going through security. I'm not saying it can't be done but be prepared for a streesful morning. If I were you I'd try for a later flight.

We were in a similar situation a few years ago. The cruise line sent us a notice the night before telling us they would disembark us before they even started the "general" debarkation. We were off the ship in no time and made our flight.

Shrink-

While I agree with those who think it will be a tight situation there are some things that might help expedite the check-in process.

Upon arrival at the SJU airport you will need to pass your luggage through Agriculture inspection. It is a very cursory process that doesn't take up too much time, unless the line is long (and it can get very long). However you can sometimes make this process quicker if you get a porter to help you out. They can find thier way to the head of the line.

That said, I think the major issue you will face is check-in at the airline. American Airlines is notorious for their long waits when you try to check in. Unless you have status with them it can be a nightmare to make it through the lines. I have stood in this line too many times only to be told that my luggage might not make it because it needs to be "cleared" at least 60 minutes before take off for a domestic flight (90 for international).

However, I have recently started flying USAirways which installed the self check-in kiosks. Over the last few months I have realized that almost no one uses these kiosks. Which means that you can bypass the line and march right up to the counter. And yes, you can also check your luggage.

As far as I know, neither American nor United offers this service in San Juan, though it might be worth checking into.

As for the security lines, I have found that they are never too bad in San Juan. However if the main line looks too long just make your way to another one. Once you are inside, all of the gates are connected and the airport is not that big, so it is just an easy walk to your gate.

Hope this helps and that you make your flight!

I would try for a later flight or even overnite in San Juan and fly home the next morning. The stress of trying to make your flight will negate all the relaxation you experienced on your cruise.

Thanks everyone.
Really appreciate your help. I really appreciate your pointers and hints. I have talked to Royal Carribean and they say that its possible to get off the boat early - if certain people know about it in advance etc.
What I havent mentioned is that this cruise is an anniversary cruise. We were married in St. Johns three years ago on the 21st. Secondly, the family thing is going on Xmas Eve in Dallas starting about 7pm which eliminates the possibility of a later flight out of San Juan. Because of those two factors I cant move either way. We are going to try it. I guess the worst that can happen is that we spend Christmas in San Juan. Does Santa come to Puerto Rico?
Shrink

I would recommend that you hire a car service to meet you at the pier so you don't have to wait in line for a cab with other passengers who are also tying to frantically make it to the airport. Post a question here on the cruise board for recommendations.

You might also post this question on the cruise board as well, as I assume there are many more posters there who have tried to make the exact connection and could tell you the odds of making it.

Assuming you are going on the cruise to relax, it could all be forgotten in the mad dash to the airport, the check-in chaos at the airport, and flying on Christmas Eve. . .I also imagine your last night on the cruise will be a bit marred by general nervousness over making the flight. I personally would spend Christmas Eve in San Juan and fly home the next day on the first flight out which means you may make it for Christmas dinner.

!Papá Noel ama San Juan, porque no hay chimmneys!