Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas, described as the world's largest cruise ship, will make two port calls in Ponce on March 31 and April 14, 2027, as part of its inaugural itinerary. Governor Jenniffer González Colón and Puerto Rico Tourism Company (CTPR) Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel announced the visits in a press release. The Icon-class Royal Caribbean vessel can carry up to 7,000 passengers plus a crew of about 2,350.
On both dates, the ship will arrive in Ponce at 10:00 a.m. and depart at 6:00 p.m., giving visitors roughly eight hours to explore historical, cultural, gastronomic, and natural attractions in Ponce and other southern municipalities. The government estimates the two calls will generate about $1 million in economic impact, benefiting businesses, restaurants, tour operators, and small and medium enterprises. González Colón called the visit "an important vote of confidence in Puerto Rico" and its southern region's tourism potential.
Robles Cancel said the stops reflect CTPR's efforts to expand cruise line operations and spread tourism benefits to other regions, strengthening the strategy of diversifying tourism and developing regional ports. The Legend of the Seas is scheduled to enter service in 2026.