San Juan is one of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean — and with good reason. As the oldest city in the United States, it offers a vibrant mix of historic charm, tropical beauty, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re cruising from the port or staying to explore, Special Needs at Sea is here to support your journey with reliable wheelchair and scooter rentals delivered directly to your hotel or cruise ship in San Juan.
Old San Juan – History, Culture & Caution for Mobility
Most cruise ships dock right in the heart of Old San Juan, a seven-block area filled with cobbled streets, colorful colonial buildings, and stunning ocean views. It’s a beautiful area to explore, but travelers using mobility aids should plan ahead: the sidewalks are narrow, and the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
While many older buildings are not fully accessible, some key landmarks are — and absolutely worth the visit. Choosing tours or activities based on your mobility level is important. If you’re using a wheelchair or scooter, we recommend bringing a companion to assist on steeper inclines.
Historic Forts with Surprising Accessibility
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro)
This iconic 16th-century fort was built to protect San Juan from sea attacks. Thanks to its original design, which included ramps for moving cannons between levels, much of the fort is surprisingly accessible by wheelchair or scooter. It offers sweeping views of San Juan Bay and a fascinating labyrinth of tunnels and towers.
Castillo San Cristóbal
One of the largest forts in the Americas, San Cristóbal was built to defend the city from land-based threats. Like El Morro, it features wide ramps and open spaces, making it largely accessible for visitors with mobility needs. Some areas do have steep inclines, so assistance is recommended.
Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
Housed in a beautifully renovated former hospital, this state-of-the-art museum spans over 130,000 square feet and includes works from Puerto Rican and international artists. The building is fully accessible and offers a peaceful, modern space to appreciate Puerto Rico’s rich cultural heritage — from sculpture and painting to photography and media art.
Mobility Equipment Rentals in San Juan
We offer clean, reliable mobility equipment delivered wherever you need it in San Juan — your hotel, vacation rental, or cruise port. Available rentals include:
- Manual and electric wheelchairs
- Mobility scooters
- Walking aids and rollators
- Daily living aids and specialty equipment
Reserve your equipment here or call us at 954-585-0575 to schedule your rental in San Juan.
Cruise Lines Departing from San Juan
The Port of San Juan is one of the busiest in the Caribbean and serves as a departure point for many popular cruises. We deliver mobility equipment directly to your ship, ensuring a smooth start to your trip.
Cruise lines sailing from San Juan include:
- Azamara
- Carnival Cruise Lines
- Celebrity Cruises
- Holland America Line
- Princess Cruises
- Royal Caribbean
- Silversea Cruises
Interesting Fact
In Puerto Rico, beer is often served in smaller bottles or cans — usually 7 to 10 ounces — because locals prefer their drinks ice-cold, and smaller portions help keep them that way.
Start Your Accessible San Juan Journey
Whether you’re spending the day in Old San Juan or departing on a Caribbean cruise, Special Needs at Sea ensures your experience is accessible and stress-free. Contact us to book your equipment or get assistance planning your trip.