On Puerto Rico’s northern coast, an 83 foot topsail schooner, the Amazing Grace, sails in San Juan Bay It lures its passengers into the beauty, history and culture of Old San Juan. Sailing the Amazing Grace in San Juan Bay – Puerto Rico provides visitors a relaxing respite and a different perspective of the city.

The beautiful vessel flies seven sails, used in different combinations based on the wind. The ship, represents the ones used by the British in the War of Independence and again in 1812. The pirates in these seas captured many of the privateer vessels.

Today, pirates don’t sail in the waters of San Juan Bay, but, as a reminder, a pirate flag flutters from its stern, reminding us of gnarly tales associated with the schooner’s history.

Sail the Amazing Grace in San Juan Bay – Puerto Rico

I boarded the vessel for a sunset cruise and the crew hoisted the sails amidst a ceremonious cheer. We passed candy-colored centuries old buildings that peeked from behind an imposing stone wall. The wall, 42 feet tall, is in some places 45 feet thick at the base. It was built to protect the city from pirates and invaders.

We lazily sailed upon the bay. A historical narrative was given by the charismatic crew and our cocktail order was taken.  I leaned back, sipping a refreshing mojito, reflecting on what life must have been like back in that time.

La Muralla, the wall, is an imposing structure that surrounds the city of Old San Juan. It’s only from the water’s view do you realize how it ‘s size dissuaded invaders and pirates from entering the city.

A red gate, built in 1520, came into view. It provided access to the city and was shut at night. It’s the only remaining gate left standing.

Sail the Amazing Grace in San Juan Bay – Puerto Rico

The sun began to set, shadows illuminated the vibrant Fort Morro prominently standing guard to the entrance to the San Juan Bay. We got to fire a small cannon towards the fort. The echo of the blast rang in our ears, a subtler version of the real cannons fired many years ago.

The attentive crew passed around delicious tapas. Cheese, sliders, and empanadas quelled our hunger as we headed back to shore.

This has been one of my top travel highlights of Puerto Rico. It’s a relaxing and fun opportunity to immerse oneself in the history and culture of the city of Old San Juan in a very unique way.

The Amazing Grace can be chartered for your next special event; small weddings & rehearsals, themed birthday parties, anniversaries, family reunions, or even memorials.

Contact:

East Island Excursions

 eastislandpr.com

787-860-3434

Disclosure details: Boulevards and Byways attended the tour as a guest of East Island Excursions.  All opinions are my own.

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