Virgin Voyages Issues San Juan Travel Advisory as Flights Are Disrupted
Virgin Voyages issued a San Juan travel advisory after airspace restrictions disrupted flights, impacting disembarkation and embarkations today.
Virgin Voyages has published a travel advisory for travelers disembarking and embarking in San Juan on January 3, 2026. The cruise line says local port authorities advised that airspace over Puerto Rico is temporarily closed for all U.S. airlines, which is impacting U.S. airline flights in and out of San Juan.
The update was posted at 9:30 a.m. local time and Virgin Voyages says it will continue to share new information as it becomes available. Travelers are also being advised to monitor their email for further updates.
San Juan Airspace Closure
In its advisory, Virgin Voyages says local port authorities advised that the airspace closure is related to military activity in Venezuela. The closure is affecting U.S. airlines operating flights into and out of San Juan.
Updates to 1/3/26 Itinerary
Virgin Voyages has shared the following to First Mates, no further itineraries have been updated at this time:
Due to the evolving situation in Venezuela, we’ve made a proactive itinerary update for today’s Valiant Lady sailing. Out of an abundance of caution, and in close coordination with government officials and our maritime partners, we’ve adjusted the route to ensure a smooth and safe voyage. The sailing is still operating as planned, with exciting alternative destinations.
Updated Itinerary:
Monday, January 5: Bridgetown, Barbados (replacing Aruba)
Tuesday, January 6: Castries, St. Lucia (replacing Curaçao)Any Shore Things booked for Aruba or Curaçao will be automatically canceled and fully refunded to the original form of payment. New Shore Things for Barbados and St. Lucia will be available soon in the Virgin Voyages App.
The safety of our Sailors and Crew is always our top priority, and our Crew is ready to make this voyage just as epic as ever.
Guidance for Travelers Heading to the Airport
Virgin Voyages has advised travelers to continue with their original plans while working directly with their airline. The guidance includes:
- Proceed to the airport as scheduled
- Check in directly with your airline for the most up to date flight information
- Rely on your airline to outline available options, as they must account for all passengers
Disembarkation Timing Remains Unchanged
Disembarkation procedures onboard remain the same. Virgin Voyages says U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires the ship to be fully cleared, and all travelers must disembark by 10:30 a.m. as originally scheduled.
Guests Unable to Embark on the Next Sailing
Virgin Voyages says flight disruptions may prevent some sailors from reaching San Juan in time for the next voyage. Any sailor who is unable to embark due to this situation will receive a full voyage credit that can be used on a future Virgin Voyages sailing, instructions will follow for how to claim.
Ongoing Updates
For ongoing updates, please visit the Virgin Voyages travel advisory page.
