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Punta del Este Cruise Port
Cruise Port

Punta del Este Cruise Port

Uruguay
4.5
(1,200 reviews)
21
Tours Available
Free entry (cruise passengers may have pre-paid excursions or tickets)
Adult Entry
4-5 hours
Recommended Duration
November-March
Best Time

Overview

Punta del Este Cruise Port is a bustling gateway to the vibrant city of Punta del Este, offering a blend of modern amenities and stunning coastal views. It's a hub for travelers exploring Uruguay's easternmost point.

Primary cruise port serving the luxurious Punta del Este resort area, known for its beautiful beaches and high-end shopping.

Transportation Hub Tourist Attraction

Location

Address

Punta del Este, Departamento de Maldonado

Neighborhood: Downtown

Coordinates

-34.952900, -54.935500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
tuesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
wednesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
thursday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
friday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
saturday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
sunday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Admission

Adults
Free entry (cruise passengers may have pre-paid excursions or tickets)
Children
Free entry

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-March

Best Time of Day

Mid-morning

Ship arrivals and departures are less hectic, and you can explore the area before the day crowds arrive.

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
2 hours
Recommended
4-5 hours
Full Experience
Full day with excursions

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

  • • Spring festivals
  • • Outdoor concerts

summer

Warm to hot

  • • Extended shopping hours
  • • Beach parties

autumn

Mild to cool

  • • Harvest festivals
  • • Art exhibitions

winter

Cool to cold

  • • Holiday decorations
  • • Indoor markets

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book shore excursions in advance
  • Check cruise ship schedule
  • Bring local currency for small purchases

What to Bring

essential

Passport Cruise card Comfortable walking shoes

recommended

Sun protection Swimsuit Light jacket

seasonal

Umbrella Sunglasses

not allowed

Large bags or luggage Weapons

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate

  • • Stay hydrated in warm weather
  • • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas

Medical facilities: Medical center available at the port

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Cash in local currency (Uruguayan Peso)

Currency

Uruguayan Peso (UYU)

Typical Costs

food $10-$30
souvenirs $5-$50
local transport $2-$10
shore excursions $50-$200

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking and exploring, Walking shoes or sandals, Beachwear in shops and restaurants

Booking Tips

  • • At least 2-3 months in advance for popular cruise seasons
  • • Official cruise line website or reputable travel agency
  • • Varies by cruise line, typically 30-60 days for full refund
  • • Pre-booked shore excursions and tickets for popular attractions

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
Tourist information center
Medical center
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed
Food court

Digital Services

Mobile App

Punta del Este Cruise Port

Size: 30 MB

Features: Port map, Cruise ship schedule, Shore excursion booking, Local attractions and events, Emergency contact information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Port area, Shops and restaurants

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Port area

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Carrasco International Airport (MVD)

Distance: 120 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Taxi
$100-$150 1 hour 30 minutes
Private transfer
$80-$120 1 hour 30 minutes
Bus
$15-$20 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

Walking
Free 25 minutes
Taxi
$5-$10 5 minutes
Bus
$1 10 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Punta del Este is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering beautiful beaches, high-end shopping, and a vibrant nightlife.

Historical Significance: The port has played a crucial role in the development of Punta del Este as a popular tourist destination since its establishment in 2007.

Insider Tips

  • Visit the local markets for unique souvenirs and crafts
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife and beach clubs
  • Try the local seafood at a nearby restaurant

Local Recommendations

  • • Try the local seafood at a nearby restaurant
  • • Explore the vibrant nightlife and beach clubs
  • • Visit the local markets for unique souvenirs and crafts

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola
thank_you Gracias
where_is ¿Dónde está?
how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?
beautiful Hermoso/a
ticket Boleto
excuse_me Perdón
cruise_port Puerto de cruceros
beach Playa
shop Tienda

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, Portuguese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Rafael Viana Square

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Capture the square with the iconic statue and surrounding buildings

Result: Breathtaking photos with warm sunset hues

#PuntaDelEste #CruisePort #Uruguay #Travel

Gorriti Island

Best Time: Mid-morning

Tips: Photograph the island from the beach or the port's viewing area

Result: Stunning shots of the iconic island and its lighthouse

#GorritiIsland #PuntaDelEste #CruisePort #Uruguay #Travel

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas, Public spaces
prohibited areas Private property, Inside shops and restaurants without permission
flash photography Allowed in outdoor areas, restricted indoors
commercial photography Permit required for commercial use
drone policy Drones allowed in designated areas, follow local regulations
tripod policy Tripods allowed in outdoor areas, restricted indoors
selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Gorriti Island

Distance: 1.5 km

Walking: 20 minutes

Type: Island

Rafael Viana Square

Distance: 300 m

Walking: 5 minutes

Type: Public square

Punta del Este Beach

Distance: 500 m

Walking: 7 minutes

Type: Beach

Mansión Vigil Museum

Distance: 1.2 km

Walking: 15 minutes

Type: Museum

Reviews

4.5

Based on 1,200 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Book shore excursions in advance"
  • "Explore the local markets"
  • "Visit Gorriti Island for stunning views"
  • "Try the local seafood"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (3)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

21

Rating

4.5 / 5.0

Reviews

1,200

Adult Entry

Free entry (cruise passengers may have pre-paid excursions or tickets)

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