In October of this year, Puerto Plata’s two tourist ports are set to welcome a total of 35 cruise ships, further solidifying the province’s position as a key destination in the Caribbean.
Of the incoming ships, 24 will dock at Amber Cove, a bustling port located in the Maimón district, while the remaining 11 will berth at the Taíno Bay terminal, situated in the heart of the city of San Felipe de Puerto Plata.
The season of cruise arrivals will kick off on Wednesday, October 2, with the arrival of two transatlantic vessels, the Carnival Magic and the Carnival Mardi Gras. These arrivals mark the beginning of a busy schedule that will see thousands of tourists pouring into the region.
At the official presentation of the cruise arrival schedule, Atahualpa Paulino, the northern regional director of the Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the positive economic and reputational impact this influx of visitors will have on Puerto Plata. He underscored the province’s growing stature as one of the premier tourist hotspots in the Caribbean.
“This steady flow of cruise ships not only boosts the local economy but also strengthens Puerto Plata’s competitiveness as a top-tier destination,” Paulino noted. “With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and state-of-the-art port infrastructure, the province offers an attractive mix of adventure, history, and relaxation for global travelers.”
Paulino also praised the leadership of President Luis Abinader and Tourism Minister David Collado, attributing Puerto Plata’s continued success as a tourist destination to their efforts. He noted that their commitment has been instrumental in keeping the province on the global tourism radar, drawing visitors from across the globe.
The 35 cruise ships will enable thousands of visitors to visit the city of Puerto Plata and some of the surrounding areas of the province during their stay in port. Although some may say that cruise tourists only spend a day in the area the long-term benefit should not be ignored. Visitors gain an insight into the area and when choosing a location for a longer holiday may well decide to return to Puerto Plata to experience everything the city and surrounding areas have to offer.