Puerto Plata, the “Bride of the Atlantic,” is poised for another year of explosive tourism growth, following a record-breaking 2024 that saw 86 cruise ships grace its shores in December alone. The new year promises continued success, with 81 cruise ships scheduled to arrive at its main ports, Amber Cove and Taíno Bay, in January 2025. This influx will undoubtedly inject significant economic activity into the region, offering thousands of visitors the opportunity to experience the province’s renowned natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Amber Cove is set to welcome 27 vessels in January, while Taíno Bay will receive a substantial 54, showcasing the growing popularity of both terminals among cruise lines. These figures underscore these ports’ crucial role in the Dominican Republic’s thriving cruise tourism sector.
In 2024, the Ámber Cove and Taíno Bay terminals collectively received a remarkable 82.6% of the 2,656,305 cruise passengers who visited the country. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing appeal of Puerto Plata as a cruise destination.
Specifically, Taíno Bay witnessed a substantial 34.8% increase in passenger arrivals, welcoming 994,609 visitors in 2024. Meanwhile, Amber Cove, owned by Carnival Corporation, experienced a remarkable 45.2% growth, with 1,201,255 passengers arriving at the Maimon-based terminal.
The Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, David Collado, emphasized the remarkable success of the nation’s cruise tourism sector in 2024. He highlighted that all national cruise terminals combined received a staggering 2,656,305 passengers, representing a 141% increase compared to the 1,552,407 passengers who arrived in 2023. This unprecedented growth signifies a new era of prosperity for the tourism industry and promises continued economic development for the Dominican Republic.