royal caribbean cruise port dominican republic

25 Things to Do in Puerto Plata on a Cruise Day in Port

• March 14, 2024
• Cruise Ports

Does your eastern Caribbean cruise itinerary include a day in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ? If so, you want to make the most of your cruise day. After all, this tropical paradise has a beautiful town center, historic fort, adventure parks, botanical gardens, museums, and stunning mountains covered in lush foliage. That’s not to mention the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and sun-soaked sandy beaches in Puerto Plata.

With so many shore excursions, attractions, and tours, choosing the best ones for your cruise day in port can be overwhelming. So how can you plan your day in Puerto Plata to experience all this Caribbean island has to offer?

Whether you’re a history buff, sightseer, beach lover, or adventure seeker, Puerto Plata caters to everyone’s idea of fun, excitement, and relaxation.

The article is a guide to the best shore excursions when spending a cruise day in Puerto Plata. In it, I’ll share my top tips on making the most of your time in the port and enjoying the must-see shore excursions and activities in Puerto Plata. 

Where is Puerto Plata?

Puerto Plata is a popular cruise port located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its stunning beaches, lush greenery, and vibrant culture. The city of Puerto Plata is a bustling hub of activity, with colorful buildings, lively markets, and plenty of restaurants and bars to explore.

Discovering Puerto Plata

You’ll get a distinct Latin feel when disembarking the ship and heading into Puerto Plata. Dating back to the 16th century, the influence of Spanish colonists is evident throughout the city, especially in downtown Puerto Plata. You’ll also find colonial buildings with distinctive Victorian architecture.

The city has around 150,000 inhabitants, and tourism is the main contributor to the economy. However, rather than being a gimmicky tourist destination, it’s a thriving city with locals going about their daily lives. So, the city has a more authentic feel than typical cruise ports I’ve been to in the Caribbean.

Puerto Plata Map

Exploring Puerto Plata on Cruise Day — An Overview

How can you make the most of your cruise day in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic?

Most cruise passengers head for the popular Damajagua Waterfalls, where you can swim, go ziplining, explore caves, or jump into pools. An alternative is the historic Fort San Felipe, which has panoramic views of Puerto Plata. Also popular are the beachfront restaurants where you can enjoy lunch and relax in the sun on Playa Dorada beach.

Arriving at Puerto Plata’s Two Cruise Ports — Taino Bay and Amber Cove

The main pier is Puerto Plata Cruise Port in Taino Bay, located in the city center. The other pier is in Amber Cove , west of the city, and a 20-minute drive to the center.

Taino Bay Cruise Port

Taino Bay is the main cruise port in Puerto Plata and is within walking distance of the heart of the city. When you disembark, you can immediately explore the historic downtown area, colorful markets, and vibrant restaurants. There is also a typical range of amenities for cruise passengers: souvenir shops, local handicrafts, tour guides, and plenty of shore excursions.

The cruise ship dock also features an entertainment complex with a botanical garden, swimming pool, bars, restaurants, a zip line, and a theme park. You also have direct access to historical landmarks in proximity to the port. There are also plenty of local taxi drivers inside and outside the port.

It’s important to note that the beach has no access to swimming. So you must travel to a nearby beach in Puerto Plata to enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Amber Cove Cruise Port

Amber Cove is a custom-built cruise port for ships on the Carnival Corporation Line. This modern port facility is a private 30-acre retreat that can handle two large cruise ships at a time. From here, there are plenty of options to arrange excursions and tours or take a taxi 6 miles (9.6 km) to downtown Puerto Plata. 

The huge Amber Cove resort has everything you need for your cruise day. There are shopping facilities, sports amenities, watersports, and a large swimming pool complex. Additionally, you can have fun on water slides, hire cabanas, go kiteboarding or windsurfing. There is also a selection of restaurants and bars exclusively for cruise passengers.

Spending the entire day in Amber Cove without leaving its compounds is possible. However, you’ll miss experiencing authentic Dominican Republic culture and the island’s stunning natural scenery. 

How to Get around Puerto Plata Cruise Port

Several transportation options are available if you plan on leaving the port to explore the island.

The first thing you’ll notice is that taxi rates are exceedingly high. However, a taxi is your only option to get from Amber Cove to downtown Puerto Plata. But be prepared: a one-way, six-mile trip for four persons costs a whopping $35 (USD).

However, you can negotiate a better deal by politely haggling with a taxi driver outside the gates, where you’ll be able to hire a driver and tour guide for $40. This is for a round trip and includes a guided walking tour of the historic sites in the city.

Uber is a great way to get around the city and visit local attractions. The fares are much cheaper than the fixed rates on display at the ports. For example, most taxi rides around Puerto Plata cost between $3 and $5. And if you’re not confident in your Spanish language skills, then Uber is the ideal solution.

Walking 

If you arrive in Taino Bay, walking is a great option to explore downtown. For example, after leaving the ship, it’s a 15-minute walk to the eye-catching Umbrella Street and 20 minutes to the Amber Museum or the San Felipe Fortress.

The nearest sandy beaches are Acapulco Beach, Puerto Plata Beach, and Costa Rica Beach, which are around 50 minutes on foot from the Taino Bay Cruise Terminal. So, you may want to take a taxi to make the most of your time on the island.

Organized tours

Arranging a shore excursion beforehand is the best way to make the most of your cruise day in Puerto Plata. The tours usually include entrance to several attractions and lunch or snacks. Also, you save the bother and expense of getting a taxi from Amber Cove. Check with your cruise line about the available shore excursions.

Activities at Taino Bay, Puerto Plata Cruise Port

If you arrive at Taino Bay Cruise Terminal, you have access to a private resort where you can spend the entire day. What can you do without leaving the cruise port? Here is a guide to Taino Bay.

A huge pool

Taino Bay offers a refreshing escape with ample swimming space and lounge at the swimming pool. Perfect for a leisurely dip or socializing with fellow cruisers in a relaxed setting. 

Bars and restaurants

Explore a variety of vibrant bars and restaurants at Taino Bay cruise port. You can indulge in local cuisine with a choice of three restaurants serving authentic Dominican cuisine. Or you can sip tropical drinks at one of the ten bars in the resort.

Whether you choose the Rum Bar or Tiki Tiki bar, you are guaranteed stunning sea views of the Caribbean Sea and lush mountains just steps away from your ship.

Shops to find souvenirs

Taino Bay has all you need to enjoy your cruise day without leaving the port. There are many shopping areas where you can buy clothing, gifts, souvenirs, surfing clothing, local crafts, and jewelry. There are also the usual duty-free shops and diamond stores. However, you may find the sellers somewhat pushy, so kindly but firmly say “no thank you.”

Monkey Island

Monkey Island at Taino Bay lets you interact with squirrel monkeys in a safe and fun way. The delightful, playful monkeys have bright eyes, agile bodies, and expressive faces. This attraction is also an entertaining and educational experience for children, raising awareness of the threats squirrel monkeys face in the wild.

Tropical birds like macaw parrots, Hispaniolan parrots, and cockatoos are on show in the six aviaries in Taino Bay Resort. The beautiful birds are on display in the shopping area, near the welcome center, and several restaurants. 

White sand beaches with loungers

Taino Bay has a pristine, private beach with golden sand exclusively for cruise passengers. However swimming is not permitted. To ensure your relaxation and enjoyment of the Caribbean sun, complimentary beach beds are provided. These are set up directly on the sand, offering a splendid view across from the cruise ships.

What to Do in Puerto Plata

Let’s look at the many shore excursions in and around Puerto Plata if you decide to leave the cruise port terminals.

Have an adventure at Damajagua Waterfalls

Visiting the breathtaking 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua is part of the cruise day itinerary of many passengers. Located 18 miles (29 km) or a 40-minute drive from Puerto Plata, the natural wonder features waterfalls, pools, cliffs, and lush tropical jungle. You can enjoy sliding into the clear pools or jumping from cliffs. 

You can get a guided tour of this shore excursion, where you are provided with life jackets and helmets, which are essential for your safety. Also water shoes are highly recommended. The excursion also includes a short hike and some gentle climbing. So, it’s not ideal for anyone with mobility problems.

If you are feeling adventurous, you could organize the Waterfalls Adrenaline Adventure. This strenuous trip lasts four hours and includes a 40-minute hike. In this trip you enjoy the thrill of a canyoning experience in flooded caves, squeezing through narrow passages, and swimming in the many pools of Damajagua’s waterfalls. 

Explore the Fortress of San Felipe (Fortaleza San Felipe)

The locals call it Fuerte San Felipe de Puerto Plata, a must-see attraction in the city. Located near the Taino Bay cruise port, the fortress dates from 1577, when Spanish colonizers built it to protect the city from pirate attacks. The fort contains a museum, giving insights into Puerto Plata’s history.

Apart from exploring hidden chambers, the place is worth visiting for its spectacular panoramic city views and the surrounding coastline. There are plenty of green spaces for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Admission to the fortress is only a few dollars, and entrance to the grounds is free. The fortress is easily accessible on foot from the cruise port, taking about 20 minutes to walk the mile-long journey.

Tour the Centro Histórico

A highlight of visiting Puerto Plata for a day is exploring the Centro Histórico, or historic city center. This is a 20-minute leisurely walk from the cruise terminal. However, if you are arriving in Amber Cove, you could arrange transport by private taxi at the gates, including a guided tour.

This area is filled with charming colonial architecture, vibrant colors, and bustling streets, giving you a taste of Dominican culture and history. Its main attraction is the public plaza—also called Independence Square or Town Square. This area is dominated by Cathedral San Felipe (St. Philip the Apostle Cathedral) and is surrounded by colonial buildings and Victorian architecture.

Nearby the historic center of Puerto Plata are many other places to see, such as the Spanish fortress of San Felipe, and the Amber Museum.

Catedral San Felipe

Also called Catedral de San Felipe Apóstol, the imposing Catholic Catedral dominates the city’s central square. This beautiful church is one of the city’s oldest and most important landmarks and holds great cultural and historical significance. It’s also a fine example of Victorian architecture in Puerto Plata.

It’s easy to incorporate a visit to the large cathedral on a walking city tour. You’ll be impressed with the blocky architecture, stained glass windows, and bright interior. I recommend getting a tour guide—there are usually plenty near the entrance. You will learn fascinating facts about Dominican history and religion.

Visit the colorful Umbrella Street

A trip to downtown Puerto Plata wouldn’t be complete without visiting Umbrella Street or Calle de las Sombrillas. It’s a 14-minute walk from the cruise port toward the Centro Histórico. Umbrella Street is part of the street Calle San Felipe and runs parallel to the Town Square. 

As its name suggests, colorful umbrellas are the highlight of this pedestrian area. Dozens of rainbow-colored umbrellas are hung over the street, creating dappled shade below. Beautiful bougainvillea shrubs add to the street’s vibrancy and color.

A favorite thing to do is to enjoy a coffee at one of the independent cafes on the street, where you can soak up the Caribbean atmosphere of this bustling street. The umbrellas, flowers, and blocky architecture make unique photo opportunities for your Instagram feed.

Paseo de Doña Blanca (Pink Street)

Paseo de Dona Blanca is another must-see street as you stroll through Centro Histórico. Located half a block from Umbrella Street, the Insta-worthy street—also called Pink Alley—is a vibrant pink. It’s guaranteed to be one of the most colorful walks you can take on vacation. And it’s not just the Victorian buildings and sidewalks that are painted magenta-pink. The gates, benches, and seats are all in the brightest pinks.

Visit the Amber Museum in Puerto Plata

The Amber Museum in Puerto Plata is a fascinating attraction showcasing the beauty and history of a precious resource—amber. The museum is housed in a charming Victorian-style mansion in the heart of Puerto Plata’s historic district. Therefore, you can plan to visit the museum after Umbrella Street and Pink Alley.

As you study the prehistoric specimens, look for plants, insects, and fossilized creatures. You can also see pieces of rare blue amber. Then you can marvel at the museum’s highlight—a 20-million-year-old gecko preserved in amber.

Learning about amber is a way to explore the city’s cultural heritage. Even though it’s not a precious stone, amber is regarded as the national gemstone of the Dominican Republic. 

Walk along the Malecón

A must-do activity while in port for the day in Puerto Plata is to take a leisurely stroll along the Malecón. This picturesque seaside promenade stretches from the city center to the shores of Long Beach and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. It’s the perfect way to finish off your walking tour.

This popular waterfront area is lined with palm trees, colorful benches, and charming street vendors selling local handicrafts. There is also a wide selection of bars, restaurants, and cafes. When in Puerto Plata, you can grab a bite to eat at Eleven POP grill bar and look over the sea to Neptune statue.

Enjoy stunning views from Isabel de Torres mountain

Take the cable car (teleferico) to the top of Isabel de Torres mountain for the most spectacular views in the Dominican Republic. The entrance to the cable car is only a 20-minute walk from the cruise port. You will travel 2,600 feet (792 m) above the Caribbean Sea, surrounded by lush plants and vibrant flowers.

At the summit, you can explore caves, stroll through flower-filled gardens, and take panoramic photos of Puerto Plata. There are also varieties of various bird species, making the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Also at the mountain top is the Christ the Redeemer statue on top of a domed fortress. This is a replica of the iconic statue in Rio de Janeiro. 

Fun fact: The Teleferico Puerto Plata cable car is the only one in the Caribbean. 

Shopping in Puerto Plata on a cruise day

Shopping is one of the most popular activities for tourists visiting Puerto Plata on a cruise day. The city offers a variety of shopping options. Everything from local markets selling handmade crafts and souvenirs to upscale boutiques featuring designer brands and diamond rings.

Most cruise ship passengers leave their shopping until they return to the boat. Amber Cove and Taino Bay have excellent shopping facilities for passengers. This saves carrying around your purchases as you stroll through the historic center of the city. 

Paddleboarding or kayaking through a manatee reserve

A unique and memorable experience when visiting Puerto Plata for the day is kayaking through a manatee reserve. On a paddleboard or kayak, you can explore mangroves in search of these gentle marine mammals. Getting up close with sea cows in their natural habitat can be an unforgettable experience. 

The manatee reserve in Puerto Plata is home to a population of West Indian Manatees, an endangered species protected by local authorities. You can also observe Dominican wildlife and exotic wild birds.

It’s important to note that the journey from the cruise port to the manatee reserves takes 90 minutes, and the shore excursion, including travel, lasts six hours. 

Spend a cruise day at Ocean World Adventure Park

Spending the day at Ocean World as part of your Caribbean cruise day is an engaging and memorable experience. The day pass gives you access to animal shows, sandy beaches, waterslides, and snorkeling. For an extra fee, you enjoy the thrill of swimming with dolphins, sharks, and sea lions. 

Ocean World Adventure Park is located between the two cruise ports. So, it’s easy to reach, and travel doesn’t take much time. In addition to the entertainment, you can buy an extra pass to spend time with experienced trainers. This way, the whole family can learn about the habitat and conservation of these remarkable sea creatures.

Beaches, restaurants, and monuments in Playa Neptuno

Puerto Plata Beach is one of the most popular beaches where you can spend the day while on a cruise. This beautiful beach also goes by the name Playa Neptuno due to the statue of Neptune on a tiny island 1,000 feet from the shoreline. Dotted along the beach are small bars and restaurants.

The beaches adjacent to Puerto Plata Beach, along this stretch of coastline, are typically quieter than those at the resorts. These areas are perfect for activities like ocean swimming, kiteboarding, and surfing. Additionally, it’s possible to purchase a day pass for certain resort beaches if you’re interested in an all-inclusive beach experience, where amenities and services are provided as part of the package.

The best way to see Playa Neptuno is to get a taxi from the cruise port. It’s a 7-minute drive.

However, for a better beach experience, you can drive further to Sosua Beach. Here, you can enjoy a fine, sandy shoreline and calm, clear waters. Sosua Beach is also popular with divers. Beach bars, grill restaurants, and snack shops sell cocktails, Creole food, and seafood. Allow for a 40-minute journey to get to Sosua. 

Sailing and snorkeling on a catamaran

Book a catamaran excursion with your cruise line to combine adventure, swimming, partying, and relaxation on your day in Puerto Plata. Catamaran trips usually include sailing, snorkeling, a bar, and lunch on the ship.

During a catamaran excursion, you can enjoy sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea while taking in stunning views of the Dominican coastline.

Book an island rum-tasting tour

No day trip to a Caribbean island would be complete without sampling locally-made rum. Puerto Plata is home to the Brugal Rum Distillery, located about a mile east of the town. The tour includes the history of rum in the Dominican Republic, viewing the distilling process, and tasting some of the best rums on the island.

However, you can also include rum tasting as part of a city walking tour. The Macroix House of Rum is a 10-minute walk from the dock. You could plan this as the finale of your day in Puerto Plata.

Enjoy an all-inclusive beach day

Do you want to enjoy an all-inclusive beach day while visiting Puerto Plata cruise port? Several beautiful beaches in the area offer a variety of amenities and all-inclusive activities for cruise passengers. Check out options with your cruise line that include food, drink, and water activities. 

Playa Dorada beach day

Playa Dorada is a popular option in Puerto Plata for an all-inclusive day at the beach. Several resorts offer day passes to enjoy beach facilities. These include Grand Paradise, Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, and Gran Ventana. In addition to relaxing on a sun lounger and sipping cocktails, watersports centers offer kiteboarding, diving, snorkeling, and hydroflight sports.

The resorts are a 20-minute drive from Taino Bay or 30 minutes from Amber Cove. Many cruise passengers love the chance to wind down and enjoy a carefree day at the resorts while in port. Some resorts also offer spa services.

ATV Adventure Tour in Country World Adventure Park

Booking an ATV adventure tour is one of the most exciting shore excursions in Puerto Plata. Located in the Country World Adventure Park, you can explore the lush Dominican countryside on a one or two-seater quad bike. Even if you’ve never ridden a quad, you’ll get expert instructions beforehand. 

Country World Adventure Park is a 25-minute drive west of Puerto Plata and looks over Amber Cove. Included with the excursion is access to the swimming pool and tropical botanical garden, and ziplining is also available. 

Exhilarating kitesurfing in Cabarete

Cabarete, located one hour from the Puerto Plata cruise port, is a kitesurfer’s paradise. The small fishing village has some of the best kitesurfing schools in the Caribbean. They cater to adrenaline junkies of all experience levels—from beginners to experienced surfers. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the thousands of cruise passengers, book a shore excursion to Cabarete.

With consistent trade winds blowing across the turquoise waters of Cabarete Bay, the location is perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing. After your thrilling rides and jumps, you can relax on the beach and enjoy a meal at one of the many beachfront restaurants and bars before returning to the cruise ship.

Indulging tour of Del Oro Chocolate Factory

One of the most indulgent and delicious tours when visiting Puerto Plata for the day is a visit to the Del Oro Chocolate Factory. This unique factory allows visitors to see firsthand how chocolate is made, from bean to bar. It’s located at the eastern end of the city and takes 15 to 20 minutes to get there by taxi.

As you enter the factory, you are greeted by the rich aroma of freshly roasted cocoa beans. The knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through the chocolate-making process, from grinding the cocoa beans to making chocolate and molding the bars. You’ll also have the chance to taste different varieties of chocolate and learn about the history of chocolate in the Dominican Republic.

Top Food and Drink Spots in Puerto Plata

There are plenty of small cafes, bars, and restaurants in the bustling town of Puerto Plata. Here are some of the favorites:

La Ponderosa del Mar

La Ponderosa del Mar is a charming restaurant in the heart of Puerto Plata specializing in Caribbean cuisine. It’s the place to go if you’re after delicious seafood dishes and excellent service. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite among locals and tourists.

La Ponderosa del Mar offers fresh seafood options. You can choose from grilled lobster to shrimp cocktails and get flavors of the Caribbean right on your plate. Pair your meal with a refreshing tropical drink or a cold Red Stripe beer for the ultimate Dominican dining experience.

Casita Azul Victorian Bar & Grill

Casita Azul Victorian Bar & Grill is a hidden gem in the Town Square of Puerto Plata. Many people love visiting the restaurant due to its cozy atmosphere and Victorian-inspired decor. The menu offers a variety of delicious dishes based on Caribbean fusion, traditional recipes, and international cuisine.

The Casita Azul is a favorite for lunch with many cruise ship passengers. A favorite dish to order is the grilled seafood platter, which is always fresh and perfectly cooked. The cocktails are also impressive, with creative concoctions that perfectly complement the flavors of the food.

Bar Skina is a relaxed lunch spot in the center of Puerto Plata. The restaurant offers a great dining experience that combines Dominican, Caribbean, and Spanish flavors with a modern twist. The menu boasts a variety of affordable dishes highlighting the fresh ingredients and bold flavors of Caribbean cuisine.

Charros CaribeMex

Charros CaribeMex in Puerto Plata is a dining experience close to Ocean World that is not to be missed. This Mexican-Caribbean fusion restaurant offers unique dishes combining the best of both worlds. The colorful and vibrant decor sets the tone for a lively meal filled with flavor and excitement.

The menu at Charros CaribeMex is a mouthwatering mix of traditional Mexican dishes with a Caribbean twist. Each dish is expertly prepared with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, from delicious tacos to spicy ceviche and lobster, shrimp, or bass filet fajitas. The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring that your dining experience is top-notch from start to finish.

Mosha’s Reggae Lounge

If you spend a day in Sosua, having lunch in Mosha’s Reggae Lounge is a must. This laid-back, vibrant lounge offers a unique experience that combines delicious Caribbean cuisine with the soulful sounds of reggae music. They serve traditional Caribbean dishes, from jerk chicken to plantains, all bursting with flavor and spice.

I’d advise you not to go to Mosha’s if you’re looking for a quick bite. All meals are cooked to order. However, while waiting for your tasty lunch, you can relax on the beach lounge chairs, play cards, listen to Reggae beats, and soak up authentic Caribbean culture.

Puerto Plata Cruise Port FAQs

Here are answers to questions many cruise ship passengers have before coming to Puerto Plata.

When is the best time to visit Puerto Plata?

The best time to visit Puerto Plata generally falls between December and April. During these months, the weather is mostly sunny and warm, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions, beaches, and engaging in outdoor activities. This period is also considered the peak tourist season , so you can expect more crowds and higher prices for accommodations and services.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and possibly find lower prices, the shoulder seasons—just before and after the peak season, so November or May—might be appealing. However, keep in mind that May to November is the hurricane season in the Caribbean , with the highest likelihood of storms typically between August and October. While hurricanes are not a daily threat, it’s something to consider when planning your visit.

Can I get a taxi to the beach from outside Puerto Plata Cruise Ports?

Taxis are readily available at the Puerto Plata cruise ports in Amber Cove and Taino Bay. It’s best to look for taxis outside the port terminal gates and politely haggle a price. It’s usually possible to arrange a return rate and guide for a walking tour of downtown Puerto Plata.

However, it’s good to remember that the standard taxi fare from Amber Cove to Puerto Plata is exceptionally high. 

What language do they speak in Puerto Plata?

The primary language locals speak in Puerto Plata is Spanish, the official language of the Dominican Republic. In tourist areas and most shopping centers, most people understand and speak English to varying degrees. However, a basic knowledge of Spanish will enhance your experience during your visit.

Is there a free beach at the Puerto Plata cruise port?

The beach in Taino Bay is free for cruise ship passengers. It is a sandy beach with a shaded area, hammocks, and beach lounges. For free beaches outside the port area, walk along Av. Gral. Gregorio Luperon until you find a spot you like. Most beaches have shaded areas and beach bars for snacks and drinks. 

It’s good to note that many beaches in Puerto Plata require an admission fee, and the all-inclusive resort beaches are significantly more expensive.

What currency should I use in Puerto Plata?

The official currency in Puerto Plata and the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (DOP). Most tourist places, including local stalls and markets, accept US dollars and credit cards. However, it’s recommended to have local currency on hand.

In the Caribbean even if you can pay in US dollars, vendors often give change in local currency. So, it’s worth asking before buying anything in dollars.

Which cruise lines visit Puerto Plata?

Several cruise lines include Puerto Plata as a port of call in their Caribbean trips. Some of the major cruise lines that visit Puerto Plata include Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises. 

Amber Cove is an exclusive port owned by the Carnival Corporation. Therefore, you will dock at Amber Cove if you arrive on a Carnival or Princess cruise.

Can you walk to the beach from the cruise port in Puerto Plata?

Both cruise ports—Amber Cove and Taino Bay—have golden sandy beaches. Therefore, you don’t have to walk far to relax on a beach in the Caribbean. However, you typically must take a taxi to reach the other beaches, which are a 30-minute walking distance from the Puerto Plata Cruise Port.

Can you safely walk around Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic?

Puerto Plata is generally safe for cruise passengers who are spending the day in the city. However, the usual advice for tourists is applicable. So, stick to well-traveled areas, avoid poorly lit or secluded places, and be mindful of your belongings.

Top Tips for Enjoying a Cruise Day at Puerto Plata

Remember to calculate ride costs on shore excursions.

Booking shore excursions through the cruise line or before you depart is the cheapest option. A round trip from Amber Cove can cost $70, only for a 7-mile journey. Of course, it’s possible to haggle with some taxi drivers. But since you’re only in Puerto Plata for a day, you want to ensure it’s memorable for the right reasons.

Free Wi-Fi throughout Puerto Plata

You’ll find a ton of Wi-Fi hotspots in Puerto Plata. Many restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops offer customers free internet access. So, you have plenty of opportunities to post your latest cruise pics on Instagram and FaceTime with friends and family and check your emails in Puerto Plata.

Visit Umbrella Street early in the day

Do you want spectacular insta-worthy shots of Umbrella Street or Pink Alley? If so, try to make them your first port of call on your downtown walking tour, as the streets are packed by lunchtime and early afternoon.

So, an early visit to downtown Puerto Rico will let you get the best shots to post on social media.

Related articles:

• Cruise Ports in the Eastern Caribbean You Should Visit
• Caribbean Cruise Destinations You Should Visit
• Eastern vs. Western Caribbean Cruises: Which One is Better?
• La Romana (Dominican Republic) Cruise Port Guide

Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

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Essential Guide to the Puerto Plata Cruise Terminal

Posted on Published: 10/17/2023

I’ve been on over 20 cruises, and over that time, I’ve visited numerous Caribbean, Bahamian, American, and Canadian ports. But up until recently, I’d never had a cruise stop in the Dominican Republic. So, when I booked my most recent Virgin Voyages cruise, I was excited to stop at the Puerto Plata cruise terminal on our Dominican Daze itinerary. Our cruise shopped at the new port in the area – the Taino Bay Port.

While I was only there for a day, I found Puerto Plata to be absolutely beautiful with delicious food and great people. I definitely want to return to spend more time in the areas I quickly saw.

Disclosure: I paid for my own trip and excursion in Puerto Plata. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Location of Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata is located on the northern Atlantic Coast of the Dominican Republic on the island of Hispaniola (which is shared with Haiti). It’s west of Puerto Rico and south of Turks and Caicos.

The third largest city in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is located about 5 hours from the country’s capital Santo Domingo, and is on the north coast.

Unlike Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic is not a US territory. Therefore, passports are required if you are flying in. You’ll need to check directly with your cruise line to see what form of ID they require. I always cruise with my passport just in case I have a medical emergency and need to be evacuated.

The Dominican Republic is in the Caribbean hurricane belt. If you are cruising during hurricane season, you’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast. There’s always a risk your cruise will be re-routed due to a storm.

If booking Puerto Plata excursions during your cruise, it’s a good idea to book them through the cruise line. That way, if they are canceled, you’ll be reimbursed.

Taino Bay Puerto Plata

Taino Bay Cruise Port is the newest cruise port I’ve ever visited – opening in December 2021 . It was originally the Puerto Plata cargo port and is located right in the center of the action. Many, but not all, of the cruise ships visiting Puerto Plata dock at the Taino Bay cruise port.

If you don’t want to book an excursion or leave the cruise port area, there’s still plenty to do right there. In fact, I’d recommend booking a later or early-ending cruise excursion so you have some time to explore the cruise port before sailing away.

Amenities and Activities at Taino Bay

Here’s some of what you’ll find right in the cruise port. Cruise travelers can spend the day in the Puerto Plata cruise port if you’d prefer not to leave.

A huge pool/lazy river: This is free for guests and a great option to cool off if you want to leave the ship but don’t plan to do a shore excursion in Puerto Plata. Some of the cruise staff on our ship were raving about the lazy river, but we didn’t have a chance to try it.

Shops: Want to do some souvenir shopping in Puerto Plata? The Puerto Plata cruise port offers several specialty shops including jewelry stores (where you’ll find Larimar, exclusive to the Dominican Republic), duty-free shops, souvenir shops, and clothing shops. These are all relatively small, but there’s a good selection of them.

Experiences: There are six aviaries scattered throughout the port. Exotic birds, including Macaw Parrots and the native Amazona Ventralis, can be found in these aviaries.

There’s also Monkey Island , located right in the port. In this hands-on experience, you can interact with and feed adorable squirrel monkeys. This is something you are typically able to just walk up to – you won’t need to book an excursion because you won’t be leaving the port.

Restaurants: If you’d like to get food and drinks off the ship, you won’t have to walk very far. There are several restaurants and bars in the Taino Bay cruise port, including a mojito bar, a rum bar, a coffee shop, and a Mexican restaurant.

WiFi, restrooms, and a last-minute excursion desk are also available at the Puerto Plata cruise port.

Things to See in Puerto Plata

Want to explore beyond the cruise port? There are lots of great things to see and do in Puerto Plata. Highlights include:

The Umbrella Street: An adorable, Instagram-friendly street with colorful umbrellas hanging above. In addition to being a great photo opportunity, there are shops and restaurants along the street.

Paseo Dona Blanca (Pink Street): Within walking distance of the umbrella street is the Paseo Dona Blanca (also known as the pink street). This is also an Instagram-friendly street that is entirely bright pink, with different installations that are great photo backdrops. Both Umbrella Street and the Pink Street are an easy walk from Central Park (Independence Square).

Macorix House of Rum: If you love rum, you’ll want to do the tour and tasting at the Macorix House of Rum. It includes a movie about rum making, a walk through the barrels, and a tasting of a bunch of different rum flavors. There’s also a gift shop where you can purchase your favorites at a great price.

Fortaleza San Felipe : As you sail into the Taino Bay cruise port, you’ll see the Fortaleza San Felipe, a historic Spanish fortress.

Ocean World Adventure Park: An ocean park offering animal encounters, a beach, a restaurant, and more, Ocean World Adventure Park is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers.

Puerto Plata Cable Car: If you want to see beautiful views of Puerto Plata from above, visit the Puerto Plata Cable Car. The ride will take you up to Mount Isabel de Torres, a National Park.

Playa Dorada : Want to visit the beach during your day in Puerto Plata? Playa Dorada (the golden beach), is a great option. This is the area where many of the Puerto Plata resorts are located.

Damajagua Waterfalls : This park, which is best via by cruise ship passengers via an excursion, offers 27 waterfalls (although excursions typically include visits to 12). You’ll be able to swim, jump, and more. Here’s one excursion that is well-rated .

Dominican Amber Museum : Puerto Plata is well-known for its beautiful amber. If you want to see it up close, you can visit the Puerto Plata Amber Museum .

Puerto Plata Shore Excursions

You’ll have lots of options for excursions in Puerto Plata if you decide to leave your cruise ship. Excursions will vary by availability and cruise line, but here are some options listed below.

Keep in mind that if you book an independent excursion not through the cruise line, it’s your responsibility to make sure you get back to the ship on time. If you book the excursion through your cruise line, they will be responsible for making sure you get back.

Food Tour: During my most recent Virgin Voyages cruise, we did a Puerto Plata tasting tour that I would highly recommend. We started at the Macorix House of Rum, where we were able to taste multiple varieties of rum.

We then headed to three popular restaurants – La Skina Restaurant, Mares Restaurant, and Casita Azul, to try some location cuisine. Before going back to the port, we stopped at the Pink Street and the Umbrella Street. It was led by a local guide and was an official cruise ship excursion.

Ziplining : Looking for a little more adventure? Some excursions go to the Wild Play Adventure Park where you’ll be able to zipline over the ocean and enjoy some time at the beach.

Beach Day : Want to visit the beach? One excursion on our sailing was to Coconut Cove Beach where sailors had the opportunity to enjoy drinks, lunch, and time at the beach. There was also a separate excursion to Fricolandia Beach Club.

Damajagua Waterfalls : There were a number of different excursions to Damajagua Waterfalls. One includes ziplining, swimming, sliding, and a ride in a buggy. There’s also one that includes off-roading.

You’ll probably find a number of other excursions during your visit to Puerto Plata. Think about the type of experience you’d want to have and find a well-reviewed excursion that fits. If you aren’t sure, a guided city tour of Puerto Plata is always a good idea so you can get an overview of the area.

Amber Cove Puerto Plata Port

I mentioned above that many cruise ships dock at the new-ish Taino Bay cruise port. However, there are more than one cruise ship terminals – some ships dock at the Amber Cove cruise port. Opened in 2015, the Amber Cove cruise center was developed privately by Carnival Cruise Line.

Amber Cove is sort of a combination between a port and a private destination. There’s lots to do within the port , including a water park area, shopping, watersports, and more. Excursions are also an option, if you’d like to explore beyond the Amber Cove cruise port immediate area.

Frequently Asked Questions

During our food tour, we had the opportunity to try bandera dominicana (translated to Dominican Flag), a dish that includes fried plantains, rice and beans, chicken, and some fruit. We also had a delicious soup with rice. Popular drinks include the local mamajuana – a drink made with rum, honey, and wine, as well as local rum.

The Dominican Republic uses the Dominican Peso. US dollars are typically accepted, which makes it easy for a quick cruise port stop. Credit cards are accepted in some locations.

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Taino Bay (Puerto Plata) – Dominican Republic

Last updated on February 5th, 2024 at 06:16 pm

Experience the beauty of Taino Bay in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Relax on the golden beaches, indulge in water sports such as snorkeling and kayaking, or explore the vibrant marine life through scuba diving. Visit the historic sites of Puerto Plata, shop for local crafts at the Amber Market, or take a cable car ride to the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres for breathtaking views. Taino Bay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Good To Know

Click here for Taino Bay excursions.

The weather in the Dominican Republic tends to be hot, oppressive and windy.

Throughout the year, the temperature typically varies from 68°F to 89°F and is rarely below 65°F or above 92°F.

The Dominican Peso is legal tender in the Dominican. Both US dollars and the Euro are often accepted in tourist areas. For the most part, major credit cards are accepted in tourist areas. You will find an ATM at the cruise terminal.

Check exchange rates here:

https://www.xe.com/

Wireless Internet:

The area where you get off the ship at the port is newly built and opened in December of 2021. You will be able to find free Wifi in many areas around the port. The above map shows where these spots are located with a little wifi sign.

Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic. In the tourist areas you will find some English being spoken.

Where You Dock in Taino Bay (Puerto Plata) – Dominican Republic

This port includes a welcome area and a transportation hub. There are a variety of shops, a place where you can sunbathe on the sand (there is no beach for swimming), large shallow pool, entertainment at the port including an aviary and Monkey Island. There are also a number of places to get food and beverages.

As of early 2023, Phase 2 has opened with more restaurants, more than 20 new shops, a lazy river and swim-up bar!

Up to three ships can be in port at one time, and the walk from the ship down the pier to the terminal area can be a long one. Because of this, the cruise port offers complimentary tuk tuk rides from the pier to the entrance of the port. While the ride is free, please remember to tip the driver.

Puerto Plata’s city center is about a kilometer’s walk from the port gates, which is great if you want to experience local Dominican culture and see the historic area.

Amber Cove is nearby, but it is not within walking distance of Taino Bay.

Getting Around Taino Bay (Puerto Plata) – Dominican Republic

If you are staying in the cruise port area, it is compact and easy to get around. The ground is flat, although can be bumpy if using a wheelchair. The pier itself is long, so the cruise port offers complimentary tuk tuk rides from the pier to the entrance of the port. While the ride is free, please remember to tip the driver.

Puerto Plata itself is not a far walk. For example, the famed Umbrella Street and the historical Paseo de Dona Blanca are only a 7 minute walk. Here’s a quick video showing you the way to exit the port:

You will find a designated walkway in Taino Bay cruise port that will take you directly outside of the cruise port area (see above video). At this spot you will have no problem finding taxi drivers that you can hire to take you to Puerto Plata. Taxis are also readily available in the historic center and most fares will cost you $5 or less, but it’s best to negotiate the fare prior to getting in the taxi.

Uber is also available in Puerto Plata, and this can be a great tool to use especially if you don’t speak Spanish well enough to explain where you want to go.

Shopping In Taino Bay (Puerto Plata) – Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is known for jewelry with locally-mined amber and larimar (turquoise-colored stone), as well as organic coffee and cacao. Woodcarvings and handicrafts are also popular souvenir items in the D.R.

Inside the Port

There are duty free shops and quite a number of shops at the port in Taino Bay.

The Taino Village, the first shops you will encounter once off the ship, are theme-based on the culture of the pre-Columbian Taino people.

There are about 35 shops, most of them different from one another.

You will find cigars, local clothing, artisanal products, souvenirs and cigars.

Prices will be scaled for tourists and some items will be more expensive inside the port than outside the port. All of the shops are owned/rented by locals. The cruise ship port does not own any of the facilities.

Outside the Port

When most tourists visit Puerto Plata, they head to the the historical center and Central Park of Independence. Surrounding the park are a number of shops selling locally made items, jewelry, cigars and much more.

Dining In Taino Bay (Puerto Plata) – Dominican Republic

Two restaurants in the Taino Bay cruise port are Sanmagu and Casa Palapa. There is also Cortaito, which is a pastry and coffee shop and a total of seven bars.

The name of the restaurant comes from “mangu”, a dish of mashed plantains that is served with fried white rice and salami. The Sanmangu serves local Dominican cuisine specialities and classic Caribbean dishes.

You will find mofongo, fried fish, and grilled chicken. Dominican sancocho is a meat and vegetable stew that is popular in the Dominican Republic.

Casa Palapa

There is a focus on Mexican Cuisine in this sit-down restaurant. There will be the ever-present fried plantains and casabe.

Casabe is a thin, flatbread that is similar to crackers and served with many of the dishes. Roast pork and rice with beans is another staple.

Located one block from Independence Park, this highly rated cafe and bistro is known for its homey family feel and tasty, diverse menu. Pasta, sandwiches, local cuisine, coffee and sweets are just some of the stand-out items. Dine in or outside on the treed patio.

This restaurant and bar is located a 2 minute walk from Independence Park and has indoor and outdoor seating. You’ll find tasty, unique beverages, delicious local Dominican cuisine and friendly staff.

Things To Do in Taino Bay (Puerto Plata) – Dominican Republic

The Taino Bay cruise port does not have beach access for swimming. There is an area where you can sit in beach chairs near the pier, but swimming is not allowed in this area.

If you want to swim in the ocean, spending the day at an all-inclusive beach resort with ResortPass can be a great option.

Visit The Pool

Taino Bay cruise port has a large swimming pool with a swim-up bar. There are in-pool chaise lounge chairs and live DJ music.

There are also beach beds and chairs around the pool. Using the pool is complimentary, but the drinks are an additional cost.

Monkey Island

This spot (not really an island) is an enclosure where you would be able to interact with squirrel monkeys. There is an additional cost, and you will be allowed to spend 30 minutes with the monkeys.

Be aware that the monkeys will climb, jump and walk all over you. Remember too, that these are animals. So don’t be surprised or upset if they urinate on you.

The Aviaries

There are several small aviaries that are located throughout the Taino Bay port. Parrots and other birds can be seen here throughout the day. There is no cost to see the birds.

This video doesn’t contain information on Phase 2, but is a concise overview of the port area:

As mentioned above, there is a beach inside the port, but no opportunity to get in the water. Having an all-inclusive beach day pass at a resort can be a great way to spend the day in port.

ResortPass offers a few different all-inclusive options, located mainly along the famed Playa Dorada beach.  The all-inclusive package have activities and entertainment for both adults and the kids, pools, beach access with chairs, drinks and food. Upgrades are often available for spa passes or private day rooms. Check out the options here.

Amber Museum

Located in the historic district, about a 15 minute walk from the port entrance, this museum has fossils and artifacts where you’ll learn about the history and characteristics of this semi-precious stone and the lives of the people who mined them. Admission is only $2 per person and they are open daily.

Macorix House of Rum

Visit this factory museum which is less than a 10 minute walk from the port entrance, to learn about the history and process of making rum and the development of the Macorix brand. The tour leaves every 15 minutes and includes a short film and ends in the tasting room where you can taste several different flavors before having the opportunity to purchase your own bottle to take home in their shop. All this for $4 per person.

Fortaleza de San Felipe

Located in a park with lovely ocean views and amphitheater, you’ll find the San Felipe fort. Built in 1577 upon commission from the King Felipe of Spain, there is a small museum and complimentary audio guides. Bring your cameras because the views from the top of the fort are fantastic, and you’ll be able to see your ship in port. There is no cost to enter the park, but it is $2 USD pp to enter the fort.

Top Tours & Excursions In Taino Bay (Puerto Plata) – Dominican Republic

Damajugua waterfalls adventure.

The natural monument of the Damajagua River is composed of 27 bodies of water of various sizes. You will be met at the cruise terminal and a narrated, countryside drive will take you to the Damajagua "base camp" located within a tropical forest. Here you will have time to use the facilities before hearing important rules and safety instructions and receiving your helmet, lifejacket, and bottle of water. Then you are on your way up-hill for appr...

• Duration: 4.5 Hours
• Activity Level: Difficult
• Note: Must have sturdy, waterproof shoes or rent for $2
• Wheelchair Accessibility: No
• Food: Water, fruit, rum punch

Playa Dorada Beach Day

Relax and soak up the beach life on Puerto Plata's beautiful north coast and experience Playa Dorada on this half-day excursion. Upon meeting your local guide, you will embark on a fully narrated tour around the historic district and pier as you make your way to the north coast. Once you have reached the golden sand beach you will find a full bar and cafe (extra cost) as well as complimentary beach loungers. After lunch and a leisurely stroll, ...

• Duration: 4 Hours
• Activity Level: Easy
• Food: Bottled water, rum punch and fresh local fruit.

Explore Best of Puerto Plata

You will ascend to 2,555 feet above sea-level to the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres where you can explore the beautiful gardens, enjoy views of the city and ocean and more. After your time at the summit, you will take the cable car down the mountain and then meet your transportation for the drive through the city to a guided tour of Fort San Felipe, home to a historic Spanish fortress built in 1577. After, you will enjoy some time at Independen...

• Activity Level: Moderate
• Note: Min. age 8 years.
• Food: Complimentary fresh fruit, water, soda & rum punch.

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What to Do in Puerto Plata on a Cruise (Big List + Tips & Things to Know)

Sitting on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata (translation: Silver Port) sits right in the middle between the tip of Cuba and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The area is steeped in history dating back literally to Christopher Columbus, who founded nearby La Isabela as the first European settlement in North America in 1493.

Today the area is a bustling city of approximately 150,000 that’s also become a popular cruise destination with multiple ports. If your cruise includes a stop in Puerto Plata, then you might be wondering what to do during your stay. We’ll cover lots of options of what to experience in Puerto Plata on your cruise, along with some helpful information about what to expect on your day in port.

Overview & What Puerto Plata Like?

Whereas many port cities in this area of the world can seem like they are there only to serve tourists, Puerto Plata is different. Tourism is a major part of the economy, but it’s also a real town.

As you would expect given the location along the coast, the beach plays a big role in the things to do and see. However, there is also history, natural scenery, and dramatic landscapes to enjoy (along with plenty of touristy things too!).

There are two different cruise ports in the area. If you are sailing on a Carnival Corporation line (Carnival, Princess, etc.), then you will dock at Amber Cove. This is a dedicated port area about six miles from the center of Puerto Plata. Built in the mid-2010s, this port is definitely touristy with manicured grounds, a pool/bar area for passengers, shops, and restaurants. You could theoretically spend the entire day here and be entertained.

The second port is the Taino Bay port, located right near the heart of the city. This port also offers the typical touristy shopping port area to passengers, but offers easy access to the sights of the city center as well.

As for the city itself, it offers up a very Latin feel. It’s bustling with tourists and locals going around the city by car, motorcycle, or walking. Buildings are built almost to the street and densely packed, as is common in older cities with Spanish influence, providing a lot to see in a small amount of space.

The surrounding areas are lush and mountainous, giving a natural beauty to the area. It’s also a chance to see the real Dominican Republic in that there are parts that are drop-dead beautiful combined with poorer areas that make you appreciate what you have at home.

That all combines to make Puerto Plata a unique place that offers an experience we found much more interesting than more “sanitized” cruise ports.

Getting Around Puerto Plata

If you plan to leave the port to explore, you have a few options for getting around.

Walking: If you dock at the port near the city center, then you can simply walk many places. For instance, from the port to Parque Central, the walk is just about 15 minutes. It’s another 10-15 minutes to spots like the beachfront and even less time to the famous Umbrella Street and Paseo de Dona Blanca (more on these spots below).

Taxi: If you don’t want to walk or you are docked at Amber Cove, then a taxi is an option. Just know that rates are expensive. A sign posted shows the fixed rates. A ride from Amber Cove to Puerto Plata is $35 each way for up to five passengers. That’s for a trip that’s only about six miles. Still, given Amber Cove’s setup, there really isn’t another option unless taking an excursion.

Shore Excursions: Booking a shore excursion to go out and explore the area? Then your transportation will be included in the trip. Given that the cost of a taxi is fairly high, it’s something that you should consider when pricing out things to do. Having a ride to and from the port included isn’t just convenient, it can save you money.

Things to Do in Puerto Plata on a Cruise

Below we cover a number of things to do while you are in port on your cruise.

Visiting Amber Cove

Sailing on Carnival (or a sister cruise line)? Then you’ll dock at Amber Cove ( see our guide to the port here ). The port area is built as a literal playground for passengers. On one side is a number of shops to explore, a photo opp in front of the ship, and restaurants. The other side includes a large pool area with loungers, a swim-up bar, zipline, waterslides, and a splash pad for small kids. There are also other amenities to rent, from a wi-fi day pass to kayaks to cabanas. In short, you can spend your entire day here in the shadow of the ship if you want.

Visiting Taino Bay

Sailing another cruise line like NCL, Royal Caribbean, MSC, or Virgin Voyages? Then you will dock at the Taino Bay port, right near the center of Puerto Plata. Like Amber Cove, it also provides a lot for passengers to enjoy without going far. There are shops, restaurants, and bars, along with a pool area and man-made beach (though no open water swimming) that offers views of the ship. If you’re wanting to stay close to the ship, this is an easy way to spend the day. Just know that the port area can get crowded.

Isabel de Torres (Cristo Redentor Statue)

Just south of Puerto Plata sits Isabel de Torres — a tree-covered mountain that overlooks the city and the sea. An excursion can take you here (or take the cable car, covered below). It’s a national park and features a walk through beautiful forest and manicured grounds. Here atop the mountain it can be breezy and 20 degrees cooler than at sea level, so be sure to dress a little warmer. But the payoff is the view of the city below and the chance to see Cristo Redentor — a statue of Christ with arms spread that watches over the port.

Umbrella Street

Located near Parque Central, if you’re wanting an “Instagram” spot, this is one of two must-sees. It’s a small cross street that’s closed to traffic and a metal frame structure has been built over it. There, dozens of colorful umbrellas are hung above the street creating a unique area that’s pedestrian-friendly, with small shops to explore, colorful umbrellas, and beautiful bougainvillea plants adding to the atmosphere.

Paseo de Dona Blanca

We mentioned one of two “must-sees” for the most photo-worthy sports. The first is Umbrella Street. The second is Paseo de Dona Blanca. It’s literally a half-block from Umbrella Street, and right near the center of town, making both spots popular to visit at once. What’s special about this alleyway is that it’s pink. We don’t mean a little pink. We mean from the roof of buildings down to the walkway, everything is painted a bright pink. It’s a short walk through the alley, but it’s a unique spot that you can’t miss.

Teleferico to Isabel de Torres (Cable Car)

We mentioned Isabel de Torres — the mountain that overlooks the city with stunning views. There are two ways up. First, you can drive up, or you can take a cable car (also known as the Teleferico). The entrance is about a mile from the cruise port in town. From here you can hop aboard the car for the ride to the top, providing stunning views as you do. Once there, you’ll be right at the Christ the Redeemer statue and can tour the mountain top before heading back down.

Ocean World

You can think of Ocean World as a Puerto Plata version of SeaWorld. It’s a popular spot to enjoy with families as there is lots for kids to do and it sits roughly in the middle between the two cruise ports in the area. You can purchase a day pass (or book an excursion through the cruise line) that gives you access to snorkeling, animal shows, beach, pool, and waterslides. In addition, there are other opportunities to do things like swim with dolphins, or shark and sea lion encounters for an extra cost.

Playa Neptuno

In Puerto Plata there are plenty of beaches — the entire city sits on the coast. But one of the neatest is Playa Neptuno. That’s because sitting off the coast is a small island about 1,000 feet from shore. There is an imposing statue of Neptune erected that looks back over the beach. Perhaps best of all, this beach area is much calmer and quieter than the busy port areas if you’re looking for a place to swim.

Fort San Felipe

We’ve mentioned the history in Puerto Plata, but unfortunately much has been lost to time. One spot that remains is Fortaleza San Felipe. It sits overlooking the Taino Bay cruise port, and when it was built in 1577, it served to protect the harbor from pirates. These days you can tour the fort or just explore the park that surrounds it, with views of the ships, the ocean, and lots of green space.

Amber Museum

Jurassic Park fans may remember one of the opening scenes where a mine in the Dominican Republic finds a piece of amber with a mosquito trapped inside. That led to the cloning of dinosaurs and the invention of the park. These days, amber is a big part of Puerto Plata’s history and culture. You’ll find it for sale in many shops. If you want to know more, you can check out the Amber Museum , which includes a chance to see pieces with historic animals, plants, and insects encased inside.

Parque Central

In most Latin American cities, there is a central plaza that serves as the heart of the city. Puerto Plata fits that bill as well. Parque Central is an open square with seating, vendors, historic statues, and all lined by Spanish colonial architecture including a massive church. Have a seat and you can people watch to your heart’s content. It also serves as a great starting point for exploring the downtown area.

Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

Sure there is lots of history and culture in the area. But when you’re on a cruise, sometimes you just want to party a bit. In that case, look for shore excursions being offered by the cruise line for catamaran sailing with snorkeling. These trips will pick you up, take you on a catamaran ride to a snorkel spot. After a round of snorkeling, it’s back on the ship for lunch, open bar, and music. It’s a fun way to spend the day on the water having a great time.

All-Inclusive Beach Day

Another way to spend the day is with a shore excursion to one of the many all-inclusive resorts in the area. Check your cruise line’s listing of offers. They will likely have 2-3 different options that include time at a beach with food and drinks served. It can be an easy way to spend some time enjoying yourself without the crowds that you’ll find in the port areas.

Damajagua Waterfalls

One of the natural wonders of the area is Damajagua Waterfalls. If you’re wanting an adventure along with something that you can’t do anywhere else, this is it. Your cruise line will have an excursion to the area, which takes you into the forest. You’ll be given a helmet and life jacket, hike into the area where waterfalls and natural pools of water are found. From there, you can slide down the falls or jump off the small cliffs (there are also ladders available). It’s not ideal for small kids or older folks, but those looking for adventure will love it.

Puerto Plata Cruise Tips & Things to Know

If you’re visiting Puerto Plata on a cruise, here are some tips and things to know that can make your day run smoother.

Factor in Ride Costs on Shore Excursions

If you’re looking at an excursion and wondering if you can do it cheaper on your own… likely not. That’s because taxi prices in the area are ridiculously high. A ride from Amber Cove to the city center is only about 6-7 miles but costs $70 round trip. Keep that in mind when considering what you plan to do for the day.

Free Wi-fi in Port

If you’re in port, look around for shops or restaurants offering wi-fi services. As a perk to get you in the door, many offer up wi-fi access for no charge, giving you a chance to check email or get in touch back home for cheap.

Photo Opportunities Are Everywhere

If you want to get a picture in front of the ship, you’re in luck. Both ports offer lots of opportunities to get a souvenir shot. Amber Cove, for instance, features a massive sign that you can stand between, with the cruise ship over your shoulder.

An Easy Rule for Exchange Rates

The U.S. dollar is widely accepted in Puerto Plata, but many things are priced only in Dominican pesos. If you’re wondering about the exchange rate, it’s currently around 55 pesos to 1 dollar. While it’s not perfect, an easy rule of thumb is to just double the price in Dominican pesos and then put a decimal point two places in. So if something is priced at 350 pesos, double it to 700 and then put a decimal two spots in for $7.00. A t-shirt costing 1,300 pesos comes out to roughly $26.00 in U.S. dollars. It’s not perfect, but an easy way to ballpark costs.

Heading to Explore Town? Take Screenshots of a Map Before You Leave

One easy thing to do in port is simply walk around the downtown area, exploring on your own or seeing the sights like Paseo de Dona Blanco or the town square. If you decide to do this, it’s smart to take screenshots of the area on your mapping app for your phone. This way, even if you don’t have service you will have a map to refer to in order to get around town.

Try to Visit Umbrella Street Early

One of the most popular sights in the city is Umbrella Street, but if you’re going to visit, then it’s a good idea to try and go earlier in the day. Given its popularity, the place can fill up in the afternoon when everyone is out and about. An earlier visit should give you more time for pictures without having too many other people in the shot.

Public Beaches Are Everywhere

If you just want to hang on the beach, then there are a number of public beaches around. However, the port areas themselves don’t offer public beach access. You’ll have to go outside the port to hit the sand and surf. You can walk the avenue that runs along the coast until you find a spot you like. As well, many beaches have a number of restaurants and beach bars where you can also have a bite to eat in the shade.

Amber Cove Passengers Will Need a Ride Anywhere

While passengers in Taino Bay can simply walk into town, if you’re docked at Amber Cove (for Carnival ships), then no such luck. Here the walk from the ship to out of the port’s gate is roughly half a mile. And after that there isn’t anything else within walking distance. That means if you’re wanting to go explore, you’ll need to pay a taxi fare or book an excursion.

You Can Easily Spend All Day in Port Areas (But You’ll Miss Out)

Not feeling adventurous? Or maybe you just want to have a low-key day. In that case, you absolutely can have a full day without leaving the port area. Both Taino Bay and Amber Cove offer areas for passengers tp enjoy without ever leaving the port. This includes pools, shopping, and restaurants. To be sure, this isn’t the real Puerto Plata or Dominican Republic, and we think you’ll miss out on a lot by not getting out and exploring. But if you want it easy, it doesn’t get any easier.

Be Ready for Rain

In total, Puerto Plata gets about 60 inches of rain a year. The good news is that during the busy summer months of June-September, it’s fairly dry with only 2-3 inches of rain on average per month. But November through May see anywhere from 5 inches up to 9 inches (November and December) on average each month. In other words, if visiting in the winter, pack a rain jacket just in case.

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Note your point that taxes from Amber cove are ridiculously high. But if docking at Taino Bay, a) taxi to downtown ex Pink Alley – ?. b) taxi cost from port to cable car c) cable car round trip cost. d) Time to allocate for cable car trip up, a walk around, cable car trip back ? Thank you in advance

Unsure of those prices. However, the cable car is relatively close to Taino Bay — about a 20 minute walk.

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La Romana (Dominican Republic) Cruise Port Guide (2023)

Basic guide to La Romana cruise port (in the Dominican Republic): discover where cruise ships dock and what's at the cruise terminal, how to explore La Romana, the best things to do, shore excursions, and all you must know.

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: May 28, 2023

The port of La Romana (in the Dominican Republic) has many highlights, such as the stunning islands of Saona and Catalina; the top attractions in Altos de Chavón, Punta Cana, and Santo Domingo; and the numerous beach resorts in Bayahibe and Dominicus.

• Where is La Romana and cruise ships dock
• The Cruise Terminal
• How to explore La Romana
• Top 15 Things to do
• Shore excursions (Shorex)

La Romana is a regularly visited cruise port of call in the Caribbean itineraries during the Fall-Winter season, with as many as 395,000 passengers and close to 140 cruise ship visits in the 2018-2019 season.

The cruise port of La Romana has a very appealing character: the area is neat and immaculately kept. On the whole, La Romana is safe. Locals tend to be very friendly but not pushy and speak English reasonably well.

For those cruising with families, there is a lot to do. Cruise passengers with walking difficulties will find it easy to wander around on their own in the La Romana cruise terminal.

Where is La Romana and the cruise terminal

La Romana (a small port city with a population of around 130,400) is in the eponymous southern province of the Dominican Republic. The port city is on the southeast coast of the island, bathed by the Caribbean Sea. The cruise port in La Romana is around 200 miles (340 km) west of San Juan and 421 miles (678 km) north of Aruba .

Thanks to its location, La Romana is a regular port of call in itineraries sailing east and west Caribbean cruises. Cruises to La Romana usually call at popular ports such as Amber Cove , Curaçao , Bonaire , and Grand Turk . Cruise lines like Regent and NCL also call at top ports in the Eastern Caribbean like Antigua , Barbados , St. Lucia , and St. Maarten . Royal Caribbean cruise ships usually include a call at Labadee in their itineraries.

Homeport, embarking and disembarking in La Romana

La Romana is also a turnaround port (or homeport) for many years. The cruise terminal in La Romana is reasonably close to two international airports (La Romana International Airport and Punta Cana Airport), both with excellent worldwide connections. La Romana airport is 5 miles northeast of the cruise terminal and has daily direct flights to and from Miami.

German cruise lines AIDA and TUI use the port to embark and disembark passengers for a few years, and so does Marella (British). Although Carnival Cruise ships regularly visit La Romana, they never used the port as a homeport.

Where cruise ships dock

Cruise ships dock on the mouth of Rio Dulce (known in English as La Romana River). Two large cruise ships can berth simultaneously on two quays (one on each riverbank). The eastern quay has a pier for cruise ships up to 1148 ft (350 m) long, while cruise ships up to 820 ft (250 m) long can dock the western quay.

Cruise ships docked at La Romana cruise port

Photo: Public Domain

The western quay is a mixed industrial and cruise pier with very basic services and amenities. By contrast, the eastern dock is for the exclusive use of cruise ships and has an excellent open-air cruise terminal.

What's at La Romana Cruise Terminal

The cruise terminal in La Romana is also known as Sugar Breeze Cruise Terminal. The open-air terminal has a few buildings with services and amenities just yards away from your cruise ship gangway, not more than a 5-minute walk.

Here are the services and amenities you will find at the Sugar Breeze Cruise Terminal :

• Information desk
• Shopping area
• Bar and Coffe Shop
• Local handicraft stalls
• Independent shorex meeting point
• Chu-Chu train to downtown
• Suttle bus to Altos de Chavón

The exit of the cruise terminal is on the eastern end. By the exit gates, there is an excellent Information Desk . We advise cruise passengers wishing to explore La Romana on their own to check this desk for updated information such as taxi fares and to pick up a map of the area. Bear in mind that you will have to show your shipboard card when re-entering the cruise terminal.

How to explore La Romana on a cruise

Cruise passengers wondering what to do on a cruise to La Romana will find that some attractions are better to enjoy with cruise excursions. That's the case if you wish to explore the highlights of Santo Domingo , enjoy a beach break in Catalina Island , or kayak in the C havón River . But there are experiences that cruise visitors can easily enjoy independently or on their own.

You can easily visit the village of Altos de Chavón , take a beach break in the resorts of Bayahibe and Dominicus , or a walk around downtown La Romana at your leisure. Here are the four possible ways to discover La Romana:

• Book a Shore Excursion
• Shuttle bus and Chu-Chu train
• Taxi and Uber

Things to do in La Romana cruise port

Besides famous top sites like the village of Altos de Chavón (Casa del Campo), cruise passengers will have the opportunity to enjoy many activities and explore unusual attractions on a cruise to La Romana. Here are the top 15 things to do in La Romana cruise port:

• Swim with Dolphins Enjoy a show, have face-to-face encounters, or swim with dolphins in one of the two top-rated dolphin parks in the Caribbean.
• Visit the village of Altos de Chavón Altos the Chavón is a replica of a sixteenth-century Mediterranean village, surrounded by lush vegetation, and unique views over the river Chavón.
• Tour the city of Santo Domingo The capital of the Dominican Republic (965,000 population) is one of the most vibrant cities in the Caribbean with a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Enjoy a Zipline Adventure Cruise lines offer zipline adventures in two different places relatively close to La Romana port: the Cumayasa Sky Adventure and the Scape Park.
• Sail on a catamaran and snorkel in Punta Cana Sailing the coastline of Punta Cana and snorkeling at the Underwater Museum is a rare experience.
• Discover the Dominican countryside Cruise passengers interested in sightseeing and cultural experiences will find shore excursions touring the Dominican countryside.
• Drive a four-wheel buggy Ride in a two-person all-terrain vehicle through rural landscapes and the dramatic scenery of the Cumayasa River.
• Relax on a Beach resort Cruise passengers that like to spend the day in port on a all-inclusive beach resort will find excelent day-pass and shore excursions.
• Go to a public beach on your own Cruise passengers that like to spend a day on the beach without paying for a shore excursion or a resort day-pass can get a taxi to public beaches close to the port in La Romana.
• Saona Island Escape Saona island is known for its paradisiacal beaches, excellent snorkeling, and scuba diving. Columbus named the heavenly island after the Italian city of Savona.
• Discover Taino Caves and tour San Pedro The Cueva de las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders) has excellently preserved pictographs and petroglyphs by the Taino.
• Go horseback riding The equestrian center at the Casa de Campo Resort is one of the best in the Caribbean to enjoy horseback riding.
• Enjoy a beach break in Catalina Island Despite its small size, Isla Catalina is a popular destination to visit on a cruise to La Romana port.
• Chavón River kayaking and sightseeing The River Chavón was the setting of blockbuster movies such as Apocalypse Now, Rambo, and Jurassic Park.
• Scuba for certified divers Scuba diving in popular sites right off Catalina island is spectacular.

Cruise shore excursions and tours

All cruise lines calling at La Romana offer many and diverse shore excursions in La Romana. These include many different combos, and you may enjoy distinct experiences and attractions on the same cruise excursion. It is advisable to look into the excursions cruise lines offer before deciding what to do on a cruise to La Romana.

Royal Caribbean offers 10 shore excursions , and Carnival lists 26 cruise excursions . Although most luxury cruise lines include shore excursions with the cruise fare, Regent lists 10 excursions .

There are also excursions offered by the following reputable private online services and local tour operators:

• Shore Excursions Group
• Tours by Locals

Language : Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic. English is reasonably well-spoken in all major touristic areas and sites.

Currency : The Domican Peso is the legal tender in the Dominican Republic but the US$ and the Euro (€) are widely accepted in most tourist areas.

Nearest US Consulate to La Romana

Consular Agency Bavaro/Punta Cana The consulate angency is 55.8 miles east of La Romana, around 1-hour drive. Address: Palma Real Shopping Village, Business Center, Second Floor, Suite 1, Bávaro. Open: Monday through Friday, from 8:30am to 12:30pm, and from 2:00pm to 5:00pm Website: do.usembassy.gov

Travel advise

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to the Dominican Republic see the U.S. Department of State website page evolving advisory.

Coronavirus advice for La Romana cruises

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to the Dominican Republic and La Romana visit the U.S. Embassy on the Dominican Republic website . For a more comprehensive Traveler's Health advice to the Dominican Republic see the CDC Website .

La Romana Basic Info at a Glance

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The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursion of La Romana Cruise Port. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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Punta Cana (Dominicana)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-09-09 08:50

Port Punta Cana cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Punta Cana, Dominicana. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Punta Cana is a balneario (seaside resort town) in La Altagracia - Dominican Republic's easternmost province. The area is best known for its luxury resorts and pristine beaches, making it one of the country's most popular vacation destinations for international tourists.

Nearby are the country's capital city Santo Domingo de Guzman , Samana , La Romana . The Basilica Catholic Monument is in Higuey (Province's 500-year-old capital). Major resort developments in Punta Cana include Puntacana Resort, Motel 6, Majestic Elegance, Cap Cana.

The road distance between Punta Cana and La Romana (Dominicana's main cruise port) is approx 80 km (50 mi) to the west. From Punta Cana (as cruise shore excursions) are offered activities like windsurfing, speedboating, snorkeling and scuba diving, catamaran and sailboat tours, deepsea sport fishing, banana boat rides, swimming with dolphins-sharks-stingrays, floating spas, party boats and private yacht charters, also land-based tours (safaris, dune buggying, horseback riding). Another opportunity is visiting small islands like Saona and Catalina .

Punta Cana Airport serves international flights and by annual traffic (2,4+ million passengers) is ranked the Caribbean's second-busiest (after San Juan Puerto Rico 's Luis Munoz Marín Airport/aka Isla Verde).

The area has population around 50,000, with annual growth rate of 6%. The most popular beaches are Cabeza de Toro, Bavaro and El Cortecito - all located to the north. The nearest city (Higüey) is 45 km (28 mi) away (about 1-hour drive distance). European (mainly Spanish) hotel chains own all but 2 of the over 50 mega-resorts in Punta Cana.

The province's 100-km (62-mi) long coastline tends to be mildly windy. Atlantic Ocean waters are predominantly shallow, with a few natural marine pools which are safe for swimming.

By annual passenger traffic (statistical data 2019), the Caribbean's top-10 largest airports are:

• Luis Munoz Marin Airport/aka Isla Verde ( San Juan Puerto Rico ) with ~9,5 million pax
• Punta Cana Airport (Punta Cana Dominicana) with ~7,2 million pax
• Jose Marti Airport ( Havana Cuba ) with 5,7+ million pax
• Sangster Airport ( Montego Bay Jamaica ) with ~4,8 million pax
• Lynden Pindling Airport ( Nassau Bahamas ) with ~4,1 million pax
• Las Americas Airport ( Santo Domingo Dominicana ) with ~4 million pax
• Piarco Airport ( Port-of-Spain Trinidad ) with 2,8+ million pax
• Queen Beatrix Airport ( Oranjestad Aruba ) with 2,5+ million pax
• Pointe-a-Pitre Airport ( Pointe-a-Pitre Guadeloupe ) with ~2,5 million pax
• Grantley Adams Airport ( Bridgetown Barbados ) with ~2,3 million pax

This explains why these port cities are used as seasonal turnaround ports for homeporting (roundtrip itineraries) by many major cruise companies with ship deployments in the Caribbean.

Punta Cana cruise terminal

Cruise ships to Punta Cana anchor at sea - near Marina Cap Cana - to where their passengers are transported via the ship's tender boats.

The yacht marina has over 130 boat slips, with capacity to accommodate boats with max LOA length 46 m (150 ft).

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Home » Dominican Republic

A New Cruise Port Is Opening in the Dominican Republic 

The Dominican Republic’s newest cruise port will welcome its first cruise ship in December, according to Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader. 

The Puerto Cabo Rojo port will welcome a Royal Caribbean ship on Dec. 18 carrying around 3,000 passengers. 

Passengers’ shore excursions will focus on eco-destinations in the area and the surrounding region of Enriquillo, according to Dominican tourism officials. 

It’s part of an increasingly strong cruise industry in the Dominican Republic that has seen more than 1.5 million cruise passengers so far in 2023, according to the country’s Ministry of Tourism. 

Cabo Rojo is part of a major tourism investment by the country’s government in a new tourism pole it is developing called Pedernales. 

Pedernales has been the target of a growing number of hotel investors; the first new hotels will likely begin opening their doors in the area in 2025. 

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Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic - new Royal port stop

By DrProfessor , May 7 in Royal Caribbean International

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DrProfessor

Just got an email about our October 11, 2024 Southern Caribbean sailing saying they are adding Cabo Rojo as a port stop on the way back from Aruba and this sailing will be the first ever stop for Royal at this port (I am guessing a little extra hoopla associated with it).

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Was this a replacement to a cancelled port or just an extra port stop instead of sea day?

neverbeenhere

So, they are saying they're going to have another stay on the ship day?

I see the future schedule show a couple NCL, Costa and Holland ships visiting.

8 minutes ago, Tree_skier said: Was this a replacement to a cancelled port or just an extra port stop instead of sea day?

Added port stop (replacing a sea day)

2 hours ago, Tree_skier said: Was this a replacement to a cancelled port or just an extra port stop instead of sea day?

2 hours ago, neverbeenhere said: So, they are saying they're going to have another stay on the ship day? I see the future schedule show a couple NCL, Costa and Holland ships visiting.

Did a Google Earth search of the port - there is literally nothing there. No town, no infrastructure, just a pier sticking out from a desert and an artificially created port venue (think Costa Maya before they built up the port area).

Definitely a stay on the ship day for us 🙄

leaveitallbehind

Pass.  Rather have the extra time being cut out at Aruba and the day at sea.

Nice looking airstrip there, maybe we could take the airstrip run excursion?

Small beach club for a beach day, if one needs a beach day.

smokeybandit

Looks like literally a new cruise port. And new everything.

https://www.cruisehive.com/norwegian-cruise-line-will-visit-new-dominican-cruise-port/94616

11 minutes ago, smokeybandit said: Looks like literally a new cruise port. And new everything.   https://www.cruisehive.com/norwegian-cruise-line-will-visit-new-dominican-cruise-port/94616

Interesting article. sounds like it will be nice if it ever gets built 😱 🙄

Just now, orville99 said: Interesting article. sounds like it will be nice if it ever gets built 😱 🙄

Looks like it's been open since January. And it doesn't look all that impressive. At least yet

https://www.cruisehive.com/new-caribbean-cruise-port-welcomes-first-ever-guests/120048

I prefer ports of call that have real places to go and a variety of things to do instead of a confined manufactured space.  JMO.  

• 3 months later...

Cliff and Cove

I just wanted to provide a little more insight on Cabo Rojo, Pedernales. We are a local travel blog that focuses on the south of the Dominican Republic and have been following the new Cabo Rojo port progress. It's much better now than when the cruises first started coming in January! 

Check out this post that discusses the cruise excursions vs. local guides in the area, and a little more about what each excursion entails.    Bahia de las Aguilas is a virgin beach in a natural park, and one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. Typically, it's a challenge to get there - so arriving by cruise ship, is defintely convienent. Oviedo Lagoon is also a gorgeous preserved area that is home to a variety of wildlife - a trip is here is truly unique! There are quite a few options in the area. 

Here is a little more info about the Cabo Rojo Project. The deep south of the DR is truly a beautiful place! We hope you enjoy your brief stay and come back for longer! 

• 2 weeks later...

I just received this from Royal in regards to my Dec. 2025 cruise on Oasis... 

I'm wondering if this port will also be an option should they cancel my Labadee stop in Dec 2024

jenushkask8s

We have a southern on Oasis in September 2025 and got the same email today. 

wonder if it'll be better than Puerto Plata?

It's one of those "make a cruise port out of nothing" stops with a couple construction phases. It was fronted by Norwegian and they started going there in January.

25 minutes ago, toad455 said: wonder if it'll be better than Puerto Plata?

Probably not… at least not for a while? I Really liked PP, probably second favorite port area after Costa Maya as far as immediate port area go. Lots to do even if you don’t leave // go on an excursion 

We got the same notice today for our Oasis cruise in September, 2025. Never been there, so ok with the change.

On 5/7/2024 at 4:09 PM, leaveitallbehind said: I prefer ports of call that have real places to go and a variety of things to do instead of a confined manufactured space.  JMO.  

 We felt Puerto Plata was a confined manufactured place...Not looking forward to this port stop again for us in March/April 2025. Oh well the rest of our 11 night itinerary is great.

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10 Major Ports In The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic in the Caribbean is a small nation located on the Eastern half of the Hispaniola island (neighbouring Haiti) of the Greater Antilles archipelago. Its capital is Santo Domingo and is a relatively small country with less than 11 million people.

Despite its size, the Dominican Republic is the 8th largest economy of Latin America and has a 5.3% GDP growth rate. The industries that largely power this strong economic performance of this country are tourism, mining, shipping, and manufacturing. As it experiences the largest percentage of tourism amongst all the other Caribbean nations, this finances a large part of the shipping industry, with a focus on cruises and other passenger based seaborne transportation.

The other thing is that the location of the numerous ports in the Dominican Republic places it in a highly lucrative position where it receives a large amount of trade and commerce, alongside passenger transit and tourism. The primary trade takes place with the neighbouring islands and nations in the Americas. In addition to direct exports, these ports also handle transhipments. Since it is located in an archipelago, the sheltered coves are ideal regions to set up ports.

Ports in the Dominican Republic play a major role in the economy since a large part of the industrial sector is dependent to some extent on the export of various commodities out of the country.

In this article, we will take a look at the 10 major ports in the Dominican Republic and the role they play in the nation and the global shipping industry.

1. Port of Santo Domingo DOSDQ, Santo Domingo

Situated in the capital city of Santo Domingo, this is an important port in the Dominican Republic. Located close to the Rio Haina harbour, it deals with sugar, fruits, coffee, and other local products. The port is located on the river Rio Ozama which flows into the city of Santo Domingo.

Despite being a major port, traffic had decreased during the early 2000s. To turn this around, a complete renovation of the entre port was approved by the government in 2005. This consisted of the overhaul of the existing Don Domingo terminal and the construction of the new Sans Souci terminal. Some additional facilities were added to improve the port, such as a turning basin (to facilitate ship reversal), large channels, and local development.

The Don Domingo terminal is primarily a cruise facility with 2 wings to deal with incoming passengers. The Sans Souci terminal also deals with passenger ships such as cruises and homeport vessels (yachts, luxury boats, pleasure vessels). The port is built to deal with cargo shipments such as fuel, asphalt, gasoline etc.

2. Port of Rio Haina DOHAI, Haina

Also known as the Haina Occidental Port, this Southern port in the Dominican Republic has been operational from 1952. It is situated on the Haina river and is comprised of the Haina Occidental and Oriental terminals on each bank. They were initially built to supplement the port of Santo Domingo. The main operations include cargo handling in the form of transhipment, imports, and exports.

The port of Haina is located in between 2 other major ports- the Caucedo and Puerto Palenque harbour. Together, they manage nearly 95% of the total container traffic through the country, with Haina handling 27.4% of the TEU traffic in 2017. The building of the nearby Caucedo Port reduced the traffic through Haina. At present, it deals with regional shipments, petroleum products, bulk goods, Ro-Ro carriers, and liquid cargo.

3. Port of Puerto Plata DOPOP, San Felipe

The harbour at Puerto Plata serves as the main Northern port in the Dominican Republic. Due to its proximity to inland waterways and important international waterways, a significant amount of container and cargo traffic is handled by the port’s facilities. The terminal allocated to handle cargo shipments is known locally as the Muelle Nuevo (new dock ).

Another large source of income to the port is the tourism and cruise ship industry. Due to the presence of several Caribbean resorts located in the region, cruise liners regularly frequent the port. Current efforts are underway to rebuild and repair the old terminal so that it may function as a commercial passenger facility. Called locally as the Muelle Viejo (old dock), the port will cater to the passengers entering the region from the North.

In addition to handling cargo and passenger ships, the port at Puerto Plata is used at present for minor military purposes due to its strategic location. While the port does not house naval warships, it is used during strategic military manoeuvres.

4. Port of Barahona DOBRX, Santa Cruz de Barahona

Located on a natural coast to the South, the Port of Barahona is a major port in the region, with 4 operating terminals that supplement the trade throughout the region. It was built in the 1950s and is currently run under the Dominican Port Authority.

The terminals that operate in this port are- Consorcio Azucarero Central, Muelle del Central Azucarero, Muelle de Barahona, and EGE Haina. The overall traffic through this port has declined over the years, despite handling cargoes of minerals, petroleum and oil products, sugar, and gypsum. The gypsum and sugar industries have helped the port to continue operating despite financial issues. The Central Azucarero terminal deals with sugar shipping while the Barahona Dock deals with gypsum. The remaining terminals repair ships and provide berthing spaces for queued vessels.

5. Port of Caucedo DOBCC, Boca Chica

As the youngest port in the Dominican Republic, the Port of Caucedo is highly developed and modernized. It is managed by DP World (Dubai Port World) that operates the port as a global free zone and as a maritime terminal. The port structure is intended to allow ships to simultaneously discharge cargo.

It is the largest port in terms of trade volume as it handles over 66% of the total TEU movement through the Dominican Republic. Also, the Caucedo Logistics Center is the only port-based free trade zone in the region. There is a single container terminal built in 2003 and has undergone extensive reconstructions to allow more ships to enter and dock. The port is benefited by its proximity to the Las Americas International Airport.

The port of Caucedo primarily services cargo ships from the Caribbean and other large vessels originating from around the world. It has facilities to handle ships measuring over 300 meters in length, such as the COSCO Yantian that is 350 meters in length. The ongoing construction work aims at increasing the port capacity.

6. Port of Samana DOAZS, Samana Peninsula

As the primary cruise ship port in the Dominican Republic, the port of Samana receives tourists from around the world. It is a major destination for cruise lines such as the Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Caribbean, and Holland America. Located on the Samana Peninsula, the port has facilities intended to boost the tourism industry of the region.

Cruise ships are accommodated at berths located away from the main city and have established connectivity with other cities in the area. It is located in a sheltered cover that allows vessels to safely dock without the need for extensive embankments. The Port of Samana is classified as a small port. Despite its size, it is a major port that supplements the tourism of the neighbouring regions.

7. Port of Manzanillo DOMAN, Pepillo Salcedo

The port at Manzanillo is located close to the Dominican border with Haiti and is operated by the Dominican Port Authority. It primarily handles food exports, concrete, clinker etc. It is a small port in the region and mainly deals with ships to and from Europe and the Americas. It was set up in the 1950s by La Grenada that dealt with exporting fruits through the Dominican Fruit Company. It was leased by the government and is currently undergoing reconstruction work so that the harbour can receive larger ships.

8. Port of Puerto Palenque DOPAL, San Cristobal Province

The port of Puerto Palenque is a minor harbour and is one of the smallest ports in the country. It is located near the larger ports of Caucedo and Rio Haina, which ensures that any traffic that overflows from these ports is redirected to Palenque. This provides a steady source of the traffic to the port and supports the local tourism sector.

Alongside commercial passenger traffic, the port is also built to handle crude oil tankers that supply the Dominican Republic’s oil refineries. The port is frequented by small vessels that ply along the coast of the country. The Palenque port is operated under the Dominican Ports Authority.

9. Port of San Pedro de Masan DOSPM, San Pedro de Macoris

Also, know as the port of San Pedro de Macoris, this is the oldest port in the Dominican Republic. It mainly services and handles cargoes and goods to and from Europe and the Americas. Initially, it was built to supplement the Port of Santo Domingo that is a major port of the region. This was partly due to the large inflow of vessels entering Santo Domingo that created a backlog of vessels. The port began construction in the late 19th century and is located on the river Higuamo flowing through the Macoris province.

The port of San Pedro largely handles cement, coal, diesel, and LPG cargo. In addition, it is built to manage the export of agricultural goods and products such as sugar, wheat, and fertilizer. Currently, this port is undergoing refurbishment and restructuring as part of an expansion effort to handle more incoming vessels. It only handles minor cargo operations at the moment.

An important point to note is that the Port of San Pedro has become a hydro-hub for Pan American World Airways, and is a base for the airlines’ operations in the region.

10. Port of Viejo de Azua DOAZU, Azua Province

Classified as a very small port, this port primarily services small vessels, cruise ships, and local coastal boats and trawlers. The local vessels are responsible for maintaining the trade and commerce between the various parts of the nation. This port can support vessels up to 150 meters in length. Despite being located farther inland as opposed to other ports such as Barahona, Viejo de Azua is a natural coast with very poor sheltering.

At the moment, this is one of the smallest ports in the Dominican, and houses piers for smaller vessels. One main reason for the lack of large-scale commerce through this port is its proximity to other larger ports such as Barahona and Haina. For this reason, it primarily is used by local ships and trawlers. It is also used to handle the overflow of ships from the surrounding ports during peak shipping seasons.

To improve the port and boost trade through it, proposals are currently being considered to create natural embankments to allow more vessels to safely enter the port. Additionally, efforts are being made to connect the port to major cities and other ports through rail and road transportation.

Note on Other Ports in the Dominican Republic

In addition to all these ports mentioned in this article, there are several other ports in the region that service smaller vessels and only cater to a lower percentage of the country’s trade. Some of these ports are Port of La Vega (DOLAV), Port of Las Calderas (DOLCS), Port of Luperon (DOLUP), Port of San Felipe (DOSFP), Port of Salcedo (DOSAL), and Port of Sabana de la Mer (DOSNX).

Disclaimer : The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

About Author

Ajay Menon is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, with an integrated major in Ocean Engineering and Naval Architecture. Besides writing, he balances chess and works out tunes on his keyboard during his free time.

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San Juan cruise port guide: Top things to see and do in Puerto Rico

P uerto Rico offers a host of lures for cruise travelers — rich history, stunning beaches, natural beauty and fantastic cuisine among them. The island's capital city, San Juan, is a popular port of call for a variety of operators, including Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean, Holland America , Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Crystal.

Additionally, San Juan is a departure port for several cruise lines. Royal Caribbean, Viking , Virgin Voyages , Norwegian and Princess sail round-trip itineraries from San Juan. Cruisers who embark in Puerto Rico 's capital city will likely fly into Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU), 3 miles southeast of downtown in the neighborhood of Isla Verde. There are frequent, daily connections from the U.S., Canada and Europe. The airport is about 7 miles from the cruise port (or about a 15-minute drive).

San Juan is a modern metropolis with upscale dining and shopping. Its numerous attractions make arriving a day or two early a rewarding option for travelers whose ships home port in the city. Points and miles hotels near the San Juan cruise port are plentiful, too. Caribe Hilton, Residence Inn San Juan Isla Verde, Aloft San Juan and San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino are a few to consider.

If your next Caribbean cruise adventure stops at the San Juan cruise port, let this be your guide for how to spend your day ashore.

San Juan cruise port overview

3 things tpg loves about the san juan cruise port.

• A walkable historic district
• Delicious local cuisine and a thriving rum scene
• Rich cultural attractions from 500-year-old forts and structures to art and history museums

What we could do without

• Although the historic district is walkable, cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks make it challenging for those with mobility issues.
• Old San Juan can be crowded in peak cruise season.

San Juan cruise port fast facts

Arrival details.

The San Juan cruise port is one of the Caribbean's busiest. The port can accommodate up to nine ships a day and often hosts at least seven at once per day.

The Old San Juan Piers are at Marina Street, at the center of the historic district. The cruise port is within easy walking distance to many of the city's significant historic and cultural sites, including the iconic San Felipe del Morro fort (commonly known as El Morro). The port features modern terminal buildings, and passengers will find tours and transportation staged nearby.

Pier 1 is used by Azamara , Windstar Cruises , Silversea Cruises and Seabourn .

Pier 3 mainly serves Royal Caribbean and its enormous Oasis Class ships. Norwegian, Virgin, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises also dock here. The terminal features a two-story complex that houses restaurants, galleries and a duty-free shopping center.

Pier 4 is used and managed by Carnival Cruise Line, but MSC Cruises and Holland America also dock here.

San Juan's Pan American Pier is situated south of the Old San Juan district of Isla Grande and mainly serves larger cruise vessels of lines like Princess Cruises , Celebrity and Disney Cruise Line . It's about a 10- to 15-minute drive to or from Old San Juan, so you'll want to take a taxi or cruise line shuttle (if provided).

Most ships call at the port for up to eight hours, giving cruisers time to explore several Puerto Rico highlights. Ships arrive in San Juan as early as 7 a.m. and sail late in the evening.

Ships that home port in San Juan typically depart as late as 7 or 8 p.m. If you're taking a round-trip sailing that leaves from San Juan, check your cruise line's boarding documents to confirm which pier you'll need to get to on embarkation day.

Languages: Spanish and English

Currency: U.S. dollar

Time zone: Puerto Rico uses Eastern Standard Time. It does not observe daylight saving time.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

Top things to do in San Juan cruise port

Puerto Rico's historic capital of San Juan offers cruisers a wide selection of port call diversions. Much of San Juan's interesting historical sites and museums are near the cruise port, including San Cristobal and El Morro forts, La Fortaleza and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Additionally, tons of locally owned shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants await visitors.

You'll also find a bevy of bars, restaurants, craft shops and boutiques within San Juan's Condado and Isla Verde districts. The Condado neighborhood is less than a 10-minute taxi drive from the cruise port, while Isla Verde is about 15 minutes away. Here are a few ways cruisers can spend their day exploring San Juan.

Old San Juan walking tour

You don't have to be a history buff to enjoy the more than 500-year-old walled city of Old San Juan. Its rainbow-hued Spanish colonial architecture, towering forts that overlook the Caribbean Sea and charming cobblestone streets beg exploration. The city is replete with attractions worth exploring either on your own or through a guided tour.

The historic district is fairly compact, so you can make the most of your DIY walking tour without rushing. Additionally, you can use your phone's GPS or Google Maps if you need to. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so phone service from most major U.S. carriers works here (and American visitors don't need an international plan to make calls).

You can easily fill your time in port with visits to forts like the abovementioned San Cristobal and El Morro. Both are part of the 27-acre San Juan National Historic Site, which also includes Fort Saint John of the Cross and most of the city walls. In addition to providing spectacular views of both the city and sea, highlights here include cannon rooms, a bunker, a dungeon, a plaza, an extensive tunnel system and two observation posts that were added during World War II. Entrance cost is $10 per person, and children 15 and younger are admitted free.

While you're by the fort, make use of the breezes and expansive lawn at El Morro to fly a kite. Didn't pack one? No problem. Many San Juan shops sell them for just this purpose.

Another Old San Juan landmark that should be on your radar is La Fortaleza, the oldest governor's mansion in the Western Hemisphere. It still serves as the official residence and office of Puerto Rico's governor. Free guided tours are offered on weekdays between 8:15 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and include the mansion's Moorish gardens, chapel and dungeon.

In the heart of Old San Juan, the Gothic-style Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is one of the city's oldest buildings, dating back to 1521. It's home to stunning frescoes and stained glass windows. It also holds the tomb of Spanish explorer and Puerto Rico's first governor, Juan Ponce de Leon, as well as the glass-encased mummified remains of St. Pio, a Roman martyr killed for his faith. The cathedral is still an operational church, and there's no charge to enter (but consider leaving a donation to help with restoration work).

A guided culinary tour is a fantastic way to try several of San Juan's best restaurants. It's not just about the food, either. Tours are led by locals who share the history of the communities and people who live here. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the culture that inspired the dishes you'll enjoy during your time in Puerto Rico.

Often called "The Rum Capital of the World," Puerto Rico produces 70% of the rum sold in the U.S. The island's rum production dates back to the early 16th century when Spaniards brought sugar cane crops from Hispaniola (today, the Dominican Republic). For a taste of Puerto Rico's rich rum history, book a tour or mixology class at one of the distilleries. You don't need to be a rum connoisseur to appreciate the enduring mark the spirit has made on Puerto Rico's narrative.

A guided tour of the family-founded Bacardi Rum Distillery offers a historic view of San Juan and Puerto Rico through its sugar cane industry and rum-making heritage. You'll learn all about the rum-making process, from raw cane to molasses to the spirit, as well as sample the finished product. After the tour, peruse the on-site gift shop and museum or grab a bite at the facility's adjoining restaurant.

Centrally located in Old San Juan, La Casita de Rones is the flagship store of Rums of Puerto Rico, the marketing extension of the island's Department of Economic Development and Commerce. Here, you can pair signature rum-based cocktails with authentic Puerto Rican tapas and dishes. The on-site shop is well stocked with glassware, bar accessories, apparel and rum-inspired souvenirs.

Just about 22 miles west of the cruise port, San Juan Artisan Distillers is Puerto Rico's only working sugar cane plantation estate and distillery. Many of the fruit-infused spirits are made from locally sourced fruits. Tour guides offer insight into the rum-making process and showcase the company's dedication to sustainability. A tour also includes a sampling of rums crafted by the distillery.

From art to history, various museums in and around San Juan offer an eclectic perspective of Puerto Rico's culture and roots.

The Museum of the Americas is on the second floor of Old San Juan's historic Ballaja Barracks, a former military barracks used by Spanish soldiers in the 1800s. The museum explores the American experience spanning from 1492 through today with a comprehensive look at Puerto Rican and Latin American culture and heritage. It holds a beautifully curated collection of archaeological relics, pottery and art from the Americas, Africa and the Caribbean, as well as revolving exhibits by local artists.

In San Juan's lively Santurce neighborhood, the 130,000-square-foot Museum of Art of Puerto Rico is one of the Caribbean's largest and teems with more than 1,000 works of renowned Puerto Rican artists, including classical and modern masters like Francisco Oller, Rafael Tufiño and Antonio Martorell. Spend a few tranquil moments wandering through the museum's sculpture garden, where lush plants and bubbling ponds provide an idyllic environment for reflection.

Make time to visit the Casa Blanca Museum, built by Puerto Rico's first governor, Juan Ponce de Leon. Although the governor died before he could move in, his family occupied the home for 250 years. A tour provides a peek into the life of modern Puerto Rico's founding family.

Popular San Juan excursions

Situated about 45 minutes south of San Juan, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. A hike through this 28,000-acre natural wonderland is a bucket-list adventure. The forest is home to hundreds of native plant species and almost 200 kinds of wildlife, including Puerto Rico's iconic coqui frog and one of the planet's most endangered birds, the Puerto Rican parrot.

We recommend bringing a rain poncho, sunscreen and bug spray, and wearing comfortable, waterproof shoes. Also, pack food and water (unless you're with your ship's cruise excursion that covers meals and beverages).

Horseback riding

A handful of tour companies offer horseback riding excursions not too far from the cruise port, with transportation to and from your ship. Outfitters tend to cater their rides to all levels, including young children, which makes it a good excursion for families. You'll find tours to take you along beaches or on mountain trails (or both on some excursions).

Bioluminescent bay

If your cruise ship leaves in the evening, consider booking a bioluminescent bay kayak excursion for a rare opportunity to see one of the world's most magical natural phenomena. Phosphorescent microscopic organisms present in the water glow when disturbed, so a nighttime kayak tour in these glittering waters can offer an other-worldly experience.

There are only five bioluminescent bays in the world, and three of them are in Puerto Rico — Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo and La Parguera in Lajas. Most cruise excursions go to Laguna Grande.

Snorkeling excursions

Cruisers have a good selection of guided snorkeling tours to choose from, both through their cruise ship or independent operators. Tour lengths vary, from an under-two-hour guided snorkel with turtles in the waters off Guaynabo (a suburb of San Juan) to an eight-hour excursion that visits both Flamenco and Culebra beaches on two small islands east of mainland Puerto Rico.

Related: Best Caribbean shore excursions

Best San Juan beaches near the cruise port

Many of Puerto Rico's best beaches are on the island's eastern and western coasts, beyond San Juan's metro area. However, a few local beaches are worth checking out during your day in port.

Condado Beach and Isla Verde Beach are popular options for cruise passengers, thanks to their proximity to the cruise port. Condado Beach is less than 2 miles from the port, while Isla Verde Beach is just over 7 miles away. Both beaches provide convenient access to water sports vendors (jet skiing, kayaking and paddle boarding), bustling restaurants and shopping.

Bordering Old San Juan and the modern Condado District, picturesque El Escambron beach is framed by the city's historic fortifications and modern structures. The beach is within Tercer Milenio Park, which offers recreational activities, including stand-up paddleboarding.

Farther afield, Luquillo Beach is considered one of Puerto Rico's best public beaches. It's just over 33 miles (or about an hour's drive) from the San Juan cruise port. Calm waters make for ideal swimming, kayaking and other activities. Additionally, it's near El Yunque, so some tour operators offer full-day beach and rainforest excursions.

How to get around San Juan on your own

On foot: Several of the island's major sights are within walking distance of the cruise piers, although it's simple to book a tour of local sites through your cruise line.

Taxi: You can find "Taxi Turisticos" right outside the cruise ship terminal. Trips around the San Juan area are metered fares, which are fixed based on zones. All cruise ship piers are within Zone 4, which is $21 for a one-way fare.

Bus and light rail: Public transportation is available throughout the San Juan metro area, with a network of 30 bus routes. A light rail line (Tren Urbano) connects three municipalities (San Juan, Guaynabo and Bayamon). The bus fare is 75¢. One light rail trip costs $1.50. You must purchase a transit pass at any Tren Urbano station to use either buses or the train.

The bus can take you to a handful of tourist spots like the University of Puerto Rico Botanical Garden and the Puerto Rico Museum of Art. However, you're probably better off taking a taxi for a direct (and less crowded) drive.

Bike: Visitors can rent bikes at establishments that are within walking distance of the cruise piers. Try Rent the Bicycle at 100 Muelle Street. A daily rental is about $32, or rent by the hour (around $10).

Car: You can rent a car if you plan to explore beyond the San Juan metro area. However, if you're staying within San Juan and Old San Juan for the day, it's easy to explore on foot, by bike or by taxi.

San Juan restaurants near the cruise port

Puerto Rico is a prime destination for foodie travelers — its cuisine is a vibrant fusion of West African, Spanish, indigenous Taíno and American influences. Add to that a touch of Creole cooking (known as cocina criolla ), similar to Cuban and Dominican cuisine. The island boasts a legacy of diverse cultural influences and an inspired, chef-driven focus on native ingredients. From no-frills eateries to gourmet restaurants, San Juan provides a variety of ways to sample authentic dishes.

Mofongo, the much-loved national dish, is deep-fried mashed plantains served with a side of seafood or meat and chicken broth soup. Santaella and Cayo Caribe are among the best places to try mofongo in San Juan.

Pork is another key ingredient of Puerto Rican cuisine, especially in the form of lechón, a whole pig roasted over a fire for at least four hours. Around an hour's drive south of San Juan, you'll find loads of lechoneras along the Ruta de Lechon (Pork Highway). These rustic, open-fire joints line the road and serve up wood-roasted, pig-on-a-stick. Grab a seat at a picnic table, tuck into a plate and wash it down with a cold local beer. If you'd rather stay in San Juan for the day, you won't have any difficulty finding a restaurant that serves roasted pork.

Other Puerto Rican dishes we recommend include bacalaitos (codfish fritters), aguacate relleno (avocado filled with creamy garlic shrimp) and empanadillas (like an empanada but with less dough). Snag a table at time-tested standouts like El Jibaritoocal, La Garita, La Bombonera or Princesa — Cocina Cultura for authentic local cuisine.

Need to cool off during a hot day in Puerto Rico (or just want a sweet treat)? Enjoy a refreshing paleta, a creamy, fruity frozen dessert on a stick made with natural ingredients.

If you're in the mood for gourmet fare, head to the elegant Condado Vanderbilt Hotel for a meal at 1919, considered the island's best fine-dining restaurant. Executive chef Juan Jose Cuevas worked at the Michelin-starred Blue Hill in New York and is one of Puerto Rico's farm-to-table pioneers.

For cocktails lovers, it's worth noting that Puerto Rico is the birthplace of the iconic piña colada (the island's national drink). Most theories place its invention in San Juan, though the exact location is often disputed. Some claim it was first created in 1954 at the Caribe Hilton Hotel. Others believe it originated at Barrachina restaurant in 1963 (and a plaque at the restaurant's entrance proclaims it). You can't go wrong sampling a pina colada at either location. Or, try one at both and decide which is your favorite.

San Juan cruise port shopping

Old San Juan teems with locally run shops that offer handmade crafts, colorful clothing, hand-rolled cigars, artwork and Puerto Rican coffee and spices. Along the cobblestone streets, you'll also find art galleries and stores selling traditional vejigante masks. A vejigante is a folklore demon in Puerto Rican culture. The brightly colored horned masks are used in carnival celebrations.

Among them is Puerto Rican Arts and Crafts. This family-owned shop opened in 1981 and is still in the original building on Fortaleza Street. It's chock-full of items crafted by Puerto Rican artisans and creatives. You can browse a selection of ceramics, jewelry, hand carvings and authentically farmed Puerto Rican coffees.

Also on Fortaleza Street, Ole Puerto Rico is a family-run, old-world hat emporium that has been a San Juan mainstay since 1977. Friendly artisans will craft a custom-made Panama hat for you while you wait — just choose the style of hat and your preferred headband.

Savor a taste of Puerto Rico after your cruise with a souvenir from Spicy Caribbee. Opened in 1988, the shop is tucked away in one of Old San Juan's cobblestone alleyways on Cristo Street. Here, you'll find a solid collection of sauces, seasonings, jams, chutneys and tea that were acquired locally or within the Caribbean. Spicy Caribbee-branded products like Fuego Hot Sauce and Guava Jam are particularly popular. You'll also find cookbooks, candles, perfume, soap and other items here.

Cigar aficionados should not miss a visit to Don Collins Cigars, also on Cristo Street. Founded in 1506, it's the Caribbean's oldest surviving cigar factory. Cigars are handmade using organically grown and harvested Puerto Rican tobacco. Knowledgable staff members help guide you in finding your ideal cigar, which you can pair with a Puerto Rican rum or beer as you relax in the shop's lounge.

Free things to do near the San Juan cruise port

Tour the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist . As previously mentioned, the cathedral is free to tour. However, we recommend leaving a donation to assist with ongoing restoration efforts.

Feed the birds at Pigeon Park. This public park in Old San Juan is a nice resting spot with benches that look out over the ocean. Visitors can also feed the army of pigeons that make their home there. You can bring your own food to share (free) or buy birdseed from a small kiosk within the park. Note, if you are the least bit weirded out by birds, you might want to skip this one.

Stroll along the picturesque Promenade of the Princess. This flat and easily accessible walkway runs parallel to the water, stretching from the cruise port to El Morro Fort. It's lined with antique streetlamps, trees and benches. You'll also pass by a variety of food vendors and street performers. The walkway's end is punctuated by the compelling Raices Fountain. The water feature and sculpture depict Puerto Rico's African, Spanish and Taíno heritage.

Visit the Lighthouse Art Gallery and Cafe. The world's first physical NFT art gallery is free to visit (though you can donate). The gallery offers two floors with art-projected walls and digital art canvases, with rotating exhibits from featured artists. After perusing the gallery, pop into the bar or cafe for a quick pick-me-up.

Tour the San Juan Museum. Housed within a historic building that once served as Old San Juan's main public market, this museum features cultural, historic and artistic exhibits. Admission is free, but the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Bottom line

San Juan combines historic architecture and attractions that embody the island's rich legacy and historic past. Visitors can also absorb authentic Latin and American culture through local cuisine, family-owned shops and various art and history museums.

Opportunities for exploration are almost limitless and likely too numerous to see during one port call. However, that's what return trips are for. If there was ever a must-disembark port of call, San Juan is it.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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10 Nights from $2,208*

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8 Night Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day

Your ship adventure of the seas.

THRILLS ONBOARD BETWEEN NEW SHORES

Splashaway Bay℠

The Perfect Storm℠

Rock Climbing Wall

FlowRider ®

Taste the bold.

Chops Grille℠

Chef's Table

Giovanni's Table

Settle in for a scene-stealer.

Invitation to Dance

Can't Stop the Rock

Day 1: orlando, florida.

Trekkie Track

Get In Character

Outside The lines

Local Cuisine

Day 2 - 3: Cruising

Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠

Sports Court

Ice Skating

Day 4: willemstad, curacao.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon..

STOP FOR A PHOTO OP

TAKE A HIKE

HISTORY AND MYSTERY

Day 5: Oranjestad, Aruba

ROADS LESS TRAVELED

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

SEA FLOOR EXPLORING

LOCAL CUISINE

Day 6: Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic

Day 7: Cruising

Café Promenade

Day 8: perfect day at cococay, bahamas.

Thrill Waterpark

Daredevil’s Tower

Splash Summit

Adventure Pool

Coco Beach Club

Overwater Cabanas

Beach Cabanas

The Restaurant

Hideaway Beach

Hideaway Pool and Swim-up Bar

On the Rocks

Slice of Paradise

Hideaway Cabanas

Island Dining

Captain Jack's®

Skipper's Grill

Chill Grill

SNACK SHACK

THRILLS & CHILLS

UP, UP AND AWAY

OASIS LAGOON

South Beach

CAPTAIN JILL’S GALLEON

SPLASHAWAY BAY

CHILL ISLAND

Day 9: orlando, florida.

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Disney Cruise Line Round-Trip Fort Lauderdale 4-Night Cruise Aboard Disney Dream Digital Costco Shop Card Courtesy of Costco Travel

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Greece & Turkey Cruise

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