2 New Dominican Republic Cruise Ports Coming This Year That Will Make You Want To Book Immediately

Last Updated 8 months ago

The Dominican Republic’s popularity as a cruise ship destination has skyrocketed over the past several months, and the country is reporting new monthly arrival records.

The optimistic trend is set to grow even more when the country finishes building two new massive cruise ship ports this year.

A cruise ship arriving to the Dominican Republic

With cruise ship popularity on the rise, the Dominican Republic wants to become a leading Caribbean cruise ship hub.

From its strategic position – the island is close to major U.S. destinations – to its miles-long white-sand beaches, this tropical island has the potential to grow even more.

The tropical island has big plans in store for cruise travelers, who can expect two new state-of-the-art terminals later this year.

Here’s everything travelers need to know about the newest ports coming to the Dominican Republic:

A cruise ship docked at sea with palm trees and blue waters

Samaná Bayport

The first major ongoing development is taking place in Samaná, a popular seaside resort destination in the northeastern Dominican Republic.

The new high-end, cutting-edge cruise ship port will cost over $20 million, a huge investment for the small town.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

Tropical scenery in Samana with a palm tree and water

According to the ambitious plan, Samaná Bayport will be able to welcome up to 5000 travelers per day thanks to a new floating ‘Skywalk’ pier technology, which allows for the port’s piers to be retracted when not in use.

Leading architects have revealed that the new port will be surrounded by tropical greenery and several other amenities that will make travel both effortless and comfortable.

Samaná Bayport will utilize the newest innovations in green tech to ensure environmental sustainability.

Colourful tropical water and a cruise ship floating on it

Much like Punta Cana, Samaná’s tourism potential is based on the sun, beach, and top-notch hospitality.

Unlike its eastern counterpart, Samaná feels quieter and more authentic, something that officials hope will convince travelers to opt for the port city.

Bird's eye view of a resort with pools in Punta Cana

Samaná is one of the most scenic destinations in the Dominican Republic and is known for its lush nature, untouched beaches, and colorful old buildings.

If you’re planning a cruise stop in Samaná, you’ll want to visit Samaná Boardwalk, a beautiful oceanfront and port district with shopping, ocean views, and plenty of local cultures.

The city is also a hotspot for whale-watching and other aquatic activities.

Pedernales: Port Cabo Rojo

The second ongoing cruise ship port construction project is taking place in Pedernales, a province in the southwestern part of the island, where workers are building the Dominican Republic’s soon-to-be flagship cruise port.

A large vessel floating on the sea during sunset

The $100 investment package is among the largest in the country’s history, after which the Dominican Republic hopes to have one of the world’s leading cruise ship terminals. Known as Port Cabo Rojo, the ultra-modern port will house 3 piers capable of welcoming some of the world’s largest vessels.

In addition to using new technological advancements, Port Cabo Rojo will feature several large resorts, including Hyatt and Iberostar properties. The new state-of-the-art cruise hub will also offer travelers plenty of entertainment, dining, and shopping options.

Although the province of Pedernales currently lacks large-scale tourism development, authorities have laid out plans to transform the region into the leading destination in the Dominican Republic. Widely known for its ecotourism potential, Pedernales is home to the largest national park in the Caribbean.

Travelers can already visit and enjoy some of the country’s top eco-friendly resorts in Pedernales, which are surrounded by white-sand shores and tropical forests.

A large cruise ship arriving at port with beautiful tropical water

Cruising Makes An Astounding Recovery In 2023

With well over 800,000 international visitors recorded in February 2023 alone, the Dominican Republic is proving to be more popular than ever before among travelers.

Of the total, over 250,000 travelers flocked to the sunny island on board a cruise ship, a record-shattering figure as travelers once again eagerly board these floating hotels following the COVID-19 pandemic.