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Another way to spend the day is with a shore excursion to one of the many all-inclusive resorts in the area. 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. We’ve mentioned the history in Puerto Plata, but unfortunately much has been lost to time. 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.
Puerto Plata Cuisine
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. 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.
Exploring Puerto Plata on Cruise Day — An Overview
If you want to spend the day at the pool, access is free, as are loungers. Everything from umbrellas to pool floats to lockers cost extra, as do certain “VIP” areas. You can see a list of the charges in the “Price List” section above. It’s located at the far end of the port, past the pool and the kid water park. It’s not much — just a hoop and a half-court area, but it’s a fun option if you want to do something other than lounge by the pool. One fun feature is a pair of waterslides that circle around near the edge of the pool.
Carnival Vista's crew rescued 6 men from a capsized cargo vessel off Dominicana
The shopping area takes up one entire side of the port, giving you plenty of options to choose. When docking at this captivating destination, passengers often find themselves wondering how to make the best of their limited time. Puerto Plata’s strategic location and its bounty of attractions make it a favored stop for many cruise lines. Here’s a categorized list of activities and attractions, ensuring you capture the essence of this Caribbean jewel during your visit. Remember to carry your driver’s license and be aware of local driving rules. For the explorers at heart, several car rental agencies have kiosks at the terminal.
Public holidaysin the Dominican Republic
However, you’ll miss experiencing authentic Dominican Republic culture and the island’s stunning natural scenery. If you’re visiting Puerto Plata on a cruise, here are some tips and things to know that can make your day run smoother. In most Latin American cities, there is a central plaza that serves as the heart of the city. Parque Central is an open square with seating, vendors, historic statues, and all lined by Spanish colonial architecture including a massive church. It also serves as a great starting point for exploring the downtown area.
A day pass will allow you to snorkel in a Tropical Reef Aquarium, enjoy the animal shows, feed the tropical birds, and spend some time at a beach within the complex. A taxi ride to the Ocean World costs around $20 per vehicle (up to 5 passengers) one way. To get there, you can either drive, hike, or take a cable car (Teleferico to Isabel de Torres), which is the experience by itself and the main attraction in the area. The cable car base station is located about 2 km/1.2 miles (a 30-minute walk) from Taino Bay cruise port. It is worth noting that none of the two cruise terminals has access to the beach.
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. You can choose from grilled lobster to shrimp cocktails and get flavors of the Caribbean right on your plate.
The main portion of the pool near the swim-up bar gets pretty lively. As you get off the ship, take a left and then head to the end of the port area. At the far corner of the port is a perfect spot to get a picture in front of your ship. Several esteemed cruise lines have recognized its charm and seamlessly woven the city into their itineraries.
Amber Cove on a Cruise: Things to Do, Prices, Map, and More
Whether you need a map, recommendations, or assistance with reservations, they’re there to help. Plus, these desks often have brochures and discount coupons for various attractions. Clean and well-maintained restrooms are conveniently located throughout the terminal. These amenities aim to provide a snapshot of what awaits you in the city, ensuring your comfort and catering to your immediate needs. For passengers wishing to explore Puerto Plata without the burden of their bags, there are secure luggage storage facilities available for a fee. For those who opt for it, there’s a streamlined baggage handling system.
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Carnival Cruise Corpiration installs 1,800 solar panels.
Posted: Sat, 09 Mar 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Because of this, the cruise port offers complimentary tuk tuk rides from the pier to the entrance of the port. As for the layout of the port area itself, it’s fairly easy to navigate. First, your ship will dock at the pier, and then it’s a short walk to Amber Cove. Once through, straight ahead will be the meeting points for booked shore excursions. To the left are a number of restaurants, shops, and the way to exit the port and grab a taxi. To the right is the “Aqua Zone” that’s complete with a huge pool, waterslide, cabanas, and much more (more on this below).
Unlike Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic is not a US territory. 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. No matter what’s on your shopping list, there will be a store in Amber Cove that sells it.
We’ve mentioned several things to do that come with an extra charge. Below is the pricing from a recent visit to give you an idea of what things cost. First things first, it’s nice to get a lay of the land with the port, its location, and what’s around.
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. 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. For families traveling with young ones, the kids’ pool is a safe haven. Shallow waters, playful structures, and lifeguards ensure that the little ones have fun safely. This area has its own loungers so parents can watch their kids while having their own share of R&R.
That’s not to mention the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and sun-soaked sandy beaches in Puerto Plata. Most cruise tourists visiting Puerto Plata without a shore excursion booked hire a taxi driver for the day. Taíno Bay cruise port has official taxi drivers available who charge between $ total for full day service. Many cruisers arriving in Puerto Plata are visiting for the very first time, and like any cruise port, it’s helpful to have a general idea of what to expect. Whether you’re interested in laying on the beach all day or hanging out at the port’s complimentary pool, here’s everything you should know about the Puerto Plata cruise port.
I’d advise you not to go to Mosha’s if you’re looking for a quick bite. 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. 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. Also called Catedral de San Felipe Apóstol, the imposing Catholic Catedral dominates the city’s central square.
We recently visited to give you all the ins and outs about the spot. I hope you are able to plan and fulfill all of your fantastical travel dreams! Feel free to click around my site to discover more exciting destinations and itineraries. So, as your ship docks and the tropical breeze welcomes you, step forth with anticipation and let Puerto Plata’s magic unfold. The information desks, staffed with friendly and knowledgeable personnel, are your go-to spots for any queries.
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