Strategically situated on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, the beautiful metropolis of Puerto Plata gives pristine seashores, a vibrant tradition, and facilities of all descriptions. For these causes and extra, the town has develop into a extremely fashionable Caribbean cruise vacation spot.
Puerto Plata welcomes visiting cruise passengers at its Taino Bay Cruise Port. Not solely does it act because the gateway to thrilling Dominican adventures, however the port itself gives one thing for everybody.
That will help you get probably the most out of your expertise, we’ll present an in-depth overview of the port, its amenities, and the quite a few points of interest that await you past its gates!
Location and Description of Taino Bay Cruise Port
Taino Bay Cruise Port is conveniently situated instantly on the sting of the historic heart of Puerto Plata, offering guests with quick access to among the metropolis’s hottest vacationer websites.
Taino Bay Cruise Port was first opened to the general public in December of 2021, making it one of many latest cruise ports within the Caribbean. The port’s not too long ago constructed berths enable it to deal with the simultaneous docking of as much as three full-sized cruise ships at any given time.
Along with the port’s spectacular docking capabilities, Taino Bay Cruise Port additionally boasts world-class terminal amenities, enhancing Puerto Plata’s standing as one of the crucial fashionable locations to go to in the entire Caribbean.
As we’ll talk about in better element, the brand-new vacationer amenities embody bustling industrial areas, a variety of eating places and bars, a well-maintained seashore, and even a pool!
Taino Bay Cruise Port options two cruise terminals: Muelle Viejo and Muelle Nuevo, the latter being probably the most regularly used.
Port Tackle
Av. Antigua Through Ferrea, Muelle Turistico entre Av., Puerto Plata 57000 Republica Dominica
Cruise Strains that Go to Taino Bay Cruise Port
Provided that Puerto Plata Cruise Port is the busiest port within the Dominican Republic and one of many busiest in all the Caribbean, it’s not overly shocking that it’s frequented by among the most recognizable cruise strains on this planet. The next are simply among the cruise line that commonly go to the port:
- Royal Caribbean Worldwide
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- MSC Cruises
- Celeb Cruises
- Virgin Voyages
- Disney Cruise Line
Amber Cove Cruise Port
Exterior of Puerto Plata, there’s additionally a further spillover cruise terminal referred to as Amber Cove Cruise Port. Whereas the port technically falls beneath the umbrella of Puerto Plata Cruise Port, it’s situated 10 miles away from Taino Bay Cruise Port and the town’s downtown core.
Amber Cove consists of a single, quick pier primarily utilized by ships owned by the Carnival Company. In contrast to Taino Bay, which may accommodate as much as three cruise ships at a time, a most of two ships can dock at Amber Cove.
In case you are uncertain the place your cruise ship will dock, test together with your cruise line forward of time. Though Amber Cove is in a extra distant location, it nonetheless options thrilling facilities, like bars, retailers, and an “Aqua Zone.”
Terminal Services and Providers
Taino Bay Cruise Port was designed to supply visiting cruise passengers with a seamless mix of comfort and Dominican hospitality. With the entire primary amenities you’ll count on from a contemporary cruise port and a few distinctive and thrilling options, it’s not shocking that the port itself is certainly one of Puerto Plata’s highlights.
For starters, the port options loads of well-maintained and accessible restrooms. Guests can even discover quite a few seating areas inside and out of doors the terminal constructing, plus a well-staffed vacationer data sales space.
Complimentary Wi-Fi can also be provided all through all the port advanced, however you have to join utilizing an e mail tackle and reconnect each hour.
Distance and Transportation Choices from the Airport
Puerto Plata’s nearest airport, Aeropuerto Internacional Gregorio Luperon (POP), is situated 13.8 miles east of the town. With the airport serving as one of many foremost entry factors for vacationers trying to benefit from the metropolis and the Dominican Republic’s many seashore resorts, transportation to and from the airport is pretty easy.
In case you plan to take a cruise itemizing Puerto Plata as its embarkation and last disembarkation level, you’ll probably have to catch a flight to Puerto Plata Airport.
Taxes are typically the preferred choice if you happen to want transportation from the airport to the cruise port and vice versa. Not solely will a taxi offer you a direct path to the port, however all government-registered cabs are required to supply a flat price from the airport to the town’s most frequented locations, together with Taino Bay Cruise Port.
Uber additionally operates in Puerto Plata for many who are on a finances. The airport even has a rideshare service line, so you may simply name an Uber for one-way transportation between the airport and the cruise port.
A few of the bigger cruise strains even supply complimentary shuttle buses from the airport for cruise itineraries that record Taino Bay Cruise Port as the unique embarkation level, however you’ll have to test together with your particular cruise line forward of time to verify.
Instructions
You probably have rented a automobile and you might be planning to drive from the airport to the port your self, these easy instructions will get you there in roughly half-hour:
- Exit the arrivals space and switch proper to go south on Cam. Aeropuerto
- Flip onto Sabor a Lena Rd., and proceed for five miles
- Flip onto Av. Circunvalacion Sur., and proceed for five.5 miles
- Look ahead to indicators directing you to Taino Bay Cruise Port., then flip onto Muelle Turistico entre Av.
- Enter the parking and drop-off space
Your complete 13.8-mile journey is pretty easy, however be sure to give your self further time, as visitors is usually a concern as you method Puerto Plata.
Issues to Do in Taino Bay Cruise Port
The place Taino Bay Cruise Port stands out is its big selection of free and thrilling actions and facilities. There may be loads to do, and all the port advanced is extremely clear and well-maintained. The next are simply among the highlights you’ll discover within the port:
Swimming Pool
One of many port’s standout options is its expansive, free pool space. Full with in-pool lounge chairs, a swim-up bar, and a lazy river that winds all through the western half of the port, the pool space is a serious spotlight and is totally free to make use of.
Eating and Procuring
Taino Bay Cruise Port additionally options a variety of eating choices, together with San Mangu, which gives genuine Dominican meals, a Mexican restaurant referred to as Taco Lover Mexican Meals, and Casa Palapa, which is a Mexican chain that may be present in a number of different areas all through the Caribbean.
There are additionally a number of bars inside the port for these trying to get pleasure from a pleasant cocktail within the solar. Guests can get pleasure from purchasing in Taino Village, the place they may discover the whole lot from small boutiques providing native souvenirs to luxurious and duty-free retailers providing designer objects.
Seaside and Sand Bar
Taino Bay Cruise Port even has its personal seashore, the place visiting cruise passengers can soak up views of the picturesque shoreline. It’s a tremendous place to spend a sunny afternoon with complimentary seashore chairs, hammocks, loungers, and a beachside bar. Sadly, you can’t swim within the waters off the seashore, however the seashore views are nonetheless beautiful.
Tuk-Tuk Bikes
One other distinctive function of the port is the abundance of complimentary tuk-tuk bikes. These three-wheeled bikes supply fast transportation from the pier to the port entrance, saving time and offering riders with a enjoyable and memorable expertise. The rides are free however don’t neglect to tip your driver.
Journey and Leisure Facilities
For thrill-seekers with restricted time in Puerto Plata, the port options an intensive journey park, full with a zip-lining and ropeway course, a stage for dwell exhibits, and even an interactive monkey zoo referred to as Monkey Island. From petting monkeys to having fun with a poolside beverage, Taino Bay gives far more than your common cruise port expertise!
Better of all, the total port advanced was designed to be wheelchair-friendly, so accessibility is not going to be a difficulty. Whereas some facilities weren’t designed for these with mobility points, the port was not designed to discriminate towards these needing help.
What Transportation Is Accessible at Purto Plata?
Whilst you at all times have the choice to stroll into Puerto Plata’s historic downtown space from the port, those that want the comfort and adaptability of direct transportation have a number of choices:
Taxis
Authorities-registered taxis are available simply exterior of the port space. With cabs providing service in any respect hours, they supply a handy and inexpensive technique to navigate the town and past. Plus, most cab drivers supply flat charges to the principle vacationer points of interest, so that you shouldn’t have to fret about shock prices or getting ripped off.
Cab charges are very low-cost. A median taxi journey from the port often prices round 150 to 300 Dominican Pesos, which is roughly $2.50 to $5.00 USD.
Rideshare Automobiles
Rideshares additionally function in Puerto Plata, so you may name a automobile to your actual location. Whether or not you desire a drive to an attraction or a return journey to the port, Uber is a handy choice.
Shuttles and Minibuses
Whereas the town doesn’t supply a free shuttle, quite a few privately owned minibuses and shuttles run routes between the town’s central plaza and the port. Fares are roughly USD 2.00, so it’s a low-cost and simple technique to get across the metropolis. Most drivers will drop you off anyplace alongside the route if you happen to ask.
Greatest Time to Go to Puerto Plata
Whereas private desire at all times performs a task when figuring out the very best time to go to anyplace, Puerto Plata’s peak vacationer season is between December and April.
The climate is heat and nice throughout these winter and spring months, with daytime highs between 75° and 82°F. In case you resolve to go to throughout peak season, you can even count on clear skies and minimal rainfall. Humidity can also be decrease, making it the best time for out of doors fans.
However, the low season, which spans from June to October, is characterised by common rainfall and daytime temperatures that attain the mid 90°F mark. Increased humidity and the elevated danger of hurricanes and tropical storms additionally imply that choices for out of doors actions are typically extra restricted than through the winter and spring months.
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With all of that stated, you may typically rating a greater deal on a cruise to Puerto Plata if you happen to e book through the low season or shoulder months, so it’s greatest to weigh up your preferences and finances.
Close by Seashores
Because the port itself has seashore entry, you received’t must go far to get pleasure from ocean views and sand at your toes.
That stated, swimming on the port beachfront will not be allowed on account of ship visitors, so these planning on having fun with a full seashore day expertise would possibly wish to head to Cosita Rica Seaside, which is simply 2.5 miles away from the port. The seashore is thought for its white sand and surfable waves, and quite a few cafés and bars border it.
Playa Costambar is one other close by choice. Situated 3 miles west of the cruise port, it’s a quieter seashore that provides loads of choices for meals and drinks. You get the identical turquoise waters, white sands, and palm timber as the opposite seashores, but it surely tends to be far much less crowded, making for a extra stress-free seashore expertise.
Distance to Common Sights
If you wish to transcend the port, and laying on sandy seashores isn’t your factor, don’t fear; there are nonetheless loads of different issues to do inside a brief distance of the place your ship will dock:
Mount Isabel de Torres
Situated roughly 1.3 miles from the port, Mount Isabel de Torres is likely one of the most iconic landmarks within the space. Towering over 2,600 toes above Puerto Plata, this jungle-covered mountain may be ascended through a scenic cable automotive journey or jungle hike.
As soon as they’ve summited, guests can get pleasure from unimaginable views of the town and its bordering coast. On the prime, you may discover a lush botanical backyard and a powerful Christ the Redeemer statue that overlooks the town.
Damajagua Waterfalls
In case you’re keen to journey farther, the Damajagua Waterfalls are roughly 19 miles from the port. Not solely are the 27 distinctive waterfalls alongside the Rio Damajagua unimaginable to see, however guests may also slide down a few of them and swim of their swimming pools.
With quite a few tour operators providing shore excursions to and from the falls, they’re positively price visiting.
Fortaleza San Felipe
Just below 2 miles from the port, yow will discover Fortaleza San Felipe, a historic Spanish fortress courting to the early sixteenth century. This former colonial outpost was initially constructed to guard the city towards pirate raids.
Right this moment, you may discover the fortress and examine its storied previous. The accompanying museum has interactive displays which can be each academic and enjoyable.
What to Do Close to Puerto Plata Cruise Port
Puerto Plata gives guests a combination of thrilling trendy points of interest and historic websites, making it a improbable metropolis to discover. The next are simply among the highlights that we advocate:
Discover the Historic Metropolis Middle
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, the historic metropolis heart of Puerto Plata. Consisting of 60 blocks, the realm displays the town’s wealthy colonial previous, with each French and Spanish influences on the structure and road design. Strolling round, you’ll see colourful buildings lined with ornamental columns and facades, open plazas, and quite a few statues.
For visiting cruise passengers, exploring the historic metropolis heart couldn’t be simpler, because the Taino Bay Cruise Port sits proper on the sting of the town heart!
Go to the Amber Museum
This distinctive museum showcases among the world’s best-preserved items of prehistoric amber. Housed instantly inside a Victorian-era mansion, it’s properly price exploring, particularly if you end up in Puerto Plata throughout a rain bathe.
Followers of the unique Jurassic Park movie will get pleasure from viewing prehistoric mosquitoes and different bugs preserved within the fossilized tree sap. Provided that it’s just one mile from Taino Bay, it’s straightforward to test off your record.
Stroll Down Umbrella Road
This shady road is roofed by colourful umbrellas suspended from cables, making it best for anybody hoping to take the proper Instagram image. Whereas the umbrellas make it a serious vacationer attraction, the road itself can also be lined by espresso retailers, bars, present retailers, and a motorcycle rental retailer.
It’s a straightforward stroll since it’s simply 0.7 miles from the port. In your approach, you’ll move Senior Frog’s and some different iconic eating places!
Visiting Puerto Plata additionally means you should have the chance to take pleasure in genuine Dominican delicacies. For purchasing fans, the port and the town past it are each crammed with stores. From duty-free and designer retailers to locally-owned memento stalls, you’ll be capable to discover something you might be searching for.
To make your purchasing and eating expertise even simpler, US {Dollars} are additionally broadly accepted all through the Dominican Republic, particularly in Puerto Plata. In reality, you’ll usually see costs listed in US {Dollars} in addition to Dominican Pesos, making it straightforward to know the way a lot you may be paying.
In case you are simply searching for an off-the-cuff meal, loads of meals stalls and informal eateries are inside the port and within the historic metropolis heart. In case you are searching for a extra formal culinary expertise, we advocate the next eating places:
Restaurant le Papillon is likely one of the hottest choices in all the metropolis. Whereas the specialty is grilled steak, the menu additionally options contemporary seafood dishes and genuine Dominican aspect dishes.
Waterfront Playa Alicia is a much less formal choice that permits company to eat on the out of doors patio and luxuriate in waterfront views. With a mix of pasta and genuine Dominican delicacies, it has one thing for everybody.
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Though it’s 18 miles exterior of the town, it’s an ideal choice for these hoping to get pleasure from a quiet day on the seashore earlier than having fun with a memorable meal. With Playa Alicia Seaside at its doorstep, it’s a real beachside eatery.
Irrespective of the place you eat, be sure to attempt among the Dominican Republic’s most iconic dishes, together with pollo guisado, sancocho, and mangu! They’re straightforward to search out and extremely scrumptious.
Continuously Requested Questions (FAQs)
Which port does Royal Caribbean use in Puerto Plata?
Royal Caribbean primarily makes use of Taino Bay Cruise Port in Puerto Plata.
How far is the seashore from the cruise port in Puerto Plata?
There’s a seashore situated instantly inside the grounds of the Taino Bay Cruise Port, so company shouldn’t have to journey far. With that stated, you aren’t allowed to swim in port, so many individuals will journey 2.5 miles to Cosita Rica Seaside.
Are you able to stroll from Amber Cove to Puerto Plata?
No, you shouldn’t stroll from Amber Cove to Puerto Plata. Not solely is it situated roughly 10 miles from downtown Puerto Plata, however there’s not a transparent footpath, so strolling alongside the street could be harmful.
