Over the past few years, Dominicana has been focused on developing its port sector with the goal of becoming a logistics hub in the region. This strategic approach has led to the optimization of ports located in key areas, facilitating the efficient flow of national trade through cargo ships from around the world.
Furthermore, there has been a growing need for well-designed, dynamic, and adaptable port infrastructure to support the exponential growth of the tourism industry, specifically cruise tourism.
In addition to the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) to promote the Dominican Republic as an international tourist destination, the private sector's investments and the management of the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom) have played a crucial role in attracting larger-scale cruise ships to national ports.
According to recent data provided by Mitur, the arrival of cruise passengers at Dominican ports has experienced significant growth, surpassing 1,124,039 during the first five months of 2023, exceeding the total of 1,103,898 for the entire year of 2019.
The number of visitors arriving by sea from January to May accounts for 26% of the total 4,503,431 tourists who have visited Dominicana during that period.
Significant investments have already been made in the ports, including $95 million in Puerto Plata's Taino Bay. The expansion of Port La Romana, with a $15 million investment, will enable the docking of larger ships, including Oasis-class vessels.
Construction projects have also commenced in Port Cabo Rojo and Samana Bayporn. Arroyo Barril has been awarded through a competitive process with the General Directorate of Public-Private Partnership (DGAPP) and construction is set to begin in the second half of 2023. Additionally, Barahona's construction will commence in August of this year.
In 2019, the country had only three cruise terminals, with only one capable of accommodating Oasis-class ships. Today, there are already four terminals, three of which can receive Oasis-class liners.
By 2025, the plan is to have eight terminals, with six capable of accommodating Oasis-class vessels.