The Dominican Republic is projected to receive more than 100 cruise vessels during February 2026, calling at ports and anchorages throughout the country, according to data released by the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom). The published schedule reflects a sustained level of cruise activity that positions the country among the Caribbean’s most established and competitive destinations for cruise operations.
Apordom’s calendar indicates that Puerto Plata will account for the majority of arrivals by a considerable margin, with La Romana, Samaná, and Cabo Rojo following in sequence. This distribution highlights the northern coast as the principal entry point for cruise traffic and maritime tourism. The concentration of calls in this region underscores its operational capacity and growing importance within regional cruise itineraries.
The February program features vessels operated by leading international cruise lines, including MSC Cruises, RCI-Royal Caribbean, NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line, CCL-Carnival, Celebrity Cruises, Costa, and Virgin Voyages. These calls are expected to deliver tens of thousands of passengers, supporting shore excursions, local businesses, and a wide range of tourism-related services linked to port operations.
Apordom’s executive director, Jean Luis Rodríguez, has indicated that cruise activity during the month will generate notable economic and social effects, particularly during the peak window between February 3rd and February 24th, when multiple vessels—sometimes 5 or 6—are scheduled to berth on the same day. He also noted that February falls within the Caribbean’s high cruise season, which typically extends from November through April, and that the volume of scheduled calls reflects the Dominican Republic’s expanding function as a regional cruise hub, supported by modern port infrastructure, security standards, transport connectivity, and a diversified tourism product.