A purpose-built cruise port on the Dominican Republic's green north coast, close to historic Puerto Plata, waterfalls and mountain views.
Amber Cove is a cruise port built just for ships, set on a quiet bay a little west of Puerto Plata on the Dominican Republic's north coast. Ships dock right at the cruise center, which has a pool, shops and places to relax steps from the gangway.
This is a great port for anyone who wants to choose their own pace, whether that means splashing down natural waterfalls, exploring the Victorian-era streets of Puerto Plata, or never leaving the poolside. I love how green and mountainous this coast is compared to the flatter islands.
Average daily high and low in °F, from the nearest weather station with long records: Gregorio Luperón International Airport, Puerto Plata (about 15 miles away). Source: Meteostat station records, 1991–2020.
Here are my favorite ways to spend a cruise day in Amber Cove. Each one opens on Viator, where you can check the times, reviews and price before you book.
A small-group trip from Amber Cove or Taino Bay to climb, jump and slide down the natural waterfalls of Damajagua, a favorite with Carnival cruisers.
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See the best of Puerto Plata, from its Victorian downtown to the old fortress, then relax at a resort beach before heading back to the ship.
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Drive a dune buggy along muddy country trails and through local villages on a three-hour off-road ride from the cruise port.
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Jim's Port Pick
Half Moon Cay is one of my all-time favorite private islands - the sand is unbelievably soft, hands-down the best I’ve ever felt!
Jim's Port Pick
Half Moon Cay is one of my all-time favorite private islands - the sand is unbelievably soft, hands-down the best I’ve ever felt!
Jim's Port Pick
Half Moon Cay is one of my all-time favorite private islands - the sand is unbelievably soft, hands-down the best I’ve ever felt!
Jim's Port Pick
Half Moon Cay is one of my all-time favorite private islands - the sand is unbelievably soft, hands-down the best I’ve ever felt!
Luke's Port Pick
Grand Turk has it all - stunning ship views, a pool, great snorkeling, and crystal-clear water! This port will always be my favorite!
My favorites: climb and slide through the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua; ride the cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres for views over Puerto Plata; walk the ramparts of Fort San Felipe, a colonial fortress on the Puerto Plata waterfront; learn about the island's famous gemstone at the Amber Museum in Puerto Plata; spend the afternoon on the beaches of Sosua or Cofresi.
Dominican peso; US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
Puerto Plata is a short taxi ride from the pier, and most people use taxis or organized tours to get around.
Search sailings that stop in Amber Cove on our site, or ask me for a quote. I book it for you with no fees, and I watch for price drops after you book.
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