Dominicana eagerly anticipates the arrival of the inaugural cruise ship of 2024 at the newly completed first phase of Port Cabo Rojo/Pedernales. Against the backdrop of a record-breaking year that witnessed 10 million visitors, with a substantial boost from cruise tourism, this development marks a significant milestone for the nation.
As of December 26, 2023, the country witnessed a remarkable surge in sea arrivals, with 2,198578 million passengers, reflecting a noteworthy 110% increase compared to the pre-COVID 2019. The Dominican Port Authority (APORDOM) has announced the readiness of the Port of Cabo Rojo's first phase, featuring a 200-meter dock and a mooring knot capable of accommodating multiple vessels simultaneously.
The inaugural reception of tourists at this cutting-edge port is scheduled for Thursday, January 4, at 10:30 a.m. Leading the event will be President Luis Abinader and APORDOM director Jean Luis Rodriguez, alongside other officials and business leaders who have played pivotal roles in advancing cruise tourism as a cornerstone of the Dominican Republic's tourism strategy.
President Abinader and Director Rodriguez have spearheaded strategic initiatives, including substantial investments in port infrastructure such as the Port of Cabo Rojo, poised to stimulate economic growth in the Enriquillo region.
Cruise tourism, projected to represent 23% of total visitors for the year with 18 scheduled cruises before the year-end, has prompted APORDOM to make substantial investments in port facilities. These efforts align with President Abinader's visionary approach and collaboration with the private sector.
Key investments in cruise port infrastructure include the La Romana Terminal expansion, exceeding US$15 million, enabling the reception of Oasis-class vessels and solidifying La Romana's regional port significance. The inauguration and expansion of Taino Bay/Puerto Plata, backed by a US$95 million investment, have elevated visitor experiences and contributed to Puerto Plata's tourism growth. Additionally, the ongoing construction of Samana Bayport, a US$22 million project, is set to handle up to 10,000 cruise passengers daily upon completion.
The inauguration of Port of Cabo Rojo's first phase on January 4, 2024, stands as a momentous occasion in the tourism development of southern Dominicana. With an investment nearing US$100 million, the port is poised to annually receive up to one million cruise passengers when fully operational.