Authorities project that Dominicana will surpass 3 million cruise passengers by 2024, driven by the expansion of port infrastructure to accommodate more cruise ships.
Jean Luis Rodriguez, executive director of the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom), expressed confidence in this target, citing the 2.3 million sea visitors received in 2023.
At the launch of the Apordom mobile application, Rodriguez emphasized the strategic importance of authorizing Samana Bayport, Arroyo Barril, and the Barahona cruise port, with completion expected by 2026, to improve logistical capabilities for increased traveler accommodation.
Rodriguez also outlined a long-term goal, aiming for between 5 to 6 million cruisers by 2028. Efforts to attract major shipping companies to the newly built Puerto Cabo Rojo in Pedernales are ongoing, with discussions already held with DCL/Disney and RCI/Royal Caribbean in Jamaica to include this new destination in their itineraries.
He noted that establishing a regular schedule for tourist boats docking at Puerto Cabo Rojo will take time, but he is optimistic about achieving normalization by October this year.
Given that cruise itineraries are typically planned up to 3 years in advance, Rodríguez anticipates significant growth, similar to the experience of Taino Bay, which saw passenger numbers increase from 300,000 to 800,000+ within 2 years of operation.
Apordom expects ~500,000 cruise passengers at Puerto Cabo Rojo by 2028, establishing it as a key regional destination.