Amber Cove
Amber Cove, located along the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a tropical haven for cruisers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation. As a private cruise port owned by Carnival Corporation, it is designed as a self-contained resort, but it's also a gateway to the nearby city of Puerto Plata and the stunning Dominican countryside. The port itself offers a perfect blend of high-energy activities and serene escapes, and for those who choose to venture beyond, the authentic Dominican culture awaits.
⛵ Port Introduction
Amber Cove is a private port that can accommodate up to two ships at a time. Your ship will dock directly at a long pier that stretches out into the Bay of Maimón. There is no need for a tender here. The walk from the ship to the main port area is about a five-minute stroll. For those with limited mobility or who prefer not to walk, a complimentary "rickshaw" style shuttle is available to take you from the gangway to the main plaza.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Amber Cove cruise port is not a single building but a sprawling, 25-acre open-air complex designed to feel like a modern village. As you walk off the pier, you'll be greeted by a vibrant marketplace and a central plaza.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
Amber Cove is a destination in itself. You'll find a massive freeform pool with a swim-up bar, water slides, and over 1,000 free loungers. The port has a large shopping village with a duty-free shop and a variety of local artisan boutiques. There are also several restaurants and bars, including the Coco Caña Bar and Restaurant. You will find clean, well-maintained restrooms throughout the complex. The port offers free Wi-Fi, though speeds can be sluggish during peak hours. A tourist information desk is located in the Welcome Plaza, and tour pickups are organized in a dedicated transportation plaza.
🗣️ Language
The official language is Spanish, but given that Amber Cove is a private cruise port, English is widely spoken in the port and in most tourist areas in Puerto Plata. You will have no problem navigating or communicating.
A few useful phrases:
Hola (OH-lah) - Hello
Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs) - Thank you
Por favor (por fah-VOR) - Please
¿Dónde está? (DOHN-day ehs-TAH) - Where is...?
¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWAHN-toh KWEHS-tah) - How much does it cost?
💰 Money
The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), but the U.S. Dollar (USD) is widely accepted in the port and in most tourist areas. You will get a better exchange rate by paying in pesos. For purchases within the port complex, you can charge to your shipboard account. For excursions and purchases from local vendors outside the port, it's a good idea to have some cash on hand. ATMs are available on-site, but they dispense Dominican Pesos.
🚗 Transportation
Amber Cove is a self-contained destination, and you are not permitted to walk out of the port. To explore the nearby city of Puerto Plata, you have a few options.
Taxis: Taxis are available at a dedicated transportation plaza. The rates are not metered, so it is essential to agree on a price with the driver before you get in. A one-way trip to Puerto Plata's central plaza should cost around $15-$20 for up to four passengers, though drivers may quote a higher "tourist rate" initially.
Tours: The most convenient way to explore the area is by booking a shore excursion through your cruise line or with a third-party operator at the port.
Local Transportation: For the adventurous cruiser, local buses (guaguas) run regularly between Amber Cove and Puerto Plata for less than $1, but they run on "Dominican time," meaning schedules are more like suggestions.
♿ Accessibility
Amber Cove has an accessibility rating of 6 out of 10. The port facility itself is generally wheelchair accessible with paved walkways and ramps. The free shuttle from the pier also accommodates those with mobility issues. However, if you venture outside the port, the city of Puerto Plata may have uneven sidewalks and cobblestone streets that are challenging to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get from the cruise port to Puerto Plata is to take a taxi. It is a short 10-15 minute ride, and the fare is very affordable.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available throughout the Amber Cove complex and are generally clean and well-maintained.
💊 Drugstore
There are no major drugstore chains in Amber Cove. The port has a small medical facility with basic first aid, but it is not a full-service pharmacy. For any medical needs, it's a good idea to visit a pharmacy in Puerto Plata or bring your own medication from home.
✨ Authentic Experience
Take the Cable Car to Mount Isabel de Torres: Instead of just staying in the port, take a taxi to the Puerto Plata Cable Car, the only one in the Caribbean. The cable car will take you to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres, where you can get a stunning panoramic view of the city and the ocean. At the top, you'll find a beautiful botanical garden and a replica of the Christ the Redeemer statue.
Dine on Authentic Dominican Cuisine: For a truly local culinary experience, head into Puerto Plata and find a local restaurant to try some traditional Dominican food. Look for dishes like sancocho (a hearty meat and vegetable stew), mangu (mashed plantains), or fresh seafood.
Explore the Fortaleza San Felipe and the Malecón: For a deep dive into the city's history, visit the Fortaleza San Felipe, a 16th-century fortress that has guarded the city's harbor for centuries. Afterward, take a walk along the Malecón, a beautiful waterfront promenade that runs along the city's coastline.
