Amber Cove is a Carnival-owned cruise port located 7 miles (11 km) northwest of downtown Puerto Plata. Since its opening in 2015, it has quickly become a favorite stop for cruisers sailing with Carnival and its sister companies. The port, sprawling across 30 vibrant acres, is designed to accommodate two large cruise ships and up to 8,000 visitors daily. With a variety of watersports, dining options, and shopping options, the port ensures a memorable experience for every visitor.
What is Amber Cove Cruise Port?
Amber Cove is a cruise port located about 7 miles (11 km) northwest of downtown Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. Opened in 2015, it’s exclusively owned and operated by Carnival and its affiliated companies, including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O, and Costa Cruises.
Amber Cove itself is situated on 30-acres of waterfront property near Puerto Plata. The port features modern facilities designed to handle up to 8,000 passengers daily and two large cruise ships at once. Despite the modernity of Amber Cove and its attractions, the surrounding region has a rich history that stretches back to the 1490s.
The name “Amber Cove” is inspired by the amber gemstone, a beautiful and rare semi-precious stone that is native to the island. Amber, which is fossilized tree resin, is significant in the local culture and is commonly used in local jewelry and souvenirs.
The port features plenty of amenities that cater to every need and preference. Visitors can enjoy a selection of restaurants and bars that offer a wide range of local and international cuisine. Additionally, the port includes shopping areas, a swimming pool complex, a welcome center, a kid’s splash area, and rental facilities for watersports.
Amber Cove, located near Puerto Plata, enjoys a consistently sunny climate throughout most of the year. This makes it a perfect getaway for those seeking to leave behind colder weather and bask in the tropical sunshine.
With so much to do in port, Amber Cove is a vibrant hub for fun and relaxation. Read on to discover more about what this destination has to offer, from its scenic views to its many dining and shopping options. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or exploring local culture, there’s something for everyone at this cruise port.
Facilities and Amenities at Amber Cove
Poolside fun
Amber Cove is home to a 300,000-gallon pool, where you’ll find a swim-up bar that allows visitors to enjoy icy drinks and refreshments right in the water. This pool also features thrilling waterslides and a Lazy River, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Surrounding the pool, you’ll find plenty of lounge chairs, providing a comfortable spot for guests to unwind and soak up the sun.
Next to the pools, you’ll find a Wet Zone and Splash Pad, where you’ll find a splash bucket, waterfall tree, and a mini slide, ensuring hours of enjoyment for children. Next to the Splash Pad, you’ll find a volleyball court, a half-sized basketball court, and a giant chess set. Parents can also relax in comfort on the numerous lounge chairs around the area.
Shopping
Make sure to stop by Amber Cove’s vibrant Marketplace, home to plenty of retail outlets that sell arts and crafts made by local artisans. This bustling area offers a wide selection of shops and stalls, perfect for finding unique local souvenirs.
Experience the thrill of watersports
Amber Cove offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy various exhilarating watersports right by the waterside, near the Cabana Bar. You can rent equipment for windsurfing, kiteboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, hydro-biking, pedal boating, and even solar catamarans. Rental durations range from 30 minutes to an hour, with prices starting at around $20.
Rent a private cabana
If you appreciate peace and quiet during your vacation, renting a cabana at Amber Cove is a great choice. There are four types to choose from: Ocean, Poolside, Hillside, or Grand, each offering a different view and set of features. Whether you prefer being over the water, next to the pool, tucked away on a hillside, or in a large, luxurious space, there’s a cabana that fits your needs perfectly.
Each cabana is equipped with several amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Inside, you’ll find a refrigerator stocked with snacks, water, and soda. You’ll also find showers, comfortable lounge chairs, and Wi-Fi. The Ocean Cabanas feature cable TV and are built on stilts over the lagoon, offering a beautiful view of the water. The Poolside Cabanas have air-conditioning, a TV, a fan, and a misting system, along with a fully furnished living room.
If you’re looking to splurge, the Grand Cabanas include additional luxuries like a private hot tub, a dining set, and a large furnished living room. These are ideal for bigger groups, accommodating up to 20 guests. The Hillside Cabanas offer a more secluded setting with a jacuzzi, perfect for relaxing in a quiet spot away from the crowd.
When you arrive at your cabana, you’ll be welcomed with a basket filled with local goodies and chilled refreshments. Each cabana also comes with outdoor showers, floats for lounging in the water, and attentive waiter service. Plus, all guests receive zipline tickets included with their rental.
Zip lines
If you’re looking for a thrilling activity at Amber Cove, the 650-foot (200-meter)-long twin zip lines are a fantastic choice. They start from a hillside, giving you a breathtaking view of the Aqua Zone below, and whisk riders directly over the swimming pool. As you zip across, you can catch a glimpse of your ship docked at the port and the majestic mountains of the Dominican Republic in the distance. Priced at $20, this zip line experience is often noted by visitors as being well worth the cost for the fantastic view and exciting ride it offers.
Shopping at Amber Cove
Shopping is a delight at Amber Cove, thanks to the bustling Marketplace. This colonial-style plaza is filled with many retail outlets, including arts and crafts by talented local artisans. Whether you’re looking for authentic Dominican souvenirs or unique handmade items, the shops and stalls here offer a wide selection.
Specialties to look out for include local rum, aromatic coffee beans, rich chocolate, and hand-rolled cigars. Additionally, the Marketplace is known for its exquisite jewelry crafted from local amber and the rare blue larimar gemstone.
At Diamonds International, you can enjoy duty-free shopping with their impressive jewelry collection. If cigars are on your shopping list, the Aurora Cigar Shop is the go-to place for authentic, handmade Dominican cigars. For a more casual shopping experience, you can visit the Pirana Joe Official Store for unique clothing items, or Del Sol for vibrant apparel. Don’t forget to stop by the Turquesa Gift Shop to pick up some souvenirs to commemorate your visit to this beautiful Dominican port.
Things to Do Near Amber Cove
Visit Monkeyland in Puerto Plata
Monkeyland offers a unique opportunity to interact with friendly squirrel monkeys that are trained to socialize with visitors. These delightful creatures may climb on your shoulders and even eat from your hands, creating unforgettable photo opportunities. For nature lovers, a visit to Monkeyland is a must-do activity.
Distance from Amber Cove: 9.8 miles (15.8 km)
Dive into fun at Oceanworld Adventure Park
Ocean World Adventure Park in Puerto Plata is the perfect destination for families, offering fun for all ages. It features the largest man-made dolphin habitat in the world, where visitors can interact with dolphins through various programs like the Dolphin Encounter. The park also showcases a range of animal performances, including shows with dolphins, sharks, tropical birds, and sea lions.
In addition to animal interactions, guests can enjoy snorkeling in the Tropical Reef Aquarium, where they can observe colorful fish and coral up close. The park also offers relaxation spots like Pirate’s Pool and Dolphin Beach Lagoon, perfect for children.
Distance from Amber Cove: 3.7 miles (6 km)
27 Waterfalls of Damajagua
One of the most breathtaking excursions near Amber Cove is the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua, a stunning national park with waterfalls, clear pools, cliffs, and a lush tropical jungle. Visitors can swim in the clear pools or jump from the cliffs into the refreshing water. Guided tours are a great option, providing life jackets and helmets for safety. Water shoes are recommended to navigate the rocky terrain comfortably.
For those seeking more adventure, the Waterfalls Adrenaline Adventure is an exciting choice. This strenuous trip lasts four hours and includes a 40-minute jungle hike. Participants experience the thrill of canyoning through flooded caves, squeezing through narrow passages, and swimming in the many pools of Damajagua’s waterfalls.
Distance from Amber Cove: 14 miles (23 km)
Explore the city of Puerto Plata
If you’re visiting Amber Cove, an excursion to Puerto Plata is a must. There is plenty to see and do in Puerto Plata. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres, where a statue of Christ the Redeemer stands, providing views of the city and ocean. The city is famous for its high-quality amber, showcased at the Amber Museum, which features impressive specimens, including fossils and preserved creatures.
Puerto Plata is also known for its historical landmarks and beautiful beaches. Fortaleza San Felipe, a historic fortress and museum, offers insights into the city’s colonial past. For beach lovers, Puerto Plata has several beaches, including Playa Dorada, Acapulco Beach, and Costa Dorada.
Distance from Amber Cove: 7.9 miles (12.8 km)
Have a blast at Fun City Action Park
Fun City Action Park is a fantastic destination for families and fun-seekers of all ages. It features the largest go-kart center in the Dominican Republic, with modern tracks for every age and skill level. The park offers four different tracks, a children’s playground, and a cafeteria. Conveniently, it is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Puerto Plata.
Distance from Amber Cove: 12.3 miles (19.8 km)
Transportation at Amber Cove Cruise Port
Amber Cove Cruise Port has various transportation options to help visitors explore nearby attractions. The port features a transportation hub that includes taxi services and car rentals from well-known providers like National and Alamo. The taxis are modern, air-conditioned, and offer fixed fares to popular destinations, which makes getting around straightforward and convenient.
For those looking to explore further, Amber Cove provides organized shore excursions that can be booked through your cruise line. These excursions cover a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites and adventure parks to relaxing beach days. The port is well laid out, making it easy for guests to find and board the correct buses for their chosen tours.
Additionally, the port offers pedicabs free of charge, which are especially useful for those who prefer not to walk long distances. These pedicabs can take visitors from the cruise ship directly to the main areas within the port. Information booths and clear signage throughout the port help visitors navigate the area easily and make the most of their visit.
Dining at Amber Cove Cruise Port
At Amber Cove Cruise Port, dining is a delightful experience, offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy all tastes. You’ll find everything from fine dining and casual eating options, as well as a range of cocktails, fruity drinks, wine, and beer. It’s important to know that food and drinks are not included for free, even if you have an unlimited drinks package.
The Marketplace at Amber Cove is home to the Coco Cana Bar and Restaurant, where you can enjoy a fusion of American and Caribbean cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for a light snack or a hearty meal, this spot has you covered with its delicious offerings. Additionally, the Aqua Zone features several popular spots like the Coco Cana Poolside Lounge, Sky Bar, and Cabana Bar, perfect for enjoying a drink with a view or even catching some live DJ music on occasion.
For those who appreciate stunning views, a visit to the Sky Bar is a must. Situated on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the island that are ideal for capturing memorable photos of your trip. Amber Cove’s dining spots are known for their lively and attractive atmosphere. Reviewers often highlight favorites on the menu, such as Mango Mai Tai, Island Iced Tea, burgers, club sandwiches, and nachos.
Exploring outside of the cruise port can also be rewarding, especially in nearby Puerto Plata, which offers a broader range of dining experiences. Restaurants like El Bergantin and El Rincon Del Café serve up Caribbean flavors and excellent coffee. If you venture a bit farther to beaches like Playa Dorada and Sosua Beach, you’ll find lovely beachside restaurants that offer fresh local seafood and other culinary delights.
Amber Cove vs. Taino Bay
Amber Cove and Taino Bay are two distinct cruise ports located in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Amber Cove, is located in Maimón, around 7.6 miles (12.2 km) west of Puerto Plata. It primarily serves as a cruise port of call for Carnival cruise ships. Opened in 2015, it caters to families and cruise passengers who prefer easy access to amenities and shore excursions.
The port can accommodate up to two large cruise ships and 8,000 passengers at a time. It features a range of facilities, including a marketplace for shopping, restaurants, bars, and attractions such as the Aqua Zone water park and a zipline. Additionally, Amber Cove provides options for renting private cabanas and offers a transportation hub that makes nearby attractions like Damajagua Waterfalls easily accessible.
On the other hand, Taino Bay, closer to the city center of Puerto Plata, serves a wider range of cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Virgin Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises. Taino Bay opened in 2021 and can serve three cruise ships at once and handle up to 14,000 passengers. The port has modern facilities and plenty of shopping options, dining, entertainment venues, a lazy river, and a pool.
While both Amber Cove and Taino Bay are popular cruise ports in Puerto Plata, they offer distinct experiences. Amber Cove focuses on family-friendly activities, featuring attractions like a water park and a zipline, along with a marketplace and various dining options. It is designed to accommodate a large number of passengers but limits its services to mainly Carnival cruise ships.
Taino Bay, being newer and closer to the city center, serves a broader array of cruise lines and can handle more passengers. It has more modern facilities, including a lazy river and pool, as well as plenty of shopping and entertainment options.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Amber Cove?
The best time to visit Amber Cove is between December and April. During these months, the temperatures are pleasant, and there’s minimal rainfall and hurricane risk, making it a great time for tourists to enjoy all the port has to offer. The average temperature in Amber Cove hovers around 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F), with sea temperatures being warmest in August.
Even during the rainy and hurricane seasons from May to October, visiting Amber Cove can still be a great experience. Rainfall during this period usually comes in quick showers that clear up fast, leaving plenty of sunny hours for outdoor activities. Additionally, hurricanes are quite rare in the Dominican Republic, particularly around Amber Cove and Puerto Plata.
Amber Cove Cruise Port – FAQ
What is the closest airport to Amber Cove?
The closest airport to Amber Cove, a popular cruise port in the Dominican Republic, is Gregorio Luperón International Airport. Located in Puerto Plata, this airport is about 30-40 minutes (or 19 miles/31 km) away by car from Amber Cove.
Is Amber Cove a private cruise port?
Yes, Amber Cove is a private cruise port. Located on the Dominican Republic’s north coast, it was specifically developed by Carnival Corporation to serve as a docking location for their cruise ships. This port offers an exclusive environment for passengers of Carnival and its associated cruise lines.
Who owns Amber Cove cruise port?
Amber Cove cruise port is owned by Carnival Corporation, one of the largest cruise lines in the world. It was built in 2015 to serve as a convenient docking spot for Carnival-owned cruise ships.
Can you use US dollars in Amber Cove?
Yes, US dollars are generally accepted in Amber Cove. However, it’s a good idea to have some Dominican pesos on hand just in case.
Is Amber Cove in the United States?
Amber Cove is not in the United States. It is actually a port located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic.
What cruise lines use Amber Cove?
Amber Cove is primarily used by Carnival Cruise Line. Other cruise lines owned by Carnival Corporation, such as Holland America, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, and Costa Cruises, also occasionally dock at Amber Cove.
What language is spoken in Amber Cove?
In Amber Cove, the primary language spoken is Spanish. You will also find that many locals will have some basic understanding of English.
Is there Wi-Fi at Amber Cove?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available at Amber Cove. You can purchase an all-day Wi-Fi package for $8.
What are the best beaches near Amber Cove?
La Playa de Maimón and Playa de Bachata are the closest beaches to Amber Cove cruise port, just a 5-minute drive away. Other beaches, like Playa Dorada, Acapulco Beach, and Costa Dorada, are near Puerto Plata and take about 20 to 30 minutes to reach from the port.
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