Sunday, March 31, 2024

10 Best Puerto Plata Shore Excursions From Amber Cove

carnival cruise excursions amber cove

But if there are multiple ships, then it’s smart to arrive early to stake out a prime spot. As well, going later in the afternoon also sees smaller crowds as many head back to the ship despite all aboard not usually being until the evening. One fun feature is a pair of waterslides that circle around near the edge of the pool. The twin slides spin around several times before dumping you into a dedicated splash pool. The entrance can be a little hidden, but it’s along the back of the port area and up a hill.

Deep sea fishing

Other local highlights to see include Fort San Felipe and the gushing Damajagua Falls. The beach towns of Sousa and Cabarete are the place to watch daring kite-boarders and windsurfers from a beachfront cafe. Visit the Amber Museum in Puerto Plata or take a tour of the Brugal Rum Factory. You can enjoy a stroll along the waterfront on the three-mile-long Malecon promenade or explore the historic downtown and main plaza.

Public holidaysin the Dominican Republic

carnival cruise excursions amber cove

Either way, you’ll be certain to appreciate all Puerto Plata and Amber Cove have to offer. Besides all the distinctive features and activities in the Amber Cove Cruise Center, there are many attractions and highlights in the Puerto Plata area, within less than a 1-hour drive. Enjoy the open countryside on this full-day, guided, ATV tour that includes visits to a cigar rolling factory, a secluded beach, and a Dominican lunch. Pass by locals, scenery, animals, and vegetation and stop for lunch and a swim break at the beach. Head home in a safari-style vehicle while relaxing with a cool rum drink.

Things to do in Amber Cove cruise port

The culture of Puerto Plata and Amber Cove is one you won’t want to miss during your travels. The pre-purchase window for certain products and activities closes between one and three days prior to the sail date. If you missed the purchase window, check with us once you're on board — we'll help you find what you’re looking for. With a few exceptions, the cruise port in Amber Cove is mainly visited by ships belonging to Carnival Corporation like Carnival Cruises, Princess, Holland America, Costa, P&O or Cunard. However, other cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, NCL, Regent or MSC also call at Amber Cove. To truly experience the best of Puerto Plata, immerse yourself in Dominican life and cuisine.

It’s broken into different areas that are connected with bridges so even though it can be busy, it can still make the spots seem more private. The main portion of the pool near the swim-up bar gets pretty lively. Climb aboard a mega-truck to be taken through incredible villages and off the road, into the countryside. Steer your own ATV through the Dominican backcountry, or enjoy a wild ride on a two-person terracross buggy. Each of our ships is a unique experience — check the features and find out which ship is right for you.

With some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable as the backdrop, you’ll hike through lush rainforest, race down water-hewn slides, and swim beneath a hidden waterfall. It’s not often you get to feel like your very own adventure hero, especially in a secluded and beautiful landscape like Amber Cove. If you want to get out on the water, then there are plenty of rentals to choose from. Cruisers visiting Amber Cove have the option of renting kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, and more. The fees are a bit steep — starting around $35 per hour — but some of those can be split by multiple people such as the pedal boats that carry four.

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How to Save Money on Your Shore Excursions

You’ll also get to walk through untouched rainforest, snorkel pristine coral reefs, and dine on a gourmet picnic lunch, all with Mayan ruins sitting just over your shoulder. The Lamanai Mayan Ruins & River Boat Safari is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in history and beauty so plentiful in Belize, exploring its lush and rugged landscapes as you go. Grand Turk might not be the biggest island in the Caribbean, but it’s tough to find a more memorable one. As we just said, the wi-fi from the ship doesn’t work in port. And while you can pay the $8 for all-day access while visiting, there is also a free option. You’ll find that some offer free wi-fi access as an incentive for you to visit the shop.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

You’ll then enjoy a short visit to the Jose Briseno Baseball Stadium, followed by Independence Square, Victorian houses and the San Felipe Cathedral. This 5-hour excursion includes a 45-minute bus ride to the catamaran and a relaxing cruise on the beautiful Caribbean Sea. Lunch and drinks are provided as you enjoy a leisurely sail along the coastline of the Dominican Republic. If you’re going on a cruise to the Dominican Republic, you’ll want to take in all of the local flavors while you have the chance.

Here's everything you need to know about Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, Carnival's private destination with cabanas, zip line, and more. Many cruise memories have already been made in and near Amber Cove. To start making some of your own, contact your onboard shore-excursion specialist. If you want to spend the day at the pool, access is free, as are loungers. Everything from umbrellas to pool floats to lockers cost extra, as do certain “VIP” areas. You can see a list of the charges in the “Price List” section above.

This 4.5-hour trip from Amber Cove is great value for money and includes a traditional lunch. Similar to the Waterfalls Adventure but without the Buggy Tour, this more strenuous 4-hour trip includes a 40-minute hike and swim in the waterfalls of Damajagua. The tour price is per vehicle, which can carry up to two riders.

These two-person dune buggies are for the thrill seekers among us. This is a half day full of fun for those looking for a tour to see the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic and it even includes a beach stop as well. Ride through the jungle, cross streams, and reach hidden waterfalls. Some tours also include a visit to the Country World Adventure Park, where you can enjoy an on-site swimming pool and a tropical botanical garden. Enjoy a day off the ship and lounging by the ocean in one of Puerto Plata’s soft sandy beaches during this half-day getaway at a local resort that includes a lounge chair on the beach.

Near the Cruise Center, there’s a colonial-style plaza with many stalls selling souvenirs, arts and crafts, including jewelry and trinkets made from local gemstones. Puerto Plata is the windsurfing and kite-boarding capital of the Caribbean, so Amber Cove is a great place to try these exhilarating watersports. There’s a booth offering watersports rentals right on the waterside near the Cabana Bar. Perched on the hillside overlooking the whole of Amber cove, the Sky Bar offers a full range of refreshing drinks and snacks with panoramic views. Cabana rates start from around $310 per day for a Hillside Cabana (max. 8 guests) rising to $1170 for a Grand Cabana on the water suitable for up to 20 people to share.

They start from the hillside overlooking the Aqua Zone and carry riders right over the pool. Right next to the pools, there’s a Wet Zone and Splash Pad for youngsters. They can have hours of fun playing with the splash bucket and mini slide. The area has plenty of lounge chairs for adults to keep an eye on youngsters while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Carnival Corporation spent $85 million creating Amber Cove on the north coast of the Dominican Republic and it has since welcomed over a million cruisers. The first 3,000 guests arrived aboard the Carnival Victory in October 2015.

Playa Dorada, with its golden sands and clear waters, is perfect for relaxation. It’s very close to the cruise port terminals, so make an ideal stop. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. If you’re an adventurous type of cruiser, the 650-foot twin zip lines at Amber Cove are the place to head for.

Further away, there’s a giant Aqua Zone with pool, swim-up bar, cabanas and exciting watersports activities. What Caribbean cruise would be complete without some sports on the crystal blue water? Amber Cove has a lot to offer a fan of water sports, from windsurfing to fishing. Hop aboard a catamaran or go on a high-tech snorkeling adventure for some fun in the bay. If you really enjoy snorkeling, you can spend even more time in Sosua Bay on a magical, all-inclusive shore excursion. Or, simply enjoy some relaxing swimming outside your own poolside cabana.

The longest zipline runs for 850 meters and is one of the longest in the country. End your adrenaline-packed visit beneath a thatched roof, snacking on local fruits from an organic fruit platter. Sanocho is a popular Latino American dish that has the consistency of a thick soup made from stewed meats and local vegetables such as yucca and plantain. If you visit the Information Center at Amber Cove, you can get your passport stamped with an unofficial stamp showing that you visited Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Puerto Plata dates back to the 16th century, and the port serves as a gateway to the area.

Amber Cove, Dominican Republic: Everything You Need to Know

carnival cruise excursions amber cove

Lay back and listen to waves while sipping a cocktail and watching the world go by. Enjoy drinks and food from the resort bar (own expense) and cool off with a swim in the pool or ocean. Puerto Plata is located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. It is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

What Makes the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua a Unique Excursion?

The resort is owned and managed by Carnival and is used as a popular port of call for its brands. Packed with watersports activities, shopping, food and fun, it was created to keep visiting cruisers entertained as part of their Caribbean cruise itinerary. Nestled in the Dominican Republic’s Bay of Maimon, the relatively new cruise port of Amber Cove welcomes its visitors into a Caribbean dream. Bursting with unique architecture, guided tours, water sports and plenty of shopping, this port is an amazing destination for Carnival cruises. If you’re planning to visit Amber Cove for the first time, here are the top 10 things you won’t want to miss. Another day at the beach can be enjoyed with this 4-hour trip to a private beach club.

carnival cruise excursions amber cove

Coronavirus advice for Amber Cove cruises

The port city also has an active and exciting wildlife scene, which you can explore on any number of adventures. From swimming with dolphins to adventuring through a monkey jungle, animal lovers will have plenty of options to get up close and personal with the local wildlife. Of course, one of the best parts of a cruise to Amber Cove is the chance to explore this unique and vibrant port-of-call area. Guided city tours will introduce you to the spirited town, while outback adventures will take you off the beaten path and into the unique wilderness of the Dominican Republic.

Must-Know: tourist info, language and money matters

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However, there is a large resort-style pool, Splash Zone, watersports, shopping and fun activities. You can take an excursion to Coconut Cove, which has a beautiful white sandy beach about 45 minutes drive away. Other local sandy beaches can be found at Riu, Sosua and Cabarete.

Where is Amber Cove, the port and where cruise ships dock

One of the best ways to save is by considering alternatives to booking through your cruise line. Immerse yourself in the Dominican Republic's stunning natural scenery during this rugged, half-day dune buggy tour. Drive off-road through muddy paths and picturesque coastlines in Puerto Plata Province.

EXPLORE

There are no towels available in the port, so if you forget yours, then you’ll have to air-dry. Amber Cove offers its visitors an array of adventures that will take them happily outside their comfort zone. From riding on horseback down the sparkling beach to hiking and canyoneering through the majestic waterfalls of Rio de Damajagua, Amber Cove will certainly feed your inner explorer. For the ultimate adventure, check out this shore excursion with horseback riding, zip lining and a mega-truck tour all in one. Embark on an adventure and experience the best Puerto Plata shore excursions on your next cruise.

Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

When booking independent shore excursions we use and recommend Viator. Viator is owned by Tripadvisor and is one of the highest-rated independent tour brokers around. They also offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your excursion. Puerto Plata province is home to some of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful beaches.

While booking through your cruise line is convenient, you can save money and potentially have a more personalized experience by booking through independent companies. Just be sure to do your research and understand the pros and cons of each option. Another recommended tour that immerses you in the local Dominican culture is a trip to Taino Garden.

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Further inland, the hilly tree-covered backdrop overlooks the swimming pool and provides panoramic views of Amber Cove and the surrounding turquoise sea. Bright and active, Amber Cove is one of the Dominican Republic’s most interesting port cities. With so many exciting adventures to go on and sights to explore, it’s truly one of the must-see cruise destinations. Whether you’re looking for a family cruise or hoping to spend some time on the incredible beaches off the Bay of Maimon, Amber Cove has a little bit of something for everyone.

The routes in the forest have a total of 2.5 kilometers of path under the natural shade created by the trees. Sosua Bay is another gem, known for its snorkeling and vibrant marine life. For a more secluded experience, visit Cayo Arena (Paradise Island), a small sandbar surrounded by coral reefs. Whether you are a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a history buff, Puerto Plata has something for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the top shore excursions that are available on your Puerto Plata Cruise. In the winter months, from December to May, Caribbean cruises are particularly popular and are the best months weather-wise to visit Amber Cove.

In this world full of information on just about everything, Amber Cove is a throwback — it’s the kind of quiet little spot you won’t find on most maps. But you will find it — brimming with bars and pools, plus opportunities for lounging and shopping — to be the gateway to island paradise, Dominican-style. Beyond Amber Cove is Puerto Plata, a town that began life as the first European settlement in the Americas.

Lounge on a sun bed, enjoy your own choice of drinks and meals from the beach bar/restaurant, do some local shopping and join in organized activities if you choose. As exciting as your time aboard a cruise to the Caribbean promises to be, an entire world of tropical wonders awaits you through the countless Caribbean shore excursions available. As for the layout of the port area itself, it’s fairly easy to navigate. First, your ship will dock at the pier, and then it’s a short walk to Amber Cove. Once through, straight ahead will be the meeting points for booked shore excursions. To the left are a number of restaurants, shops, and the way to exit the port and grab a taxi.

Our ships sail to stunning destinations — see just where on the map we go. Amber Cove in Puerto Plata province has a tropical maritime climate with little seasonal temperature variation. It is hotter and humid from May to October and cooler from December to March. The north coast of the Dominican Republic, where Amber Cove is, doesn't have much of a variation in rainfall.

One of the best parts of any cruise vacation is the chance to rest and relax on (and off) the open seas. If you want some peace and quiet, book a private Tahitian-style cabana over the bay, a Dominican beach house on the shore or a luxury villa on the coast for some secluded rest and relaxation. The Serenity VIP Resort Beach is a truly exclusive experience, with its own crepe and oyster bars, and hammocks swinging gently over the golden sand.

For those with walking difficulties, there are bicycle rickshaws ready to take cruise passengers all around. Get some relaxation with your exploration during this half-day, guided, historical tour of Puerto Plata that ends with lounging at a beachside resort. Learn about this vibrant city and then head to Golden Beach where a sunbed and cocktail are waiting for you.

There is more than enough choice in the Amber Cove Cruise Center for passengers looking for souvenirs, local gifts, or even jewelry and fine watches. The local population is very friendly but not pushy and speak English reasonably well. Cruise passengers with disabilities or with walking difficulties will find it very smooth to wander around in Amber Cove on your own. Another historical site is the Isabel de Torres Cable Car, which takes you to the top of Mount Isabel for breathtaking views. Don’t miss the Victorian-era buildings in Puerto Plata city, reflecting the rich cultural heritage. Full training is given before you launch yourself from the platforms in the treetops at heights of up to 90 feet above the ground.

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