More about Amber Cove (Puerto Plata)
Why Cruise to Amber Cove (Puerto Plata)?
Amber Cove's resort-style pool features a swim-up bar, water slide and plenty of lounge chairs
There's no beach onsite; the nearest one is roughly 15 minutes away and requires a taxi
Thanks to its exclusivity as a private port, Amber Cove hardly feels overcrowded
Amber Cove (Puerto Plata) Cruise Port Facilities?
Visitors can walk the long dock or take a complimentary covered pedicab (tips appreciated) in order to pass through the fort-like structure that leads to Amber Cove's duty-free shops and tour buses. Note that some tours meet as soon as you pass through the entrance and into this area. The cobblestoned space with candy-colored buildings offers a range of shops from Diamonds International and stores for watches and leather goods to a pharmacy and a shop that offers all items for $20 or less. You'll also find a cafe and a bar (these offer Wi-Fi and restrooms). In the center is a round building offering stamps and information about the Dominican Republic. For those taking a stroll, you'll notice a few eye-catching sculptures around a fountain, and a wall of information about the area's history, including its various uses as a filming location.
To the far left, if you walk beyond the stores and past the bar, you'll uncover a great photo opportunity of the words "Amber Cove!" in large lettering, typically in front of where your ship is docked. Surrounding this quiet outcrop are a handful of stalls manned by local vendors selling their wares.
If you continue straight through the cobblestoned path, to the right of the central building, you will see a huge archway that leads to tour buses and shore excursion departures on the right, and a taxi line on the left. Prices for one to five people start at $20 one way to Ocean World; $35 to Puerto Plata and $50 to Damajagua, known as the waterfalls. Also to the left, right before you pass under the archway, are a few administrative offices, a desk for National/Alamo car rentals and an ATM.
For cruisers staying close by, Amber Cove offers a resort-style swimming pool, including a swim-up bar, and a lazy river. An open and a closed water slide at the Aqua Zone are fantastic for kids (and adults). This entire area, including the lounge chairs, are free of charge. Further on, visitors will find a separate playground/splash pad for small children, a basketball court and jumbo chess. Restrooms are located all around the area.
Interested in learning more about the Amber Cove cruise port? Check out our article on fun things to do in Amber Cove (with photos) to help you prepare for your time at the port.
