Samana, Dominican Republic Port Reviews

We visited this island on a Wednesday or Sunday. When we got to the port area off the ship we were told many shops wouldn't be opening today because of religious reasons. We were bombarded by kids trying to sell my wife flowers the whole time we were walking along side the port. The port area was so bad that we decided to go back on the ship. We would definitely need to do a excursion if we ever end up here again. But we have no desire to visit again

I was not looking forward to this Port but found the most awesome Beach and this was actually my favorite Port. Go to La Playita - not crowded serene and beautiful

Visited: Nov 23, 2019

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We were taken to a local beach. Our guide showed us were some shops were and then told us were the meeting point would be. We tried to buy a souvenir and they only wanted to give us change back in pesos. Plus there was a lady sunbathing topless on the beach, not what we expected.

Visited: Jan 18, 2020

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We are not big fans of using a tender to reach the port. It took about 15 minutes to reach the port from the ship. The one thing that we will remember about Samana is the extreme poverty that exists there.

Visited: Jan 18, 2020

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Yes, we did an excursion to the beach.

Visited: Jan 18, 2020

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The survey sent to me was incorrect. We took the Western Caribbean itinerary and will comment on those ports. Costa Maya - third visit to this port. Nothing with nothing. Typical tourist spot

Enjoyed the botanic garden. Found the time at Las Terranas to be a waste.

A very poor country. Very sad to see. Nothing at the port. Children begging.

I was furious on this shore excursion, though it should have been delightful as the place is downright gorgeous. I was furious, however, because we were told we were not allowed to take any food with us, the ship could not prepare boxed lunches for us, that there would be a buffet (for a fee) available for cruise passengers once we got to the beach (after a cruising the caves and mangroves). It was about a six hour outing, starting around 10:00. When we got to the island (around 2:30 or 3:00) - we were hungry and thirsty!!! However the buffet area was shut down - the islanders said it was "closed" that day, and there was no NCL representative anywhere. We had several hungry children (and adults!), but no food or bottled water available. It ruined what would have been an incredible day had we been fed and watered!

Folks need to understand, as the crew told us plainly, that Samana is a developing area. It's full of natural beauty and kind people, but take it for what it is. It's another world from something like St. Thomas. Nothing much to do on your own. Book an excursion.

Visited: Oct 17, 2010

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