Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic Port Reviews

Take the waterfall excursion! One of the most memorable experiences we've had visiting any of the ports. Driving through Dominican Republic and seeing first hand their culture was very humbling. Once we arrived (30 minutes from port) to Rio Damajagua the adventure started with a warm greeting and direction as to who your tour guide was and where to find equipment. Water shoes can be rented or bring your own but they must be worn. Also be prepared to hike up the mountain and many stairs (like maybe a 45 minute upward hike). I don't want to put a fitness level on this because the people in our group ranged from children around 8-12 years old, teenagers, age 20 something and fit, age 30 something and overweight, age 50 - 60 and overweight to fit --- yet with numerous stops and water breaks we made it and every step up the mountain became a distant memory. Also outside of one heck of a work out the jungle up the mountain side was beautiful and breathtaking! Once at the falls we climbed down a ladder into the pools collected by the falls and the 2nd half of the adventure started. Absolutely amazing, beautiful, and fun!!! The walk back was about 30 minutes but not taxing on your body like the initial hike. There is also food, snacks, and an option to buy video and pictures. Once again I highly recommend!!!

The most beautiful stop of the trip.Take the Carnival group tour to get the most out of your few hours there.

Visited: Apr 24, 2016

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Amber Cove/Puerto Plata is beautiful. There were 4 (2 couple) in our group. We hired a van/taxi to give us a tour of the town. He drove us around from 1030 to 300 for $100 ($50 per couple). He took us to a cable car tour to the highest mountain. Our tour guide at the cable car tour was Pete and he was very knowledgeable. We took a tour of the beautiful gardens and the Christ the Redeemer statue. The view from the top of the mountain is breathtaking. After the cable car ride, we went to a banana grove and a fort. Be forewarned, the peddlers at the fort are very aggressive. They do not take no for answer. They will continue to harass you. I spent $100 on souvenir junk before I knew it. It is beautiful country tho very poor which was sad to see.

The only thing I didnt like about this port was the super long walk from the ship to the land, it kinda feels like a set up to get you to pay for a ride from one of the pedicabs but you just know whatever the price is it isn't worth it. Other than that the port has a lot to offer. Not very much culture wise but still fun, clean, and user friendly. Try the waterslides.

Swam with dolphins. Nest excursion ever.

Visited: Dec 30, 2017

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The best coffee during all cruise and finally quality WiFi. Pretty welcoming shopping area plus pool. Not enough time to get introduced to the island.

Visited: Nov 24, 2018

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Very touristy port. Enjoyed the pool. Good coffee and ice cream. Not too many things to do right at port. Very nice and clean port.

Just walked around & tried the local beer.

Visited: Dec 16, 2018

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This gets 5 stars bc we made the choice to take a taxi to a beach resort. Otherwise the destination would only be a large pool area with zip lining and shopping (that would’ve only gotten 3stars bc I wouldn’t want to be on a tropical island in a pool.

Visited: Jul 03, 2018

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The people were great with providing tours of their island. They appreciate the cruise lines and rolled out the red carpet to provide good service.

Visited: Aug 27, 2016

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