Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic

I've got to say this was our favorite port! I think it was more our state of mind by then, than the place... It was a pretty and clean port. I had fun on the Zipline! But what we really enjoyed was relaxing at the skybar (amazing strawberry lemonade) where the weather was perfect, the view was incredible and we simply did nothing but drink it all in, talk, laugh and relax!!! No agenda, island time, letting go is HIGHLY recommended!!!!!!! WOW!!! Enjoy!!!!

We just got home a few days ago from our cruise. One of our stops was Amber Cove, Dominican Republic. We wanted to do an excursion that allowed us to see past the cruise port. After hours of looking through excursions, this was the one we decided to go with and book in advance. This excursion will truly show you the real Dominican Republic (town and countryside). You will meet at a specific zone once you get off of the ship (8:30 AM for us). Once everyone is there you will proceed to another area where you board the bus. NOTE - if you have mobility issues, it could be a little difficult to get up the steps. However, they were wonderful with older guests and making sure they got on safely. Our first stop was at a local school. Unfortunately, it was brief, but the kids are so sweet and friendly. If you want to bring toys/supplies for the kids, it's very much welcomed and appreciated. You will also get the chance to take pictures with the kids if you wish. We then went through many backroads of the rural area and was able to see real life in the Dominican Republic. Seeing everyday life in this country was truly one of the best things about this whole excursion. We then proceeded to a village and was able to tour a local home, see how many things are grown and produced, and we were even allowed to try some of the fresh products. They let us sample homemade bread, fruits, coffee, chocolate, and much more. You are able to purchase the coffee and chocolate! Afterwards, we headed to another area for lunch. The food was amazing and there was plenty for everyone. Drinks (non-alcoholic & alcoholic) are included with this excursion. After lunch you are able to explore the shops and change into your swimsuit if you need to. We then proceeded to the beach. It's not the greatest beach, but it was still gorgeous and we enjoyed the hour we spent there. Just a FYI - it costs $4 per chair at this beach, and a umbrella is included with that price. There are a few ladies who offer massages while you are at the beach, and it's included with your excursion! I did not get one personally, but my boyfriend did and he said it was great! Just tip them a few extra dollars when they are finished. Once the hour is up you will proceed back to the cruise port. Riding through the city going back to port was very interesting and eye-opening. Our tour guide, Eddy, was so entertaining and gave us tons of info. Our driver (Ramone I believe) did a wonderful job as well. The traffic is extremely crazy here, and he did a great job navigating us safely. We never once felt unsafe with any part of this excursion. Hands down this this was one of the best excursions I've ever done. Thank you Outback Adventures for our wonderful day!

Ok, Amber Cove has its pros and cons. I have cruised to Puerto Plata many years ago back when the ships actually docked in Puerto Plata and now I have been to Amber Cove. When visiting Amber Cove, you may stay at port and have a great time at the pool area and shops, all hassle free. Now if you feel comfortable about getting out and seeing the true town of Puerto Plata, take a taxi into town. Your taxi driver turns into a tour guide all in one. They will take you on a tour of the town that consists of the Amber museum, walk you down town to the center and let you go into a church where they talk about the history and a gift store that has everything but beware of the owner, he will watch over you as if your stealing from him but I just told him that I can shop myself or I’m leaving with nothing. He backed off. Than we went to the fort, beautiful area for photos. Than we went to a so called resort / bar on the beach. You can swim eat drink until you are ready to go back to port. All of this was about 20.00 dollars a person. I would suggest that you go as a group and stay as a group. Well worth it in my opinion. We still had plenty of time to shop at port as well.

I had a ball on the port from zip lining to drinking at the cool restaurant with the nice breeze and hassle free shopping a wonderful family spot second city I’ve visited in the Dominican Republic the people are so kind and welcoming

I absolutely love DR. The port is very clean and safe with plenty of FREE options such as a water park with a large pool, slides, restaurant, bar, and rentals. Everyone that we encountered was extremely friendly. I can't wait to go back!