By Carnival Cruises Amber Cove Port
Amber Cove port has become one of the busiest cruise ship ports in the Caribbean since it was first inaugurated back in January 2015. This relaunched the North region of Puerto Plata, in the Dominican Republic back into the cruise tourism as never before.
The port is built on 25 acres, can dock two Oasis-class ships at the same time and had a cost of $85m million dollars. It has one pier with 2 berths(totaling 6,350 ft) that can handle 8,000 passengers a day, plus crew members. Free transportation to the port facilities are provided in colorful rickshaws.
Panoramic view of the port from the Sky Bar
Designed to keep visitors entertained for the entire duration of their stay, the port boasts a wide range of amenities we describe here, along with a highlights tour video by Talking Cruise. The reason we chose this video after watching dozens of other video reviews on Amber Cove, is the quality of the presentation.
The Amber Cove port entrance
Here’s everything you need to know about this splendid Caribbean destination:
The Amber Cove Pier: first impressions
The pier stands as the welcoming gateway to Amber Cove. It stretches into the azure Caribbean waters and offers a smooth disembarkation experience for cruise passengers. When gangway open it takes about an hour for everyone to fully disembark the ship. The stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding greenery set the tone for an exceptional day ahead.
The free rickshaw ride.
Duty Free & Shopping
Once reaching the port entrance, the very first building you go through is the Dufry duty free shop. Right next to its left side you find Diamonds International, and in the same building there are restrooms. For shopaholics, the Duty-Free & Shopping Center is a dream. You can get your hands on luxury brands at a fraction of the usual cost, alongside unique Dominican crafts and souvenirs.
Coco Caña Restaurant & Bar
A fine dining experience awaits at Coco Caña. With a menu featuring local delicacies and international favorites, paired with an exquisite selection of cocktails, it’s a gastronomic delight. You will find local foods listed in the menu, and access to the same menu either in the pool lounge (wet bar) by the main pool, the restaurant, the Sky Bar, and the Amber Cove Cabana Bar.
The Aqua Zone is the heart of the port.
The Aqua Zone Pool Area
Perfect for a relaxing swim or lounging by the side, the Aqua Zone pool caters to adults looking for a peaceful retreat. With dedicated loungers and a tropical setting, it’s a paradise within a paradise. This is where the large loungers area is located, the main swimming pool with lounge bar, and other amenities such as the pool cabanas, zip line that soars above it, and the Sky Bar on top.
Is the Amber Cove pool free? yes, specially in the cafes and restaurants of the port.
Are the loungers also free? yes, there is a VIP section you need to pay for, but most of the general loungers areas are free.
Amber Cove port swimming pool and bar
Amber Cove Kids Pool
For families traveling with young ones, the kids’ pool is a safe haven. Shallow waters, playful structures, and lifeguards ensure that the little ones have fun safely. This area has its own loungers so parents can watch their kids while having their own share of R&R.
Kayaks, Paddle Board & Pedal Board Rental
Adventure seekers can take to the waters with a range of equipment available for rent. The gentle waves make it suitable even for beginners; this includes paddle boards, kayaks, pedal board and other water crafts.
The Amber Cove Sky Bar
Positioned with a panoramic view, the Sky Bar offers the finest drinks with a side of breathtaking vistas. A visit during sunset is highly recommended, just before the ship departs. This bar also includes a food menu, and is within close distance to the pool cabanas and zip line experience.
The Sky Bar
Basketball & Chess
Engage in a friendly game at the dedicated courts or indulge in a strategic battle on the oversized chess boards, amenities found in the Eastern side of the port, right before the Crew Center and kids pool area.
The Nature Cove
A tranquil escape, the Nature Cove is a serene space surrounded by native flora and fauna. It’s a spot for meditation, relaxation, and pure connection with nature. This area has a waterfall, a creek and a display of information on local Amber, fauna and flora of the island.
The Nature Cove
The Zip Line & Slides
Thrill-seekers, rejoice! The zip line offers an adrenaline-pumping ride across the port, while the slides guarantee fun-filled descents into the refreshing water below. The zip line stretches from the top spot over the Aqua Zone and zips all along it to the other side, over the swimming pool and loungers area.
The Hillside & Poolside Cabanas
For those looking for an exclusive experience, the cabanas are perfect. Offering privacy, luxury, and dedicated service, they’re an upgrade to the usual lounging spots. The cabanas have their own bar and restaurant menu with dedicated waiter and bar.
The Cabanas
Amber Cove Shore Excursions
Venture out to explore the beauty of Puerto Plata with curated excursions. Whether it’s cultural tours, nature trails, or adventure activities, there’s something for every traveler. The catalog of shore activities has it all for a perfect adventure for everyone. ATVs, Waterfalls, Catamaran charters, Puerto Plata city tours, museums, cigar tours, local beaches and much more.
The Ocean Cabanas
Perched right on the edge of the sea, the ocean cabanas offer unmatched views, a gentle sea breeze, and an intimate setting. Perfect for couples or anyone looking to bask in the essence of the Caribbean. These are right next to the kayak and paddle board rentals.
FEATURED AMBER COVE TOUR:
The port of Amber Cove offers many advantages due to its location, as cruise passengers can visit 5 different destinations in the North DR, each with its own selection of excursions:
Puerto Plata: the largest city of all, famous for its historic district, many landmarks, plenty of shore excursions and nice beaches.
Sosua: with its many beaches, superb snorkeling, catamaran tours, the Jewish museum, restaurants, bars, ATV tours, horseback riding and much more. It takes about 40 minutes to drive from the port to this location.
Cabarete: Eco friendly Cabarete is famous for its lagoon, Cabarete Beach, surfing in Encuentro, Kite surfing, laser sailing, Paddle boarding, beach villas, and more. The distance from Amber Cove to Cabarete is a 45 minute drive, worth it.
Cofresi: Ocean World marine park is the main attraction, plus the Cofresi Beach, its restaurants, the marina, and its bars. This is the closest location to Amber Cove port, less than a 15 minute drive away.
Costambar: Just a 20 minute drive away from the port, this location offers a quiet escape in Puerto Plata. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars and gift shops, and the community includes a golf course.
In conclusion, Carnival Cruises’ Amber Cove in Puerto Plata is more than just a stopover. It’s a destination that promises relaxation, adventure, luxury, and a genuine taste of the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re a solo traveler, on a romantic getaway, or with family, Amber Cove guarantees memories that’ll last a lifetime. The Amber Cove port schedule shows the arrival of the ships in a calendar format.
Amber Cove
Terminal Turistica, Maimon Puerto Plata 57000
Tel. +18297350272
