Amber Cove, Dominican Republic cruises

Located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, close to Puerto Plata, Amber Cove’s natural rugged landscape is popular with hikers and mountain bikers, while the serene coastline carries a reputation for excellent water sports.

First discovered by Christopher Columbus, today Amber Cove is a popular beach town in the Puerto Plata province, nestled among the area’s Spanish colonial past.

Amber Cove port guide

A relatively new addition to the city, Amber Cove is one of the Caribbean’s newest destinations, boasting modern and sought-after amenities, including shopping lanes, family attractions, water sports, and dining establishments.

The surrounding area dates to the 1490s and local museums nearby work hard to preserve and showcase the city’s rich history alongside colonial architecture.

Top landmarks and sights in Amber Cove

Fortaleza de San Felipe

The Fortaleza de San Felipe is a historic fortress located in Puerto Plata. During the 1500s it was used to protect the land from invaders, pirates, and privateers. At the site, you can view the structure, ancient weapons, and hidden chambers while admiring the impressive coastline.

Independence Park

Independence Park is a small plaza and square with memorial statues of national heroes and other monuments. This site is a testament to the nation’s struggle for freedom. With plenty of places to sit, decorated with trees and shrubs, this is a great place to both learn local history and enjoy a little respite.

Puerto Plata Cable Car

Puerto Plata Cable Car is the Caribbean’s only cable car, offering views over mountains, the city, and its Christ statue. Each ride takes around 10 to 12 minutes to reach the mountain peak where you will find botanical gardens and panoramic views.

Things to do in Amber Cove

Shopping

With neat shopping lanes packed with stores, markets, and boutiques, shopping at Amber Cove is unique and unlike any other Caribbean port. Shops sell a variety of goods including local cigars, coffee, souvenirs, and gemstones.

Water sports and on-land adventures

At Amber Cove, you can swim with dolphins, sharks, and sea lions at the aquarium and participate in kayaking, paddleboarding, and aqua boat cycling at the port. For an added thrill, head to El Choco National Park where you’ll discover caves and hiking trails that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

Cunard Shore Experience

Make your time in Amber Cove memorable with a Cunard Shore Experience. Our exciting range of guided adventures, hosted by local experts, is one of the best ways to explore ashore. You can view and book available Shore Experiences for your Amber Cove cruise in My Cunard up to 3 days ahead of sailing.

Eating and drinking in Amber Cove

Amber Cove port has a great choice of places to eat and drink. Whether you enjoy exceptional dining or fruity drinks by the pool, you can do it all here.

Popular dishes in Puerto Plata include pork rinds, fried rice with chicken, and a seven-meat stew accompanied by avocado slices. If you choose to head into town, be sure to sample one of these local traditional dishes for a true taste of Caribbean cuisine.

Mamajuana, an alcoholic beverage traditionally made by combining red wine and honey and allowing it to soak with spices, bark, and herbs, is another staple you can find in Amber Cove. Recipes are passed down from generation to generation, each one a closely guarded secret.

Getting around, Amber Cove transport

Amber Cove is easily navigated on foot, and for day trips to the beach and to towns nearby, buses, group shuttles, taxis, or Shore Experiences are available.

Golf carts, operated by local drivers, are also available to transport you around Amber Cove port, should you prefer to cut out some of the walking.

Amber Cove port facilities

Facilities at Amber Cove Port include shops, restaurants, water sports, and family activities.

Amber Cove quick tips

Currency

The Dominican peso is the local currency in Amber Cove. Some businesses may also accept US dollars. Card payments are widely accepted in port, however there may be a foreign transaction fee. Some small shops and bars may not accept cards, so you may find it useful to carry a small amount of cash during your visit. Don’t worry if you haven’t prepared for this in advance or you forget as you can exchange currency on board.

Tipping is recommended in Amber Cove, Puerto Plata, and the Dominican Republic.

Weather

Amber Cove has a tropical climate with rainy winters and warm summers. Temperatures are expected to reach highs of 32°C during the summer in Amber Cove while the winter months reach lows of 20°C.