Amber Cove is one of the Caribbean’s most popular cruise destinations, welcoming thousands of Carnival, Princess, and Holland America passengers every week. With only a few hours in port, choosing the right excursion can make or break your Dominican Republic experience.
After years of guiding cruise passengers through Puerto Plata’s best attractions, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your time ashore.
27 Waterfalls of Damajagua: The Must-Do Adventure
If there’s one excursion that defines Puerto Plata, it’s the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua. This natural wonder offers something you won’t find anywhere else in the Caribbean: the chance to climb, jump, and slide down a series of stunning waterfalls carved into the mountain.
The experience takes about 4-5 hours total, including transportation from Amber Cove. You’ll hike up through the lush tropical forest, then make your way down by jumping into crystal-clear pools and sliding down natural rock formations. Safety equipment and experienced guides are included, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The adventure typically includes lunch featuring authentic Dominican cuisine.
ATV Tours: Explore Off the Beaten Path
For those who prefer horsepower to hiking, ATV tours offer an exhilarating way to explore Puerto Plata’s diverse landscape. These 3-4 hour adventures take you through beaches, rivers, and mountain trails that most tourists never see. You’ll visit local communities, cross shallow rivers, and enjoy panoramic views of the North Coast. No previous experience is necessary, and the guides provide full instruction before you hit the trails.
City Discovery Tour: Culture and History
Puerto Plata has a rich history dating back to Christopher Columbus, and a city tour reveals layers of culture that cruise passengers often miss. Highlights include the famous Umbrella Street with its colorful canopy of hanging umbrellas, the Instagram-worthy pink alley of Doña Blanca, and the Amber Museum housed in a beautiful Victorian building. You’ll also explore the historic downtown area with its pastel-colored wooden houses and the Malecón oceanfront promenade.
Chocolate Factory Experience
The Dominican Republic produces some of the world’s finest cacao, and the Del Oro chocolate factory offers a fascinating look at the bean-to-bar process. This tour is perfect for food lovers and families. You’ll walk through organic cacao groves, learn about traditional processing methods, and taste premium Dominican chocolate in various forms. The experience is both educational and delicious, and you’ll leave with a new appreciation for artisanal chocolate.
Tips for Booking Amber Cove Excursions
Timing is everything when booking shore excursions. Ship-organized tours offer the security of guaranteed return, but independent tours with local operators typically provide smaller groups, better prices, and more authentic experiences. The key is choosing a reputable local company that understands cruise schedules and guarantees timely return to the port.
Book in advance during peak cruise season (December through April) as popular tours fill up quickly. Communicate your ship’s arrival and departure times clearly, and choose operators who offer WhatsApp communication for easy coordination on the day of your tour.
