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BiggerDominican Republic’s nautical tourism flourishes with over 3,000 Vessels in 2023
Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has witnessed a remarkable surge in nautical tourism, with over 3,000 vessels arriving in 2023. This sector, which has significantly boosted the nation’s economy and job market, is expected to see even more growth, potentially doubling by 2030.
Investments in marinas, infrastructure, and real estate offerings have surpassed US$1,000 million, creating nearly 5,000 jobs. The Dominican Association of Sports Marinas and Nautical Clubs (ADMC) officials, including President Juan Bancalari, member Silvano Suazo, and Treasurer Ewald Heinsen Brown, have emphasized the industry’s economic impact. Nautical tourism attracts affluent tourists seeking diverse products and services, including equipment rentals, boat repairs, sailing schools, accommodations, vehicle rentals, land excursions, and provisions for food, drinks, and fuel.
The ADMC directors noted a significant shift in the industry’s perception of the Dominican Republic. Once not considered a nautical destination and even restricted for vessel passage, the country now presents a safe and secure image, thanks to efforts by sports marinas, yacht clubs, and the Dominican Republic Navy. With around 30,000 vessels crossing the Caribbean annually during the winter months in Europe and the United States, the Dominican Republic is now a prominent destination on their map.
Key destinations along the Dominican route include Puerto Plata, Samaná, Punta Cana, Cap Cana, La Romana, and the upcoming Punta Arena-Baní marina. The addition of the Montecristi Nautical Club further enhances this thriving circuit.
The economic contribution of this sector is substantial, with each vessel paying US$75.00 in taxes and an additional US$13.00 per crew member. The country boasts world-class facilities like Marina Casa de Campo, Cap Cana Ciudad Destino Marina, Ocean World, Puerto Bahía, Club Náutico de Santo Domingo, Punta Cana Resort & Club, and Dockside Marine.
Furthermore, the Dominican Republic’s attractive airports and road infrastructure complement its nautical tourism, offering excellent connectivity and supporting the continuous growth of this vibrant sector.
thats good news considering that sailing has been in decay in the wolrd since the 80s because of its high cost and the type of people around the sport not being welcoming people.
The cost is not an issue for those who can afford it. Most people who engage in nautical tourism are obviously wealthy tourists. These types of tourists make a greater impact on the local economy than those who stay in all-inclusive resorts.
you clearly do not understand the issue, sailing as a sport is not growing due to cost and lack of appeal for young people.
LOL…why not show a photo from here…not some other island with a successful sailing community? You would hardly see a boat…that is why! Corrupt officials await you at every port. Just read online…you will find plenty of reasons to bypass.
Nautical tourism in the RD is an untapped potential. The fly in the ointment is there is no transparency of resources for this type of tourist to access to obtain clear information about traveling to the RD via water. The government has to make it easier for the nautical tourist to visit.