FCCA successfully hosts PAMAC Destination Summit 2026 in Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata.- The Dominican Republic strengthened its position as one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing cruise destinations during the PAMAC Destination Summit 2026 in Puerto Plata, where government officials and executives from the world’s leading cruise lines explored new opportunities to expand cruise routes, increase passenger arrivals and attract investment.

The Ministry of Tourism showcased the country’s rapid growth in cruise tourism, reporting that cruise passenger arrivals have increased by approximately 155%, from 1.1 million in 2019 to more than 2.8 million in 2025. Authorities expect the Dominican Republic to welcome 3 million cruise passengers by the end of 2026, driven by expanded port infrastructure and growing partnerships with major cruise operators.

The summit brought together representatives from companies including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and Disney Cruise Line, along with Dominican tourism and port officials. Discussions focused on expanding cruise itineraries, increasing port calls and promoting destinations such as Puerto Plata, Cabo Rojo, La Romana, Santo Domingo and Samaná.

During the event, the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) recognized Tourism Minister David Collado for his leadership in developing the Dominican Republic’s cruise industry, citing the country’s investments in port infrastructure, tourism promotion and visitor experience as key drivers of its continued growth.