Apordom aims for nine cruise terminals across the Dominican Republic by 2028
The Dominican Republic’s North Coast is poised for a new phase of tourism and economic growth as major port, hotel and infrastructure projects seek to improve connectivity, attract investment and capitalize on the region’s natural, cultural and historical attractions.
Alejandro Campos, executive director of the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom), said the institution is advancing a broader strategy that goes beyond port regulation and operations to support tourism, logistics, investment and regional development.
One of the most significant projects is the planned Manzanillo cruise terminal, which would become the Dominican Republic’s seventh cruise terminal. The country is targeting a total of nine cruise terminals by the end of 2028 as it expands its position in the Caribbean cruise tourism market.
Campos said the Manzanillo facility is being designed according to environmental standards and is expected to become the first eco-friendly cruise terminal in the region. Apordom expects to complete the process in October, with the first cruise ship scheduled to arrive in January 2028.
Manzanillo emerges as logistics and tourism hub
The cruise terminal is part of a broader development strategy for Manzanillo, Montecristi, which includes a multimodal logistics ecosystem with energy terminals, a cargo port and new private-sector investments.
Among the projects is a bulk terminal that authorities expect will contribute to strengthening the Dominican Republic’s food security, while the expansion of port infrastructure is designed to increase the area’s logistical capacity.
Campos said the arrival of cruise ships could generate economic opportunities beyond Manzanillo itself, benefiting communities throughout the surrounding region. International visitors would also have greater access to the North Coast’s natural, cultural and historical attractions.
The infrastructure projects are already having an impact on local employment, with approximately 1,500 jobs generated during the construction phase. Once the new facilities begin operating, additional employment and business opportunities are expected for residents of the region.
The development of the Manzanillo cruise terminal and related infrastructure forms part of the Dominican Republic’s broader effort to diversify tourism destinations, strengthen its logistics network and attract new investment to the North Coast.
