Collado announces 15 additional cruise ships for June and July

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic will welcome 15 additional cruise ships during June and July, helping sustain growth in the sector despite the redistribution of some Caribbean cruise routes following the opening of a new terminal in the Bahamas, Tourism Minister David Collado announced.

Collado explained that several cruise lines temporarily shifted vessels to the new Bahamian destination, creating challenges for regional competitors. However, negotiations with Royal Caribbean helped offset the impact, securing an additional 48,000 cruise passengers and ensuring positive results for both June and July.

A significant share of the new cruise arrivals scheduled for June, July, and August will dock at the port of Cabo Rojo in Pedernales, reinforcing the government’s strategy of developing emerging tourism destinations and expanding the economic benefits of the cruise industry beyond traditional hubs.

The minister said the results reflect ongoing efforts to maintain the Dominican Republic’s competitiveness in the Caribbean through active promotion and direct engagement with major cruise operators. He highlighted that international outreach has been a key component of the country’s tourism strategy, helping attract visitors, investments, and new air and sea routes.

Collado noted that the Dominican Republic continues to post strong tourism and cruise passenger figures, consolidating its position as one of the Caribbean’s leading destinations. He emphasized that the government will continue working with global cruise lines and tourism partners to sustain growth and strengthen the country’s appeal in international markets.