APORDOM starts construction for maritime link between San Pedro and Puerto Rico

Santo Domingo.- The commencement of construction work at the ports of Mayagüez and San Pedro de Macorís in the Dominican Republic was celebrated by Jean Luis Rodríguez, the executive director of the Dominican Port Authority (APORDOM). This marks the beginning of a maritime route between the two ports, to be operated by the Spanish ferry company Balearia.

This initiative aims to enhance infrastructure investment and upgrade existing port conditions. Jean Luis Rodríguez emphasized the significance of the project for the Dominican Republic, foreseeing favorable outcomes. He noted that it aligns with the vision of President Luis Abinader, representing progress for the entire region and the country.

Juan Adolfo Utor Martínez, president of Balearia, emphasized that the new service will drive socioeconomic development and enhance connectivity between the two countries. Drawing on Balearia’s decade-long experience operating routes between the United States and the Bahamas, Martínez expressed keen interest in expanding their business model in the Caribbean region.

The transformation of the port of San Pedro de Macorís involves the construction of a multifunctional passenger terminal, along with the adaptation of over 100,000 square meters of facilities in the Port of Mayagüez. These upgrades include advancements in technology aimed at facilitating passenger and cargo mobility between the Antilles, providing access to European markets, and stimulating tourism and trade.

The development and construction of this new maritime connection between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico is slated to commence after the summer, with a $100 million investment. The route will offer combined transportation services for passengers, vehicles, and merchandise, featuring daily communications and reliable operations.

Once operational, the route will cover a distance of 133 nautical miles between Mayagüez and San Pedro de Macorís, with a journey duration of six hours. It is expected to have the capacity to transport approximately 1,000 passengers, 350 vehicles, and 300 containers to Dominican soil on a regular basis.