Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic finalize details to launch daily ferry

Puerto Rico.- A long-anticipated daily ferry route connecting Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, and San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic, is moving closer to reality. Dominican authorities report that all preparations on their end are complete, including port upgrades, while Puerto Rico still faces pending regulatory hurdles. Dominican Consul General César Cedeño expressed optimism, noting strong support from Governor Jenniffer González and local Puerto Rican officials to resolve the remaining issues.

The ferry, expected to launch this year, will cover 133 nautical miles in about six hours, transporting up to 1,000 passengers, 350 vehicles, and 300 containers per trip. Designed to operate daily, the service aims to enhance tourism, trade, and family reunification between the two islands—particularly benefiting the approximately 200,000 Dominicans living in Puerto Rico. The project aligns with President Luis Abinader’s strategy to boost the eastern Dominican economy and position San Pedro de Macorís as a logistics and tourism hub.

Infrastructure upgrades are underway at both ports, supported by the Dominican Port Authority and Spanish maritime firm Balearia. These include modernized terminals and expanded facilities. Balearia’s president highlighted the ferry’s potential to drive regional development. Unlike the existing Santo Domingo–San Juan route operated by Ferries del Caribe, the new connection will complement current services by reducing congestion and offering a more affordable option—especially for travelers with cargo or vehicles. Final approval from Puerto Rican authorities remains the last step before launching this transformative Caribbean route.