The Dominican Republic has taken a significant step in enhancing its cruise tourism sector by signing a strategic agreement with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) on August 5, 2025. This collaboration aims to increase investment and boost the flow of cruise passengers to the nation, solidifying the Dominican Republic’s position as a premier destination for cruise tourism.
The signing ceremony was attended by President Luis Abinader, with Tourism Minister David Collado and FCCA President Adam Ceserano formalizing the agreement. President Abinader emphasized the growing importance of cruise tourism in the country, noting a remarkable surge last year, where 2,656,305 sea passengers visited—an impressive 18% increase over 2023. This influx accounted for nearly a quarter of the country’s total international arrivals, highlighting the sector’s vital role in the Dominican Republic’s tourism landscape.
To support this growth, the government plans to construct two new cruise ports, including one in Manzanillo, complementing seven existing facilities. The ports of Amber Cove and Taino Bay have been particularly successful, handling 82.6% of cruise passengers in 2024, while the newly opened Cabo Rojo welcomed over 11,600 visitors in its first year.
Minister Collado described the agreement as a pivotal moment for Dominican tourism, reaffirming the commitment to enhance the quality, competitiveness, and investment in the cruise sector. He noted that this partnership positions the Dominican Republic as a leader in regional cruise tourism.
Moreover, the agreement designates the Dominican Republic as one of the FCCA’s five presidential strategic partners, enabling access to crucial resources for organizing high-level meetings with cruise executives. The partnership will also focus on creating job opportunities for locals and improving passenger experiences at Dominican destinations.
These initiatives include professional training programs and participation in international events like Seatrade Cruise Global 2026, enhancing the country’s visibility in the global cruise market. The agreement stands effective until December 31, 2026, with a focus on long-term growth and collaboration in the cruise industry.
Overall, this strategic agreement not only signals a commitment to expanding cruise tourism in the Dominican Republic but also aims to foster local job creation and elevate the overall tourist experience in the region, paving the way for a vibrant economic future.