Category: Puerto Plata

THE CLASSIC CARS TOUR

See Puerto Plata in style on a sightseeing tour in a classic car on this excursion, lasting approximately four hours. Learn about local history and culture at the Amber Museum and Fortaleza San Felipe, visit local landmarks such as colourful Umbrella Street and enjoy a tasting at a rum distillery.

Experience a blend of sightseeing and vintage motoring on this approximately four-hour excursion, which transports guests between sites in a classic car. Depart from the port and choose your vehicle before setting off on a drive of around 25 minutes along Malecón de Puerto Plata, a long, spacious boulevard boasting ocean views.

Your destination is the Amber Museum, where you’ll spend approximately 25 minutes learning about the Dominican Republic’s prized amber deposits and viewing exhibits such as fossilised insects. You’ll also be able to watch a cigar-rolling demonstration at the museum’s ‘Tobacco Experience’section.

Then head over to nearby Umbrella Street for a visit of around 40 minutes. This much-loved byway is a popular photo spot thanks to its canopy of colourful umbrellas hanging high above the pavement.

Next is a short stop at Paseo de Doña Blanca, a bright, pink alleyway celebrating Bianca Franceschini, who helped shape the Dominican Republic’s early tourism industry. Afterwards, visit Parque Central – also known as Independence Park – where you’ll learn more about the country’s history over approximately 30 minutes.

Then it’s back into your classic car for a short drive to the Macorix House of Rum. Here, spend around 40 minutes discovering the art of distilling rum before tasting some for yourself.

Visit, Kite Street and Victrola Art Cafe, discover an innovative tourist experience that fuses art and gastronomy in a unique way. inspiring you with creativity in every corner.

The final stop, reached after a short drive, is Fortaleza San Felipe, a fortress built to ward off pirates and foreign invaders. Enjoy a brief pause here to admire the views before making the short drive back to the port.

Important Information: Please note: the price of this tour is per person. Each car can fit up to 4 guests. If your party is smaller than 4, you may be required to share the vehicle with other guests. If you wish to have your own vehicle, you will be required to pay for its full capacity of 4 guests. Please inquire with the shore excursions desk onboard should this be the case so that the remaining spaces can be charged to your onboard stateroom account. This is not a self-drive tour; a driver will be provided. Guests must be at least 8 years old to participate.

Entrance to the San Felipe Fortress is not included in the price of this tour, however, entry is optional. Guests will get out of the car be required to walk approximately 700 meters. Some of the classic cars feature an open roof. The order of stops visited may vary.

TOP TEN BEST OF PUERTO PLATA WITH LUNCH

Count down 10 top sights in the city of Puerto Plata on the Dominican Republic’s Atlantic north coast. Highlights of this approximately five-hour excursion include a tour and tasting at the Macorix House of Rum, an external view of the General Gregorio Luperón House Museum, a tour of the Amber Museum and a stop at Parque Central.
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Ideal for guests who want to tick off the best sights in Puerto Plata in one day, this excursion lasts around five hours and provides a comprehensive tour of the city’s main attractions.

Begin with a drive of about 15 minutes from the port. On route, you’ll pass the Jose Briceño Baseball Stadium, enjoying a view of the venue as you drive by. Then, drive for another 15 minutes or so to the Macorix House of Rum, where a tour of about 30 minutes reveals how the popular spirit is distilled and stored.

A short drive away is the Amber Museum, housed in an impressive neoclassical building and home to a large variety of amber stones, some containing animal fossils. During your tour of around 30 minutes, look out for encased mosquito fossils similar to those portrayed in the movie Jurassic Park.

Next, make the short journey to nearby Parque Central (often known as Independence Park) and spend around 55 minutes viewing a clutch of unmissable sites, including the Cathedral of St Philip the Apostle, colourful Umbrella Street, Paseo de Doña Blanca (a pink-painted alleyway often known simply as ‘Pink Street’) and a series of pretty Victorian houses.

After a short drive, arrive at the General Gregorio Luperón House Museum – a Victorian-style home where the national hero spent his last days – and make a brief stop to take in the external views. Next is a short drive to a local restaurant, where you’ll enjoy lunch over approximately 30 minutes, before a drive of around 15 minutes along part of the Malecón de Puerto Plata coastal boulevard. Pause for views of a local landmark: a statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, set on an island out in the water.

After this, spend around 20 minutes soaking up panoramic views of the imposing 16th-century fortress, Fortaleza San Felipe, before approximately 20 minutes of free time for souvenir shopping (time permitting). The excursion then concludes with a short drive back to the port.

Important Information: Please note: Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. The views of the Jose Briseno Stadium and Gregorio Luperon Museum are from the bus, with no stops for entry. The Fortress de San Felipe stop includes a walk around the grounds. Entrance to the fort is not included. Guests may pay an additional fee to enter, time-permitting. The Cable Car/Teleferico is viewed only from the base and does not include a ride to the top. This tour includes guided visits inside the Macorix House of Rum and the Amber Museum. The order of sites visited may vary.

This is not a shopping-focused tour. While shops may be present in the downtown area, shopping is at the guest’s discretion wherever possible. The primary focus of the tour is on exploring the destination

RUM ROLL, PLEASE: ISLAND RUM TASTING TOUR

This approximately three-hour excursion offers a glimpse into some of the intricacies that go into producing the Dominican Republic’s most popular spirit – rum. The itinerary also includes a tasting of local rums and a visit to a cigar shop.

Believed to have been originally brought to the country by Christopher Columbus, sugarcane flourishes in the Dominican Republic’s rich soil and hot climate, providing the key ingredient for the nation’s favourite spirit. Learn more about the country’s rum-making, which dates back more than two centuries, on this excursion lasting approximately three hours.

After a short drive from the port, arrive at the Macorix House of Rum. Over the course of around 35 minutes, hear about the techniques used in rum production, including barrel ageing and bottling.

The rum experience then continues with a drive of around 20 minutes from Macorix to a nearby venue for an approximately 40-minute tasting of different local rums, helping bring to life the knowledge learned at Macorix.

As well as rum, the Dominican Republic is also known for the quality of its cigars. This is also due to the country’s soil and favourable climate, which help the tobacco plant thrive. See the results at a local cigar shop, reached after a drive of around 15 minutes. Spend approximately 40 minutes at the shop, watching a cigar-rolling demonstration and learning more about the process, with opportunities to purchase cigars or other souvenirs afterwards, if you wish. A drive of around 20 minutes then returns to the port.

Important Information: Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate

DAMAJAGUA WATERFALLS & PRIVATE BEACH GETAWAY

This approximately four-hour tour of Puerto Plata turns sightseeing into a fiesta. You’ll be transported around the city in a hand-painted ‘party trolley’, with the chance to sample a traditional local drink at every stop.
Excursion details

Swap the tour bus for a ride on the party trolley during this approximately four-hour guided excursion. You’ll get to see the highlights of Puerto Plata from inside a vintage trolley car, decorated with a vibrant design.

To begin, you’ll be handed an ice-cold Presidente beer, brewed in the Dominican Republic, as you board the trolley. Following a short transfer, arrive at Macorix House of Rum. This distillery teaches the history and process of rum-making in the Dominican Republic. During the approximately 25-minute tour, guests will get to taste some of Macorix’s spirits.

Then embark on a scenic drive of around 20 minutes, passing the historic Fortaleza San Felipe, a Spanish fortress built in the 16th century to protect the port from pirates. Stop in Lokuras Bar for a taste of Mamajuana, one of the local drinks. Next, travel to Umbrella Street – known for the multicoloured umbrellas that hang above it – before stopping for a drink in Bar 1920, for about 30 minutes.

Continue the trolley tour along the waterfront, known as the Malecon, before stopping for the next beverage at Victrola 037, an art-themed bar and restaurant. Located on Paseo de las Chichiaguas (Kite Street – known for its canopy of colourful kites). Try some local Dominican Street food, and from here you can take a 5-minute walk along kite street to enjoy a cigar experience, where you can learn about the process of making Dominican cigars. Finally, a short journey returns to the port.

Important Information: Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate. All participants must have a valid government issued ID. It is recommended that guests wear comfortable shoes and bring cash or credit cards for any additional purchases. The tour order may vary

4X4 JEEP WRANGLER ADVENTURE

Take the wheel on an off-road vehicle and venture through the countryside, making stops along the way to taste local produce at a farm and explore a museum dedicated to the indigenous Taino people. As you drive through the landscape in a convoy of 4×4 vehicles, enjoy views of Isabel de Torres Mountain, towering above Puerto Plata. At the farm, you’ll learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of local fruits and coffee, with opportunities to sample these products.

The adventure continues with scenic vistas as you head to La Jarana y Museo del Ron Dominicano, a museum showcasing the history and production of Dominican Rum Next, visit La Catalina, a property where nature and history meet. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take in the exhibition of antique cars. The open-air space offers great views, making it a perfect spot to appreciate both history and beauty. Guests must be at least 6 years old to participate.
Please note: It is recommended that guests wear comfortable shoes and bring sunglasses. This tour is not available for pregnant women and guests with pre-existing back/neck injuries.

The minimum age to participate is 6 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be in possession of a valid driver’s license. Guests will be required to sign a waiver, which may only be available in English. Each jeep can take up to four (4) guests. However, if your party is smaller than 4, you may be required to share the vehicle with other guests.

If you wish to have your own jeep, you will be required to pay for its full capacity of 4 guests. Please inquire with the shore excursions desk onboard should this be the case so that the remaining spaces can be charged to your onboard stateroom account. La Catalina Rancho, maybe closed on some days. On those calls, the stop will be replaced with a longer drive up to El Cupey

BUGGY RIDE AND BEACH
Get ready for an exciting off-road adventure through the Dominican Republic’s scenic landscapes.

Enjoy an approximately one-hour buggy ride along mountain trails and through jungle terrain, soaking in the natural beauty. After a brief stop by the river, return to the buggy ranch for a light snack featuring fresh fruit, a cold sandwich, and bottled water. Then, head to the beach for approximately 1 hour of relaxation and a refreshing swim, an ideal way to end your tropical ride. Guests must be at least 10 years old to participate.

Please note: Guests must be at least 10 years old to participate. This tour is not available for guests who are pregnant, suffer from any back/neck issues, or have cardiac or respiratory conditions. Closed toe shoes are mandatory for the buggy ride. Guests must have a valid driver’s license to drive the buggy.

The maximum weight to participate is 300 lbs. Guests may experience a muddy/dusty ride; therefore, it is recommended that a change of clothes is brought with them. It is also recommended that guests bring sunglasses, a bandana, a bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

MEGA TOWN AND COUNTRY WITH ARTISINAL CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Hop aboard an open-air Mega Trucks for a full-day adventure that dives deep into the heart of Puerto Plata and beyond. Begin with a scenic drive through the town, taking in panoramic views of its most iconic landmarks. Then, head into the countryside where the vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic truly comes to life.

Arrive at a rustic ranch to enjoy a Dominican lunch, followed by a stroll through the plantation gardens. Next, visit a local country home where you’ll be welcomed with warm hospitality and gain insight into traditional rural life. Your journey continues to a women-led artisanal cacao farm, where you’ll learn about chocolate production and sample handmade treats straight from the source. This experience blends culture, flavor, and adventure — all in one day.
Please note: It is recommended that guests wear light, comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring sunscreen and insect repellent.

Tour route is subject to change. This tour is not available for guests with back or heart problems, women who are pregnant, and those who suffer from any other severe medical condition. This tour takes place on an open-air mega truck. The ride may become bumpy at times. Guests must be at least 6 years old to participate.

DAY PASS AT HOTEL PLAYA SENATOR

Spend your day relaxing at the Senator Puerto Plata Resort with access to its All-Inclusive services. Enjoy a buffet restaurant and six snack bars offering a selection of well-known brand drinks. Take advantage of the resort’s pools, hot tubs, and complimentary hammocks at both the pool and beach areas. A comfortable option for those looking to unwind in a pleasant beachfront setting.

Please note: Beach chairs and hammocks are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended that guests bring a towel, bathing suit, sunscreen, and cash or credit cards for any additional purchases.

SANTIAGO CITY & THE ART OF DOMINICAN CIGAR CRAFTING WITH LUNCH

Spend the day in Santiago, the Dominican Republic’s vibrant second largest city, immersing yourself in a journey blending historical discovery, cultural indulgence, and the spirit of community. This tour also includes lunch.

Excursion Details

Your tour begins with an approximately 1 hour and 25 minute drive to the vibrant city of Santiago. Your first stop is a panoramic visit to the Santiago Apostol Cathedral, a distinguished landmark that reflects the city’s rich heritage. Spend roughly 20 minutes admiring and photographing the Cathedral’s intricate architecture, as well as the serene Duarte’s Park nearby, a beloved gathering place for both locals and visitors.

Next, enjoy an approximately 15-minute drive to the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration. Originally commissioned by Rafael Trujillo and later rededicated to honor the heroes of the Dominican Restoration War, this iconic monument celebrates national pride and serves as a cultural landmark in the heart of Santiago.

After another 15-minute drive, arrive at La Aurora Cigar Factory, the oldest cigar factory in the Dominican Republic, established in 1903. Here, you will witness the meticulous craftsmanship of handmade cigars, a tradition carefully preserved across generations. Engage with skilled artisans during a live rolling demonstration and learn how sustainable practices are incorporated into every stage of production, reflecting the region’s dedication to both craft and environmental responsibility.

Conclude your excursion with a delicious Dominican-style lunch, before an approximately 1 hour and 30 minute drive back to the ship. This carefully curated day blends history, culture, and hands-on experiences, offering meaningful insights and lasting memories of the Dominican Republic.

Important Information: It is recommended that guests wear comfortable shoes, clothes, and bring sunscreen. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate

Puerto Plata – Non-Folding Mobility Equip. User

Experience the vibrant soul of Puerto Plata on an accessible five-hour journey, thoughtfully curated for wheelchair users and travelers with limited mobility. Discover the city’s historic heart, wander its enchanting streets, and delight in cultural gems, before ascending to the mountains for a tranquil meal overlooking spectacular landscapes.
Excursion Details

Embark on an inspiring exploration of Puerto Plata, designed with accessibility at its core. Your adventure begins as you board a specially equipped, wheelchair-accessible vehicle. A short drive brings you to Independence Park, the city’s historic center, where you’ll spend about 35 minutes immersed in the atmosphere of lively plazas framed by colorful Victorian architecture and the grand San Felipe Cathedral.

Continue your journey to two of Puerto Plata’s most iconic streets: the whimsical Paseo de Doña Blanca, awash in vibrant pinks, and Umbrella Street, where a cascade of bright umbrellas creates a joyful canopy overhead. There, you’ll enjoy around 25 minutes of discovery and photo opportunities. Next, pause at El Rincón del Café—a beloved local spot—where you can sample and purchase an array of Dominican coffee, deepening your connection to the region’s flavors.

Your exploration then leads to the La Confluence Museum for a 50-minute visit. Here, you’ll trace the origins of Dominican identity, uncovering stories of the indigenous peoples, European settlers, and African communities whose histories converge in this land. The museum’s exhibits offer a thoughtful overview of more than five centuries of cultural blending and heritage.

Afterward, spend about 30 minutes at a local exhibition dedicated to the art and craft of chocolate, before venturing into the mountains for a scenic drive of roughly half an hour. Your destination is La Catalina Restaurant, where you’ll savor a leisurely 90-minute meal, surrounded by panoramic vistas that invite relaxation and reflection.

As your day draws to a close, a comfortable journey of about 45 minutes returns you to the pier, carrying with you memories of discovery and connection.

Important Information: This barrier-free tour is crafted to ensure universal accessibility, with routes free of steps or stairs. Transportation is provided by a vehicle equipped with a wheelchair lift or ramp. Please note, guides are not able to push wheelchairs. The sequence of sites may vary. Your tour fee covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entry to all attractions; meals and snacks are not included. Due to limited availability of accessible vehicles, early reservations are strongly recommended.

Mobility device restrictions per guest: maximum weight 362 kg (800 lbs), height 83 cm (33 in), length 96 cm (38 in), width 48 cm (19 in). Guests fully reliant on their mobility device must bring their own wheelchair or scooter and should use booking code POPEAW when reserving this tour