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Amber Cove on a Cruise: Things to Do, Prices, Map, and More

Headed to the eastern Caribbean on a Carnival or Princess cruise? Chances are that it may include a stop in a port known as Amber Cove.

This port — located about six miles west of Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic — is a dedicated area for passengers of Carnival Corporation ships. So if you’re sailing a Carnival brand and headed to the area, then this is where you’ll stop.

You can think of Amber Cove much like a private island, only it is still part of the mainland. But here you’ll find all kinds of amenities for cruise passengers, from a pool area to shopping to restaurants. And while it is a jumping off point for seeing Puerto Plata, the truth is that you could spend all day inside the port area if you wanted and have plenty of fun.

So what exactly is there to see, do, and know about Amber Cove? We recently visited to give you all the ins and outs about the spot.

Location & Layout of Amber Cove

First things first, it’s nice to get a lay of the land with the port, its location, and what’s around.

Amber Cove sits in a small inlet, about 10-15 minutes by taxi from Puerto Plata. Around the port there is very little, although there is a resort right next door. Apart from that, it’s largely open space with hills and pastures. As a result, if you want to go anywhere outside the port, you’ll need some sort of transportation. Walking outside the port isn’t really feasible.

As for the layout of the port area itself, it’s fairly easy to navigate. First, your ship will dock at the pier, and then it’s a short walk to Amber Cove. You enter through the duty-free store. Once through, straight ahead will be the meeting points for booked shore excursions. To the left are a number of restaurants, shops, and the way to exit the port and grab a taxi. To the right is the “Aqua Zone” that’s complete with a huge pool, waterslide, cabanas, and much more (more on this below).

You can get an idea of the layout via the map below:

What Is There to Do at Amber Cove?

This port area is custom made to entertain cruise passengers. In many ways you can think of it as an extension of the cruise ship. Below we cover all the things to do in port. If you plan to go explore nearby Puerto Plata, then we have a complete guide of things to do here .

Need a souvenir? Or maybe to pick up something from the pharmacy? Or jewelry? Or alcohol? No matter what’s on your shopping list, there will be a store in Amber Cove that sells it. The shopping area takes up one entire side of the port, giving you plenty of options to choose.

Get a Picture in Front of the Ship

As you get off the ship, take a left and then head to the end of the port area. At the far corner of the port is a perfect spot to get a picture in front of your ship. There, you’ll find a large display writing out “AMBER COVE!” with a spot in the middle that shows the ship perfectly. Step up and get a souvenir photo to remember your trip.

Grab Something to Eat

Want to eat? Remember that you can just head the short walk back to the ship and eat for free, or you can grab a bite in port. There are a couple of sit-down restaurants serving casual fare. One is right by the pool and the other at the opposite end of the port near the “AMBER COVE!” sign. There’s also a Nathan’s hot dog trailer by the pool. Just know that unlike some private ports, the food isn’t free here. You’ll have to pay out of pocket.

Enjoy a Drink (or Three)

What would a Caribbean port be without something to drink? There are bar stations around the pool, as well as the large Coco Cana (a restaurant by the pool with a swim-up bar) serving libations. But perhaps the coolest place to have a drink is Sky Bar — a bar sitting on a hill that overlooks the port and offers cool views of the ship and surrounding area.

Hit the Pool

If you’re going to stay in port, then by far the big attraction is the pool area. The pool here is large, with tons of loungers all around. It’s broken into different areas that are connected with bridges so even though it can be busy, it can still make the spots seem more private. The main portion of the pool near the swim-up bar gets pretty lively. Head around from there and you can find a calmer vibe.

Try the Waterslide

One fun feature is a pair of waterslides that circle around near the edge of the pool. The twin slides spin around several times before dumping you into a dedicated splash pool. The entrance can be a little hidden, but it’s along the back of the port area and up a hill. You’ll be able to see the slides from the pool — just head over to figure out where to go. There is a 230 pound weight limit, and you must be at least 4 feet tall to ride.

Sail Across the Port on a Zipline

Head to the pool area, and you’ll likely hear the zipline before you actually see it. The lengthy run heads straight over the entire pool area, letting out a high-pitched whine as people go over. The cost is $28 for unlimited rides while you are in port.

Live it Up in a Cabana

To be sure the port area can get busy. When we visited, two of Carnival’s largest ships were in port, making it crowded. If you want a little more elbow room, then there are cabanas that you rent out. There’s a group of them that sit out over the bay and others that sit overlooking the pool. Rates start at $340 per day and most are in this range, except for the Grand Cabana, which runs a pricey $1,170.

Kids Water Park

Are you sailing with little ones (about five years or younger)? If so, then there is a splash area designed for smaller kids. It features a small slide, a tree that sprays water, and a large fish that kids can climb in. If you have kids that aren’t ready for the pool, it’s a fun spot for them to get wet and enjoy themselves.

Feeling a little more active? If you want to shoot some hoops, there is a basketball area. It’s located at the far end of the port, past the pool and the kid water park. It’s not much — just a hoop and a half-court area, but it’s a fun option if you want to do something other than lounge by the pool.

Kayak/Pedal Boat/Paddleboards

If you want to get out on the water, then there are plenty of rentals to choose from. Cruisers visiting Amber Cove have the option of renting kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, and more. The fees are a bit steep — starting around $35 per hour — but some of those can be split by multiple people such as the pedal boats that carry four. Half-hour rentals are also available.

Price List for Amber Cove

We’ve mentioned several things to do that come with an extra charge. Below is the pricing from a recent visit to give you an idea of what things cost.

Tips & Things to Know

Before you visit, there are definitely some things to know about the port that will make your trip go smoother.

Taxis are Expensive

Amber Cove sits about six miles away from Puerto Plata. You’d think that getting back and forth would be cheap, but think again. Taxi rates from the port to town are sky-high, costing $70 round trip according to the rates seen posted. With that in mind, it’s likely worth it to book an excursion instead if you want to go to town, which will include transportation.

There’s a Charge for Most Extras in the Pool Area

If you want to spend the day at the pool, access is free, as are loungers. Most other things will cost money. Everything from umbrellas to pool floats to lockers cost extra, as do certain “VIP” areas. You can see a list of the charges in the “Price List” section above.

Drink Packages/Wi-Fi Don’t Work in Port

While Amber Cove might have the vibe of a private cruise line island, it’s actually not. And that means unlike some private islands where drink packages and wi-fi service bought on the ship also extend to the port, it’s not the case here. Instead, if you want to drink then you’ll have to pay bar prices. And wi-fi service is available in the port area for $8 per day.

Free Wi-Fi at Stores

As we just said, the wi-fi from the ship doesn’t work in port. And while you can pay the $8 for all-day access while visiting, there is also a free option. Check out the stores in Amber Cove. You’ll find that some offer free wi-fi access as an incentive for you to visit the shop. It can give you the opportunity to check in back home if you only need the Internet for a short bit.

Check Out the Sky Bar for Great Views

If you want the best view in Amber Cove, then check out a spot called Sky Bar. It sits at the top of a hill that overlooks the port. You can’t miss the large white-roofed structure that’s visible from nearly everywhere. Head up here for a tropical drink and a unique spot to relax while in port.

Be Sure to Bring a Towel From the Ship

Spending the day at the pool? If so, you’ll want to be sure to bring a beach towel from the ship. All cruise ships offer towels to passengers (typically there is a station by the pool). You can bring these into port with you. There are no towels available in the port, so if you forget yours, then you’ll have to air-dry.

Be Early or Be Late to the Pool

Obviously the pool area is a big draw at Amber Cove, and during the peak of the day (between around 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.) it can get pretty crowded if you are in port with large ships. If you are the only ship docked, then it’s not as big a deal. But if there are multiple ships, then it’s smart to arrive early to stake out a prime spot. As well, going later in the afternoon also sees smaller crowds as many head back to the ship despite all aboard not usually being until the evening.

More on Visiting Amber Cove:

• What to Do in Puerto Plata on a Cruise (Big List + Tips & Things to Know)

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coming in on cruise, want to go to sosua beach. just two of us. any chance of getting a group together so it will not be so expensive?

You can always ask around, but I’d consider it doubtful. Best bet is to make some friends on the ship before the port of call and then invite them to see if they’d want to go.

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Exploring Amber Cove: Top 10 Must-Do Activities at the Cruise Port

Amber Cove is a gem nestled along the picturesque northern coast of the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first cruise adventure, this vibrant destination offers an array of exciting experiences awaiting your discovery. From thrilling adventures to cultural immersion, here are the top 10 must-do activities at the Amber…

Amber Cove is a gem nestled along the picturesque northern coast of the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first cruise adventure, this vibrant destination offers an array of exciting experiences awaiting your discovery. From thrilling adventures to cultural immersion, here are the top 10 must-do activities at the Amber Cove cruise port.

• Zip Line Adventure : Soar through the lush tropical landscape on an exhilarating zip line adventure. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you zip above the canopy, taking in breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and verdant surroundings.
• Explore Puerto Plata : Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Puerto Plata, just a short drive from Amber Cove. Visit the iconic Fort San Felipe, stroll along the Malecón, or shop for local treasures at the bustling markets.
• Relax on the Beach : Indulge in some well-deserved relaxation on the pristine shores of nearby beaches. Whether you prefer the secluded tranquility of Playa Dorada or the lively atmosphere of Playa Costambar, there’s a beach to suit every preference.
• Water Sports : Dive into the crystal-clear waters and experience an array of exciting water sports activities. From snorkeling and scuba diving to paddleboarding and kayaking, there’s no shortage of aquatic adventures to enjoy.
• Rum Tasting : Delve into the spirit of the Caribbean with a rum tasting experience. Sample an array of locally crafted rums and learn about the distillation process while enjoying the warm hospitality of the Dominican people.
• Horseback Riding : Embark on a scenic horseback riding excursion through the lush countryside. Traverse winding trails, meander along pristine beaches, and soak in the natural beauty of the island.
• Visit Damajagua Waterfalls : Discover the enchanting beauty of the Damajagua Waterfalls on a guided tour. Hike through the lush jungle terrain before plunging into crystal-clear pools beneath cascading waterfalls for an unforgettable adventure.
• Explore Amber Museum : Dive into the world of Dominican amber at the Amber Museum in Puerto Plata. Marvel at exquisite amber specimens dating back millions of years and learn about the fascinating history and significance of this precious gemstone.
• Cable Car Ride : Ascend to new heights aboard the Puerto Plata cable car for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Capture breathtaking photographs from the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres, where you can also explore botanical gardens and a replica of Christ the Redeemer statue.
• Savor Local Cuisine : Treat your taste buds to the flavors of the Caribbean with a culinary adventure in Puerto Plata. Indulge in traditional Dominican dishes such as mofongo, sancocho, and fresh seafood, paired with refreshing tropical beverages.

From thrilling adventures to cultural immersion and culinary delights, Amber Cove offers an unforgettable experience for cruise travelers of all interests. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping excursions or tranquil moments of relaxation, this vibrant destination has something for everyone. So, embark on your Amber Cove adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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5 Best Things to Do In Puerto Plata Cruise Port (Taino Bay, Amber Cove)

Nestled along the enchanting shores of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata cruise port attracts cruisers with its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known for its pristine, sun-kissed beaches, emerald-green rainforests, and a variety of thrilling activities, Puerto Plata has something for everyone!

There are two cruise ports: Amber Cove , tucked in a secluded Maimon Bay, a 15-minute drive from Puerto Plata city, and Taino Bay , situated within a short walk from the city center.

Amber Cove opened in 2015 and is designed exclusively for Carnival Corporation cruise ships ( Carnival Cruise Line ,  Princess Cruises ,  Holland America Line ,  Seabourn , P&O Cruises , Costa Cruises ,  AIDA Cruises , and Cunard ).

Taino Bay is a brand-new cruise port that opened in 2021, within walking distance from Puerto Plata’s historical center. The driving distance between the two ports is 15 minutes. In this Puerto Plata cruise travel guide, I share with you:

• Practical information on Amber Cove and Taino Bay cruise ports
• 5 best things to do in Puerto Plata cruise port, including the popular shore excursions

Visit also our cruise port guides to Punta Cana , Tortola , St Maarten , St Thomas , San Juan

Puerto Plata Cruise Port

1. amber cove.

Amber Cove consists of 2 berths and a cruise terminal that covers an area of 25 acres, filled with numerous amenities like shops, restaurants, and an aqua zone. Complimentary tuk-tuks are available to take you from your ship to the port entrance. Upon exiting the pier, on your left side you’ll find the following amenities:

• Tourist information desk
• Shorex booth
• Duty-free, souvenir and jewelry shops, including Marketplace, Diamonds International, Effy, Dufry duty-free, and many others.
• Car rental services
• Parking for buses, taxis and pre-arranged tour pick-up
• Coco Caña Bar & Restaurant

On your right side is the fun part – The Aqua Zone , which consists of a large swimming pool, lazy river, exciting water slides, kids splash zone, bars and restaurants (Coco Caña Poolside Lounge, Sky Bar, Cabana Bar…).

Guests can also enjoy the Zip Line, hillside, poolside and overwater cabanas, and watersports rentals (kayaks, paddle board, and pedal board). Crew Center is available for crew members.

If you wish to go to Puerto Plata’s historical center or any other location, the best way is to take a taxi . The cost of a taxi ride to the city center is around $35 per vehicle one-way (up to 5 people), for a 15-20 minute drive. Keep in mind that US dollars are widely accepted in Puerto Plata, but the change may be returned in the local currency (Dominican peso).

2. Taino Bay

Taino Bay is a newly built cruise terminal with a capacity to accommodate two large cruise ships simultaneously. It is located near the historical center of Puerto Plata with its colorful colonial buildings, and Fort San Felipe, one of the main city’s landmarks.

Like Amber Cove, Taino Bay has been designed to cater to cruise passengers’ needs with a wide array of amenities such as shops, restaurants, pools, and entertainment. Complimentary tuk tuk rides from the ship to the port entrance are also available at this terminal. This 20-acre cruise port consists of the following amenities:

• Taino Bay Welcome Center which houses Keloke Bar, a Shorex booth, an ATM, and shops such as Diamonds International and Dufry duty-free
• A large shopping area where you can find all kinds of shops like clothing, gift, and jewelry shops, local crafts and more!
• A massive Dahao swimming pool with in-pool loungers and swim-up bars (Juracan Mix Bar)
• A Lazy River pool with relaxing pool bars and lounge areas
• Bars and restaurants (Sanmangú and Casa Palapa, serving Dominican and Mexican dishes)
• Monkey Island – an ecological park where you can interact with squirrel monkeys, and visit an aviary
• The Taino Bay Port Beach – an oceanfront beach area with loungers and hammocks
• A large parking for buses and taxis

It is worth noting that none of the two cruise terminals has access to the beach. The nearest nice beaches are around 10-15-minute drive away from the ports. Taxi rates are fixed and are displayed in the terminals.

Major cruise lines sailing to Puerto Plata Dominican Republic include Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Holland America Line and MSC Cruises .

5 Best Things to Do in Puerto Plata Cruise Port

1. puerto plata historic center.

Nestled a 15-minute walk from the Taino Bay cruise terminal, Puerto Plata’s historic downtown boasts colorful architecture, a lively atmosphere, and a wide array of attractions.

Start your exploration with Fort San Felipe (Fortaleza de San Felipe), a fortress built in 1577 to protect the harbour from pirates. It overlooks the cruise port and is surrounded by vast green space where you can walk and enjoy the sea views.

Not far from the fort, you can explore two of the most Instagrammable spots in the city, both located within a short walk from each other – the iconic Umbrella Street and Paseo de Doña Blanca. As its name suggests, Umbrella Street is a pedestrian street famous for its colorful umbrellas hanging above it. The street is flanked by cute little shops and cafes on both sides and is a perfect spot to feel the city’s unique vibe.

The famous Paseo de Doña Blanca is another place not to be missed. Painted in bright pink from the roofs to the walkway, this short street is definitely the most authentic location in the city. There’s not much to do there (no shops, or cafes), but the photo ops are one-of-a-kind!

Within a short walk from there, you’ll reach Parque Central (Independence Park), the main square dominated by the beautiful 20th-century Cathedral of St. Philip the Apostle , built in a modern Victorian style. While exploring the city’s vibrant streets, do not miss to indulge in local, typically Caribbean cuisine and fresh coconut.

Finally, to better understand local history, head to the iconic Amber Museum , showcasing an impressive collection of fossils, plants, and ancient animals encased in amber. There’s also a shop where you can purchase amber jewelry.

Check out Puerto Plata tours and activities

2. Isabel de Torres Cable Car

Isabel de Torres is a mountain rising 855 meters (2805 ft) above sea level and the city of Puerto Plata. It is a national park known for its rich flora and fauna, and a paradise for birdwatchers and those of you who enjoy nature activities.

To get there, you can either drive, hike, or take a cable car (Teleferico to Isabel de Torres), which is the experience by itself and the main attraction in the area. The cable car base station is located about 2 km/1.2 miles (a 30-minute walk) from Taino Bay cruise port.

On the top, you can walk around the area, take in the breathtaking views of Puerto Plata and its coastline, and see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue , the symbol of the city.

Explore Mt. Isabel de Torres tours and activities

3. Damajagua Waterfalls

The stunning waterfalls are by far the most unique adventure you can have in Puerto Plata! Nestled in the heart of the lush tropical forest about a 30-minute drive from Puerto Plata, the breathtaking waterfalls are also the bestselling shore excursion in this port of call.

Also known as the 27 Waterfalls of Rio Damajagua or 27 Charcos, they consist of 27 cascading waterfalls that you can explore by sliding down (you can also use a ladder) or jumping into the turquoise pools.

You can visit the waterfalls on your own, or book one of the shore excursions. The safety equipment (life vest and helmet) is provided, while water shoes are recommended and can be rented on-site in case you don’t have your own. Lockers are available. A buffet lunch is available for an additional cost and consists of typically Caribbean food options (barbecue, rice and beans, salad bar, pasta bar…).

Overall, Damajagua Waterfalls is a lifetime experience and something to remember for life, however, it’s not recommended to people with walking difficulties and small kids due to the nature of activity.

Explore Damajagua Waterfalls tours and activities

4. Ocean World Adventure Park

This vast adventure park sits in the middle between the cruise ports, about a 12-minute drive from both Amber Cove and Taino Bay cruise terminals. This family paradise offers encounters with dolphins, sea lions, and sharks.

A day pass will allow you to snorkel in a Tropical Reef Aquarium, enjoy the animal shows, feed the tropical birds, and spend some time at a beach within the complex. A taxi ride to the Ocean World costs around $20 per vehicle (up to 5 passengers) one way.

Explore Ocean World tours and activities

5. Playa Dorada

One of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful beaches – Playa Dorada, is located a 30-minute drive southeast of Amber Cove cruise terminal and a 20-minute drive from Taino Bay. This gorgeous stretch of white sand beach and shallow turquoise waters is a perfect place to spend a memorable beach day!

The beach is lined with a few beach resorts, restaurants and bars, and you can find amenities such as loungers, beach beds and umbrellas. For those of you looking for adventure, windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, and parasailing are the most popular watersports here.

Check out Playa Dorada tours and activities

Read more about Puerto Plata on the Ministry of Tourism’s official website

Visit also our cruise port guides to  Falmouth , St Lucia , Puerto Plata , Punta Cana , Barbados , Antigua , Grand Turk

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

This article contains affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer  here.

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• Destinations

21 Photos of Amber Cove, Dominican Republic [July 2021]

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• July 13, 2021

In early July 2021, C arnival Horizon arrived in Amber Cove, Dominican Republic . It marked the first time a cruise ship had visited the destination since early 2020.

Cruise Radio’s Doug Parker was onboard and — of course — took lots of photos. Let’s take an up-to-date peek at the port area.

That moment that we all love — seeing the ship move closer and closer to land and the pier!

The ship was greeted with music and dancing right on the pier. What a welcome!

Heading into the port area. Amber Cove, located in the northern Puerto Plata province of the Dominican Republic, was developed by Carnival Corporation and completed in 2015. As far as a cruise port goes, it’s still pretty new!

You have access to just about anything you’ll need at Amber Cove.

So many options, so little time!

During this voyage, Doug’s travel agent was also sailing. She got a Grand Cabana for herself and all of her clients who are on the sailing. Up to 20 people can use a Grand Cabana at Amber Cove.

Walking towards the front door to the cabana.

A peek inside the cabana…

…. and a view of the ship from the huge deck!

As the equipment rental sign in the photo above shows, there are different cabanas you can choose from for your own private space while in Amber Cove. Along with the Grands, there are also smaller Poolside and Hillside Cabanas and smaller Ocean ones in the same area ours was.

READ MORE:  5 Free Public Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas

Let’s move on to some of the amenities that are offered here. Below is part of the main pool, lined with loungers both under umbrellas and in the sun.

Here’s another part of the same pool connected to the one above. This is where the large swim-up bar is located.

From this vantage point, you can see both areas above and where they’re connected with a little bridge to get to the other side.

Some people have said that Amber Cove reminds them of Grand Turk. And it does bring to mind the Margaritaville at Grand Turk with the same expansive pool, loungers, and bar.

Did I mention that Amber Cove has waterslides? Because, yeah, it does.

It also has a zip line for those who want the ultimate bird’s eye view of the port!

This part of the Dominican Republic has an especially beautiful landscape.

If you have little kids that may not be big enough for the regular water slides or the main pool, there’s this cute little splash pad for them to enjoy.

One of the restaurants and bars at Amber Cove is called Coco Caña, and it’s a fan favorite. The décor is definitely interesting to look at!

Here’s another part of the port area, lined with shops.

You can’t leave Amber Cove without taking a photo of the sign, it would basically be a crime.

Hasta la vista, Amber Cove! Until next time!

READ NEXT:  Carnival Horizon Trip Report, Day 1: Carnival Cruising is Back

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The Ultimate Guide to Amber Cove Cruise Port

Introduction

Welcome to the Caribbean gem that is Amber Cove, a top-rated cruise port nestled on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. This comprehensive guide will serve as your passport to the best this enchanting destination has to offer, from thrilling adventures to relaxation, and beyond.

Unveiling Amber Cove

Amber Cove, a modern cruise port, is your gateway to the heart of the Dominican Republic. Whether it’s the allure of sun-soaked beaches, the charm of historical sites, or the thrill of outdoor adventures, Amber Cove is your launchpad to a myriad of experiences.

The History of Amber Cove

Amber Cove, named after the rich amber mines in the Dominican Republic, is a relatively new addition to the cruise circuit, having opened in 2015. Its strategic location has made it a popular stop for major cruise lines, opening up the northern coast of the Dominican Republic to visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions in and Around Amber Cove

The Amber Cove Cruise Port is not only a gateway to the Dominican Republic, but it’s also an attraction in and of itself. Here are some of the top attractions to explore:

Ocean World Adventure Park

Just a short ride from Amber Cove, Ocean World Adventure Park is the perfect place for families and thrill-seekers alike. The park offers a variety of marine and animal experiences, including swimming with dolphins and shark encounters.

Fort San Felipe

Take a journey back in time with a visit to Fort San Felipe, a historic 16th-century fortress that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the Atlantic Ocean. The fort is a testament to the Dominican Republic’s rich history and is an absolute must-visit.

Amber Cove Pool and Amenities

After a long day of exploring, Amber Cove’s massive resort-style pool is the perfect place to unwind. The pool area features waterslides and swim-up bars, and for the ultimate in relaxation, private cabanas are also available for rent.

Shopping and Dining at Amber Cove

Amber Cove boasts an impressive shopping district, with a diverse range of local crafts and high-end luxury goods. After shopping, indulge in the rich flavors of the Dominican Republic at the port’s many restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amber Cove

Is Amber Cove worth visiting?

Absolutely! Amber Cove offers a diverse range of experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Amber Cove has something for you.

What should I wear to Amber Cove?

Given the tropical climate of the Dominican Republic, it’s recommended to wear light, breathable clothing. Don’t forget your swimsuit for the pool and beach, and comfortable shoes for exploring.

Is Amber Cove safe for tourists?

Yes, Amber Cove is a well-patrolled and safe area for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Amber Cove is more than a cruise port; it’s a destination filled with rich history, exciting adventures, and the chance to relax and soak up the Caribbean sun. No matter what kind of traveler you are, Amber Cove promises an unforgettable journey. Start planning your visit today!

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7 - Day Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

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Day 1: Port Canaveral (Orlando)

Day 2: Fun Day at Sea

Day 3: grand turk, day 4: amber cove.

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Day 6: nassau.

Day 7: Fun Day at Sea

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Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise of the Port Canaveral-based ship for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the ship's next two cruises are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

Thousands of passengers with scheduled cruises will be affected by the canceled cruises during a busy spring break period for Carnival and other cruise lines.

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Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cay due to adverse weather.

Details of previous fire: Fire breaks out on Carnival Freedom while Port Canaveral-based ship was in Grand Turk

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

The Freedom sailed into the channel at Port Canaveral around 7:30 a.m. Monday, and docked at Cruise Terminal 6, letting off the passengers who were on the cruise. Carnival then awaited a Coast Guard inspection of the ship before it could be cleared to leave Port Canaveral for the Freeport shipyard for repairs. The ship left the port about 6:20 p.m.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The sailing had about 3,700 passengers onboard. And the two upcoming sailings that were canceled each likely would have had a similar passenger count, because this is a busy time for the cruise industry.

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022, a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire