The agreement with AIDA Cruises and Costa Cruises seeks to guarantee stability to cruise operations, expand air and sea connections, and promote new opportunities for Dominican tourism
LONDON, ENGLAND– Central Romana Corporation formalized a strategic agreement with AIDA Cruises and Costa Cruises, companies that are part of Carnival Corporation's European operations, to strengthen the development of La Romana as a cruise homeport in the Caribbean and expand its reach within this tourism market.
The agreement was signed during the World Travel Market (WTM) international fair, held in London, and establishes long-term collaboration commitments aimed at providing greater operational and commercial security to vessel scheduling, international flights and infrastructure projects.
One of the key features of this initiative is the integration of airport and maritime services offered by Central Romana. The company owns and operates La Romana International Airport and the city's Cruise Port, an advantage that allows for coordinated schedules, facilitates passenger movement, and connects air services with maritime routes through the fly-and-cruise.
A business relationship spanning several decades
The new agreement continues the long-standing relationship between Central Romana and both companies. Cooperation with Costa Cruises began in 1996 through operations on Catalina Island, while AIDA Cruises established La Romana as its Caribbean homeport in 2003.
Referring to the scope of this initiative, Luis Emilio Rodríguez Amiama, director of the La Romana Airport and Cruise Port of Central Romana Corporation, highlighted the importance of strengthening commitments between companies.
"This agreement represents an important milestone in our long-standing relationship," said Rodríguez Amiama.
The executive added that the commitments made will allow the destination to consolidate as an operations center that combines air and sea transport, in addition to favoring the increase in passenger flow and international connections.
"These reciprocal commitments strengthen La Romana as a strategic homeport and integrated operations center for cruises and international flights in the Caribbean, boosting passenger and flight growth and generating new opportunities for the Dominican Republic," he said.
Shipping companies plan to expand operations
For her part, Anika Birkholz, Vice President of Revenue Management and Capacity at AIDA Cruises, highlighted the role that Central Romana has played in positioning La Romana within the region's cruise routes.
"Our alliance with Central Romana has been fundamental in developing La Romana as an important home port in the Caribbean," he stated.
He also explained that the agreement establishes mutual guarantees to support the expansion of AIDA Cruises and Costa Cruises, seeking to maintain the stability of services and offer a satisfactory experience to passengers.
"This agreement provides the certainty and mutual guarantees needed to support the continued growth of AIDA Cruises and Costa Cruises, ensuring reliable operations and an excellent experience for our guests," added Birkholz.
David Collado highlights the confidence in Dominican tourism
The signing of the agreement was attended by the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, who praised the decision of both companies to continue investing in the Dominican Republic's tourism infrastructure.
In that regard, he considered that this initiative will contribute to improving the country's connection with international markets, supporting the sustainable development of tourism, and expanding economic opportunities for La Romana and other communities linked to the sector.
"This agreement reflects the confidence of major international cruise operators in the Dominican Republic," Collado stated.
The official also highlighted the scope that this cooperation will have for national tourism activity.
"It strengthens international connectivity, supports sustainable tourism development, and generates new economic opportunities for La Romana and the country," he pointed out.
With this understanding, Central Romana, AIDA Cruises and Costa Cruises seek to continue a commercial relationship built over decades and strengthen the model that connects airport services with maritime terminals.
In this way, La Romana expands its prospects within the cruise market and strengthens its role as a connection point for international travelers, with new growth possibilities for the Dominican tourism industry.
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