The executive director of the Dominican Port Authority (APORDOM), Jean Luis Rodríguez, along with the president of the Port Authority's Board of Directors and president of the Presidential Commission for Port Modernization and Security, Alejandro Campos, highlighted at Seatrade Cruise Med 2024 the progress being made in the construction work of the ports of San Pedro de Macorís, in the Dominican Republic, and Mayagüez, in Puerto Rico; an initiative that will allow the connection between both docks with the Spanish ferry company Balearia.
During a meeting with Balearia executives in Denia, Spain, Rodríguez stated that the transformation of the port of San Pedro de Macorís consists of the construction of a new multifunctional passenger terminal in the port of San Pedro de Macorís and the adaptation of more than 100,000 square meters of these facilities in the Port of Mayagüez, with the aim of creating new investment infrastructure and improving the conditions of existing ports.
The port official stated that, “the Dominican Republic has great advantages, from its tourist offerings—white sand beaches, mountains, rivers, and colonial zone—which impress cruise ship passengers who visit the country, along with our geographic location in the heart of the Caribbean. Each of our five cruise terminals offers completely different experiences.”.
Speaking about Port Cabo Rojo at Seatrade, he stated that “it has been a significant investment by the Dominican government, thanks to the vision and support of President Luis Abinader, as it represents a tourism hub in the Dominican Republic. By 2025, it will be receiving 150,000 passengers who will enjoy all its phases.”.
Meanwhile, Campos pointed out that the construction of ports in the country is the key to relaunching cruise tourism, as they have themed infrastructures created to attract tourists.
During Seatrade in Málaga, exhibits from various countries took place, including travel agencies, tour operators, and cruise lines. APORDOM showcased destinations within the Dominican Republic, including cruise terminals such as Port Cabo Rojo, which will receive its third cruise ship in October and is inaugurating its second phase. Also featured were Taíno Bay and Amber Cove in Puerto Plata; Barahona; Samaná Bay Port; and Arroyo Barril.
In that regard, meetings were held to establish new negotiations, strengthen strategies regarding cruises, attractive offers for visitors and destination conditions.
The commission that accompanied the head of APORDOM to the meeting and tour with Balearia executives was received by Georges Bassoul, director of the San Pedro de Macorís-Mayagüez line, in the company of José Ferrer, Juan Cabrera and Guillermo Alomar.
Also in attendance were APORDOM Deputy Director Joaquín Fernández, Gabriela Bonilla, Communications Director, Scarlet Rodríguez, Commercial Director, among others.
Seatrade Cruise Med 2024
After attending the trade fair for two days, Jean Luis Rodríguez indicated that Seatrade Cruise Med 2024 concluded successfully, highlighting port development and the strengthening of cruise ship visits.
The activity represents the positioning of the Dominican Republic in the cruise sector with the main executives of the maritime lines, where a positive impact was made in socializations and exhibitions.
Seatrade Cruise Med is the leading event related to the cruise industry in the Mediterranean, offering the opportunity to finalize negotiations with new shipping lines, visits to different countries around the world, and increase existing calls at tourist destinations.
