Amber Cove vs. Taino Bay: Which Cruise Port Is Better for Your Puerto Plata Visit?
Last updated: September 2026
If you're visiting Puerto Plata on a cruise, one of the first things you need to know is which cruise port your ship will use. Puerto Plata has two major cruise terminals — Amber Cove and Taino Bay — with different locations and surroundings. Here's what you need to know before planning your shore excursion.
Amber Cove
Amber Cove is located in Maimón, west of Puerto Plata. The complex includes restaurants, shops, a large pool area and facilities for cruise passengers. You can spend your port day inside or arrange transportation to explore. Popular excursions from Amber Cove include the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua, city tours, the cable car, beaches, Fortaleza San Felipe and private excursions.
Taino Bay
Taino Bay sits much closer to downtown Puerto Plata, which makes it particularly convenient for the historic center: Fortaleza San Felipe, Parque Central, San Felipe Cathedral, Umbrella Street, local museums and the Malecón.
Which Port Is Closer to Downtown?
Amber Cove is outside the city center, so most downtown attractions need transportation. Taino Bay is close to downtown, making access easier. Still, both ports work as starting points for private excursions throughout Puerto Plata.
Which Port Will Your Cruise Use?
It depends on your specific itinerary — don't assume based only on the cruise line. Always check your ship and sailing date.
Can You Take the Same Excursions from Both Ports?
Many main attractions can be visited from either port — the difference is transportation time:
| Excursion | Amber Cove | Taino Bay |
|---|---|---|
| 27 Waterfalls | Yes | Yes |
| Cable Car | Yes | Yes |
| City Tour | Yes | Yes |
| Fortaleza San Felipe | Yes | Yes |
| Beach | Yes | Yes |
| Private Tours | Yes | Yes |
What Should You Choose?
Instead of choosing only by port, consider your arrival and departure times, passenger count, the activities you want, and transportation time. At Jonathan Tours we work with passengers from both ports — tell us "I'm arriving at [port] on [date], arriving at [time], departing at [time], [number] of us" and we'll help you understand your options.
