Dominican Republic cruise takes you through the Caribbean Sea to a marvelous destination located on the Hispaniola Island, which forms a part of the Greater Antilles in the Caribbean region. This second largest Caribbean nation has become the largest tourist destination on the Caribbean. This island was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492; it is rich in its cultural and historical background along with several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Dominican Republic cruise options are provided by most of the Caribbean cruise ships. Costa Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Crystal Cruises are the some of the major cruise lines that dock at the Dominican Republic ports. Usually the cruise through Dominican Republic is for 1 day; however, one can extend it for few days for a relaxed vacation. The perfect time for cruising through Dominican Republic is during winter. Ferry and boat services are also available to explore the beauty of Dominican Republic. Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata, and Santiago de los Cabelleros are some of the exotic places to visit.
Santo Domingo
Christopher Columbus founded this romantic capital city in 1496. With its Latin-Spanish culture, this city has various attractions ranging from Alcazar de Colon (the Columbus Palace) to Fortress Ozama (an elegant cathedral). Parque de los Tres Ojos (underwater ponds of volcanic origin), The Tower of Homage, Tostado House, Conde Gate, Las Damas street, San Francisco Monastery Ruins, and Museo del Hombre Dominicano (where one can view Columbian history and aircrafts) are other attractions in the capital city. Boca Chico, the main beach on the island, is the nearest beach to the capital of Santo. Columbus Lighthouse Monument, situated on the shore of Ozama River, was constructed in 1990. The National Aquarium near Columbus Lighthouse is the best aquarium in the Caribbean region; it showcases a variety of marine life.
Puerto Plata
Located at the north of Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata is a top beach destination in the Dominican Republic. One can view the influence of Victorian architecture throughout Puerto Plata. Puerto Plata is renowned for its rich amber deposits, and it is surrounded by mountain ranges and green valleys. Costambar, Sosúa, Luperon, the Fort of San Felipe, and Cabarete are renowned historic sites in this region. The Amber Museum and the Central Park are also other eye-catching attractions. Pico Isabel de Torres is a subtropical mountain reserve, which is home to different types of birds. Another major attraction is the 15 underground streams that flow through the park.
Santiago de los Caballeros
This is the one of the oldest and second important city of the Dominican Republic and also known as the "Heart City." Santiago is the leading producer and exporter of tobacco. You can find the Monument to the Heroes of Restoration, which is 220 feet high and built in white marble. Cathedral of Santiago Apostol has the tomb of the dictator Ulysses Heureaux. Tobacco Museum, La Aurora (the first cigar factory), the Yoryi Morel Museum, the Museum of the City of Santiago, the Tomas Morel Museum of Folkloric Art, Cascada De Agua water falls, and the Cultural Center are the other tourist attractions here.