Traveling Our Purdy World

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Amber Cove

Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic is a Carnival Cruise port. This port is strictly a cruise port which means that it is Carnival developed. In ports like these, you don’t usually have to be worried about your safety as Carnival is only allowing certain individuals to be on this “island”. I say “island” in air quotes because its not necessarily an island, but instead it is a specific special area that Carnival carved out just for their cruise ship passengers.

To be fully transparent, we did not get to explore this island to all of its potential. I did not feel well this morning, so we went out explored a little and then came back to the ship by lunchtime. After learning about all the fun, exciting, and free things to do at this port, we will be returning to explore more!

Arriving at Amber Cove

Something you should know is the cruise ships are docked a hike away from the port… I would even imagine to say they are about 0.5-1 mile away. With this said, it is a long walk HOWEVER; there are AH-MAZING men who operate complimentary bicycle taxis who bike you in their cart to the port. There was no set fee for this service, they just take tips. These guys are the true lifesavers, because honestly the walk on a 100 degree day can be too much for some people (even healthy people). I didn’t take a picture of the bikes in Amber Cove, but I’ll try to paint you a picture – one gentleman riding a bike pulling behind a wagon for the cruise ship passengers to sit in.

Once on Land, it’s time to Explore!

This port does not have too much; but it can be a relaxing, fun day. There are shops, a few excursions, and a Margaritaville inspired resort.

Shop ‘Til You Drop?

No, you won’t be able to shop ’til you drop while at Amber Cove. This is not one of those ports with all the diamonds and gemstone salesmen begging you to come into their store. Amber Cove is a much more relaxed shopping port. Once on land, you will almost immediately see an outdoor shopping mall. There is a small pharmacy, some gift shops, and a few stores to buy some clothing. This shopping mall will not keep you busy all day, but maybe for a hour or two for you to get off the ship.

Margaritaville

If you are looking to get off the ship, get some sun, not get sand all over you, and not spend a lot of money – Amber Cove might be that special port for you! The port has a new Margaritaville inspired resort. Free to get in as they are expecting you to purchase food and beverages. Think huge pool, swim up bars, restaurants, and boozy cocktails.

The restaurant is an open-air type restaurant – so you can still enjoy being in the Caribbean while enjoying a nice meal off the ship. The drink prices seemed comparable to what you would pay on a Carnival Cruise but the food prices seemed a little expensive (around $20 for a burger). We chose to go back on the ship around lunchtime to enjoy the free amazing Guys Burger Joint.

It seemed like the pool areas were large enough to accommodate multiple ships. We were the only cruise ship docked that day, but there were plenty of lounge chairs to go around.

Excursions

While we chose not to partake in any excursions, it did seem like there were plenty to do. It seemed like many of them were for the more adventurous – ziplining, paddleboards, boat rentals, etc. If adventure is your calling – then you should definitely look into what options this port has!

Closing Thoughts

When first learning that our cruise was going to Amber Cove, I was not overly thrilled to say the least. Learning that there is no beach near the cruise port, not a whole lot of shopping, and a “free” pool area, I was not excited. However; after being on the island, I changed my mind. Being able to get off the ship for a few hours and not be expected to walk miles through shopping centers, get all sandy from the beach, or be haggled to buy a necklace, was actually a nice change. If you are looking for an inexpensive carefree day of lounging by the pool, this is your port!

Or if you are looking to take advantage of an empty cruise ship, not have to wait in line to get food, finally get in the hot tub or pool onboard – then stay onboard and enjoy having a huge ship to (almost) yourself.

Port Rating:

_{While the port is nice and relaxing – if you are looking for anything other than a relaxing day, this is not the port for you.}

One more check on our list of traveling this Purdy World! Time to find the next adventure!

Happy Travels! xoxo Megan & Sean

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