Pedernales, DR- President Luis Abinader and Tourism Minister David Collado recently marked a milestone event. They opened the second phase of Puerto Cabo Rojo. This move makes the southern region the Caribbean’s hub for cruise tourism. The expansion is a step forward in Pedernales’, which has grown via planned tourism investments under the Abinader administration.
On Wednesday, the newly expanded port welcomed its third cruise ship. The Adventure of the Seas arrived with 3,114 passengers and 1,185 crew. This occasion highlighted Cabo Rojo’s ability to host large-scale tourism. The enhanced port can now handle two Oasis-class ships and up to 15,000 passengers simultaneously.
Economic and job impact
President Abinader accentuated the regional economy’s reliance on tourism. He ensured his administration’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development in the South. According to him, the port has directly created 400 jobs. For every direct job, it is estimated two to three indirect jobs are generated throughout the area. Abinader believes the economic impact will improve the lives of Dominicans, especially in the southern region.
Minister Collado agreed with the President’s sentiments. He said, “The influx of thousands of visitors is an invaluable opportunity for local communities. It will stimulate economic growth and promote our natural beauty.”
The project received investment from both public and private sectors. It is expected to generate an economic impact of $120 to $150 million per annum. The strategy is to diversify Dominican Republic’s tourism offering beyond its conventional points in the north and east, like Punta Cana.
A distant view of the cruise ship docked at the Port of Cabo Rojo, marking the arrival of international visitors to the newly inaugurated second phase. (Photo: Communications Division, MITUR)
Jean Luis Rodríguez, Executive Director of APORDOM (Dominican Port Authority), stated the project turns Pedernales into a gateway for Caribbean cruises. He said, “Puerto Cabo Rojo allows us to positively impact the south of the country. It shows that we are becoming the cruise hub of the Caribbean.”
Promotion of sustainable development and local involvement
Puerto Cabo Rojo is more than a cruise terminal. It symbolizes sustainable tourism. The port has no single-use plastics and protects nearby protected areas and natural parks. The terminal’s unique design shows a commitment to preserving the region’s ecosystems while promoting local economic growth.
The port boasts advanced infrastructure like hotels, roads, and other surrounding services. These accompaniments provide a smooth and eco-friendly experience for tourists. Sigmund Freund said, “The work done here testifies to the administration’s dedication to creating a world-class tourism legacy for the region.”
The port integrates local culture into the tourist experience. Upon arrival, the passengers enjoyed live music, traditional carnival performances, and folkloric entertainment. They also had the opportunity to explore local crafts and the iconic larimar stone.
Sigmund Freund, Minister of Public Administration, emphasized the importance of including local communities in tourism. “This not only draws visitors, but gives locals a platform to share their culture and skills worldwide,” Freund observed.
Outlook and vision for the future
The second phase’s successful inauguration forecasts a prosperous future for Cabo Rojo. Mauricio Hamui, CEO of ITM Group, feels the port will play a significant role in regional development. Hamui said, “This phase is a significant achievement creating jobs and promoting tourism to benefit the entire Enriquillo area.”
Inaugurating the second phase of Puerto Cabo Rojo shows a vision of inclusive growth, infusing local culture, environment, and economy. It will have benefits far beyond the port gates. (Photo: provided by Mitur.gob.do)
Future expansions planned include a themed fair, water park, dining, and shopping options. Cabo Rojo is poised to become a top-notch destination blending leisure, culture, and sustainability. The initiative may lead to regional economic revitalization.
The second phase’s inauguration marks a breakthrough in diversifying and expanding the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector. The venture delineates an inclusive growth vision, with local culture, environment, and economy benefiting beyond the port gates. Pedernales is emerging as a prominent cruise destination due to strategic joint initiatives between government entities and private partners.
