PUERTO PLATA

• DOPOP
• Latitude: 19.802
• Longitude: -70.7006
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Dominican Republic

Location: Puerto Plata Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata, officially known as San Felipe de Puerto Plata, is a significant marine port located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It is a vital hub for both commercial and passenger maritime activities. Below is an overview of the port's description and specifications:

General Overview

• Location: Northern coast of the Dominican Republic, bordering the Atlantic Ocean.
• Latitude/Longitude: Approximately 19.8017° N, 70.6884° W.
• Function: The port serves as an entry point for cargo ships, cruise ships, and is a central hub for the regional economy.

Infrastructure

• Harbor Type: Natural with significant man-made improvements.
• Terminals: Separate terminals for cruise ships and cargo.
  • Cruise Terminal: Modern facilities to accommodate large cruise ships with amenities for tourists.
  • Cargo Terminal: Facilities for handling containerized cargo, bulk goods, and general cargo.

Berthing Facilities

• Number of Berths: Multiple berths, including specialized berths for different types of vessels.
• Depth: Varies by the berth; the cruise terminal generally has greater depth to accommodate large cruise liners.
• Length of Quay: Sufficient to handle large ships; exact specifications vary by berth.
• Tide and Water Conditions: Minimal tidal variations due to location; protected from severe weather by natural geography and man-made structures.

Cargo Handling

• Types of Cargo: Containerized goods, bulk cargo (such as grains, minerals), break-bulk cargo, and sometimes vehicles.
• Equipment: Cranes, forklifts, container handling equipment, and other necessary machinery for efficient loading and unloading.

Passenger Services

• Cruise Ships: Dedicated terminal with customs and immigration facilities, passenger lounges, and easy access to ground transportation.
• Facilities: Shops, restaurants, transportation services to local attractions and resorts.

Support Services

• Towage and Pilotage: Available to assist ships in docking and undocking.
• Bunkering and Fresh Water Supply: Services available for ships.
• Ship Repair and Maintenance: Basic repair services available; more extensive facilities located in other major ports in the country.

Connectivity

• Road Access: Well-connected to the road network, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers to and from the port.
• Airport: Close proximity to Gregorio Luperón International Airport (about 15 km away), enhancing cargo and passenger logistics.
• Railway: Not prominently used, as the railway infrastructure is limited in this region.

Economic Impact

• Tourism: Significant contributor to the local economy due to cruise ship arrivals.
• Trade: Important gateway for imports and exports, impacting the regional and national economy.

Environmental and Security Measures

• Safety Regulations: Adherence to international maritime safety standards.
• Environmental Measures: Initiatives to protect the marine environment, including waste management and pollution control protocols.

Development Plans

• Expansion Projects: Plans to enhance berthing facilities, increase cargo handling capabilities, and improve passenger amenities to cater to growing demand.

Puerto Plata's port is a crucial component of the Dominican Republic's maritime infrastructure, supporting both the tourism and commercial sectors and contributing to the overall economic development of the region.