Puerto Plata is the main commercial port on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. This is a multipurpose port which is able to handle grain cargo (wheat, corn and soy bean meal), general cargo, containers, fuel oil, gas oil and passenger vessels.

Anchorage at Puerto Plata in rough weather is considered unsafe and must of the vessel stay drifting even deep water anchorage is available outside the port.

Pilot and harbor master can be contacted by radio channel 16. Pilot boards the vessel about 0.5 mile from the sea buoy entrance from a small boat of about 30 feet in length.

Entry and departure allowed 24 hours a day for small vessels but tankers and grain vessels movement are restricted to daylight hours only.

Unfortunately, all ports within the Dominican Republic are facing drastic problems related to stowaways. The unauthorized boarding of vessels, while at roads, or in port, are the most serious hazard you shall have to face. Prior to sailing the vessel will be boarded by a team of Dom. Rep. Navy personnel who shall perform a ship search for stowaways. However, the best way to minimize the risk of stowaways is by hiring private security service which can be arranged by the agent on a no cure/no pay basis.

Disclaimer: Port information at the time of publication is accurate, but can change without notice. AMARIT makes no warranty, expressed or implied as to the accuracy of the same.