Coming Soon: A Cruise Port in Barahona!
- Jessica Vides
- Apr 19
- 3 min read
If you've been researching the recently completed cruise port in Cabo Rojo and the beaches of the Dominican south, you're not alone—interest in this stunning region is soaring, and now there's even bigger news on the horizon. By 2026, Barahona will become a brand-new cruise destination in the DR, opening up an entirely new corner of the country for international visitors.
WHY BUILD A PORT IN BARAHONA?
Barahona is unlike any other part of the Dominican Republic. Think rugged cliffs, turquoise beaches, rivers pouring out of mountains, and some of the most biodiverse landscapes in the Caribbean. The vibe here is wild, local, and full of surprises. And until now? It’s mostly been off the beaten path.
That’s about to change.
THE FUTURE CRUISE PORT: WHAT TO EXPECT AT BARAHONA
Construction is already underway on a $11.37 million cruise terminal at the current port in Barahona, Dominican Republic. Here are the fast facts:
Cruise-ready by 2026 (we will have to see on that one)
Able to receive medium-sized ships
Features a central plaza (5,980 sq. meters) and intervention zone (23,096 sq. meters) — that’s four football fields worth of space!
Includes 35 commercial spots, bars, restaurants, even a rum-making experience
Parking area for buses and cars, plus security, restrooms, and signage
This investment is part of a major push by the Dominican government to turn Barahona into a tourism and real estate powerhouse—and that means more access, better infrastructure, and more opportunities to explore.
WHAT WILL BE NEARBY FOR CRUISERS?
The great thing about the Barahona port location? You’re already close to the good stuff. If your cruise gives you a day to explore, you won’t need to go far to find adventure.
Here are excursion-worthy spots within 30–45 minutes of the terminal:
Playa Quemaito – A local favorite beach with gentle waves and pebbled shores
Larimar Mines – Home to the world’s only blue larimar gemstone
Villa Miriam – Private waterfalls and natural pools
San Rafael Mirador, River & Beach – The BEST view in the south
Los Patos – Enjoy hanging out by the the beach or river
Polo Magnético – A "mysterious" hill where gravity seems to shift
These are not cookie-cutter excursions—they’re authentic, beautiful, and full of character. This is the real Dominican Republic that most travelers never see.
CAN'T WAIT FOR THE CRUISE PORT? COME NOW!
Truth is, you don’t need to wait until 2026 to visit Barahona. Getting here is a bit of an adventure (we’re about 3–4 hours from Santo Domingo), but that’s part of the charm—and totally doable with a little planning.
➡️ Want a deeper adventure?
Check out my Road Trip Itinerary to explore the South by car.
➡️ Prefer not to rent a car?
Stay tuned for my blog on how to explore the South without driving. Or let me plan the whole trip for you—from airport pickup to Airbnb and even a local cook to make your meals. You’ll enjoy the ease of a cruise, but with way more time to soak it all in.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE NEW CRUISE PORT IN BARAHONA
Barahona is about to step into the spotlight—and whether you visit by cruise ship or take the road less traveled, this southern gem is 100% worth the journey, as long as you know where to go. With more travelers discovering the more distant parts of the Dominican Republic like Cabo Rojo , Bahia de las Aguilas and beyond, now’s the perfect time to plan your visit before the crowds get even larger.
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