The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism has formalized a strategic agreement with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), an organization representing a consortium of major cruise lines. The partnership aims to enhance the country’s position as a key cruise destination in the Caribbean.
The agreement was signed by Minister of Tourism David Collado and FCCA President Adam Ceserano, with the participation of Dominican President Luis Abinader. This alliance makes the Dominican Republic one of five destinations to establish a presidential-level partnership with the FCCA, a move that is anticipated to attract new investments and increase cruise visitor arrivals at its ports.
According to a statement from Minister Collado, the country received 2,656,305 maritime passengers in the previous year. He indicated that the agreement is intended to support the continued growth of this figure. President Abinader noted the sustained expansion of the cruise tourism sector and announced plans for the development of two new cruise ports to expand capacity.
The strategic alliance outlines several key areas of collaboration:
- High-Level Strategic Planning: Joint efforts with cruise lines to design itineraries, promote local sourcing, and develop new tourism products.
- Commitment to Excellence: Technical visits by industry executives to evaluate and strengthen the passenger experience.
- Local Talent Development: Integration of local professionals into the cruise industry workforce.
- International Promotion: The Dominican Republic will be featured in global marketing campaigns and is scheduled to host the 2026 FCCA Platinum Members Conference, which will bring sector leaders to the country.
The 17-month agreement is valid until December 2026. The Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism also announced that the country will host the 2026 Pamac Cruise Summit, an event for senior executives of FCCA-affiliated cruise lines.
Minister of Tourism David Collado and FCCA President Adam Ceserano, with the Dominican President Luis Abinader. Photo credit: FCCA.
