La Romana Port cruises, Dominican Republic

What's great about La Romana cruises?

A Caribbean and Latin-fused favourite, it’s easy to see why Columbus labelled the Dominican Republic as ‘the fairest land under heaven’. It’s got all the tropical ingredients you could wish for. And this southeast corner is no exception. Shop for jewellery made of locally mined amber. Feast on the Spanish, African and Taino cuisine. Or explore the Chavron River, which landed a starring role in the film ‘Apocalypse Now’.

• Join in the creative buzz at Altos de Chavon, just north of La Romana. This unique artists’ village is a replica of a 17th-century Mediterranean village and gazes down over the gorge of the Chavron River. You’ll find artists’ studios, craft shops and restaurants here.
• It’s well worth the journey up to the bewitching Semana Peninsula. As well as having rainforests in every shade of green and angel-white sands, it’s the humpback whales that are the big draw here. They visit the area for some major speed-dating sessions during the mating season so you’ve got a good chance of glimpsing these creatures in their natural habitat.
• Set sail for Saona Island, just off the mainland. First discovered by Columbus back in 1494, it’s a top spot for swimming and snorkelling. Make sure you keep an eye out for starfish – they’re a regular feature here.