Beyond the Postcard: The Dominican Republic Steps Out of the Shallows

Written by

Emily Gibbins-McBride

29 October 2026

Every winter, the superyacht fleet drifts toward the Caribbean's familiar harbours. Yet one island has waited quietly in the wings: lush, sun-warmed and still largely undiscovered, the Dominican Republic is the kind of place captains love to explore and guests never forget. Eight international airports make arrivals effortless, so guests can step from jet to tender in a swift, seamless process. At the heart of it all is Marina Casa de Campo, now marking 25 years on the shores of La Romana. Its Home Port Programme turns a visit into a homecoming and gives yachts a base from which to explore the island at leisure. With complimentary berthing, competitively priced fuel and a generous incentive package, the Dominican Republic is the place to be this December.

1970: An Island Opens Its Doors

From 17th to 20th December 2026, the inaugural 1970 Dominican Republic Superyacht Rendezvous brings an invitation-only gathering of owners, charterers and guests to Casa de Campo. With the Ministry of Tourism as principal partner, it marks the moment the Dominican Republic takes its place among the world's great superyacht destinations.

Over four nights and three days, the island reveals itself in many moods. Guests can take to the shooting grounds at Casa de Campo, surrender to a restorative spa retreat, or slip beneath the surface to explore the reefs. The more adventurous can ride the rapids on a white-water rafting excursion or soar through the treetops on a zip line. Each experience is a different note in the same song, and the yacht is always waiting at the end of the day.

Fairways, Whales and Wild Places

For golfers, the highlight is the Lürssen Golf Challenge, played across Casa de Campo's championship courses beside the Caribbean Sea. Beyond the fairways, the resort's hilltop village of Altos de Chavón offers cobbled lanes, artistry and views that linger long after sunset.

Further along the coast lies Samaná Bay, the island's great theatre of the sea, where whales gather and the horizon feels endless.

It is a reminder that the Dominican Republic's beauty extends far beyond its sands. Mountains, rivers, reefs and rhythm-filled evenings all wait just beyond the marina, and the most memorable chapters of a Caribbean season are often found where the crowd has yet to arrive.

The level of luxury and service is second to none in the world.
Captain Liam Devlin

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