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The Dominican Republic took a decisive step toward consolidating its leadership in Caribbean cruise tourism following the announcement of a strategic alliance between MSC Cruises and the Port of La Romana. Under the agreement, the MSC Opera will establish La Romana as its year-round homeport.
The announcement was made during a joint press conference led by Tourism Minister David Collado; MSC Cruises CEO Gianni Onorato; and Andrés Pichardo Rosenberg, President of Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, representing Central Romana Corporation, during the international tourism trade fair (FITUR) held in Madrid.
In his remarks, Pichardo Rosenberg emphasized that La Romana has historically served as a key hub where industry, connectivity, and tourism converge. He highlighted more than five decades of integrated development under the Casa de Campo Resort brand. This model, he explained, has successfully integrated high-end hospitality, real estate, sports, culture, a marina, a seaport, an airport, and a wide range of tourism services, laying the foundation for transformative, long-term alliances like the one reached with MSC.
The selection of La Romana as a homeport represents the beginning of a strategic relationship built on mutual trust, operational excellence, and a shared commitment to sustainable development. Pichardo Rosenberg explained that the agreement guarantees weekly stopovers by MSC Cruises throughout the year, providing operational stability, long-term planning, and a continuous, predictable economic impact for both the region and the country.
Pichardo Rosenberg offered special thanks to MSC Cruises and its CEO, Gianni Onorato, for the trust placed in La Romana and the Dominican Republic. He concluded by reaffirming that the country “does not just receive cruise ships; it builds alliances, cares for its destinations, and leads the future of tourism in the region.”
As part of this operation, the alliance also includes Catalina Island, one of the Eastern region’s primary natural assets. The island is managed by Casa de Campo under criteria of sustainability, environmental conservation, and world-class tourism experiences.
“Operating as a year-round homeport places La Romana within a very small group of ports globally,” Pichardo Rosenberg said. He noted that this designation sends a clear message that the Dominican Republic is a reliable, competitive partner prepared to lead Caribbean cruise tourism.
The executive framed the agreement within what he described as the best moment in the country’s tourism history, resulting from a clear vision and effective public-private collaboration. In that regard, he recognized the leadership of President Luis Abinader and Tourism Minister David Collado for their roles in strengthening the sector and enhancing the international profile of the Dominican destination.
From the perspective of Central Romana Corporation, the alliance with MSC Cruises represents job creation, the strengthening of productive chains, regional development, and a firm commitment to a long-term sustainable tourism model.