After five seasons cruising back and forth between the Bahamas and the U.S, we finally made it farther South to explore a bit of the Western Caribbean. This year, we decided to pull into Luperón in the Dominican Republic for hurricane season — and wow, are we glad we did.

Beating to windward to get here wasn’t easy, but it was absolutely worth it. The Dominican Republic has surprised us in the best possible ways, and after a few months here, we feel like we’ve only scratched the surface. Here’s why this place has quickly stolen our hearts.

A Burst of New Culture

After years bouncing between Canada, the U.S., and the Bahamas, I found myself missing that sense of culture shock that comes with visiting a truly different country. The Dominican Republic brings that back in full force.

From the moment you arrive, your senses are lit up — the smell of burning coconut husks drifting through the air, the sound of street music and the buzz of motorbikes on the streets, the taste of juicy mangoes, dragon fruit, and pineapple, and the feel of those warm trade winds cooling you down on a summer afternoon. It’s the kind of sensory overload that reminds you: you’re somewhere new, somewhere alive.

Easy on the Wallet

Compared to what we usually spend during hurricane season in the U.S. — between haul-outs, travel, and boat work — the Dominican Republic is incredibly affordable.

• Moorings: about $105/month
  
• A local meal of fried chicken, rice, and salad: about $5
  
• A massive bag of produce from the veggie truck: about $20
  
• Car rental: $45/day, or a motorbike for under $13/day
  

Even haul-out fees and local labor are reasonable. A few costs do add up — water delivery runs about $2.50 for 5 gallons, and there are immigration fees when you leave the country (after your free first month). But overall, it’s one of the most budget-friendly spots we’ve stayed.

Great for Boat Work

Hurricane season is always our “project season,” and Luperón has proven to be the perfect place to get things done. While working on the water, we had a steady breeze keeping us cool even in 30°C weather — far more comfortable than sweating on the hard.

Supplies can be shipped from the U.S. at reasonable rates based on weight with BoxPaq, and local workers are available for everything from bottom cleaning to engine repair. The combination of good weather, affordable help, and a relaxed environment makes getting work done here surprisingly pleasant.

A Thriving Cruiser Community

Cruising can get lonely at times, but the community in Luperón is something special. Everyone stays connected through a WhatsApp group where people share updates on events, activities, local restaurants, and even emergencies.

You’ll meet sailors who’ve done what you dream of doing — and others setting out on similar adventures. Many arrive planning to stay a few weeks and end up never leaving. It’s a welcoming, supportive, and lively network unlike anywhere else we’ve been.

Warm, Friendly People

From the moment we dropped anchor, we were greeted with smiles and curiosity. A quick walk into town means a dozen new faces eager to chat and help you find your way. Locals and cruisers alike go out of their way to make newcomers feel at home.

Need to find a mechanic, the best empanadas, or a local SIM card? Someone’s always ready to help. There’s this rare sense that locals and visitors aren’t separate groups — everyone’s part of the same community.

A Perfect Staging Spot

In past seasons, we’d spend weeks finishing boat projects, launching, and then working our way toward the Bahamas to begin cruising. This year, we’re already in the water — and already in position to head deeper into the Caribbean.

It’s a great jump-off point whether you’re bound for Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, or south toward the ABCs.

Endless Things to Do

When we weren’t elbow-deep in boat work, there was always something fun calling us ashore. The Dominican Republic is packed with inland adventures: swimming in waterfalls, hiking mountains, even paragliding if you’re feeling bold.

Around Luperón itself, there’s a constant buzz of cruiser activities — karaoke, poker nights, horseback riding, dog-walking, happy hours at Captain’s Table, and lazy afternoons at New Amsterdam pool (where you’ll find cold draft beer, stone-oven pizza, trampoline, zipline, and swings for the kids).

It’s the kind of place where boredom simply isn’t an option.

Final Thoughts

For years, hurricane season meant “boat work season” — a necessary pause in the adventure. But here in the Dominican Republic, we’ve found the perfect blend of productivity, exploration, and connection.

The hardest part now? Finding time to prepare for our next cruising chapter while still soaking up every bit of this beautiful, vibrant place.

Cory BertrandCory and Alex share their adventure with weekly videos on their YouTube channel “Wildly Intrepid Sailing”. Their dream is to travel the world and to live without any regrets.