Punta Rucia is part of The Dominican Republic’s so-called Silver Coast.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, these white/silver sands comprise 300 kilometres of mostly prime waterfront property on the country’s northern edge, hemmed in to the south by the Cordillera Septentrional mountain range. Away from the resort towns, some of this area is unsurprisingly unspoilt in character and diversity of its geography.
This region has historical resonance as well, as the first shore that Columbus settled, though the Spanish colony later grew up around Santo Domingo on the island’s south coast.
Just around the point from Playa Ensenada, Punta Rucia is arguably the most beautiful beach on the north coast, with more ivory sand and great mountain views. It attracts fewer people than Ensenada but has several informal local places to stop for lunch or a beer.
The small point that separates the two beaches is bordered by a thriving coral reef, which provides good snorkelling.
Cruises operate in the Caribbean all year round. However many ships cruise here in the northern winter and then cross the Atlantic to cruise in Europe during the northern summer.
The Caribbean really is a year-round destination. Temperatures seldom vary from highs in the 80s Farenheit (lows in the 70s), with humidity hovering at the 70 percent level just about all year. The hurricane season, which officially lasts from June 1st to November 30th, can occasionally disrupt cruise itineraries.