By Denise Simpson with Natasha Simpson
For those who choose — or need — to stay in the Dominican Republic through hurricane season, the north coast has consistently proven to be a relatively safe haven from direct hurricane strikes, usually experiencing only the occasional tropical storm.
Hurricane Irma came close in September 2017, passing about 50 miles north of Puerto Plata as a powerful Category 5 storm. Neither Irma, Maria (also 2017), nor Fiona (in 2022) caused significant damage along this coastline. Fiona crossed the tip of Samaná as a Category 1–2 storm, passing about 60 miles north of Puerto Plata as a Category 2–3, and again caused no serious harm along the northern coast.
Ocean World Marina in Cofresí, near Puerto Plata, proved a reliable refuge. The marina’s massive sea wall and strong, fixed concrete docks — with well-secured cleats — allowed long-term vessels tied spider-web-style to ride out the storms successfully. Many used snubbers and chafe guards. The liveaboard community and staff ensured unattended boats were secured. At nearby Marítima del Atlántico boatyard, boats hauled out and strapped down also reported no damage.
Farther west, both foreign cruisers and Dominican vessels sought shelter in Luperón, a naturally protected eco-bay. Some latecomers received permission from the armada (Navy) to run lines into the surrounding mangroves — a key hurricane-hole feature that offers flexibility and protection. In contrast, the lack of mangroves in Samaná contributed to vessels being wrecked during Hurricane Fiona.
It is vital for skippers in Luperón to remain with their boats during the season. The harbor entrance can funnel winds during tropical storms, causing some boats to drag anchor or break free. In 2020, a Panamanian inter-island ferry dragged during 45-50-knot gusts, but with crew onboard, a collision was avoided.
Controversy erupted in April-May 2025 when officials began removing unattended vessels. Some owners claimed their boats were not derelict but stored for the season. One owner shared that authorities asked for proof of monthly harbor fee payments and a valid Permiso de Navegación typically required after 90 days on the water or hard. In Luperón, this sometimes applies after just 60 days — similar to policies at Puerto Bahía Marina in Samaná.
Because the bay is an environmentally protected area, cruisers must obtain permission from the armada to perform work on their boats and avoid using toxic substances like muriatic acid.
Marine weather expert Chris Parker of the Marine Weather Center has repeatedly cited the Puerto Plata Province as a favored hurricane refuge. There are three main reasons:
1. Storm Path & mountains: The coast backs up against the Cordillera Septentrional mountain range, with peaks like Diego de Ocampo (1,250 meters/4,100 feet).
2. Dominican alps: Further inland is the Cordillera Central, with the Caribbean’s four highest peaks, including Pico Duarte (3,098/ 10,164).
3. Left-front quadrant advantage: Harbors on the north coast often lie in the left-front quadrant of storms, which brings weaker winds and drier air.
“If a west-moving hurricane passes along or just north of the north coast of a mountainous landmass, then harbors along the north coast will experience the less-strong south side. If the storm passes over the landmass, dry air and tall mountains disrupt the hurricane’s structure, causing rapid weakening.” — Chris Parker, Passagemaker magazine, 2019
NOAA’s historical hurricane data confirm the DR’s north coast has never taken a direct hit from a hurricane — only occasional tropical storms.
NOAA Historical Tracks: https://coast.noaa.gov/hurricanes/
‘Bums on a Boat’ hurricane info: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/158uF3rk2y/?mibextid=wwXIfr
In 2022, some boats in Marina Puerto Bahía (Samaná) weathered Fiona safely. Others took refuge in Los Haitises if their draft allowed. One vessel sank after hitting the dock, while others now haul out in Puerto Plata annually.
Notable south coast hurricane refuges include:
- Marina Punta Cana
- Ozama River, Santo Domingo
- Marina Zar Par, Boca Chica (damaged in 2024)
For real-time updates, join the DR Cruisers & Boaters Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15S1g2W7D6/?mibextid=wwXIfr.
Denise & Natasha Simpson (and two cats), live aboard SV Fair Lady, a Morgan Out Island ketch. Based full-time in the Caribbean since sailing from South Africa in 2010, they’ve spent the past six years in the Dominican Republic — five years in Luperón and now, based at Ocean World Marina.
Simpson is a port officer for the Ocean Cruising Club (UK), a host for the Seven Seas Cruising Association (USA), and liaison for the Cruising Association (UK). Reach her at deniswithane61@gmail.com.
