Warning: Dominican Republic

[SVStoke]

That’s definitely what we should have done. The marina charged us CAD$ 850 for the two week stay - it’s called Cap Cana Marina. Would strongly advise against staying there - they were no help at all

[masterov]

Thanks for the warning. We will not be going into that marina thanks to you.

[sailorboy1]

Anyone who is going to the DR should know that this really had nothing to do with the marina. The DR Armada closes ports based on forecasts and this is long established and nothing new.

Apparently unlike most places, they try to protect boaters from their own .....

[Kerryf]

I've been into Ocean World marina, DR a few times.
In order to leave, I had to get all the immigration officers on board first and give them $10USD each. It felt like the total shakedown that it was.
Maybe you are not embracing this concept?

[DeValency]

I wouldn’t recommend anyone to play games with the DR authorities on that, it may not end that well. We passed through Marina Bahia, DR last year on our way north, staying there for over a week. Excellent welcome by the authorities and especially the fantastic marina management.

Considering the fishing boats didn’t head out during the OP time in the marina, we can probably assume the weather warning was correct. Note that if a vessel get into trouble crossing the Mona Passage, the DR Navy will be required to provide assistance, so they probably know something about the marine conditions most sailors don’t.

Bottom line: Play no games with the hosting country authorities nor with the weather.

[garychurch]

Do not blame Cap Cana Marina for your ignorance about DR requirements.

Cap Cana is a wonderful Marina where I spent 7 weeks in Covid lockdown. Certainly was not a hardship. We found friendships with a number of residence that made are stay easy and comfortable.

If you would have looked into noonsite.com or bothered to investigate any number or resources you would have known about DR rules, policies and procedures. Including the Navy controls much of the movement by sea.

One reason is if you get into trouble they are the ones responsible for your safety in their waters. The north and east coast of the DR is renown for its bad weather during winter months. Mono passage between the DR and PR can be dangerous to boaters.

The one thing you didn’t mention was what we’re the prevailing weather conditions in the Mona Passage during your stay in Cap Cana.

Also, did you talk with the Navy and give them the confidence in you boat, equipment, knowledge and skill to make a safe passage in the given weather conditions?

[Sailing August]

The DR is corrupt. The marina owner is probably giving the navy a cash kick-back to keep foreign flag vessels in the marina and paying in hard currency. The day they tell you that you cant leave is the day you need to go. Record keeping in the DR is marginal at best. I spent several years building power plants in the DR in the 90's and visit often. I've witnessed every possible form of passive robbery / extorsion that you can imagine. They are masters at separating foreigners from their money.

[P3sailor]

Keep in mind, the Mona Passage crossing can get a bit dicey!

[pendragon]

Go for a day sail and just carry on to your destination

[ErnestV]

Originally Posted by SVStoke

Happy to report that we got our OK to leave today after our two week wait - the weather didn’t seem much different that before so it seems all a bit unpredictable. Having said that most of the local smaller fishing boats were staying put in the harbour during this time as well.

We have absolutely no plans on returning there and made sure to mention this to all the other cruising boats that arrived there about the issues. I hope this helps others be aware.

FYI we called Puerto Rico customs and they said there could be issues if we arrive without despacho papers from DR.

Thank you everyone for your comments!

It would be fine if you could add this as a comment to Noonsite as well.

[Denis with an e]

Good day.

I’m the SSCA and OCC sailing association host for the DR and yes Ports Can be closed by the Armada/navy due to bad weather as from their side, there is no coast guard in DR so it is for safety
Of all boaters and to lessen the chance of uninsured boats turning Up on beaches which sadly happens in many instances.

This closure of ports is mentioned on Noonsite and is discussed on our DR cruisers FB group too but sadly you did not see it and and were not made aware of it.

I Will put a msg out to the main Marina’s around the DR to advise their clients upon arrival so that you can keep an eye on the weather and hopefully they also see it coming and advise You prior to closure.