Aquila trains Xploratur on accessible cruise excursions in Puerto Plata

By AI, Created 5:15 AM UTC, May 21, 2026, /AGP/ – Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence has trained Dominican Republic tour operator Xploratur to support the launch of Xploratur Access, a new accessible excursions division for cruise travelers. The April 30 session in Puerto Plata focused on inclusive service skills that could help raise destination standards and expand cruise-market access.

Why it matters: - Accessible tourism is becoming a competitive issue for cruise destinations in the Dominican Republic. - Xploratur Access is designed to meet cruise lines’ expectations while broadening who can participate in shore excursions. - Aquila’s training aims to strengthen service quality across the full guest journey, not just physical infrastructure.

What happened: - Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence completed specialized training for Dominican Republic tour operator Xploratur. - The session supported the launch of Xploratur Access, a new division focused on accessible excursions for the cruise market. - The training, called “Excellence for All: Diversity and Inclusion in the Visitor Experience,” took place in Puerto Plata on April 30. - Aquila’s team led the hands-on session for tour guides, drivers and office staff.

The details: - The training covered diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in tourism. - Participants also worked on effective communication with diverse visitors. - The session included real-time service adaptation and handling operational situations through an inclusive approach. - Xploratur is applying Aquila’s field-tested strategies to improve the guest experience. - The company is also drawing from Aquila’s Living Lab approach for ongoing service improvements. - Ambra Attus, Aquila’s Director of Impact, Development, and Growth, said the initiative reflects a commitment to raising service standards and advancing a more inclusive tourism landscape. - Katty Valdez, Managing Director of Xploratur, said accessible products help align the company’s value proposition with cruise line expectations. - Valdez also said inclusion depends on how people feel in every interaction and that investing in staff is key.

Between the lines: - The partnership shows Aquila’s people-first model, which treats staff training as essential to destination performance. - The move suggests accessible tourism is shifting from a niche offering to a service standard that cruise operators may expect. - Aquila’s role as FCCA’s exclusive training partner gives the company added influence in cruise destination development.

What’s next: - Xploratur Access is positioned to expand accessible excursion offerings for cruise passengers in Puerto Plata and beyond. - Xploratur is expected to keep refining its service model as it applies the training in day-to-day operations. - Aquila said it will continue using its 35-plus years of cruise operations experience to support destinations and tour providers. - More information is available in the company’s announcement: Cruise Excellence training programs.