Punta Cana: Catamaran Cruise with Snorkeling & Open Bar

Imagine cruising along the coast of Punta Cana on a beautifully appointed double-deck catamaran, with an open bar and plenty of space to relax, dance, or soak up the sun. This tour, offered by Tickets Whales, is a 3.5-hour adventure that combines marine life exploration, refreshing drinks, and stunning scenery. You’ll visit a vibrant reef where you can snorkel with nurse sharks and stingrays, then unwind in a natural swimming pool surrounded by lush palm trees, topped off with a floating bar serving your favorite cocktails.

What we love about this experience are the unique opportunities to engage with marine life in a safe and controlled environment — especially snorkeling with nurse sharks and stingrays, which can be both exhilarating and memorable. Plus, the floating bar in the natural pool offers a laid-back way to enjoy a drink while bobbing waist-deep in clear waters. On the downside, this tour involves snorkeling in open water, so it’s best suited for confident swimmers and those comfortable in the water.

This adventure is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of excitement and relaxation. If you enjoy being on the water, savoring tropical drinks, and experiencing marine life up close, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who want an active yet fun-filled day with friends or family, and who appreciate authentic coastal scenery.

Key Points

• Marine Encounters: Snorkel with nurse sharks and stingrays in a vibrant reef.
• Relaxation in Nature: Enjoy a natural swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and a floating bar.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Sip on a variety of cocktails, including the famous Coco Loco, from the open bar.
• Scenic Views: Cruise along Punta Cana’s coast and observe marine life through the boat’s glass bottom.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for those comfortable in water; not recommended for non-swimmers or seasick-prone travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Punta Cana’s Beautiful Coast

Your adventure kicks off with a welcome drink before boarding a spacious double-deck catamaran. The crew, friendly and eager to make sure everyone feels at ease, helps set the tone for a fun and relaxed day. The vessel itself offers plenty of space — on the main deck, you can chat, sip drinks, or snap photos. The upper deck is perfect for sunbathing, offering panoramic views of the coastline and open ocean.

The Marine Park & Glass Bottom Observation

As you set sail, you’ll head toward a well-known marine park where marine life is abundant. The boat features a glass bottom, allowing those who prefer to stay dry to get a peek at underwater activity. We loved this feature because it provides a different perspective without getting into the water, perfect for those who might be hesitant about snorkeling but still want a glimpse of the vibrant sea life.

Snorkeling with Nurse Sharks & Stingrays

One of the tour’s major highlights is snorkeling in the reef with nurse sharks and stingrays. According to reviews, this part of the trip is both thrilling and safe — the guides make sure everyone understands the rules and stays comfortable. We appreciated how close you can get to these gentle marine creatures, making for unforgettable photos and stories.

A common sentiment from travelers is that seeing these animals up close is a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. Guides emphasize that touching marine life is not allowed, which keeps the environment safe and respectful. You should feel comfortable in water and be able to swim, but the crew is attentive and helpful — a relief for many first-timers.

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Relaxing in the Natural Pool & Floating Bar

After snorkeling, you’ll arrive at a natural swimming pool, a secluded spot surrounded by palm trees and clear, waist-deep waters. Here, you can float and relax while sipping a Coco Loco or your preferred cocktail from the floating bar. Several reviews mention how chilled and idyllic this part of the trip is — a perfect spot to lounge and take in the scenery.

Many travelers also enjoyed the chance to take photos in this lush setting, with the natural pool providing a contrast to the lively reef snorkeling. The calm waters and shade of the trees give it a peaceful vibe, ideal for unwinding after some active snorkeling.

The Return Cruise & Entertainment

On the way back, the crew keeps the energy lively with music and dancing. The most popular tunes and lively crew antics create a fun atmosphere, making the return leg feel more like a party than a cruise. For those who prefer quiet relaxation, the top deck offers a perfect spot to sunbathe and enjoy stunning coastal views.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed. Included are tasty sandwiches and a variety of drinks, which help keep everyone energized. The group size tends to be small and private, ensuring personalized attention from guides.

Keep in mind that snorkeling involves being in open water, so if seasickness or water discomfort is a concern, this might not be the ideal tour for you. Also, bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen, as you’ll want to stay comfortable and protected from the sun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for water lovers who want an active day of marine encounters combined with sun and fun. It appeals to those comfortable in the water and eager to see marine animals up close, especially nurse sharks and stingrays. Families with older children, couples, and groups of friends will find this tour offers a balance of adventure and relaxation.

If you’re seeking a laid-back day with an emphasis on scenic cruising and socializing over drinks, you’ll enjoy the lively atmosphere on the boat. However, non-swimmers or travelers prone to seasickness should consider that snorkeling is a significant part of the experience.

The Sum Up

This Punta Cana catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded mix of fun, scenery, and marine life that appeals to a variety of travelers. The opportunity to snorkel with nurse sharks and stingrays in a safe environment is a standout feature, especially for those looking for an up-close encounter with marine animals. The natural swimming pool and floating bar provide a peaceful, picturesque escape from the busy coast, while the lively music and dancing make for an enjoyable return trip.

The value lies in the combination of scenic cruising, engaging marine encounters, and the inclusive drinks and snacks, all wrapped into a manageable 3.5-hour experience. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a day full of adventure and leisure without overextending.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who like being on the water, families with older children, or groups seeking a lively yet authentic coastal experience. If you’re after a memorable day that combines marine wildlife spotting, tropical drinks, and stunning views, this cruise will quite likely fit the bill.

FAQ

Is snorkeling with nurse sharks and stingrays safe?
Yes, the guides emphasize safety and proper behavior. Marine life is generally gentle, and touching is not allowed, ensuring both protection for the animals and safety for you.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in water and able to swim, as snorkeling is part of the experience. Non-swimmers may find it challenging to participate fully.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. You might find it helpful to wear a hat or rash guard for sun protection.

Can I relax and enjoy the scenery without snorkeling?
Absolutely. The boat offers plenty of space to sunbathe or relax on the deck while enjoying the views and listening to music.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children who are comfortable in water and can swim. The active snorkeling and natural environment might be too much for very young or non-swimming children.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This tour combines the best of Punta Cana’s coastal charm with a chance to see some fascinating marine life, all while enjoying tropical drinks and good company. Whether you’re snorkeling close to nurse sharks or simply lounging in a lagoon surrounded by palms, it’s a day that offers both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby