Saona Island Excursion by Catamaran and Speedboat

Experience Overview: Saona Island by Catamaran and Speedboat

Imagine a full day of sailing through shimmering waters, stopping at a natural ocean pool to look for starfish, and lounging on pristine sandy beaches. For around $95 per person, this Saona Island excursion from Punta Cana offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Caribbean scenery. The trip lasts roughly 10 hours, with hotel pickup included, making it a hassle-free way to escape the resort and see some unspoiled island beauty.

What really draws us to this experience are two standout features: first, the opportunity to relax in a natural ocean pool, where you can paddle and look for starfish — a quintessential Caribbean moment. Second, the traditional Dominican-style barbecue lunch served buffet-style, which adds a delicious local flavor to the day. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the organization a bit uneven, especially regarding pickup times and onboard service.

If you’re someone who values ease and authentic tropical scenery, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a full day of sun, sand, and fun, with the flexibility to choose how much they relax or participate — whether that’s swimming, dancing, or simply soaking up the views.

Key Points

• Flexible transportation options: Choose between catamaran or speedboat, both providing scenic rides across turquoise waters.
• Unforgettable stops: Natural ocean pool for starfish hunting and the stunning beaches of Saona Island.
• Tasty local cuisine: Buffet barbecue lunch with vegetarian options, plus drinks from an open bar.
• Stress-free logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, minimizing planning hassles.
• Authentic Caribbean experience: Relaxing, scenic, and lively with optional activities like dance lessons or volleyball.
• Mixed reviews: While many praise the scenery and guides, some mention organizational hiccups and long waiting times.

The Journey to Saona Island: What to Expect

On paper, this tour packs a lot into a 10-hour window. For most travelers, it’s a full day of Caribbean adventure, starting early with hotel pickup around 7:30 am. The meeting point is at Isabella Steak & Bistro in Punta Cana’s BlueMall — a straightforward start for those staying nearby. Once aboard, you’ll be whisked away by air-conditioned vehicles to Bayahibe, a charming fishing town that serves as the launchpad for your aquatic journey.

The first highlight on the water is the stop at the natural swimming pool—or sandbar—where waist-deep water allows you to paddle and seek out starfish. This is a big hit, as many reviews highlight, with guests describing it as “absolutely beautiful and relaxing.” It’s a unique chance to wade among starfish in their natural habitat, although some mention that starfish sightings are not guaranteed — a fact worth bearing in mind.

After the swim, you’ll hop onto either a catamaran or speedboat heading towards Saona Island. The guides, often praised for their friendliness and humor, accompany you for the entire day, helping you get the most out of every moment. During the trip, you might enjoy lively onboard music, dance lessons, or volleyball—depending on the day’s vibe.

Once on Saona Island, the options for spending your time are flexible. Many visitors choose to relax on loungers, take quick swims in the warm, clear water, or stroll along the beach. The island’s white sandy coastline and coconut trees make for picture-perfect scenes that truly seem to belong in a postcard. Some guests mentioned that the beach can get somewhat crowded, but a short walk in either direction can offer a quieter, more genuine experience.

The Lunch and Drinks

A highlight of this tour is the buffet-style barbecue lunch, which typically includes grilled meats and a vegetarian option. Many guests enjoy the flavorful, hearty dishes, describing them as “tasty” and a good way to refuel after a busy morning. An open bar featuring local rum, beer, soft drinks, and water is available throughout the day, keeping everyone refreshed. However, some reviews point out that the quality of drinks varies, and the service can be inconsistent, especially on the return trip.

Return and Reflection

As the day winds down, you’ll board your vessel back to the mainland. The return trip can sometimes be crowded or a bit lengthy (up to 2.5 hours on a catamaran), with some reviews mentioning that the boat can feel full or that the journey back is “uncomfortable.” Still, most find the overall experience worthwhile, especially when considering the stunning scenery and memorable moments.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Bayahibe and the Natural Pool: Starting with a drive from Punta Cana, you’ll arrive at Bayahibe, a lovely seaside town. The first stop is the ocean sandbar, where waist-deep water surrounds you, starfish are abundant—or at least many hope so—and the sense of stepping into a true Caribbean postcard is undeniable.

Saona Island: The main attraction, Saona Island, is a protected natural park. Here, you can relax on the beach, swim, or participate in optional activities like dance lessons or volleyball. The island’s unspoiled beauty is frequently praised, with reviews likening it to a slice of paradise.

Lunch and Leisure: The buffet barbecue is usually served midday, with tasty grilled options that cater to different dietary preferences. Guests commend the food, mentioning it’s “delicious and hearty,” making it a satisfying break from exploring.

Return Journey: After several hours on the island, the return trip by boat is often described as a fun, social experience, although some find it a bit too crowded or long. The overall atmosphere depends on the day’s group and weather conditions.

Authenticity and Value: What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight a spectrum of experiences. Those who praise the guides, like Sara, noting their professionalism and sense of humor, find the day highly enjoyable and consider it “a must when visiting Punta Cana.” Many mention that the scenery is breathtaking, and the beach and ocean swimming are the highlights.

However, some reviewers express frustration over organizational issues, such as late pickups and long waits, which can dampen the mood. For example, Jennifer recounts being over an hour late and having difficulty with transportation, which is a reminder that logistical hiccups can happen, especially during busy seasons.

The quality of service on the boat varies. A quote from one review describes the crew as “not very helpful,” with slow or unresponsive service for drinks. On the flip side, other travelers had guides who made the trip lively and engaging, turning a simple boat ride into a fun social experience.

Value-wise, many find the cost reasonable for such a comprehensive day — including hotel pickup, transport, lunch, drinks, and the scenic stops. Yet, a few mention that to maximize the experience, bringing extra cash for souvenirs or optional photos is wise, as those are available for purchase but not included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion suits travelers looking for a full day of Caribbean scenery, local flavor, and relaxed fun. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy sailing, swimming, and scenic beaches, and don’t mind a bit of a group environment. If you’re after a more exclusive or personalized experience, this might feel a little too busy or touristy.

It’s especially appealing if you want to combine adventure (like starfish hunting) with delicious local food and a lively, social atmosphere. The onboard guides, often mentioned in positive reviews, add a personable touch that makes the day special. But if you’re sensitive to organizational issues or long waits, consider arriving early or preparing for some unpredictability.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Book in advance, as trips are often fully booked 26 days ahead.
• Bring cash for souvenirs or photos, as these are available for purchase.
• Wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen, hats, and snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid delays, especially during peak season.
• Expect a busy boat on the return trip; bring a strap or towel for added comfort.
• Bring extra snacks or water if you’re a picky eater or worried about limited options.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those craving a day out on the water with gorgeous scenery and an authentic Caribbean beach experience, this tour offers a lot of value. The stops at the natural pool and Saona Island are both scenic and relaxing, and the buffet lunch adds a flavorful touch. The guides, when good, elevate the experience with their humor and friendliness.

That said, it’s not perfect. Some travelers have experienced organizational hiccups or crowds that detract from the day. It’s best suited for active, sociable travelers who don’t mind a busier schedule and appreciate a lively, tourist-friendly vibe. If you prioritize authenticity and tranquility, you might prefer exploring on your own or choosing a smaller, more personalized tour.

Overall, if you’re looking for a memorable Caribbean adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy stunning scenery — and don’t mind a bit of busyness — this tour delivers in spades.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, a buffet barbecue lunch (with vegetarian options), drinks from an open bar (rum, beer, soft drinks, water), and transportation by either a catamaran or speedboat.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, including transportation, stops, and leisure time on the island.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Isabella Steak & Bistro in BlueMall Punta Cana, with pickup scheduled for around 7:30 am.

Can I choose between a catamaran or speedboat?
Yes, you can opt for either a catamaran or a speedboat, both offering scenic rides and a fun way to get to Saona Island.

Is there free time on Saona Island?
Yes, you can relax on the beach, swim, or participate in optional activities like dance lessons or volleyball, depending on the group and guide.

Are there any potential issues I should be aware of?
Some reviews mention organizational hiccups like late pickups and crowded boats on the return trip. It’s wise to arrive early, stay flexible, and bring extra cash for souvenirs or optional photos.

This full-day excursion to Saona Island offers a lively, scenic, and tasty Caribbean experience. Whether you’re after idyllic beaches, a fun boat ride, or a taste of local food, it’s a memorable way to spend a day from Punta Cana. Just keep expectations realistic, and you’ll come away with plenty of beautiful photos and stories to tell.