Saona Island Full-Day Tour from Boca Chica with Pickup

Experience the beauty of Saona Island! For around $160 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring one of the Dominican Republic’s most stunning spots. The day starts early with a pickup from Boca Chica and includes a speedboat ride to the island, followed by a more relaxed return aboard a spacious catamaran with music and an open bar. Along the way, you’ll stop at a natural pool and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on the island.

What we love about this tour are two key points. First, the scenic speedboat ride offers a quick, exhilarating way to arrive — it’s a thrilling start that sets the tone. Second, the natural pool stop gives you a chance to swim in calm, knee-deep waters surrounded by coral formations, which makes for some memorable photos and a refreshing break from the beach.

A potential downside is that the tour begins quite early at 6:30 am, which might be tough for those who prefer sleeping in or are traveling with small children. Also, the group size is limited to a maximum of 60 travelers, which is generally good, but during peak seasons, it could feel crowded. This tour is well-suited for travelers looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic natural beauty — especially if you enjoy being on the water and exploring scenic spots.

• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes lunch, drinks, and a professional guide, offering good value for the price.
• Variety of Stops: From the pristine beaches of Saona to the natural pools, diversifying the day’s activities.
• Transport & Comfort: Journey by speedboat and catamaran, providing different perspectives of the coastline and the sea.
• Early Start: The 6:30 am start might be a challenge, but it allows plenty of time to enjoy the day.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of 60 travelers helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.
• Weather Dependent: The tour is subject to weather conditions; if canceled, you’ll get a full refund or alternative date.

If you’re looking to see a slice of paradise in the Dominican Republic, the Saona Island Full-Day Tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. For $160, you get a full day of exploration that includes convenient pickup from Boca Chica, making it a smooth experience from start to finish. The tour is operated by Shelting Tours, and it’s designed to give you an authentic taste of what makes Saona Island so special.

The experience kicks off early, with a start time of 6:30 am. While that might seem early, it means you’ll beat some of the crowds and have plenty of time for each activity. The round-trip transportation is included, so you don’t have to worry about arranging your own rides. Once on the boat, you’ll hop aboard a speedboat for a quick, exciting ride across the water to the island. This part of the journey is often highlighted as one of the most thrilling aspects.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

First stop: Isla Saona. We loved the way this spot feels almost untouched — with crystal-clear waters and wild vegetation lining the beaches. It’s a perfect backdrop for relaxing walks, sunbathing, or just soaking in the views. The tour allocates about two hours here, giving you enough time to chill, explore, or take a quick swim. According to reviews, travelers find the scenery stunning: “The beaches with crystal clear waters and wild vegetation await you so you can enjoy a very special day.”

Next: Piscina Natural Saona. This shallow natural pool, about 200–300 meters from the main beach, is a highlight. It’s a geological marvel — a calm, knee-to-waist-deep lagoon surrounded by coral reefs and white sand. Expect about an hour here, enough to paddle around, snap photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful environment. One traveler noted, “Bathers have to enjoy about 800 meters parallel to the beach, between the white sand and the enormous coral terrace that separates the natural pool from the open sea — a perfect landscape.”

Following the natural pool, you’ll have a buffet lunch on Saona Island. The meal is described as delicious, with plenty of options to satisfy different tastes. The abundant food and drinks — including soda and pop — make this a relaxing break in the middle of your busy day.

On the return trip, instead of the speedboat, you’ll enjoy a more leisurely catamaran ride back to Boca Chica or the pickup point. This stretch includes music and an open bar, which many travelers find enhances the experience and allows for socializing and unwinding as you reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details

The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide who can answer questions and help you navigate the day, and soda/pop to keep you refreshed. Tips are not included, so if you’re pleased with the service, small gratuities are customary.

It’s worth noting that the max group size is 60 travelers, which usually helps keep things manageable and friendly, even during busy periods. The confirmation comes immediately at booking, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, provided you’re comfortable with the early start and some walking or light activity.

What Travelers Say

While this tour doesn’t currently have reviews, the provided quotes reveal what future travelers might expect: “Stunning views,” “a very special day,” and “enjoying a perfect landscape.” These insights suggest that the natural scenery truly impresses visitors, making the experience worthwhile for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic water rides, beach relaxation, and authentic natural environments, this tour suits you well. It’s also ideal if you want a full-day experience that covers multiple scenic spots without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. But keep in mind the early start and the need for good weather — a rain check might be needed if storms roll in.

This full-day Saona Island tour balances adventure with leisure, offering a well-rounded taste of what makes the Dominican Republic’s coast so captivating. The mix of speedboat thrills, the calm natural pools, and the beautiful beaches makes it a compelling choice for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a more natural environment. The all-inclusive aspect simplifies the day, ensuring you can focus on enjoying rather than worrying about logistics.

For travelers seeking a value-packed day with diverse activities and awe-inspiring scenery, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable if you’re eager to explore the iconic Saona Island, love being on the water, or want a memorable day in a stunning natural setting.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are sensitive to early mornings, you might want to consider options that start later. Also, weather can affect plans, so checking the forecast is always wise. But overall, this experience offers a real taste of the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged.

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Boca Chica is included in the tour.
What is the tour start time? The tour begins at 6:30 am, so be prepared for an early start.
How long do we stay at each stop? You’ll spend about two hours at Isla Saona and one hour at the natural pool.
Are drinks included? Yes, soda and pop are included, and there’s an open bar on the catamaran during the return trip.
What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel — the usual beach essentials.
Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider young children’s comfort with early hours and boat rides.
What happens if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How much does the tour cost? The price is $160 per person, which includes most activities, lunch, and transport.

This Saona Island tour offers a practical and beautiful way to experience one of the Caribbean’s most stunning natural sites. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another visit, it’s a day that’s likely to leave you with lasting memories of crystal-clear waters and peaceful beaches.