La Romana stands out as a prime spot for boat tours and cruises in the Caribbean. Its close proximity to Saona Island, Catalina Island, and other stunning destinations makes it a natural hub for maritime adventures. Whether you want an all-day luxury experience on a catamaran, a quick escape on a speedboat, or a private yacht tailored to your desires, La Romana offers something for every traveler. We particularly like tours that combine snorkeling, beach relaxation, and cultural visits, like the Saona Island small group and relax – luxury catamaran, which blends all these elements with top-notch reviews.
If you’re seeking authentic Caribbean sights and smooth sailing without the crowds, these tours will surely enhance your time in La Romana. With options ranging from family-friendly excursions to luxury private charters, you’ll find a cruise suited to your style — and budget.
Quick Overview
Our list features diverse boat experiences in La Romana, including luxury catamaran cruises, snorkeling adventures, VIP small-group tours, and private yacht charters. Many tours include snorkeling gear, lunch, open bars, and hotel transfers for convenience. For those interested in exploring Saona Island’s natural pools, remote beaches, or simply relaxing on Catalina’s beaches, you’ll find options tailored to your interests. Now, let’s set sail into each of these top La Romana boat tours.
1. Saona Island small group and relax – luxury catamaran
At number 1, this all-inclusive day trip takes you to Saona Island, the reef at Catuano, and the Las Palmillas natural swimming pool — all in one smooth ride on a luxury catamaran. The tour includes guided live commentary, snorkel equipment, and lunch on board, with open bar to keep the drinks flowing. The small group size means more personalized attention, which many reviews praise as feeling “pampered” and well-organized.
What makes this tour special is how it balances relaxation, snorkeling, and cultural insights. You’ll lounge on the decks, swim with starfish at the natural pool, and explore the island’s beautiful beaches. Guests love the professional crew and delicious food, with rave reviews about the friendly staff and well-planned itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a luxurious, relaxed day with plenty of swimming and scenic views — all rated a perfect 5/5.
2. Catalina Island – Snorkeling tour on a luxury catamaran
The second spot on our list features a full-day snorkeling adventure to Catalina Island on a modern catamaran. This tour includes stops at the famous “the Wall” and “the Aquarium,” where you’ll see an abundance of tropical fish and vibrant corals. The trip includes lunch, snacks, and an open bar, with hotel pickup and drop-off making logistics easier.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on diverse snorkeling sites, allowing you to view Coral reefs and marine life in two popular spots. The friendly crew and the near-private experience (max 10 passengers) make it feel exclusive. Several reviewers mention their excellent food and professional guides as highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts wanting a hassle-free, full-day trip with the chance to see marine life in some of the area’s best reefs.
3. La Romana: Saona Crusoe VIP for cruise guests
Designed exclusively for cruise passengers, this small-group tour offers a more intimate experience on Saona Island, with visits to remote locations like Mano Juan and the natural pools. The tour includes a lunch buffet on Catuano Beach, time to relax in hammocks, and educational stops about mangrove ecosystems and sea turtles.
Guests rave about the personalized service and hidden spots away from travelers. The guided tours and wildlife viewing provide a richer experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore less crowded parts of Saona and learn about local conservation efforts.
Bottom Line: Best suited for cruise guests and those seeking a more exclusive, nature-focused day with small group intimacy.
4. La Romana: Saona Island for Norwegian Sky Cruise Passengers
This 5-hour tour, tailored for Norwegian Sky cruise guests, offers a laid-back day on Saona Island. It includes snorkeling at Catuano, relaxing on Playa Dichosa, and exploring natural pools with giant starfish. The small group setting creates a friendly, personal atmosphere, with lunch on the beach and free time to soak up the sun.
The tour shines for its easy logistics and relaxed pace. Several reviews highlight how casual and enjoyable it is, perfect if you’re short on time but want a memorable island experience.
Bottom Line: Great for cruise travelers seeking a quick, relaxed island escape with authentic touches.
5. La Romana: Catalina Island for Mein Schiff Cruise Passengers
This 8-hour trip to Catalina is ideal for cruise passengers wanting to snorkel at “The Wall” and “The Aquarium,” relax on paradise beaches, and enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch. The small group experience includes a boat ride along the coast of Casa del Campo, with lots of scenic views and marine life encounters.
Reviewers call it an “unforgettable snorkeling experience” with friendly staff and excellent food. The focus on personalized service and beautiful scenery makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise visitors who want an extended, full-day Caribbean adventure with plenty of snorkeling and cultural flavor.
6. Punta Cana: Saona Island Private Yacht Tour with Snorkeling
For those seeking ultimate privacy, this private yacht tour allows up to 15 guests to explore Saona or Catalina at your own pace. You’ll sail on a luxury yacht, with snorkeling gear included, and can customize stops—whether you want to snorkel, relax, or party onboard.
Guests rave about the luxury amenities and personalized experience, which makes it perfect for romantic getaways or special celebrations. The tour offers flexibility in planning your day, and reviews mention the exceptional service.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a tailor-made, private cruise with luxury touches and complete control over your itinerary.
7. Sail tour to Catalina Island from La Romana
This 5-hour sailing adventure is unique because it’s the only sailing yacht that visits Catalina Island. It’s a small, private experience with up to 6 guests, perfect for intimate groups. You’ll anchor in front of a white beach, snorkel, and enjoy a Caribbean meal with wine prepared onboard.
Guests value the personalized service and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a more relaxed alternative to larger cruises, with a focus on quality over quantity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups looking for a luxury, intimate sailing experience.
8. Catalina Island Comfort: Snorkeling & Catamaran Experience
This 7.5-hour tour combines luxury catamaran sailing with snorkeling, lunch, and free time on Catalina’s best beaches. With pick-up from Los Melones, it’s a great choice for travelers wanting full-day comfort.
The snorkeling at Catalina lasts 45 minutes, and guests can enjoy buffet lunch and open bar. Reviewers mention the comfortable boat, delicious food, and scenic river views.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a luxurious, relaxing day with ample snorkeling and beach time.
9. Punta Cana Speed Boat to Saona Island with Lunch & Natural Pools
This 8-hour adventure takes you by speedboat through the Catuano Channel to Saona Island. It includes lunch, visits to natural pools with giant starfish, and free time to swim and sunbathe. The round-trip hotel pickup makes it convenient, with drinks and buffet included.
The speedboat adds an adrenaline rush, and reviews mention great organization and beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for those craving a quick, energetic island trip.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure lovers who want speedy access to Saona’s natural beauty.
10. Marinarium Snorkeling Cruise from Bayahibe
This 3.5-hour cruise focuses on marine life with snorkeling near stingrays and nurse-sharks. It includes a visit to an animal exhibit with alligators and turtles, plus a coastal cruise to a lagoon with floating bar.
Reviews praise the friendly crew and the chance to snorkel with marine animals. It’s a shorter trip, excellent for families or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a half-day excursion with a marine-life focus.
11. Party Boat Saona and Natural Pool from Bayahibe
Combining fun and relaxation, this 6-hour party boat takes you to Saona and the natural pool. It includes buffet lunch, free drinks, and music onboard. The natural pool stop with pools at Playa Palmilla is a highlight, with swimming and sunbathing.
The reviews highlight the celebratory atmosphere, making it ideal for travelers wanting a lively, social experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a party vibe with beach fun and good music.
$190.00 per person
12. Bayahibe: Catalina Island Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
This 8-hour cruise features snorkeling at “The Wall” and “The Aquarium”, plus a buffet lunch and live music on the beach. The round-trip transfers and multilingual guides make it easy and enjoyable.
Guests love the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery, making it a good all-day escape with ample snorkeling and beach time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a cultural and scenic day with music and good food.
13. Catalina Island: Cruise, Snorkelling, Open Buffet & Drinks
This 8-hour tour offers snorkeling in vibrant reefs, scenic beaches, and a buffet lunch. It balances marine exploration with relaxation on white sand beaches.
Perfect for marine-life lovers and beach enthusiasts, it provides a comprehensive experience with transportation included.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting diverse marine experiences combined with relaxing beach time.
14. Dive Boat Tour on Catalina Bayahibe Island
This scuba-focused tour lets you explore the underwater world of Catalina with diving and snorkeling. It includes a buffet lunch on the island and learning opportunities like dance lessons in merengue and bachata.
Ideal for certified divers or those interested in learning to dive, this tour provides a more adventurous experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect if underwater exploration ranks high on your list and you enjoy learning new skills.
15. Private: Catalina Island Snorkeling & BBQ Boat Tour
This 9-hour private tour combines snorkeling at The Wall, a Dominican BBQ, and relaxing on a quiet beach. You’ll sip wine, savor grilled lobster, and enjoy VIP treatment with oceanfront drinks.
It’s ideal for special occasions and romantic trips. Reviewers mention the delicious food and serene setting as highlights.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a luxurious, private experience with fine food and exclusive access.
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour in La Romana
When selecting among these options, think about what matters most. Do you want a luxury experience? Check out the luxury catamaran or private yacht tours. Interested in snorkeling? Tours at Catalina and Saona are your best bets. Want a shorter trip? The Marinarium or cruise from Bayahibe might suit your schedule better.
Consider your budget — from affordable half-day trips to luxury private charters. Also, check logistics like hotel transfers and group size. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular cruise-specific tours.
The Sum Up
La Romana offers a wide array of boat tours and cruises that cater to every type of traveler — whether you prefer a luxury catamaran, a private yacht, or an adventure-packed speedboat. For a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, the Saona Island small group and relax – luxury catamaran is highly rated and ideal for those who want a premium experience. Cruise enthusiasts might appreciate the full-day snorkeling at Catalina or Saona, while those seeking exclusivity will find private yacht options perfect.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend on the water. Booking early ensures you secure your spot and can prepare for a memorable Caribbean adventure that will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip to La Romana.