Santo Domingo offers far more than just its historic Zona Colonial. Thanks to its prime location on the Caribbean coast, it’s a perfect base for sailing adventures that showcase the stunning waters and nearby islands. Our favorite options include the private catamaran cruise to Bahia de las Aguilas, which feels like stepping into a private boat show, and the lively Saona Island trips, where the promise of turquoise waters and white-sand beaches is hard to beat. Whether you’re after a relaxing day at sea or a full-on island-hopping spree, Santo Domingo doesn’t disappoint. For a taste of true exclusivity, the Private Catamaran Cruise to Bahia de las Aguilas offers a tailored experience that’s perfect for groups seeking privacy and luxury.
If your idea of sailing involves more socializing and lively boat parties, the From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Catamaran and Speedboat blends speed and style with a focus on comfort and fun. Meanwhile, the full-day tours that combine speedboats, catamarans, and natural pools are fantastic for travelers who want variety in one day.
Quick Overview
Our list features private and group sailing experiences, with options ranging from luxury private charters to organized day trips. The trips include both relaxing beach time, snorkeling, and island visits, often with open bars and buffet lunches. For detailed descriptions, check out the Private Catamaran Cruise to Bahia de las Aguilas, the Saona Island trips, and the various full-day tours with catamaran and speedboat options listed below.
1. Private Catamaran Cruise to Bahia de las Aguilas
This exclusive private cruise combines comfort with stunning scenery. For about $1,500 per group (up to 20 people), you’ll enjoy a 3-hour all-inclusive experience aboard a luxurious catamaran. The price covers transfer, open bar, snacks, snorkeling gear, and more, making it a hassle-free day on the water. The catamaran’s capacity of 65 travelers means you can choose to keep it intimate or invite friends for a larger gathering.
The highlight here is the private nature of the cruise—you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers. It’s perfect for families, couples celebrating special occasions, or groups wanting a customized experience. The reviews are glowing, with one describing it as a “pretty cool experience,” especially noting how friendly guides kept the drinks flowing and snacks coming.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized service and exclusivity, giving you ultimate flexibility in how you spend your time. The only caveat is the price—it’s best suited for those willing to splurge for privacy and tailored comfort.
Bottom line: If you want a private, all-inclusive sailing experience with flexibility, this cruise is hard to beat.
2. From Santo Domingo Saona Island Food And Drink Catamaran Vip
For a longer, more immersive day, this 10-hour VIP trip to Saona Island is a popular choice. It begins early with pickup in the Colonial Zone, then heads to Bayahibe, where you’ll hop onto a fast boat to the island. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Laguna Azul, a natural swimming pool with shallow water and starfish—an unforgettable photo op.
What makes this tour special is the combination of scenic sailing, swimming, and island relaxation, with a focus on luxury and comfort. The itinerary highlights the buffet lunch, snacks, and beverages included, plus free time to explore and soak up the sun. The reviews mention how well-organized and enjoyable the trip was, with one saying, “the island is absolutely beautiful,” and the provided lunch being “delicious.”
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full day of Caribbean fun, especially those who appreciate good food, drinks, and scenic cruising. Because it’s so comprehensive, it offers great value for those seeking an all-in-one experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a luxurious, full-day adventure with plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying delicious food.
3. From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Catamaran and Speedboat
This 8-hour trip combines the thrill of a speedboat ride with the leisurely pace of a catamaran. Starting from Santo Domingo, you’ll hop on a speedboat to Saona Island, with the return journey on a spacious catamaran, making it a well-balanced day.
Unique to this tour is the speedboat thrill, perfect for adventure lovers, and the relaxed cruise back with open bar and music. The focus is on the Natural Swimming Pool, where you can swim among starfish in waist-deep water—an experience many travelers rave about.
The tour covers relaxing on beaches, snorkeling, and enjoying a buffet lunch. The reviews mention how fun and lively the trip was, with the added benefit of small group sizes enhancing the experience. While some might find it slightly rushed, the diversity of activities makes this a standout choice for those seeking adventure and relaxation in one package.
Bottom line: Great for adventure seekers who want to combine speedboat excitement with relaxing catamaran cruising.
4. Saona Island From Santo Domingo With Catamaran, Food & Drink
This 8-hour tour offers a classic Caribbean experience, traveling from Santo Domingo to Saona Island aboard a speedboat or catamaran. The itinerary includes stops at the Blue Lagoon and a buffet lunch on the beach, making it ideal for travelers who want a full day of fun.
The open bar and food service onboard are big draws, providing a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy drinks and snacks while cruising. The reviews note that the tour is well-organized, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing on the pristine beaches.
This trip is best suited for families or groups looking for a comprehensive day trip with multiple activities. It offers decent value, considering the inclusion of meals, drinks, and natural pools.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a full Caribbean day, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and good food.
5. Santo Domingo: Saona Island Tour by Catamaran or Speedboat
At just 1 review, this 9-hour trip from Santo Domingo offers the choice of a catamaran or speedboat ride to Saona Island, with a focus on natural swimming pools and beach time. The main appeal here is flexibility—it’s designed for travelers who want to choose their preferred vessel and avoid overly structured tours.
Highlights include swimming in the Natural Pool, delicious lunch, and chilled drinks. The review indicates it is a value-driven option for those who prefer to customize their experience, although limited reviews mean you should confirm details before booking.
This tour is suitable for independent-minded travelers who want flexibility and a less crowded experience. It’s a good pick if you’re comfortable with less guidance but still want the essentials of a Caribbean island day.
Bottom line: Best for adventurous travelers seeking a tailored day at Saona without extra frills.
6. From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Catamaran & Speedboat Tour
This 8-hour tour offers a full immersion into Saona Island’s beauty. Traveling by speedboat to the island and returning on a catamaran, this option combines adventure and relaxation. Highlights include a natural pool stop and a buffet lunch.
The open bar on the catamaran enhances the festive mood, and the scenic journey gives you a chance to see the coast from different perspectives. The mix of transportation modes adds variety, making it appealing to travelers who want diverse experiences in one trip.
Ideal for families or groups wanting a comprehensive day, this trip balances exciting travel with leisurely beach time.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting multiple modes of transport and a full day of Caribbean fun.
7. Santo Domingo: Isla Saona Day Trip with Lunch & Catamaran
This 9.5-hour trip is a classic full-day excursion. It features a speedboat ride, Natural Pool swimming, and a buffet lunch on Saona’s beaches. The live music on the return cruise adds to the festive atmosphere.
A major draw is the combination of water activities and beach relaxation, making it ideal for families or couples wanting a well-rounded day. The cruise back with live music and open bar creates a lively end to a day of sun and sand.
It’s a good option for those who appreciate cultural ambiance and Caribbean scenery.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a lively, all-inclusive day with multiple activities.
8. Santo Domingo: Saona Island Day Trip with Catamaran Ride
This 8-hour trip is straightforward but effective. The highlight is the cruise to Saona and natural pool stop, with buffet lunch included. It offers relaxing beach time and swimming in clear waters.
The spacious catamaran makes for an easy, comfortable ride, and the open bar helps pass the time on the return journey. Reviews emphasize the smooth organization and beautiful scenery.
Best suited for those wanting a no-fuss, reliable day trip with plenty of water-based fun.
Bottom line: Perfect for relaxing, straightforward trips with good value.
9. Saona Island: Full-Day Tour with Speedboat and Catamaran
This full-day experience combines the excitement of a speedboat ride to Saona with a leisurely catamaran cruise back. The trip features stops at natural pools, buffet lunch, and crystal-clear waters.
For travelers who want variety, the multi-mode transit adds a layer of adventure, and the lunch and drinks make it a comfortable day. The tour’s detailed itinerary appeals to those who value structured yet flexible activities.
Ideal for families and groups looking for a comprehensive, active day in the Caribbean.
Bottom line: Excellent for adventure and relaxation combined, with great scenery and inclusions.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, preferred pace, and your interests. If privacy and exclusivity are your goals, go for the Private Catamaran Cruise. For full-day island adventures, the Saona Island VIP trip offers luxury, while the full-day combined tours (Catamaran and Speedboat) suit travelers looking for variety and excitement.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, look for tours with fewer transportation modes and focus on relaxing on the beach and swimming. Always check what’s included—food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and natural pools—to ensure your trip matches your expectations.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons (December to April), when these popular tours fill up quickly.
Santo Domingo offers a wide spectrum of sailing adventures, whether you want a luxury private charter, a family-friendly day trip, or a thrilling speedboat ride. With options suited for different budgets and interests, you can find the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful waters of the Caribbean. Careful planning will ensure you make the most of your time on the water, so don’t wait—book early and set sail!