From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Catamaran and Speedboat

From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Catamaran and Speedboat
Location: Monte Plata Province, Dominican Republic
Country: Dominican Republic
Rating: 5/5 (based on 1 review)
Supplier: Shelting Tours Operador
Duration: 8 hours

Quick overview:

If you’re looking for a day filled with sun, sea, and relaxation, this full-day tour to Saona Island might be just what you need. Starting from Santo Domingo, you’ll hop on a speedboat that cuts through the Caribbean waters, reaching the island in style and excitement. Then, you’ll switch to a spacious catamaran for the return journey—complete with music and an open bar—making the entire trip feel lively and laid-back.

Two things we particularly love are the stunning views of the coastline from the boat and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters that are perfect for floating and cooling off. Plus, the included buffet lunch offers a generous taste of local flavors, making this a great value for a full-day escape.

One consideration is that this tour involves speedboat riding, which might be a concern for travelers prone to seasickness or those with back problems. The ride can be a little bumpy, but many find the thrill well worth it for the scenery and fun.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy marine sights, lively boat rides, and want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation—perfect for those wanting to maximize their time in the Dominican Republic without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

This experience made our article of 12 Must-Try Boat Tours & Cruises In Santo Domingo.

Key Points

• Fast and scenic transfer: Speedboat to Saona Island offers quick access with breath-taking views.
• Relaxing cruise back: Catamaran ride with music and open bar provides a laid-back return journey.
• All-inclusive experience: Buffet lunch and drinks included make for a stress-free day.
• Natural highlights: Stop at the natural pool for knee-to-waist water, surrounded by stunning scenery.
• Ideal for active travelers: Focus on water activities and boat rides rather than sightseeing ashore.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most, but those sensitive to seasickness or with back issues should consider their comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: An Authentic Day on Saona Island

The Journey Begins: From Santo Domingo to Saona Island

Our adventure kicks off early, with pickup arranged from our Santo Domingo hotel, though exact timings are flexible. The door-to-door service streamlines the experience, so you won’t waste time figuring out transportation. Once onboard, the real fun begins—zooming across the Caribbean in a speedboat, which can feel exhilarating or a touch bumpy, depending on the sea state. For those who love the thrill of the ride, this part of the trip is a highlight. The views of the coastline rushing past are stunning, with lush vegetation framing the sparkling ocean.

Travel time is efficient, giving you more time on the island. The natural beauty of this route is part of the experience—waves crashing, the wind in your hair, and the anticipation building for the island’s charms.

Arriving at Saona Island: A Paradise of White Sand and Clear Waters

Once on Saona Island, you’ll immediately notice the white sand beaches stretching out in all directions and the crystal-clear waters inviting you for a swim. The island’s natural environment feels untouched yet welcoming, with lush greenery providing a striking backdrop. You’ll have plenty of time to relax, sunbathe, or wade into the warm water—an ideal setting for unwinding after the boat ride.

A popular highlight is the stop at the natural pool, roughly 200-300 meters from the beach, where the water is knee to waist high. Here, you can float in calm waters surrounded by stunning scenery, capturing photos of the vibrant marine life and coral terrace that separates the pool from the open sea. Tour descriptions note this as a “perfect landscape,” and many visitors comment on how peaceful and picturesque it is.

Lunch and Leisure on Saona Island

The included buffet lunch is straightforward but satisfying, offering local flavors amid a scenic setting. It’s a great way to refuel before continuing your exploration or simply relaxing on the beach. Many reviews mention that the food is good and plentiful, ensuring you’re energized for the rest of the day.

There’s no rush here—after lunch, you can lounge, swim, or explore the island’s wild vegetation and sandy stretches. The atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of opportunities for photos or just soaking in nature.

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The Return Voyage: Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks

The journey back to Santo Domingo is aboard a catamaran, which is what many travelers find the most enjoyable part of the tour. The boat is spacious, with ample room for lounging, dancing, or basking in the sun. As you cruise along, the music plays, and an open bar keeps spirits high—ideal for kicking back and sharing stories with fellow travelers.

The calm ocean and gentle sway of the boat make it a perfect way to wind down, and many reviews highlight this as a “highlight” of the trip. The scenery from the water, with views of the coastline and open sea, adds to the sense of freedom and relaxation.

Practical Details and Considerations

The full-day tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a substantial experience but well worth the investment if you want a comprehensive taste of Saona Island. The group size is not specified, but the inclusion of live guides speaking several languages (Spanish, English, French, German, Italian) suggests a well-organized, multi-lingual experience.

Tour pricing includes all transportation, lunch, drinks, and activities, emphasizing good value for a day packed with memorable moments. You’ll want to bring essentials like sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Remember that smoking, plastic bottles, littering, and touching plants are not allowed, respecting the environment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who enjoy water-based activities, scenic boat rides, and leisurely days on the beach. It suits travelers looking for an adventure combined with relaxation—whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends. However, if you are prone to seasickness or have back problems, the speedboat ride might be less comfortable, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This Saona Island tour from Santo Domingo offers a fantastic way to experience some of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful scenery without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The combination of a speedboat thrill, a relaxing catamaran cruise, and stunning natural sights makes for a memorable day. The all-inclusive lunch and drinks add convenience and value, allowing you to focus on enjoying your surroundings.

If you’re after a full-day adventure filled with breathtaking views, crystal waters, and lively boat rides, this tour ticks all the boxes. It works especially well for travelers who want a stress-free experience, blending water fun with casual relaxation in a natural setting.

However, keep in mind the bumpy ride on the speedboat if you’re sensitive to motion sickness or have mobility concerns. The scenic natural pool and the vibrant marine environment are highlights that many find worth the slight discomfort.

This tour delivers great value for your money and a memorable way to discover Saona Island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, it’s an experience that captures the essence of the Dominican Republic’s stunning coastlines.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, boat rides, and free time on the island.

What transportation is included?
You’ll be picked up from your hotel and transported in a comfortable vehicle to the boat departure point. The trip includes a speedboat to Saona Island and a catamaran for the return.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially for those comfortable with boat rides. However, seasickness or back issues might make the speedboat ride less comfortable.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. It’s also wise to have a camera and some cash for extras.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, a buffet lunch and open bar are part of the package, making it easy to relax without worrying about additional costs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty, combining adventure and relaxation in a single day. If you’re eager to see stunning beaches, crystal waters, and enjoy lively boat rides with excellent amenities, this is a trip worth considering.

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