Full Day Excursion to Saona Island with All Inclusive

Experience the beauty of Saona Island with this all-inclusive full-day excursion from the Dominican Republic. For $85 per person, you’ll spend around 8 hours visiting pristine beaches, floating in natural pools, and enjoying lively parties on a catamaran—perfect for those craving a mix of relaxation, adventure, and Caribbean fun. The tour is operated by Sofunrdtours and includes hotel pickup, making logistics straightforward.

Two things we love about this tour: First, the natural pool (Blue Lagoon) with its calm waters and the chance to see sea stars—a rare treat! Second, the party atmosphere aboard the catamaran, with music and drinks, adds an extra layer of joy to the day. However, a notable consideration is the transportation, which has received mixed reviews—some travelers experienced delays and disorganization. This tour best suits those who enjoy lively group outings, beautiful scenery, and a full day of Caribbean adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery includes white sand banks, blue lagoons, and the channel dividing Saona and the mainland.
• All-inclusive: lunch, drinks (including open bar), water, and soft drinks are part of the package, ensuring a stress-free, fun-filled day.
• Group size: typically 30 to 45 people on boats, with a lively, social vibe but less privacy than VIP options.
• Transportation: hotel pickups in Punta Cana, Bavaro, and nearby resorts; however, some reviews highlight delays.
• Highlights: natural pool with sea stars, picture-perfect beaches, and a party catamaran voyage.
• Considerations: Limited time at each stop and potential organizational hiccups—be prepared for a busy day.

An In-Depth Look at the Saona Island Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

This tour begins early, with pickups around 7:45 am from your hotel or designated meeting points, including resorts in Punta Cana, Bavaro, and other nearby locations. The transfer to Bayahibe, the embarkation port, takes approximately an hour from Punta Cana, so be ready for a bus ride that’s often punctual but occasionally marked by some disorganization, according to reviews. Once at the port, the adventure kicks off with a shared boat trip that can hold 30 to 45 travelers at once—meaning plenty of fellow travelers to chat with or meet new friends.

The Journey to Paradise

The boat ride itself is lively, with music, drinks, and scenic views of the Caribbean coast. Expect the first stop at the Blue Lagoon (Natural Pool), a calm, shallow spot perfect for floating and enjoying the sea stars—though some reviews note that touching the stars isn’t allowed, only observing. Here, welcome drinks are served, and you get a chance to relax in the warm Caribbean waters.

Saona Island – The Crown Jewel

After the natural pool, you’ll head toward Saona Island, a postcard-worthy stretch of powdery white sand and lush palm trees. The island’s beauty truly lives up to its reputation, and many travelers mention how breathtaking it is. You’ll have approximately four hours on the island, which is enough time for a swim, sunbathing, and enjoying the island’s laid-back vibe.

One favorite feature, highlighted by reviews, is the beach lunch—a buffet with simple but satisfying local dishes. Some travelers have found the lunch to be decent, but as one reviewer pointed out, it can be crowded and not very private, especially during peak times. The island can get busy, with crowds and some litter, but regardless, the scenery remains stunning.

The Party Returns on a Catamaran

As the afternoon winds down, you’ll board a catamaran for the return trip, which is often the highlight for many. The vessel is lively with music, dancing, drinks, and a festive atmosphere. This part of the tour captures the essence of Caribbean fun—perfect for those who want to dance and relax in a party setting while enjoying the sea breeze.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes hotel pickup, transportation, lunch, open bar drinks (including soft drinks and water), boat ride, and catamaran party. These elements contribute to a value-packed experience, especially since the price is just $85.

However, extras like souvenirs, photographs, and videography are not included, and some reviews mention the cost of photos as being overpriced—$5 per photo or a $66 package for digital images. So, if capturing memories is essential, consider bringing your own camera or being prepared to pay extra.

Transportation: A Mixed Bag

While the hotel pickup system is convenient—saving you the hassle of finding a meeting spot—the reviews reveal that transportation can sometimes be a source of frustration. One reviewer noted a driver arriving over an hour late, and another was left waiting an hour in the sun without clear communication.

That said, some travelers appreciated the smooth ride and timely transfers, especially when the driver was friendly and helpful, like “Max,” who received high praise for his professionalism and care. If punctuality and organization are your top priorities, it’s worth noting these potential hiccups.

The Experience on Saona Island

The Natural Pool and Sea Stars

Many travelers highlight the natural pool as a serene, picturesque spot. It’s shallow, perfect for relaxing in the water, and a chance to see sea stars—though some reviews mention that touching or picking them up isn’t permitted, which might disappoint kids or curious travelers. The calm, clear waters are ideal for a peaceful float, and the scenery is postcard-perfect.

The Beach and Lunch

The beach on Saona is undeniably beautiful, with soft white sand and swaying palms. However, it can be very crowded during peak times, and the best spots fill quickly. The included lunch is usually a buffet, offering local dishes that many find satisfying. One review described it as “convenable,” though others noted that the beach gets “super crowded” and “skeezy” with litter—so don’t expect untouched seclusion.

The Party on the Catamaran

Returning on the catamaran, the mood lifts with music, dancing, and drinks. Many travelers say this part is a highlight, especially if you enjoy lively group activities and ocean breezes. It’s a great way to wrap up a day of sightseeing with a bit of Caribbean celebration.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Saona Island’s natural beauty and lively ambiance, making it suitable for travelers looking for a full day of tropical fun. The group size, typically between 30 and 45 people, keeps the experience social but not overly crowded.

A few reviews mention disorganization and delays—common pitfalls in shared group tours—so patience and flexibility are advised. Also, bring sun protection, as some travelers found the day long and the sun intense. Photographs can be expensive, so weigh whether souvenirs or photos matter to you.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you’re seeking an energetic, all-in-one day with scenic moments, a beach lunch, and a festive boat ride. It suits those who don’t mind sharing their experience with a group and are ready for a busy schedule that covers several highlights in one day. Perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a taste of Caribbean paradise without breaking the bank.

If, however, you prefer more privacy or a highly organized experience, or dislike crowds and potential delays, you might want to explore other options or private tours.

The Sum Up

In all, the Full Day Excursion to Saona Island offers a very good value for the price. You’ll enjoy some of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean, a relaxing natural pool, and a lively return trip on a party boat—elements that make this trip memorable. The included lunch and drinks help keep costs down, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive, fun-filled day.

While the transportation has mixed reviews, the overall experience of basking in Saona’s natural beauty and dancing on the catamaran tends to shine through. It’s a perfect outing for those who love a social, active day in the sun, especially if they’re prepared for some organizational quirks.

If you’re after authentic Caribbean scenery, good value, and a lively atmosphere, this tour will likely satisfy. Just keep your expectations in check regarding punctuality and crowds, and you’ll be rewarded with a memorable trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including hotel pickups, travel time, and the time spent at each stop.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation, lunch, open bar drinks (water, soft drinks, alcohol), boat ride, and the catamaran party.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Photos, souvenirs, and videography are not included and can be pricey if you choose to purchase them.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear. A camera or phone for photos is a good idea, but be prepared to pay extra for professional photos if you want them.

What is the group size?
Typically, there are between 30 and 45 travelers on the boats, creating a lively, social atmosphere.

What should I do if I experience delays or organizational issues?
Be patient and flexible. Some reviews mention delays, but most travelers still find the trip worthwhile for the scenery and fun. Communicate with the guides if possible, and enjoy the other aspects of the day.

This detailed review aims to give you a full picture of what to expect from the Saona Island tour. With picturesque landscapes, lively boat rides, and a relaxed island vibe, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting to experience the Caribbean’s best in a single day.