Santo Domingo offers more than just colonial charm and lively streets — it’s also a fantastic place to explore by water. Whether you’re seeking a private escape on a luxury catamaran, a quick city water tour, or an island adventure with swimming and snorkeling, this city has it all. I personally love the Private Catamaran Cruise to Bahia de las Aguilas because it combines exclusivity, comfort, and stunning scenery in one package — plus, the all-inclusive setup means you’re treated to drinks, snacks, and snorkeling gear without fuss. For a more active, city-based experience, the Santo Domingo: City Boat Ride Adventure offers a unique way to see the city’s sights from the water, complete with stops and local charm. And if island-hopping is your thing, the trips to Saona Island, especially the full-day tours, stand out for their combination of natural beauty, fun rides, and beach bliss.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best boat tours and cruises in Santo Domingo — from private charters to multi-island excursions. We’ve listed options for different tastes and budgets, with details to help you pick the perfect water adventure.
1. Private Catamaran Cruise to Bahia de las Aguilas
This private catamaran experience is a true highlight. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy a stress-free, exclusive day on the water with friends or family. The boat accommodates up to 20 people for the $1,500 fee, which includes transfer, open bar, snacks, and snorkeling equipment. The catamaran itself can hold up to 65 travelers, so even larger groups can be accommodated on different occasions.
What makes this tour stand out is the sense of privacy and personalized attention. The crew is friendly and keeps the drinks flowing, but you also get plenty of time to snorkel around the clear waters of Bahia de las Aguilas — a pristine, untouched beach known for its stunning beauty. The reviews are glowing, with one reviewer describing it as “a pretty cool experience” with “friendly guides and flowing drinks.” This tour is ideal for those who want to combine luxury with adventure, all in a relaxed atmosphere.
Bottom line: If exclusivity, comfort, and snorkeling in one of the Caribbean’s loveliest spots appeal to you, this private catamaran is a fantastic choice.
2. Santo Domingo: City Boat Ride Adventure
For something more urban, this unique boat ride offers a fresh perspective on Santo Domingo. It’s the only tour in the city that combines a water cruise with city sightseeing, starting at the fishermen’s dock near Parque Las Ballenas. The approximately one-hour trip gives you a chance to see local neighborhoods, landmarks, and the waterfront from a different angle.
This tour is known for its friendly guides, who share insights in both English and Spanish. It’s a great way to relax after a day of sightseeing or to get a sense of the city’s vibrant life from the water. The reviews are perfect, with visitors praising the tour as “a must-do experience in the capital.” The tour’s short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary, especially if you’re docked in Santo Domingo or have limited time.
Bottom line: This is a fun, accessible way to see Santo Domingo from the water while feeling like an insider.
3. From Santo Domingo Saona Island Food And Drink Catamaran Vip
This luxury day trip takes you to one of the Caribbean’s most famous islands — Saona Island — with an emphasis on comfort, food, and fun. It lasts about 10 hours, but the highlight is the VIP treatment, including a high-quality boat ride, a stop at the Blue Lagoon natural pool, and a visit to the starfish-filled lagoon.
The trip begins early with pickup at the colonial zone, followed by a swift transfer to Bayahibe, where you’ll hop on a boat to the island. Guests rave about the “delicious lunch” and the “seamless pickup and drop-off,” which make this a stress-free experience. The natural lagoon stop is a special highlight, offering calm water and abundant starfish sightings. The tour balances adventure with relaxation, and the all-inclusive drinks make it a true Caribbean experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a day of island beauty with top-notch amenities and a focus on comfort.
4. From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Catamaran and Speedboat
This full-day tour blends the thrill of speedboats with the laid-back vibe of a catamaran, making it stand out on our list. You start with a speedboat ride to Saona Island, giving a sense of excitement and adventure, then return on a more relaxing catamaran cruise. The trip’s flexible route provides the best of both worlds — speed and serenity.
Guests love the crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to swim in the Natural Swimming Pool, a shallow, starfish-filled area. The buffet lunch on the beach is plentiful and flavorful, and the tour’s reviews highlight the value of combining two different boat styles in one day.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers eager for a mix of high-energy rides and relaxing beach time, all in one trip.
5. Saona Island From Santo Domingo With Catamaran, Food & Drink
This day trip to Saona Island emphasizes the leisure side of island-hopping with a catamaran cruise and all-you-can-drink service. Departing from the colonial zone, it takes you by boat to the island, stopping at the Blue Lagoon along the way.
The open bar and buffet lunch make this a relaxing and sociable experience, perfect for travelers wanting to unwind in the Caribbean sun. The reviews note the “delicious lunch” and the “fun on the boat,” emphasizing the lively atmosphere. It’s a straightforward, well-organized trip that offers good value for those looking to combine comfort and scenic beauty.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a comfortable, all-inclusive island escape without the fuss.
6. Santo Domingo: Saona Island Tour by Catamaran or Speedboat
This flexible day trip offers either a catamaran or speedboat option, allowing you to choose your preferred style of travel. The goal is to explore Saona Island with a focus on swimming in the Natural Pool and enjoying a delicious lunch on the beach.
Guests rave about the thrill of the boat rides and the scenic views, making it perfect for those who crave adventure and natural beauty. The trip also includes a relaxing return on a spacious catamaran, with an open bar included.
Bottom line: An excellent pick if you want the freedom to choose your boat style while enjoying all the key sights.
7. From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Catamaran & Speedboat Tour
This combined tour offers the experience of traveling by speedboat to Saona and returning by catamaran. It includes a buffet lunch on the island and time at the Natural Pool. The dual-boat approach appeals to those who want more variety and a sense of adventure.
Although reviews are sparse, the description indicates a well-rounded experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenery. The open bar adds to the relaxed atmosphere on the return trip.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers who want to mix things up with different boat styles and enjoy an all-inclusive day.
8. Las Galeras: Private Playa Frontón & Playa Madame Boat Tour
While not in Santo Domingo city itself, this boat tour from Las Galeras offers access to some of the most beautiful beaches like Playa Frontón and Playa Madame. It’s perfect if you’re willing to venture further afield for secluded beaches, snorkeling, and a traditional Dominican lunch at Playita.
The tour lasts about 6 hours, emphasizing swimming and snorkeling in pristine waters. Reviews would highlight the natural beauty of these beaches, which are less crowded and ideal for relaxing. The trip is best suited for those with some fitness and a love for off-the-beaten-path beach days.
Bottom line: A top pick for beach lovers eager to explore beyond the city limits.
9. Santo Domingo: Half-day City Tour for Cruise Ship Guests
Although not a traditional boat tour, this half-day city water tour is designed for cruise visitors who want a taste of Santo Domingo’s colonial highlights. It includes visits to the Caves of the Three Eyes, the Presidential Palace, and Zona Colonial.
The tour is convenient for cruise schedules, with a five-hour itinerary that combines land and water perspectives. The reviews focus on the informative guides and the ease of logistics, making it a practical choice for short-term visitors.
Bottom line: Ideal for cruise passengers wanting a quick, comprehensive look at Santo Domingo’s historic waterfront and colonial sites.
10. Santo Domingo: Isla Saona Day Trip with Lunch & Catamaran
This extended day trip to Isla Saona features a speedboat transfer, a natural pool stop, and a catamaran cruise back with live music and open bar. It’s designed for those wanting a full experience of island relaxation and Caribbean fun.
Guests appreciate the well-organized logistics, the delicious buffet lunch, and the entertainment on board. If you’re after a lively, all-day adventure that combines water, food, and music, this is a top choice.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, festive island experience.
11. Santo Domingo: Saona Island Day Trip with Catamaran Ride
This classic day trip offers a relaxed cruise to Saona Island with a spacious catamaran, a buffet lunch, and swimming in the Natural Pool. It’s a straightforward, reliable option for those looking to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without complicated logistics.
Reviews mention enjoying the free drinks and the beautiful scenery, making it suitable for families and solo travelers alike. It’s a good blend of comfort, scenery, and leisure.
Bottom line: A dependable, enjoyable trip for those wanting a simple, scenic island day.
12. Saona Island: Full-Day Tour with Speedboat and Catamaran
This full-day adventure combines the speedboat to Saona with a catamaran ride back, stopping at the Natural Pool along the way. It offers a nice mix of thrill and relaxation, with time on the beach for sunbathing and swimming.
Reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and well-organized itinerary, making it a solid pick for those wanting to maximize their island experience in one day.
Bottom line: Recommended for travelers seeking a balanced, fun-filled day on Saona Island.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Santo Domingo
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: do you want a private luxury experience? The Private Catamaran Cruise to Bahia de las Aguilas is perfect if privacy and snorkeling are your focus. If you’re more interested in rapid city sightseeing, the Santo Domingo: City Boat Ride Adventure offers a quick, authentic water-based city tour.
For island lovers, the Saona Island trips provide varying styles — from full luxury days to combined speedboat and catamaran adventures — catering to different budgets and activity levels. Be sure to consider how much time you want to spend, your preferred boat style, and whether food and drinks are included.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, so plan ahead to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
The options for boat tours and cruises in Santo Domingo are diverse and exciting. If you’re after a private, exclusive day on the water, the Private Catamaran Cruise is hard to beat. For those wanting to explore the city from a different angle, the City Boat Ride offers a quick, fun introduction. Island trips like the Saona Island tours combine scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation, making them a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers.
No matter your style or budget, Santo Domingo’s water adventures promise memorable moments — just be sure to book early and bring your sense of adventure with you.