Private: Full-Day Excursion from Chavón & Saona Island

Discover the Charm of the Dominican Republic with a Private Full-Day Excursion from Chavón & Saona Island

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day packed with scenic sights, culture, and relaxing beach time, this private tour from La Romana might just fit the bill. For around a day’s worth of time, you’ll visit the artistic village of Altos de Chavón, sail across the Caribbean on a catamaran, and lounge on the stunning beaches of Saona Island. The tour is operated by Tickets Whales, offering a personalized experience perfect for those who value flexibility and a more intimate atmosphere.

Two things we really appreciate: First, the opportunity to explore Altos de Chavón, a charming replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village, which offers both cultural insights and great photo ops. Second, the chance to unwind on Saona’s pristine beaches, with their white sands and turquoise waters, along with a buffet of traditional Dominican dishes.

A potential consideration is the seasickness risk, as part of the journey involves sailing on open water, and not everyone is comfortable with boat rides. The tour’s length and activity level make it best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and relaxation without feeling rushed.

This tour appeals most to visitors who want a comprehensive taste of Dominican culture and natural beauty in one day, especially those traveling from Punta Cana or nearby resorts. It’s ideal if you’re after a private, flexible experience that balances sightseeing, culture, and beachside leisure.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private group means a tailored trip with undivided attention.
• Cultural Highlight: Explore the picturesque, colonial-style Altos de Chavón village.
• Scenic Sailing: Sail the Caribbean on a catamaran, feeling the breeze and seeing beautiful coastlines.
• Relaxing Beaches: Lounge on Saona Island’s white sands or swim in crystal-clear waters.
• Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy unlimited drinks and a hearty buffet lunch featuring local Dominican flavors.
• Natural Pools: Swim in the natural pool in the marine park, a shallow turquoise retreat perfect for all ages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Guide to Your Full-Day Adventure from Chavón to Saona Island

Starting Point: Altos de Chavón – A Little Piece of Europe in the Caribbean

Your day begins with a visit to Altos de Chavón, a town designed to evoke a Mediterranean village from the 16th century. Restored with meticulous detail, its cobblestone streets, stone bridges, and colonial-style architecture make it a photogenic and culturally interesting stop.

Walking through the village, you’ll find local artisans at work, creating ceramics, jewelry, and paintings. This is not just a tourist trap; it’s a lively, working artist community with a focus on crafts that reflect Dominican culture. As your guide (who is fluent in both English and Spanish) explains the history, you’ll learn how this village has become a cultural hub and a popular setting for movies and photos.

Expect spectacular views of the Chavón River and the surrounding mountains—a landscape that makes you want to pause and take it all in. We loved the way the village’s architecture blends with the lush natural backdrop, offering a peaceful yet lively atmosphere.

Sailing across the Caribbean on a Catamaran

Next, it’s time to hit the water. The ride on a catamaran provides a breezy, comfortable way to cross the Caribbean Sea towards Saona Island. The vessel is generally spacious, with plenty of room to lounge or stand and take in the views. Sails often catch the wind in a relaxing cruise that sets a laid-back tone for the day.

Many reviews highlight how enjoyable and scenic this part of the trip is. One traveler said, “We loved the way the breeze made us feel as we sailed, and the views of the coastline from the water are stunning.” The journey also offers opportunities to spot marine life and enjoy unlimited drinks—rum, soda, or water—while chatting with your fellow travelers.

Discovering Saona Island’s Beaches and Marine Park

Once you arrive at Saona Island, the real relaxation begins. Known for its white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters, this island is a picture-perfect Caribbean paradise. You’ll have plenty of free time to lounge under coconut palms, swim in the shallow waters, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

One of the tour’s highlights is swimming in the natural pool, a shallow, calm area inside the marine reserve where you can splash about without worrying about deep water. Several reviews mention how this spot is perfect for families and non-swimmers: “The natural pool was one of my favorite parts—shallow and warm, it felt like being in a giant swimming bath.”

Midday, a buffet lunch is served on the island, featuring local Dominican dishes and unlimited drinks. The food gets good marks for being hearty and flavorful, giving you enough energy to enjoy the rest of the day. After lunch, you might choose to snorkel, explore, or simply relax and soak up the sun.

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Optional: Additional Time at the Marine Park

The tour includes time at the marine park, where you can snorkel or swim in the natural pool. The shallow turquoise waters are gentle and inviting, making it accessible for most guests. Your guide will share insights into the ecological importance of the area, adding an educational element to your beachside leisure.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of culture, scenic sailing, and natural beauty. The private aspect means you’ll enjoy a more relaxed and personalized experience, with the flexibility to ask questions and linger at your favorite spots. The inclusion of a traditional buffet and unlimited drinks adds value, making it a cost-effective way to see multiple highlights in one day.

A few travelers noted things to consider: the boat ride can be bumpy, especially if seas are choppy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take precautions. Also, the tour duration—about a full day—requires a willingness to be active and outdoors, so travelers who prefer a more laid-back, less scheduled experience might want to plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who want a combination of culture, scenery, and beachside relaxation. It’s particularly good for small groups or couples seeking a more intimate, flexible outing. Families with children comfortable in shallow water will enjoy the natural pool, while anyone interested in Dominican art and architecture will appreciate the stop at Altos de Chavón.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While the tour involves some water activities, the natural pool is shallow and calm, making it accessible for non-swimmers. However, swimming in the open sea or snorkeling might require some confidence in water.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a camera, and sunscreen are recommended. Remember that alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the tour.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically around 8 hours, allowing ample time for each stop and some leisure on the beaches.

Is the tour private?
Yes, the group is private, which means a more personalized experience with your own guide and schedule.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch featuring traditional Dominican cuisine with unlimited drinks is part of the experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Can vegetarians or special diets be accommodated?
While specific dietary requests aren’t mentioned, the buffet lunch is standard Dominican fare, so it’s best to inquire beforehand if you have special dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This private full-day tour from La Romana to Altos de Chavón and Saona Island offers a well-rounded taste of the Dominican Republic’s artistry, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. The combination of a cultural village, scenic sailing, and beach relaxation makes it a versatile option for many travelers.

It’s a particularly good choice for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates personalized service and authentic experiences over large-group tours. The inclusion of local cuisine and natural swimming pools adds value, making it a memorable day without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.

If your idea of a perfect day involves exploring charming villages, enjoying Caribbean views, and unwinding on a stunning beach, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure—and get ready to enjoy the best of what the Dominican Republic has to offer.

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