Samana: Cayo Levantado Day Trip by Boat

Planning a day in Samaná and craving a taste of true tropical bliss? This Cayo Levantado day trip by boat offers a 7-hour escape to one of the most beautiful spots in the Dominican Republic. For about the price of a nice dinner, you’ll hop on a comfortable catamaran and cruise out to Bacardi Island, a shimmering stretch of white sand and turquoise water that makes for perfect photos and even better relaxation.

What we love about this trip are two key things: First, the leisurely boat ride that sets the tone for a laid-back day—no rushing, just plenty of scenic views and the chance to kick back. Second, the beachfront bars and restaurants that serve up tasty local food and refreshing drinks, making it easy to spend your whole day soaking up the sun.

A couple of considerations: some travelers mention that the organizing could improve, especially regarding punctuality and clarity about the schedule, so be prepared for some minor surprises. Also, if you’re seeking a full-blown adventure with snorkeling or active exploration, this might lean more toward a relaxing beach day than an adventure-packed tour.

This trip suits travelers who want a simple, scenic day out—families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind on a picture-perfect island. If you love stunning beaches with good amenities and a relaxed vibe, you’ll likely walk away happy.

Beautiful scenery: Expect turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches.
Relaxing boat ride: The catamaran offers a calm, scenic journey to and from the island.
All-day leisure: Plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, explore, and enjoy local food.
Authentic atmosphere: Beachfront bars serve tasty food and drinks, adding to the tropical feel.
Organizational notes: Be aware that some reviews mention room for improvement in communication and timing.
Best for: Those seeking a straightforward, relaxing escape with great views and good vibe.

Starting Point and Transport: Convenient and Comfortable

The tour departs from Moto Marina in Samaná, a private dock that’s easy to reach and well-organized. Once there, you’ll check in, and your group will be ready for a 15-minute speedboat ride to the main attraction—the island. The boat itself is usually described as safe and comfortable, making the journey enjoyable rather than tedious.

Some reviewers felt that the boat ride was the highlight, describing it as a “great and safe ride” with “beautiful views.” The ride sets the tone for a leisurely day—quiet, scenic, and perfect for unwinding.

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The Arrival at Cayo Levantado: Paradise Found

Upon reaching the island, you’ll find a gorgeous beach with fine white sand and clear, inviting water. The photo stops here are prime, and you’ll want to have your camera ready. Visitors love the scenery, describing it as a “paradise” and “gorgeous”—a fitting description for this corner of the Dominican Republic.

Swimmers will appreciate the calm, turquoise water perfect for a quick dip or extended swim. Some guests mention enjoying exploring the beach, soaking up the sun, and snapping plenty of photos.

Food, Drinks, and Beachside Amenities

The tour includes plenty of beachfront restaurants and bars. You can indulge in local dishes, tropical cocktails, or even just sit back with a cold bottle of water. One reviewer specifically noted the need to improve the buffet drinks, suggesting that water should be included as standard and that drinks like juice or soda could be better. Still, the overall vibe is relaxed and enjoyable.

Many travelers also mention the ease of ordering snacks or drinks, and the friendly staff at the beach bars adds to the holiday feel.

Free Time and Exploration

You’ll have around 6.5 hours of free time on the island, which is ample for lounging, swimming, or strolling around. The itinerary includes a photo stop, sightseeing, shopping, and walking around, but most visitors use this time to relax and soak up the scenery.

Some reviews mention that the organization could be clearer, especially regarding timing of the buffet and departure schedules. A couple of guests felt the guide could communicate better about when food is served or when to return to the boat.

Returning to Samaná

At around 4:30 PM, your boat departs back to Moto Marina, completing a full, unhurried day. Most travelers find this timing perfect—they leave before sunset but get enough time on the island to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.

The leisurely pace of this trip makes it ideal for those who want a stress-free day in the sun. The scenic boat ride is often highlighted as a standout feature, providing a calming experience before reaching the island’s stunning beaches.

Travelers also appreciate the authentic, laid-back vibe—with people lounging in the sand, enjoying cold drinks, and taking in views that look like postcards. The option to explore and take photos adds a memorable touch to the experience, especially for first-time visitors to the Dominican Republic.

From the reviews, we see that many visitors are impressed with the stunning scenery and friendly guides. One traveler from the United States called it “just amazing” and expressed eagerness to return. Others appreciated the scenic boat ride, with one saying it was “the best part” of the day.

However, a few noted organizational hiccups. For example, one review from France pointed out that they never boarded the catamaran but only used it as a transfer, which was disappointing for some expecting a more immersive boat experience. Another from Brazil experienced a cancellation without notice, highlighting the importance of confirming arrangements ahead of time.

Despite that, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many recommending it for its value and beautiful scenery.

• Bring comfortable shoes and clothes — you’ll want to walk around on the beach and explore.
• Pack swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes — the water is tempting, and quick dry clothes make changing easier.
• Arrive early at Moto Marina to avoid last-minute stress.
• Be prepared for minor delays or organizational issues—they are part of the relaxed Caribbean vibe, not necessarily a deal-breaker.
• Consider bringing cash for small purchases or tips at the beach bars.

This trip is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing day with stunning visuals. It’s best suited for those who appreciate scenic boat rides, want to spend plenty of time lounging on the beach, and enjoy local food and drinks in a laid-back atmosphere.

If you’re after adventure or snorkeling, you might find this trip too simple—though some reviews mention that additional activities could be available on other tours. Still, for pure relaxation and picture-perfect scenery, you won’t find much better in Samaná.

The Cayo Levantado Day Trip by Boat offers a straightforward way to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the Dominican Republic. The highlight is the calm, scenic boat ride and the pristine beach where you can unwind all day. The tour’s value lies in its relaxed pace, the quality of the scenery, and the chance to enjoy good food and drinks in a tropical setting.

While organizational details could improve, most travelers find the trip well worth the price for a full day of sunshine and gorgeous views. It’s an ideal choice for anyone wanting a peaceful escape, with enough flexibility to make it your own.

If you love stunning beaches, scenic boat rides, and laid-back atmospheres, this trip will likely leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of photos to prove it.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is about 7 hours, including transportation, free time on the island, and the boat rides.

What do I need to bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, and casual clothing suitable for lounging or walking around the beach.

Is the boat ride part of the experience?
Yes, the boat ride is a key part of the trip and is described as relaxing and scenic. Some reviews highlight it as a favorite part, though a few mentioned they only used it for transfer.

Can I buy food and drinks on the island?
Absolutely. There are several beachfront bars and restaurants where you can purchase local food, snacks, and tropical drinks.

Does the tour include snorkeling or other activities?
This specific trip focuses on relaxing, beach time, and sightseeing. Some similar tours might include snorkeling, but this one emphasizes leisure and photography.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but otherwise, it’s suitable for most ages looking for a relaxed day.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This day trip delivers a simple, scenic, and relaxing experience—perfect for those who want to unwind in a tropical paradise without complicated logistics or strenuous activities. With stunning views, friendly guides, and delicious food, it’s an easy addition to any Samaná itinerary.

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