Saona Island by Paradise Travel

Experience Overview: Saona Island by Paradise Travel

If you’re looking for a full-day escape from Punta Cana, the Saona Island tour by Paradise Travel offers an adventurous mix of boat rides, beach lounging, and lively entertainment for $80 per person. The trip lasts about 7 to 8 hours, starting with hotel pickup and ending with a return journey that feels as much about the fun as the destination itself.

What we love about this experience is the chance to cruise both by speedboat and catamaran, giving you varied views of the coast and open water—adding a sense of adventure. The lunch buffet on the beach is another highlight, offering a chance to indulge in authentic Dominican flavors right on Saona’s pristine sands. Plus, the optional swim at the natural pool and the dance show on the boat make this a lively, social outing.

A possible drawback is that for some, the transportation and waiting times might feel lengthy or less scenic—especially if the pick-up involves a drive through oil stations before reaching the boat. Also, the mixed reviews suggest that not every part lives up to expectations, with some travelers feeling underwhelmed by the boat rides or the selected stops.

This tour suits travelers who want a full, active day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and having fun. It’s perfect if you’re keen on social activities, like dancing and drinking, and are okay with the less scenic parts of the journey.

Key Points

• Varied Transportation: Combines speedboat and catamaran trips, offering diverse perspectives of the island and ocean.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Includes snorkeling, open bar, lunch, and entertainment, providing good value for a full-day experience.
• Multiple Activities: Stops at natural pool, starfish viewing, swimming, and beach dancing make the trip lively and engaging.
• Potential Drawbacks: Long initial transfer times and mixed reviews about some parts of the journey.
• Authentic Experience: A lively, social tour with opportunities to dance, drink, and enjoy the beach environment.
• Suitable for: Visitors seeking a fun, active day with plenty of opportunities to relax and socialize, rather than a quiet, scenic retreat.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins early, with a 7:20 am pickup from your hotel in Punta Cana. The transfer to Bayahibe is straightforward but can be lengthy—some reviews mention a three-hour drive through oil stations, which might seem less scenic but is part of the journey. Once at the port, you’ll board a speedboat that takes you out through the ocean, setting the tone for a lively adventure.

The Speedboat and Natural Pool Stop

The first leg takes you to the natural pool, a popular spot for snorkeling and picture-taking. Here, you can see starfish and enjoy shallow, calm waters perfect for wading. This stop is often praised for its beauty and the chance to cool off before heading to Saona Island proper.

Saona Island: The Main Attraction

Once on Saona, the tour offers roughly 2 to 3 hours to explore, eat, and relax. The lunch buffet is a highlight—expect traditional Dominican fare served on the beach, giving you a taste of local flavors with the backdrop of turquoise waters. While some reviews felt the lunch was enjoyable, others wished for more variety or better service, so keep expectations in check.

Swimming and Beach Activities

After lunch, you’ll have time to swim near the beach, relax on white sands, or participate in dance lessons—an activity that adds a lively, communal vibe. The white sands of Saona Beach are perfect for kicking off your shoes and soaking in the sun.

Returning by Catamaran and Party Atmosphere

The return trip is equally engaging, aboard a sailing catamaran. As you cruise back to Bayahibe, a dance show and open bar keep the energy high. The boat ride is lively, with music, drinks, and the chance to socialize with fellow travelers. For many, this part of the day is the most memorable, blending relaxation with entertainment.

Overall Value and Experience

With round transportation, snorkeling, lunch, and entertainment included**, the tour offers a comprehensive package. The $80 price point is reasonable considering the full day of activities and the variety of experiences provided.

However, some travelers have voiced frustrations—particularly about the initial transfer and the quality of certain stops. Reviewers like Gislard_G have called it the “worst excursion ever,” criticizing the lengthy bus ride and the boat’s quality. Others appreciated the lively atmosphere and the chance to enjoy the beach.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early to maximize your time on the island.
• Bring sunscreen, water, and a towel—these are essentials for comfort.
• Be mindful that some stops aren’t scenic or may feel rushed.
• Consider if you prefer a quieter, more scenic experience—this tour leans toward lively and social.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy being active, socializing, and experiencing multiple forms of water transport. If your goal is a relaxed, quiet day or pure snorkeling, this may not be the perfect fit. It’s well-suited for groups, families, or couples looking to combine sightseeing with fun, energetic activities.

Final Thoughts

The Saona Island tour by Paradise Travel offers a lively, full-day package that excels in delivering a social, fun-filled experience. You’ll get the thrill of boat rides, the beauty of Saona’s beaches, and plenty of entertainment—making it a strong choice for those who want to blend relaxation with activity.

That said, it’s worth bearing in mind that parts of the journey may feel less scenic or overly touristy. The mixed reviews suggest that while many cherish the lively vibe, others might find some aspects disappointing. It’s a good value at $80, especially if you enjoy a bustling, engaging day on the water with friends or family.

If your travel style leans toward fun, social, and active, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of stories and memories. For those seeking serenity or more authentic quiet escapes, you might prefer a different approach, perhaps focusing on fewer stops or a smaller group experience.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including transportation, with the activities on Saona Island itself lasting around 2 to 3 hours.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, starting at around 7:20 am from your Punta Cana hotel.

What transportation is used during the tour?
The trip begins with a speedboat ride from Bayahibe and concludes with a catamaran cruise back to the port.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch featuring traditional Dominican dishes is included on the beach.

Can I snorkel during this tour?
Yes, snorkeling is part of the experience, including a stop at the natural pool, where you can see starfish and enjoy calm waters.

Is there an open bar?
Absolutely. The tour features an open bar with alcoholic beverages and bottled water, especially on the catamaran cruise.

Are there any reviews warning against this tour?
Some travelers, like Gislard_G, have given very negative feedback, citing long, boring transfers and poor boat quality. Be prepared for mixed opinions.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, and perhaps some cash for souvenirs or photos, as these are available to purchase.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware that the initial drive may be lengthy and some stops may not meet all expectations.

In the end, this tour offers an energetic way to experience Saona Island, perfect for those who prioritize fun, variety, and social moments. If you want a lively day on the water with plenty of opportunities to relax and dance, it’s a solid pick. Just keep your expectations in check regarding scenery and travel comfort, and you’ll find plenty to enjoy.