From Santo Domingo: Isla Saona Day Trip with Catamaran Ride

Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic



Enjoy a day trip to Isla Saona from Santo Domingo. Open bar on catamaran and the island. Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a buffet lunch on the island.

Experience a full-day catamaran tour to Saona Island, departing from Santo Domingo, ideal for all travelers including LGBTQ+ visitors.

Highlights

  • Discover Dominican culture at the country's most popular attraction
  • Enjoy buffet lunch on the island with unlimited drinks on the boat
  • Relax on white sandy beaches and swim in clear waters
  • Stop at a natural ocean pool to cool off
  • Explore the island’s natural beauty with a beach walk

Description

This tour begins with a 6:10am departure from the meet-up point in Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo. After a 2.5 to 3-hour drive to Bayahibe, guests board a party catamaran heading to Saona Island.

The boat ride includes a 30-minute stop at a natural pool in the ocean. Upon arrival, guests have three hours to relax, swim, and enjoy a buffet lunch on the island. Drinks including water, soda, and rum are served both on the boat and the island. The total tour duration is approximately seven hours.

After the island visit, the group changes clothes and returns to Santo Domingo, arriving between 7:00 and 8:00pm.

What's Included

  • Transportation from meet-up points in Santo Domingo, Boca Chica, and Juan Dolio
  • Buffet lunch on Saona Island
  • Unlimited drinks: water, soda, and rum
  • Beach chairs provided on the island

What’s Not Included

  • Breakfast
  • Travel insurance

Important Information

  • Meet-up point: Parque Colón, in front of Pizzarelli at El Conde Street & Isabel La Católica Street
  • Departure time: 6:10am. Arrive a few minutes early; the guide will verify booking names
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Tour operated by a third-party associated with La EX Tours
  • Expect possible delays due to local time customs (‘island time’)

What to Bring

  • Swimsuit
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Sandals or water shoes (catamaran boarding is barefoot)
  • Dry clothes and footwear for the return trip (limited changing facilities)
  • Towel and plastic bag for wet clothes
  • Snack (lunch is served around 12-1pm and food options during transit are limited)

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, book early and prepare for variable timing on the island. Bring sun protection and footwear suitable for water and beach conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

The trip includes a catamaran ride, buffet lunch on Saona Island, unlimited drinks on the boat, a stop at a natural ocean pool, and a beach walk.
The tour departs from a meet-up point in Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo.
The drive from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Yes, the tour is welcoming to all travelers, including LGBTQ+ visitors.
You can relax on white sandy beaches, swim in clear waters, visit a natural ocean pool, and explore the island’s natural beauty with a beach walk.
Yes, a buffet lunch is served on the island, and unlimited drinks are available on the boat.
The tour begins with a 6:10am departure from the meeting point in Santo Domingo.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for travelers of all ages.
It’s recommended to bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel to enjoy the beaches and ocean pool.
Check the official website or booking platform for up-to-date hours and availability.

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