Puerto Plata & Cayo Arena: Catamaran cruise with lunch

Summary

Floating between mangroves and turquoise—Cayo Arena by catamaran

Step onto a catamaran in Puerto Plata for a day trip to Cayo Arena—snorkel over coral reefs, sip champagne in a natural ocean pool, and enjoy fresh seafood on Punta Rucia Beach. With hotel pickup and a local guide included, you’ll find moments of laughter and calm you might not expect—and memories that stick long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the slap of salty air as we stepped onto the catamaran at Punta Rucia—somehow sharper than the breeze back in Puerto Plata. Our driver, José, had already made us laugh twice on the ride over (he claims he’s never seen a manatee but swears they exist). The boat was bigger than I’d pictured, with staff who seemed to know everyone’s name within minutes. As we drifted through the mangroves, there was this hush—just water slapping wood and the odd bird call. I tried to catch a glimpse of those manatees José talked about, but no luck. Maybe next time.

Halfway out to Cayo Arena, we stopped in what they called a “natural pool”—really just this shallow patch in the middle of nowhere, water so clear you could see your own toes wriggling in the sand. Someone handed me a glass of champagne (I almost dropped it getting back on board; slippery hands), and then we were off again. The island itself is tiny—a sandbank with nothing but sun and sea all around. Our guide Li handed out snorkels and showed us how to feed these wild little fish right from our palms. I’m not much of a swimmer but floating above that reef felt easy somehow. The colors down there are still stuck in my head.

Lunch was at Punta Rucia Beach—lobster for most of us, though Li explained it’s seafood paella during certain months because of fishing rules (makes sense). There was this smoky smell from the grill mixing with coconut oil and salt air, and honestly I could’ve sat there for hours just watching local kids play soccer near the boats. We had cold beer, too, which hit different after all that sun. On the way back, everyone got quiet for a bit—maybe tired or just full—but I caught myself thinking about how weirdly peaceful it felt out there between sky and water.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran Cruise to Cayo Arena

• Resort to Punta Rucia ride
• Boat ride to Cayo Arena beach
• Natural pool swim and champagne
• Snorkel at Cayo Arena
• Swim and relax on island beach
• Dominican buffet lunch
• Return sail to Punta Rucia
• Shopping stop
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does the Cayo Arena catamaran cruise from Puerto Plata take?

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours including transfers from your hotel in Puerto Plata.

Is lunch included on the Cayo Arena day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at Punta Rucia Beach—usually lobster or seafood paella depending on fishing season.

Are drinks provided during the catamaran cruise?

Unlimited drinks are included: rum, beer, soda, bottled water, plus champagne served at the natural pool stop.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for use at Cayo Arena reef.

What should I bring for the Cayo Arena cruise?

You should bring a towel; everything else needed is provided as part of your booking.

Are there any health restrictions for this excursion?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from Puerto Plata, unlimited drinks (rum, beer, soda), bottled water throughout the journey, use of snorkeling equipment at Cayo Arena reef, champagne served while anchored at a natural ocean pool, plus a buffet lunch with lobster or seafood paella at Punta Rucia Beach before heading back in comfort.