Punta Cana: Catamaran Party Boat Cruise & Snorkeling Tour

Summary

Caribbean rhythms, coral reefs, and a floating party at Bavaro Beach

You’ll float along Bávaro Beach on a lively catamaran with music playing and drinks flowing, snorkel among bright Caribbean fish with help from your local guide, then wade into Punta Cana’s famous natural pool for more laughs and a floating bar moment you’ll remember long after you rinse off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re not gonna spill that, right?” That’s what Luis from the crew asked me as I tried to balance my first rum punch while the catamaran rocked just enough to make everyone laugh. We’d barely left Bávaro Beach and already there was music — not loud at first, but you could feel it under your feet. The salt in the air mixed with sunscreen and something sweet from the bar. Our Punta Cana party boat tour started off loose and easy, like nobody was in a rush for anything.

I thought snorkeling would be kind of touristy but honestly, floating above those corals was quieter than I expected. A couple of bright fish darted past my mask — neon blue stripes I couldn’t name. The guide (I think her name was Maria?) pointed out a sea urchin with a little stick, then laughed when I flinched. She said something about “el mar tranquilo hoy” and yeah, it really was calm for once. Water warm as bathwater — almost too easy to forget you’re bobbing in the middle of the Caribbean.

Back on board it turned into more of a party — somebody started dancing (not me) and snacks came around. Chips tasted extra salty after swimming. When we reached the natural pool — which is just this shallow sandbar where everyone hops in waist-deep — there was a floating bar set up right in the water. People were passing drinks over their heads so nothing spilled (well… mostly). Sun felt heavy on my shoulders but nobody cared much; everyone just drifted or talked or tried to learn merengue steps from one of the crew. I still think about that view back toward shore, sunlight bouncing off everything.

It wasn’t perfect — my mask fogged up twice and I probably got too much sun — but honestly that’s half the fun. If you want quiet reflection maybe skip it, but if you want to see how locals actually celebrate being out on the water near Punta Cana, this catamaran party boat cruise is pretty much it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran cruise and snorkeling tour

• Board spacious catamaran
• Snorkel at vibrant coral reef
• Cruise along Bavaro Beach coast
• Swim at famous natural pool
• Enjoy floating bar and activities
• Celebrate with music and drinks

Top questions

How long does the Punta Cana party boat cruise last?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but expect an afternoon outing including time for snorkeling and relaxing at the natural pool.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included with your booking.

Does this catamaran tour include food or drinks?

You’ll get snacks and beverages onboard during the cruise.

Where does the tour depart from in Punta Cana?

The cruise sails along Bávaro Beach; specific departure details are given after booking confirmation.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No mention of hotel pickup; public transportation options are available nearby.

Can children join this Punta Cana party boat cruise?

Infants can join if seated on an adult’s lap; travelers must be 18 or older for certain activities.

What should I bring for snorkeling on this tour?

You might want sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, and maybe sunglasses—snorkeling gear is provided onboard.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes all snacks and beverages while cruising along Bávaro Beach on a spacious catamaran with an onboard captain and staff; use of snorkeling equipment is part of your day before relaxing at Punta Cana’s famous natural pool sandbank together with music and good company.