Punta Cana: Catamaran Snorkel, Parasailing & Floating Bar Combo

Summary

Snorkeling coral reefs, parasailing high above Bavaro and drifting in the natural pool

You’ll snorkel colorful reefs off Bavaro Beach, meet gentle stingrays under expert supervision, sip unlimited drinks at a floating bar in Punta Cana’s natural pool, and soar 500 feet above the coastline while parasailing—all with hotel pickup included. Expect laughter, local music, salty skin and moments that stick with you long after your feet are back on land.

What’s the experience like?

I opened my eyes to sunlight bouncing off the water at Bavaro Beach—already loud with music and laughter. The catamaran was waiting, white paint a little scuffed but cheerful. Our guide, Luis, handed me a mask and said, “Don’t worry if you’re not a pro—just breathe slow.” I could smell sunscreen and salt. We slid into the water near the reef; schools of yellow fish darted everywhere. I kept losing track of time because every time I looked up someone was waving or laughing through their snorkel.

After snorkeling, we drifted to a spot where they let us meet these huge stingrays—gentle as anything—and some sharks that just glided by like they owned the place. Honestly, touching a stingray feels nothing like I expected. Kind of cool and slippery? Luis joked that they liked my nervous energy. Then it was back on board for fruit and cold drinks (pineapple never tastes as sweet as when you’re half-salty from the sea). The DJ started up again—reggaeton mixing with all the different accents on deck.

The floating bar at the natural pool is where things got loose. Waist-deep water, beer in hand, everyone bobbing around like we’d known each other forever. There’s something about standing in turquoise water with strangers that makes small talk easy. And then—parasailing. They strapped me in, gave a thumbs up, and suddenly I was 500 feet over Punta Cana’s coast. Wind tugging at my legs, everything below turning tiny—the catamaran looked like a toy boat from up there. I tried to shout something but just ended up grinning like an idiot into the wind.

I still think about that moment coming down—legs wobbly, heart full. Luis clapped me on the back and said something about “first-timers always look happiest.” Maybe he’s right. Anyway, if you’re thinking about this combo tour from Punta Cana… don’t overthink it too much. Just go float awhile.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour, snorkeling, parasailing

• Pickup from hotel
• Arrive at marina in Cortesito
• Board catamaran at beach
• Snorkel at coral reef site
• Visit marine park with sharks and sting rays
• Swim and relax at natural pool
• Enjoy drinks and music at floating bar
• Take speed boat to parasailing boat
• Safety briefing for parasailing
• Parasail 500 feet above coast
• Sail back to marina
• Visit souvenir shop
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does the Punta Cana combo tour last?

The tour typically lasts half a day including all activities and transfers.

Is hotel pickup included for this snorkeling & parasailing tour?

Yes, round trip transportation from your Punta Cana hotel is included.

What should I bring for snorkeling in Bavaro Beach?

Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen and maybe dry clothes for after—you’ll get wet!

Are drinks included during the catamaran cruise?

Yes, unlimited national drinks are available throughout the cruise and at the floating bar.

Is parasailing safe for beginners?

Yes—there’s a safety briefing before takeoff and professional supervision throughout.

Can children join this Punta Cana day trip?

Children aged 2+ can attend but must be accompanied by an adult until age 17.

Are there any health restrictions for parasailing?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiac issues.

What marine life might I see while snorkeling?

You’ll likely spot tropical fish around coral reefs—and may interact with stingrays or harmless sharks under supervision.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup in Punta Cana, all snorkeling equipment (with flippers if you want), snacks of tropical fruits plus unlimited national drinks on board and at the floating bar. You’ll get supervised encounters with marine life at Bavaro Beach’s reef area before soaring high above the coast on a guided parasailing flight—all wrapped up before heading back to your hotel.