Punta Cana: Private Catamaran Cruise with Snorkel & Open Bar

Summary

Private boat cruise in punta cana with snorkeling stops and open bar

You’ll board a private catamaran in Punta Cana with your group, cruise out for snorkeling over bright reefs, then relax in a shallow natural pool with snacks and open bar drinks. Expect warm breezes, easy laughter with your guide, and plenty of time to just float or swim before heading back ashore.

What’s the experience like?

There’s this moment when you first step barefoot onto the deck — the wood is warm from the sun, but there’s a salty breeze that cools everything down. I remember glancing back at our little group as we left Punta Cana behind, everyone half-laughing because someone (okay, me) almost dropped their hat into the water. Our guide, Carlos, just grinned and handed out drinks — rum punch for most of us, but I stuck to Sprite at first. It felt like we had all the time in the world.

The catamaran didn’t rush. We drifted past palm trees and hotels until it was just sea and sky. When we stopped for snorkeling, Carlos passed around gear and showed us how to fit our masks. I hesitated at first — I’m not exactly a pro swimmer — but he promised he’d keep an eye on us. The water was so clear it almost looked fake, with these flashes of yellow fish darting below. I could hear my own breathing through the snorkel and nothing else for a minute or two. It was quieter than I expected.

Afterwards we cruised to this shallow spot they call a “natural pool.” It’s really just this patch of turquoise where you can stand waist-deep way out from shore. Someone brought nachos and sandwiches out on a tray (the bread was soft, which surprised me), and there were more drinks — even Mamajuana if you wanted to try it. My friend tried to say “gracias” with a Dominican accent; Carlos laughed so hard he nearly spilled his beer.

I liked that nobody hurried us along. The crew played music quietly in the background (bachata? I think so), but mostly we just floated or talked about nothing much at all. At some point I realized my shoulders were sunburned — should’ve reapplied sunscreen — but honestly, I still think about how light everything felt out there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Punta Cana private catamaran tour

• Board private catamaran
• Enjoy open bar and snacks
• Snorkel at coral reef spots
• Visit natural shallow swimming pool
• Relax in calm waters
• Return to shore

Top questions

Is this Punta Cana private boat tour suitable for families?

Yes, it’s great for families—kids can join and the natural pool has shallow water safe for all ages.

How long does the private catamaran cruise last?

The tour lasts 3 hours from pickup to drop-off.

What’s included in the Punta Cana private boat experience?

Private transportation, open bar (rum, beer, cocktails), snacks (nachos & sandwiches), snorkeling equipment are all included.

How many people can join this private boat tour?

The price covers up to 10 guests; you can add up to 3 more people for an extra fee per person (max 13).

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes—all necessary snorkeling gear is provided onboard.

Is lunch included during the cruise?

No full lunch is served but you get nachos with salsa and ham & cheese sandwiches as snacks.

Is pickup from my hotel included?

Yes—private transportation is included both ways from local hotels.

Can infants or people using wheelchairs join?

Yes—the boat is wheelchair accessible and infants/small children are welcome too.

What’s included

Your day includes private round-trip transportation from your hotel in Punta Cana, use of high-quality snorkeling gear once onboard, plenty of snacks like nachos with salsa and ham & cheese sandwiches served fresh on deck, plus unlimited drinks—rum punch, beer, cocktails like Mamajuana if you’re curious—or soft drinks if you prefer. All of this happens on your own exclusive catamaran before returning relaxed after three hours at sea.