Punta Cana: Private Cruise, Snorkeling & Floating Seafood Lunch

Summary

Snorkeling coral gardens fresh seafood lunch floating bar Punta Cana

You’ll cruise Punta Cana’s bright waters with a small group and local guide, snorkel among restored coral gardens teeming with marine life, sip fresh coconut cocktails beside Bavaro Lagoon, and savor grilled seafood straight from a floating kitchen. Expect genuine moments—like laughter over mispronounced Spanish—and leave with memories that stick long after you wash off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the color of the water off Punta Cana — this weird, electric blue that almost looks fake until you’re in it. We piled onto the boat (there were seven of us, plus two crew), and our guide José grinned as he handed out snorkel masks. He joked about his sunburned nose and pointed toward Cape Engano, saying that’s where the Caribbean Sea really begins. I didn’t know what to expect from a “private cruise” but it felt more relaxed than I thought — no blaring music or pushy schedule, just the slap of waves and someone slicing pineapple somewhere behind me.

We stopped at Cabeza de Toro reef for snorkeling — apparently it’s part of some big coral gardening project. I’m not an expert but even I could tell there was something special about this spot. The fish were everywhere: yellow stripes, blue flashes, a couple of curious little ones darting right up to my mask. José dove down and waved at something — later he explained it was one of their artificial reef structures for coral restoration. The salt stung my lips but I kind of liked it; you get used to it fast when you’re distracted by all the colors below.

Afterwards we drifted to this quiet stretch near Bavaro Lagoon — no crowds, just tangled mangroves and a breeze that smelled faintly like coconut and sunscreen. Someone on the crew cracked open real coconuts for us (I tried to say gracias properly; Li laughed at my accent). The floating bar appeared out of nowhere — seriously, it’s an actual bar bobbing on the water — and suddenly we were eating grilled shrimp and croissants while our feet dangled in the sea. I still think about that taste: smoky seafood with a bit of lime juice, sun on my shoulders, nowhere else to be.

On the way back we stopped at these shallow natural pools. Four feet deep so you can just stand around with your drink or try beginner snorkeling if you want (my friend did both). There was a moment where everything went quiet except for laughter from another group nearby — not loud, just happy in that low-key Dominican way. We downloaded photos from their Facebook page later (some good ones of me looking very confused by my snorkel gear). It wasn’t perfect — I got sunburned despite reapplying sunscreen twice — but honestly? That made it feel more real somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Punta Cana snorkeling and seafood cruise

• Set sail through Punta Cana waters
• Snorkel at Cabeza de Toro reef
• Visit last untouched Bavaro beach
• Enjoy fresh coconut cocktail
• Stop at natural pools for relaxing
• Snorkel in shallow reef-like structures
• Indulge in freshly grilled seafood

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Punta Cana private cruise?

Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned shuttle is included.

What food is served during the floating seafood lunch?

The menu includes freshly grilled seafood plus options like surf & turf, meat dishes, vegetarian meals, tropical fruits, and croissants.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this day trip?

Yes, all snorkeling gear and a snorkel guide are included in your tour.

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, there’s an unlimited national open bar plus cocktails made with fresh coconut milk.

Can families with children join this private cruise?

Yes—infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers; tours cater to all ages.

How many people can join this private cruise?

The cruise accommodates up to 10 guests per booking.

Where does snorkeling take place during this tour?

You’ll snorkel at Cabeza de Toro reef near Punta Cana—home to a major coral gardening project.

Are photos included on this Punta Cana cruise?

Yes—free photos are uploaded for download from their Facebook page after your trip.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Punta Cana by air-conditioned shuttle, all snorkel equipment with guidance at Cabeza de Toro reef, unlimited drinks from both the onboard open bar and unique floating bar experience, freshly prepared lunch featuring grilled seafood or other menu choices from their floating kitchen, tropical fruit snacks and croissants throughout the day, plus free downloadable photos so you don’t have to worry about missing any moments before heading back home salty and happy.