Punta Cana: Private yacht cruise with brunch & snorkeling

Summary

Private catamaran, fresh seafood, music and the Caribbean sun in Punta Cana

You’ll float along Punta Cana’s coast on a private yacht with your group, stopping to snorkel among coral reefs and enjoy chef-cooked seafood brunch. Sip tropical drinks from an open bar while music plays and try paddle boarding or just relax in a natural pool where two seas meet—these are moments you’ll remember long after you’ve left the boat.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a glass of passion fruit punch before I’d even found my spot on the deck — I remember the sticky-sweet smell mixing with salt air and sunscreen. Our guide, Luis, grinned and told us to pick any seat we liked. He said we could play our own music if we wanted, but honestly the island beats coming from the speakers felt just right. There was this easy, unhurried vibe as we drifted out from Punta Cana’s marina, sunlight flickering off the water and everyone sort of settling into their own little groove.

I tried snorkeling for the first time here — not very gracefully, but Luis didn’t laugh (much). The water near Bavaro was so clear you could see flashes of yellow fish darting around coral. I kept getting distracted by how warm it felt compared to home. At one point I just floated there, listening to muffled laughter above and feeling the sun on my back. When I climbed back up, someone had already set out nachos and tropical fruit. The chef — can’t remember his name now — was flipping shrimp on a little grill at the back. He let me try some Mamajuana too (that local spiced rum thing), which burned in a good way.

We passed Dolphin Island and this big tank where stingrays glide around — you catch glimpses if you’re looking for them. Later we anchored at a natural pool where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic. It’s shallow enough to stand with a drink in hand; people were laughing and splashing each other while Luis showed us how to paddle board (I fell off twice). The whole thing felt like one long exhale after months of city noise. On the way back I sat quietly at the bow with my feet dangling over — just watching Punta Cana come back into view, thinking about how easy it is to forget what real relaxation feels like until you’re right in it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling

• Private catamaran tour with guide
• Snorkeling on coral reefs
• Enjoy open bar and snacks
• Float past Dolphin Island and stingrays tank
• Stop at natural pool where Caribbean Sea meets Atlantic Ocean
• Transportation back to hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Punta Cana yacht cruise?

Yes, private transportation from your hotel is included in the tour.

What food and drinks are served during the cruise?

The cruise includes fresh seafood, surf & turf options, vegetarian dishes, nachos with sauce, tropical fruits, soda, bottled water, rum cocktails, beer, juices, Coca-Cola and Mamajuana drink.

Can I snorkel during this day trip in Punta Cana?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided so you can explore coral reefs during the cruise.

Is this private catamaran tour suitable for families?

Yes, it’s suitable for all ages—infants can ride in strollers or prams and specialized infant seats are available.

Are there wheelchair accessible options on this boat tour?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed onboard.

How long does this private yacht experience last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes several hours cruising with stops for snorkeling and swimming before returning to your hotel.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup in Punta Cana or Bavaro area, all drinks from an open bar (rum cocktails, beer, juices), chef-prepared brunch with fresh seafood or vegetarian options plus snacks like nachos and tropical fruit; use of snorkeling gear and paddle boards; music onboard; plus return transport when it’s time to head back ashore.