Punta Cana: Speed Boat & Snorkeling Tour with Bavaro Reef Stop

Summary

Drive your own speed boat in Punta Cana then snorkel Bavaro’s reef and float at the Natural Pool sandbar

You’ll drive your own speed boat along Punta Cana’s coast with a local guide leading the way, stop to snorkel at colorful Bavaro Reef, then relax at the lively Natural Pool sandbar with drinks in hand. Expect laughter, salty air, and moments that linger longer than expected.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salt in the air — not sharp, just sort of sticky on my skin. We met our guide, Miguel, who had this easy smile and a way of making you feel like you weren’t about to totally mess up driving a speed boat for the first time. He handed us a quick briefing, but honestly, I was more focused on the rumble of engines and that weird nervous excitement you get before doing something new. When he said “You’re captain now,” I laughed — didn’t expect to actually be steering my own boat in Punta Cana, but there we were.

We took off along the water, and it wasn’t as hard as I’d thought. The spray hit my face and I could hear music drifting from another boat somewhere — reggaeton maybe? The water near Bavaro Reef turned this wild blue-green, and when we stopped to snorkel, Miguel pointed out these tiny electric-blue fish darting between rocks. My mask kept fogging up and I swallowed a bit of seawater (don’t recommend), but floating above all that color was worth it. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for my own breathing through the snorkel tube — kind of peaceful in a way.

Afterwards we zipped over to what they call the Natural Pool — really just a shallow sandbar where everyone seems to end up eventually. Boats pulled up side by side, people laughing and holding plastic cups of something sweet (I stuck to soda). The water here is so clear you can see your toes wiggling in the sand. Miguel handed out drinks and told us stories about growing up around Bavaro Beach — he made fun of my Spanish but in a nice way. It felt less like a tour and more like hanging out with friends you just met.

I still think about that patch of sunlight on the water while we drifted there, not really wanting to head back yet. If you ever wanted to drive your own speed boat in Punta Cana or just float around with good people and music in your ears — well, this is pretty much it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Speedboat cruise and snorkeling tour

• Meet the guide and briefing
• Board your speedboat
• Navigate to the reef
• See colorful fish at reef
• Cruise to the natural pool
• Enjoy drinks and fun at sandbar
• Drive your own boat freely

Top questions

Do I need experience to drive the speed boat?

No prior experience is needed; a short briefing is provided before you start.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is included for use during the tour.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Soda, bottled water, and drinks at the Natural Pool are included.

How long does it take to reach Bavaro Reef from Punta Cana?

The ride from Punta Cana to Bavaro Reef by speed boat is short; exact timing depends on group pace.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, private transportation from your hotel is included.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety reasons.

What’s special about the Natural Pool stop?

The Natural Pool is a shallow sandbar with crystal-clear water where boats gather for swimming and drinks.

Are public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close by if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup in Punta Cana, bottled water and soda throughout the trip, use of snorkeling equipment at Bavaro Reef, plus drinks served while relaxing at the Natural Pool before heading back ashore together.