Saona Island: Small Group Catamaran & Lunch with Snorkeling

Summary

Saona’s blue water, fresh lunch and quiet beaches away from crowds

You’ll sail to Saona Island on a roomy catamaran with just a small group—snorkeling with guides, fresh lunch onboard (with rosé!), and plenty of space to stretch out or nap under palm trees. Swim in shallow natural pools far from other tourists before heading back with salt in your hair and probably a new favorite memory.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if the water in those Saona Island photos is really that blue? I did too, honestly. The morning started at Bayahibe—just a handful of us shuffling onto this huge catamaran (Quetzal, our guide said), shoes already off, toes feeling that weird mix of excitement and sunscreen. There was this salty breeze and the low thump of music from the speakers, but not loud enough to drown out the sound of someone laughing in Spanish near the bar. I liked that it wasn’t packed; everyone sort of found their own corner or cushion without bumping elbows.

Snorkeling came first. I’m not exactly Jacques Cousteau, so I stuck close to our guide—she pointed out these little flashes of color darting under the boat. The mask always smells a bit like rubber and ocean together, you know? But it’s worth it for those moments when you spot something moving in the coral and want to nudge someone nearby (I did). Then back onboard, there was this spread—avocadoes sliced open right there, tomatoes glistening in the sun, chicken with ginger that surprised me (in a good way), and pasta tossed with pesto. Rosé wine too. Someone tried to order beer in French and got corrected gently by the bartender—made us all laugh.

We landed on Saona Island itself after lunch. The sand was soft but not blindingly white like postcards make it seem—it felt real, warm underfoot. I grabbed a chair under some palm trees and just watched people drift into naps or wander down to the water with a drink in hand. No big crowds anywhere; apparently they time things so we miss most of them. At one point I just lay back and listened to a couple locals arguing about baseball scores somewhere behind me (Dominican voices carry even when they’re whispering).

The last stop was this natural pool—shallow water stretching forever, starfish scattered around if you looked close enough. We were far from any other boats; it actually got quiet for a second except for someone opening another bottle of rum nearby. I still think about floating there, sun on my face, not really caring what time it was or what came next.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing, snorkeling, beach, and natural pool

• Board sailing boat at Bayahibe
• Snorkeling with guides
• Relax on Saona Island beach
• Enjoy lunch on board
• Visit natural pool to see starfish

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for Saona Island tours?

Hotel pickup is included only for hotels in the Bayahibe area.

What food is served during the catamaran tour?

The lunch includes avocadoes, tomatoes, parmesan cheese, salad, pasta with pesto, chicken breast with ginger, beef, fruits and rosé wine.

How many people are on the boat?

The group is small so everyone has space; exact numbers can vary but it’s not crowded.

Are drinks included on the Saona Island catamaran tour?

Yes—unlimited beer, rum, soft drinks and rosé wine are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes—all snorkeling gear is provided along with guided snorkeling time.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Yes—vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Can children join this Saona Island day trip?

Yes—children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Does the tour operate if it rains?

The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup (Bayahibe area), guided snorkeling with all equipment provided, unlimited drinks (beer, rum, soft drinks), snacks throughout the trip plus a full lunch onboard featuring salads, chicken breast with ginger sauce, beef options and pasta with pesto as well as fresh fruit and rosé wine before returning in comfort on the spacious catamaran.