Catamaran to Los Haitises & Cayo Levantado: Samana Day Trip with Lunch
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable standing and short walks, plus boarding small boats
Overview
Glide through mangrove-canaled limestone islands, explore caves marked with Taíno art, then unwind on Cayo Levantado with a classic Dominican lunch. This 6–8 hour catamaran tour from Samaná pairs wildlife viewing with beach time and local flavor.
Catamaran to Los Haitises & Cayo Levantado: Samana Day Trip with Lunch
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The catamaran drifts out from Samaná harbor and the bay opens like a working map—mangrove fingers, stubby limestone islets, and cliffs scored by rain and time. Salt air carries the sound of gulls and the soft chatter of your guide explaining the day's route: a slow glide through Los Haitises National Park's maze of channels, a stop at caves where Taíno petroglyphs watch the tide, then a wash of white sand and a typical Dominican lunch on Cayo Levantado.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Sea conditions vary
Bring motion-sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness—trips cross open bay and can be choppy in the afternoon.
Protect against the sun
Use reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and polarized sunglasses for glare off the water and white sand.
Footwear for shore and caves
Wear quick-drying reef or water shoes for rocky landings and slippery cave floors.
Bring cash for vendors
Small local vendors may not accept cards—bring small bills for souvenirs or extra drinks on Cayo Levantado.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Magnificent frigatebirds and brown pelicans
- Herons and occasional manatees in mangrove channels
History
Los Haitises contains numerous Taíno petroglyphs and cave paintings; the park’s caves were once ceremonial sites and later marked by colonial sketches.
Conservation
The park is protected, but fragile—tour operators are asked to limit wake, stay out of sensitive mangrove roots, and follow 'leave no trace' practices to protect nesting birds and seagrass beds.
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Adventure Hotspots in Samaná
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef or water shoes
Protects feet on rocky shorelines and in shallow reef areas.
summer specific
Reef-safe sunscreen and lip balm
Prevents sunburn and protects marine life.
summer specific
Light waterproof jacket
Blocks spray and short tropical showers during the boat portions.
fall specific
Small daypack with water bottle
Keeps essentials, water, camera, and medication handy throughout the day.