Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) Catamaran Excursion — Snorkel, Beach & Buffet in Samaná Bay
Difficulty
easy
Duration
11–12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility for boarding and light swimming for snorkeling.
Overview
Sail across Samaná Bay to Cayo Levantado—Bacardi Island—on a full-day catamaran excursion that combines snorkeling in a natural pool, a relaxed beachfront buffet lunch, and hours of white-sand lounging. This easy, all-inclusive day trip is ideal for travelers who want a low-effort slice of tropical coastline.
Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) Catamaran Excursion — Snorkel, Beach & Buffet in Samaná Bay
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The catamaran slips out of the harbor while the Samaná Peninsula blurs into a low green ribbon. Salt sprays the rail and the crew calls out directions with easy confidence; the boat’s cadence becomes part ferry, part invitation. After a short, wind-swept sail through Samaná Bay, passengers gather at the bow — eyes on a slice of white sand that rises like a grin from turquoise water. This is Cayo Levantado, known to many as Bacardi Island, where the afternoon unfolds between a natural pool alive with tropical fish and a beach broad enough to claim a towel space without elbowing your neighbor.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The tour emphasizes reef protection; use mineral-based sunscreen to protect coral and avoid skin irritation after snorkeling.
Use the provided snorkel gear or bring your own mask
Masks vary—if you’re picky about fit, bring a personal snorkel mask for clearer, longer sessions in the natural pool.
Protect valuables from spray
Bring a small dry bag for phone, keys and cash — the catamaran is open to wind and occasional spray.
Time your day for calmer seas
Morning departures typically offer smoother water for snorkeling and a less crowded beach scene on the island.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Tropical reef fish (parrotfish, butterflyfish)
- Humpback whales (seasonal; Jan–Mar)
History
Cayo Levantado earned the ‘Bacardi’ nickname after a high-profile advertisement highlighted its white sand—its human history also ties to Taíno presence and colonial-era coastal routes.
Conservation
Local operators encourage reef-safe practices and limited anchoring near coral; avoid touching coral and use designated paths onshore to minimize erosion.
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Adventure Hotspots in Samaná
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Snorkel mask
Better fit and visibility than standard rental gear for longer snorkeling sessions.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the coral ecosystems in Samaná Bay.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protects feet from sharp shells and rocky patches when entering or exiting shore.
spring specific
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet and small items safe from spray and waves.