Cayo Levantado Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Punta Cana — Snorkel, Beach & Buffet Lunch
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness required — able to board a boat, stand and walk on sand for up to a few hours; basic swimming recommended for snorkel portion.
Overview
A full-day catamaran escape from Punta Cana to Cayo Levantado (Bacardí Island): snorkel a quiet reef, lounge on white sand, and savor a Caribbean buffet. This guide covers what to expect, timing, and practical tips to make the most of the 10-hour trip.
Cayo Levantado Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Punta Cana — Snorkel, Beach & Buffet Lunch
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The salt smells sharp as the catamaran slides out of the marina; the Caribbean opens to a wide, clean blue and the Samaná peninsula rises from the horizon like a green wall. Onboard, laughter mixes with the steady slap of waves against the hull while guides point out the ragged ridge of the Samaná mountain range — your day’s backdrop. Within an hour you can imagine yourself stepping from polished teak onto a strip of ivory sand where the sea is shallow enough to read the reef’s shadow.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Coral here is sensitive; apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding to protect marine life and avoid sticky lotions on boat seating.
Pack a dry bag and waterproof phone case
You’ll be on deck and in shallow water — secure valuables against spray and sand.
Wear reef shoes
The shoreline has rocky patches; lightweight reef shoes make walking and snorkeling entries easier.
Hydrate and time your lunch
Carry a refillable bottle for the day and budget time to eat before heading back to the boat — lunch lines can form.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Frigatebirds and gannets
- Tropical reef fish and occasional sea turtles
History
Cayo Levantado sits off the Samaná peninsula, an area with Taíno roots later shaped by Spanish colonial trade; the island’s modern nickname 'Bacardí' came from a popular rum advertisement in the late 20th century.
Conservation
Reef conservation is active in the region; visitors are asked to use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral, and follow guides’ instructions to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Punta Cana
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the coral ecosystems that you’ll snorkel over.
summer specific
Waterproof phone case/dry bag
Keeps electronics safe from spray, sand and accidental submersion.
Snorkel mask (personal)
A personal mask often fits better than rental gear and improves your snorkel time.
Light reef shoes or water sandals
Protects feet on rocky entries and hot sand while offering grip on wet surfaces.