Private Full-Day Catamaran Charter to Saona Island from Punta Cana

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

The catamaran slips away from the marina, deck boards humming underfoot and a warm trade wind pushing the bow toward open blue. On the horizon Saona Island reads like a promise: low palms, a white rim of sand, and water that changes from turquoise to indigo as the hull crosses reef flats.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

8 hours (approx.).

Fitness level

Moderate fitness — must be comfortable swimming, climbing ladders on and off the boat, and walking on sand and uneven piers.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to join?

You should be comfortable in open water and able to swim short distances; flotation vests are available for weaker swimmers.

Can I dive and snorkel on the same day?

Yes—certified divers can join guided dives; follow dive operator rules and observe preflight surface interval recommendations (allow at least 18 hours before flying after diving).

Is food and drink included?

Yes — the tour includes a buffet lunch, snacks, unlimited drinks and mojitos served on board and on the island.

What should I wear/bring for the island stop?

Bring a swimsuit, sun protection, cash for souvenirs, a towel, and shallow-water footwear for the sandbar and pier areas.

Local insights

Wildlife

Loggerhead and hawksbill sea turtles
Southern stingrays

History

Saona Island forms part of Cotubanamá National Park and carries Taíno heritage; Spanish colonial fishing patterns later shaped local settlements.

Conservation

Saona is inside a protected marine area—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral or starfish, and follow guides’ instructions to minimize impact.

About El Tour Caribe - Tours

El Tour Caribe - Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationPunta Cana, La Altagracia

Tours offered4+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreenUse only reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral and comply with local conservation efforts; apply before boarding.

Prepare for seasicknessIf you’re susceptible to motion sickness, take preventative medication at least 30–60 minutes before departure and choose a central seat.

Divers: bring certificationCertified divers must present proof of certification and respect depth/time limits; ask about dive group size and guide ratio.

Carry small cashBring small Dominican pesos for beach massages, souvenirs, and tipping crew at stops where card machines may not be available.

Recommended gear

Reef-safe sunscreen: Protects skin and coral; tropical UV is strong year-round.
Snorkel mask (personal): A well-fitting mask improves visibility and comfort for prolonged snorkeling.
Water shoes: Protects feet on rocky piers, reef entries, and the island’s uneven shoreline.
Light drybag: Keeps phone, wallet and spare clothes dry while moving between boat and shore.