Escape Punta Cana for a full-day catamaran ride to Cayo Levantado—45 minutes of snorkeling, a buffet lunch on Bacardí Island, and sweeping views of the Samaná mountains. Ideal for travelers who want a single-day, water-focused adventure with minimal planning.
Escape Punta Cana for a full-day catamaran ride to Cayo Levantado—45 minutes of snorkeling, a buffet lunch on Bacardí Island, and sweeping views of the Samaná mountains. Ideal for travelers who want a single-day, water-focused adventure with minimal planning.
You step onto the double-decker catamaran as Punta Cana recedes—a warm breeze pushes the sugar-sand coastline behind you while the Samaná bay opens like a blue invitation. The boat hums across glassy water toward the Samaná peninsula; the mountain ridge at the horizon seems to lean forward, watching you approach.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by RALYM · Samaná, Samaná Province
You step onto the double-decker catamaran as Punta Cana recedes—a warm breeze pushes the sugar-sand coastline behind you while the Samaná bay opens like a blue invitation. The boat hums across glassy water toward the Samaná peninsula; the mountain ridge at the horizon seems to lean forward, watching you approach.
Cayo Levantado (Bacardí Island) carries a short coastal history: a small coral-and-sand outcrop that became a mid-century tourist draw for Dominican beachgoers and cruise visitors. Geologically the islet is a low limestone platform ringed by reef; currents and coral patches make for bright snorkeling, while seabirds—gannets and parrots—claim the trees. The culture ashore is informal: beach restaurants serve freshly grilled fish and rice dishes with rum-laced hospitality.
Practical side: this is a full 10-hour day that combines road transfer, a scenic catamaran crossing, a 45-minute guided snorkel on a sheltered beach, and a buffet lunch on Cayo Levantado. Expect open bar service on board and a mid-day window of free time to swim or walk the shore. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a snorkel mask if you prefer your own gear, biodegradable insect repellent, and a small amount of local cash for souvenirs.
Timing matters—start early to avoid midday crowds on the island and plan for sun exposure throughout the outing. If you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions before boarding. The trip suits travelers looking to swap resort pools for coral gardens and a long, luminous Caribbean beach without backcountry logistics.
moderate.
10 hours.
Suitable for travelers with reasonable stamina—able to board boats, walk on sand and stand during a 45-minute snorkel session.
The full experience runs about 10 hours door-to-door, including road transfer, the catamaran crossing and time on Cayo Levantado.
Basic snorkeling equipment is typically provided, but bringing a personal mask improves fit and comfort.
Yes—there are shallow swimming areas and the tour is marketed as suitable for all fitness levels, but children must be supervised and non-swimmers should use flotation aids.
Yes—there is an open bar on board and alcoholic beverages are served, but the legal drinking age is 18 and drink responsibly.
Cayo Levantado became a tourism landmark in the 20th century as coastal road access and boat services increased, shaping local hospitality economies on the Samaná peninsula.
Coral reefs around the island are vulnerable to sunscreen and anchor damage—choose operators who moor responsibly and use reef-safe products.
RALYM operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.


You step onto the double-decker catamaran as Punta Cana recedes—a warm breeze pushes the sugar-sand coastline behind you while the Samaná bay opens like a blue invitation. The boat hums across glassy water toward the Samaná peninsula; the mountain ridge at the horizon seems to lean forward, watching you approach.
You step onto the double-decker catamaran as Punta Cana recedes—a warm breeze pushes the sugar-sand coastline behind you while the Samaná bay opens like a blue invitation. The boat hums across glassy water toward the Samaná peninsula; the mountain ridge at the horizon seems to lean forward, watching you approach.
Cayo Levantado (Bacardí Island) carries a short coastal history: a small coral-and-sand outcrop that became a mid-century tourist draw for Dominican beachgoers and cruise visitors. Geologically the islet is a low limestone platform ringed by reef; currents and coral patches make for bright snorkeling, while seabirds—gannets and parrots—claim the trees. The culture ashore is informal: beach restaurants serve freshly grilled fish and rice dishes with rum-laced hospitality.
Practical side: this is a full 10-hour day that combines road transfer, a scenic catamaran crossing, a 45-minute guided snorkel on a sheltered beach, and a buffet lunch on Cayo Levantado. Expect open bar service on board and a mid-day window of free time to swim or walk the shore. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a snorkel mask if you prefer your own gear, biodegradable insect repellent, and a small amount of local cash for souvenirs.
Timing matters—start early to avoid midday crowds on the island and plan for sun exposure throughout the outing. If you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions before boarding. The trip suits travelers looking to swap resort pools for coral gardens and a long, luminous Caribbean beach without backcountry logistics.