Swap the resort for a full-day Saona Island cruise: waist-deep natural pools with starfish, a private beach club, and a Dominican buffet with open bar. Read on for what to expect, how to prepare, and local tips to make the most of the day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips away from the mainland and the Caribbean unfurls — shallow turquoise banding into deeper navy, wind combing the palms on the horizon. On a Saona Island day cruise visitors trade hotel pools for waist-deep natural pools dotted with starfish, and a privately run beach club where loungers sit in the shade of palm crowns.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people in average fitness; requires ability to stand and swim in shallow water and manage short boat transfers
Wildlife
History
Saona has long been a fishing and small-scale agricultural island; it became a popular tourist destination in the late 20th century as charter operators began day trips from nearby mainland ports.
Conservation
Saona is part of a protected marine area—visitors are asked to avoid anchoring on reefs, not remove shells or marine life, and use reef-safe products to reduce impacts.
Reserve your spot on the Swim and Relax in Tropical Paradise to Saona Island today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral and seagrass by using only reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often—sun is intense on the sandbank.
Wear water shoes
Sandy flats and occasional sharp shells make reef shoes useful for walking to and from the natural pool.
Use a dry bag
Keep phones and passports dry; the boat ride and shallow swimming put items at risk of splashes.
Hydrate before and after
Open bar doesn’t replace electrolytes—carry a reusable bottle and drink water between cocktails.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects both your skin and the island’s marine life under strong tropical sun.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet on sandbanks, rocky shorelines, and when boarding the boat.
Lightweight dry bag
Keeps electronics, documents, and spare clothing dry during the boat transfer and swim stops.
Wide-brim hat & sunglasses
Reduces glare and sun exposure during long periods on open deck and sand.
summer