Puerto Plata Cruise Port Catamaran Snorkeling BBQ and Open Bar

Planning a cruise stop in Puerto Plata? You’ve probably seen a handful of excursions promising fun, sun, and relaxation—but this particular tour, offered by Boat Trips Club, really packs a punch. It’s a 3-hour shared catamaran experience that manages to hit all the right notes: scenic sailing, beginner-friendly snorkeling, a delicious Dominican BBQ, and unlimited drinks, all curated to ensure you get back to your ship on time.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the convenient meeting point right at the cruise port makes it super easy to join. Second, the small group size—capped at 100 travelers—means it doesn’t feel crowded. Third, the friendly, knowledgeable crew (highlighted by many past guests) helps create a relaxed, fun atmosphere. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour is shared, so your experience might be impacted by the group size or other travelers’ energy.

If you’re someone who loves a well-organized outing with a blend of adventure, local flavor, and laid-back fun, this could be perfect. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers with limited time but a desire to experience the Caribbean’s best bits without fuss.

Good To Know

• Easy pick-up directly at the cruise port for a seamless start
• Beginners friendly snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs
• Authentic Dominican BBQ lunch served on board
• Unlimited drinks including local rum, beer, and soft drinks
• Professional crew known for their friendly, attentive service
• Guaranteed back-to-ship-on-time to avoid rushing or missing your cruise

What to Expect from the Puerto Plata Catamaran Tour

The standout feature of this excursion is its balance of simplicity and enjoyment. You don’t need previous sailing or snorkeling experience to have a great time, thanks to the beginner-friendly snorkeling stop at Sosúa Reef. The reef is known for its lively coral formations and colorful fish, providing a decent introduction to Caribbean marine life without the need for extensive gear or training.

The 3-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy the sun, sea, and local flavors without feeling rushed. The tour begins at 11:30 AM, giving you a morning suited for a relaxed start, and wraps up by 2:30 PM, leaving plenty of time for other cruise activities. The cruise departs from Sosúa Beach after a scenic transfer from the cruise port, ensuring you get a taste of the local coast along the way.

The Sailing Experience

Once aboard the spacious catamaran, you’ll be greeted by the crew, who are both professional and approachable. The vessel is designed to maximize comfort, with plenty of deck space to lounge, dance, or simply soak in the Caribbean views. The crew often keeps the energy lively with Caribbean beats, and many reviews mention the fun atmosphere created by the crew members such as Mikey, who guests say went above and beyond to make the experience memorable.

Snorkeling at Sosúa Reef

The reef itself is typically suitable for all skill levels—perfect if you’re new to snorkeling, or if you just want to float among colorful fish. A basic set of snorkeling equipment is provided, allowing you to easily explore the underwater world. Guests have shared that the reef is vibrant and lively, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone wanting to see marine life up close.

Food and Drinks on Board

One of the highlights is the authentic Dominican BBQ lunch. You’ll enjoy sausage, chicken, and meat brochettes, served with parsley bread, pineapple, and watermelon—ideal for refueling after snorkeling. The open bar is a key feature, with unlimited rum, vodka, beer, and soft drinks. Many guests mention how the crew keeps the drinks flowing and the music playing, creating a festive vibe that’s perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Entertainment & Atmosphere

The music and dancing add a lively Caribbean touch, making this more than just a boat ride. The crew actively contribute to the fun, and guests often comment on how friendly and helpful they are. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or with family, the relaxed, upbeat environment caters to all.

The Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Pricing

This tour is priced at $99 per person, which many consider to be excellent value considering the inclusions—snorkeling gear, BBQ, drinks, and a scenic boat ride. The meet-up point is at the cruise port, with pickup options available from nearby hotels like Cofresí, Playa Bachata, Sosúa, and Cabarete, making it convenient for those staying locally or arriving on a cruise.

Group size is capped at 100 travelers, which means you won’t be lost in a crowd. The shared nature of the experience ensures a lively, social atmosphere, but it’s still intimate enough to feel personal thanks to attentive crew members.

The transport time from the cruise port to Sosúa Beach is approximately 30-50 minutes, depending on traffic. The tour operates with a back-to-ship guarantee, so you can indulge in your Caribbean adventure without worry about missing your cruise.

Authentic Insights from Past Guests

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially highlighting crew members like Mikey who are friendly, professional, and eager to ensure everyone has a good time. One reviewer described their experience as a “good experience,” noting the boat ride was excellent for friends and family, and appreciated the crew’s warm hospitality.

Guests also mention the smooth organization and that the tour feels well-paced, giving enough time to enjoy snorkeling, lunch, and lounging. The open bar is a major hit, as many say it keeps the party lively and relaxed. A couple of reviewers did mention that towels are not provided, so bringing your own is a good idea, along with sunscreen and personal items.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for cruise passengers looking for a timed, hassle-free Caribbean adventure. It’s suitable for most travelers, including beginners and families, thanks to its beginner-friendly snorkeling and relaxed vibe. Those seeking a lively atmosphere with music, dancing, and unlimited drinks will feel right at home, while anyone wanting a taste of local cuisine and scenery without overcomplicating their day will find this to be a solid choice.

However, travelers with limited mobility should note that boarding is via a beach ladder, which might be challenging. It’s also a shared activity, so if you’re after a private or more exclusive experience, this may not suit you.

Final Thoughts

For anyone cruising through Puerto Plata, this 3-hour catamaran adventure offers a fun, laid-back way to soak up the Caribbean. The combination of scenic sailing, accessible snorkeling, authentic Dominican BBQ, and unlimited drinks makes it a fantastic value for a short sightseeing outing. The crew’s friendly approach and the well-organized schedule means you can relax and enjoy without stress.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, the vibe is welcoming and lively. It’s a flexible option that hits the right balance between activity and relaxation, ensuring you’ll return to your ship happy, refreshed, and with plenty of stories to tell.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for those who want a spirited, hassle-free Caribbean experience that combines scenery, local flavor, and fun. It’s perfect for cruise guests who are short on time but want to make the most of their Puerto Plata stop without sacrificing quality or comfort.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the snorkeling stop is beginner-friendly, with basic equipment provided and calm waters over vibrant coral reefs, making it accessible for first-timers.

Does the tour include transportation from the cruise port?
Yes, the tour offers cruise port pickup from Amber Cove and Taino Bay, making it easy to join without extra planning.

What is the duration of the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, beginning at 11:30 AM and ending around 2:30 PM.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, personal items, and possibly a waterproof camera. Towels are not included, so bring your own.

Is food included?
Yes, a Dominican BBQ lunch featuring sausage, chicken, meat brochettes, parsley bread, pineapple, and watermelon is served on board.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, the open bar includes rum, vodka, beer, orange juice, cola, Sprite, and water—all unlimited during the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing for full refunds if needed.

This Puerto Plata catamaran tour offers a lively, authentic Caribbean experience with great value, friendly guides, and a well-rounded itinerary—perfect for cruise travelers wanting a taste of local flavor and fun on the water.