Bayahibe: Saona Island Sailing in catamaran with open bar

Bayahibe: Saona Island Sailing in Catamaran with Open Bar

Location: La Romana (Province), Dominican Republic
Country: Dominican Republic
Rating: 4 out of 5 (based on 4 reviews)
Supplier: Somos Viaje Punta Cana
Duration: Approximately 10 hours

An Honest Look at the Saona Island Catamaran Experience

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back day soaking up the sun, sipping local drinks, and wandering through one of the Caribbean’s most iconic islands, this tour could be just what you need. It’s marketed as a mix of luxury, local flavor, and scenery, promising an authentic but comfortable escape from everyday worries.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the catamaran cruise to Saona Island offers a scenic journey, giving you ample time on deck to enjoy the breeze and views. Second, the open bar and buffet lunch provide a satisfying break from the beach, allowing you to indulge in Dominican specialties and refreshing drinks. Third, the free time on Saona’s beach and natural pool lets you relax, swim, and look for starfish—an authentic Caribbean experience.

However, one thing to consider is the loud music on the boat, which some travelers find overwhelming. A reviewer from Germany mentioned that the music was so loud during the cruise that it almost caused a hearing issue, so if you prefer quieter trips, this might be a point to keep in mind.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation, scenic sailing, and cultural flavor — ideal for those seeking a full-day escape with plenty of activities and social vibes.

Good To Know

• Scenic Catamaran Cruise: Enjoy a comfortable, lively boat ride from Bayahibe to Saona Island.
• Authentic Food & Drinks: Savor a buffet of Dominican dishes and unlimited local beverages.
• Beach & Natural Pool: Unwind on pristine beaches and swim in shallow waters while searching for starfish.
• Local Culture & Entertainment: Experience Dominican music and lively onboard atmosphere.
• Flexible Cancellation & Payment: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Group & Language Options: Tours are available in English, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish, with hotel pickup included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect on This Day Trip

Morning Pickup & Departure

The adventure begins with hotel pickup, which varies depending on where you’re staying in Bayahibe. Expect a personalized experience, with the tour provider contacting you 24 hours prior to confirm the exact time. Once on board, you’ll hop onto a comfortable catamaran, ready for a roughly 10-hour day of fun.

The Cruise to Saona Island

The journey to Saona Island is as much about the scenic views as the destination. Expect a lively atmosphere with live entertainment and Dominican music setting the tone. Some reviews mention the boat’s loud music as a highlight, but it’s worth noting that it can be quite loud — a potential downside if you prefer a quieter ride. The vessel is designed to make the most of the tropical breeze, with plenty of space on deck for lounging.

Natural Pool Stop & Starfish Search

Midway through the trip, you’ll stop at the famous natural pool — a shallow, clear lagoon where you can swim, relax, and hunt for starfish. This part of the tour is often highlighted as a favorite for its calm waters and the chance to get close to marine life. Travelers often mention how fun it is to see starfish in their natural habitat, which adds a memorable touch to the day.

Arrival at Saona Island

When you step onto Saona Island, you’re greeted with pristine white sandy beaches and vibrant turquoise waters. The free time here is perfect for lounging, swimming, or exploring the island’s beauty. You might also enjoy the beachside bars or take a walk along the shoreline. Some reviewers mention that the beaches are truly beautiful, with soft sand and clear water making them a perfect Caribbean postcard.

Lunch & Refreshments

A buffet lunch is served on the boat or on the island, with a selection of Dominican dishes that showcase the local flavors. The open bar offers unlimited drinks, including local beers, rum-based cocktails, and soft drinks, making it easy to relax and socialize. It’s a great way to enjoy the tropical setting without worrying about extra costs.

Return Journey & Evening Arrival

After several hours on the island and in the natural pool, you’ll board the boat for the return trip. Expect lively music and perhaps some dancing, as the crew keeps the energy up. The trip concludes with hotel drop-off, bringing a full, satisfying day to a close.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Authentic Caribbean Experience with a Local Vibe

Unlike some tours that are purely commercial, this experience blends luxury with local flavor, thanks in part to the lively onboard entertainment and the Dominican-style buffet. It’s designed to feel festive and fun, with plenty of opportunities to socialize and enjoy the scenery.

Flexibility & Ease of Booking

The option to reserve now and pay later makes this tour accessible and adaptable to changing plans. Plus, the full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

Comfort & Convenience

The hotel pickup service ensures you don’t need to worry about transportation, and the small-group vibe (depending on the boat size) aims to give a more intimate experience.

The Realities: Pros & Cons Based on Reviews & Experience

Pros:

• The scenic boat ride offers great views and a lively atmosphere.
• The buffet lunch with Dominican dishes provides a hearty, authentic meal.
• The natural pool gives a relaxing, kid-friendly environment with shallow waters and starfish.
• Hotel pickup simplifies logistics and saves time.

Cons:

• The loud music on the boat was a concern for some, with at least one reviewer mentioning it was so loud it caused potential hearing issues. If you’re sensitive to noise, consider this.
• The duration (10 hours) means a full day out, which might be tiring for some.
• Some travelers felt the the quality of the experience was just “middle of the road,” suggesting it’s good but not extraordinary.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the price point and inclusions, this tour offers good value for travelers who want a fun, social day with plenty of scenic moments. The combination of sailing, beach time, and local cuisine makes it appealing for first-time visitors eager to tick off a trip to Saona Island. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy lively atmospheres and a bit of Caribbean culture along with natural beauty.

However, if you’re seeking a quiet, more subdued experience, or highly personalized service, this might not be your ideal choice. The loud music and busy vibe are part of the charm for many but could be off-putting for others.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples, groups of friends, or families who thrive on social environments and enjoy lively boat rides. It’s also great for those looking for a full-day package that includes food, drinks, and multiple highlights in one trip.

If you’re after a calm, intimate day with just a few relaxing moments, you might want to explore quieter, more exclusive options. But for a fun, active Caribbean adventure with a lively crowd, this tour fits the bill.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is included and varies depending on your hotel’s location in Bayahibe. You will be contacted 24 hours before the trip to confirm the exact pickup time.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in English, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 10 hours, from pickup to return, including travel, activities, and free time on Saona Island.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some cash for souvenirs or additional drinks. The trip includes an open bar, but extras are optional.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the shallow waters and natural pool make it family-friendly, but consider the loud music and the length of the trip when planning for kids.

This sailing adventure to Saona Island offers a lively, scenic, and culturally rich day out. Perfect for those seeking fun, sun, and a taste of the Caribbean’s vibrant vibe — just be prepared for the energetic onboard atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby