Saona Cruise, Lunch And Open Bar

Overview

This full-day trip from Punta Cana packs a catamaran sail, a swim stop, and a long stay on Saona Island into about 9.5 hours, hotel pickup and drop-off included. Melinmar Tours runs it in English and Spanish, starting with an air-conditioned van ride to Bayahibe, roughly an hour on the road, where the boat waits.

On the way out, the catamaran pauses at the Natural Pool for about 45 minutes, with crystal-clear waters and starfish in the water. Then comes close to three hours on Saona itself: white sand, swimming, and optional snorkelling if you bring your own gear. A buffet lunch is served at 1:00 pm, and drinks, both soft and alcoholic, flow from the boat onward throughout the day.

The return leg turns into the party part, with music and dancing on deck back to Bayahibe before the van home. Reviewers consistently call the scenery outstanding, the boat atmosphere fun, and the crews friendly.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Hotel pickupPickup from your accommodation in Punta Cana, then a roughly one-hour air-conditioned van transfer toward Bayahibe.
2. Van transferThe road leg lasts about an hour.
3. Catamaran to SaonaBoard at Bayahibe and sail toward Saona Island, with a 45-minute stop at the Natural Pool to swim over starfish.
4. Saona IslandNearly 3 hours of free time on the island's white sand. Bring snorkel gear for the coral reef. A buffet lunch is served at 1:00 pm.
5. Party sail backThe return catamaran ride to Bayahibe runs with music and dancing, and drinks continue on board.
6. Return to Punta CanaA van takes you back to your Punta Cana hotel, closing out the 9.5-hour day.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will shape how this day goes, from what to pack to how the group feels.

• Bring your own snorkel. The listing asks you to bring snorkelling gear if you want to explore the coral reef off Saona. Snorkels are not on the included list, so treat them as your own kit.
• It is a big-group day. One reviewer described the island as extremely packed, with other tour groups arriving at the same time, and another said the bus driver's souvenir stops cost time on an already long day. Expect a busy, shared setting rather than a quiet escape.
• Sun protection matters. The packing list stresses sunscreen, specifically biodegradable sunscreen, plus sunglasses, insect repellent, swimwear and a towel. You are out on open water and sand for hours.
• Drinks are covered. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are included, and reviewers mention the lively atmosphere on board. Bring cash anyway, since tips and photos are not included.
• Island time goes fast. You get nearly 3 hours on Saona, and one reviewer noted that can pass quickly with so much to do. Expect a long, full schedule.
• Weather calls the shots. The operator states the trip may be subject to sea and weather conditions, and follows authority guidance on safety. They also note local rain often passes in brief spells before the sun returns.

Common issues. The honest downsides are the group size and pace. One reviewer described the island as extremely packed and said the driver's souvenir stops cost unnecessary time on an already long day. The listing itself warns that the trip depends on sea and weather conditions. Tips and photos are not included, so bring cash for both.

Common Questions