Can You Bring Alcohol on a Saona Boat Tour?
Learn what’s included and what rules apply...
Saona Island is one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic destinations—turquoise water, soft white sand, and a peaceful Caribbean atmosphere that feels like paradise. Boat excursions to Saona are among the most popular activities in the region, and many visitors wonder about one practical detail: “Can I bring my own alcohol on the boat?”
The short answer is no, not on regular shared excursions. But the longer answer is more flexible, because private tours offer different rules and far more freedom.
In this article, we explain what is included on board, why outside alcohol is usually not allowed, and how travelers who want specific drinks can still enjoy them during a private experience.
Alcohol on Saona tours: what is normally included on board
Most Saona excursions provide a full selection of drinks at no additional cost. This is one of the reasons these tours are so appreciated: everything is taken care of for you.
On board, you will usually find:
Dominican rum
Rosé
Beer
Soft drinks
Water
The idea is simple: guests should not need to bring anything. Saona tours are designed to be relaxing and worry-free. You can enjoy a cocktail during navigation, drink a cold beer after swimming in the natural pool, or simply stay hydrated with soft drinks during the day.
Because the bar is already well-stocked, bringing your own alcohol is unnecessary, and for safety reasons, it is generally not permitted on shared tours.
Why bringing your own alcohol is not allowed on shared excursions
Shared Saona tours operate under specific guidelines that ensure safety, consistency, and respect for all passengers. Prohibiting outside alcohol helps maintain this balance.
Safety first:
Navigation, swimming activities, and boarding the boat require awareness and stability. Allowing guests to bring unlimited alcohol from outside could lead to risky situations, especially during snorkeling stops or transfers between boat and beach.
Fairness and comfort:
Everyone on board should enjoy the same atmosphere. Outside alcohol could encourage overconsumption, disturb other guests, or conflict with the drinks already provided. Tour operators aim to keep the ambiance relaxed—not overly festive or uncontrolled.
Private tours: the exception where personal alcohol is welcome
For travelers who want full flexibility—honeymooners, families celebrating a special event, or couples wanting a more intimate day—the solution is simple: book a private excursion.
Private tours give you complete freedom to tailor the day to your preferences, including the drinks you want to bring.
Whether it’s a special champagne bottle for a proposal, a particular wine you love, or premium spirits you prefer, private charters allow you to bring your own alcohol on board without restrictions.
You can choose between different types of boats depending on the experience you want:
A catamaran for a smooth, elegant navigation
A motor boat for a faster and more exclusive transfer
A classic sailing boat for a romantic and authentic vibe
Because the boat is exclusively yours, there is no impact on other passengers and no limit on personalization. You can enjoy your preferred drinks while relaxing in the natural pool, during the beach stop, or while sailing across the Caribbean Sea.
A private excursion is the ideal solution for travelers who want something special, flexible, and fully adapted to their taste.
What to expect from the drinks included on regular tours
Even if you cannot bring your own alcohol on a shared excursion, the drinks already offered often exceed expectations. Dominican rum is one of the highlights of the experience—smooth, flavorful, and perfectly suited to a tropical day.
For those who prefer lighter options, beer and rosé are available, served cold throughout the day. Soft drinks, sparkling beverages, and water are always within reach, ensuring everyone stays hydrated under the Caribbean sun.
Importantly, staff members always encourage responsible consumption. The goal is not to turn the boat into a party cruise but to maintain a friendly, relaxed, tropical atmosphere that fits the natural beauty of Saona.
This makes the excursion enjoyable for all ages—couples, families, and groups alike.
Choosing the right option depending on your expectations
If you are someone who likes a light drink during navigation, the included bar will be more than enough. You won’t miss your own alcohol, because everything essential is already available.
However, if you have a particular bottle in mind or want a fully personalized celebration, a private excursion is clearly the better choice. It gives you:
freedom to bring any alcohol you want
flexibility in timing and schedule
privacy and comfort
a more intimate atmosphere
This is ideal for anniversaries, proposals, birthdays, honeymoons, or simply for travelers who want to elevate their day on Saona.
In any case, the most important part of the experience remains the same: the island’s breathtaking beauty, the crystal-clear water, the natural pool filled with starfish, and the unique feeling of sailing through the Caribbean Sea.
Who are we?
Based in Bayahibe, Quetzal Excursions is a local agency specialized in small-group sea trips to Saona, Catalina, and the most beautiful hidden gems of the Dominican Republic. We focus on comfort, safety, and authenticity, aboard high-end boats with a professional crew.
📱 CONTACT US ON WHATSAPP : +1 (809) 979-7359
Our Regular Excursions
Saona by Catamaran – All Comfort
Our Excursion to Catalina Island
Snorkeling Tour to Catalina
Our Private Excursions
Private rental of the Quetzal catamaran
📌 Need help planning your excursion?
Contact Quetzal Excursions to plan your activities from your place of stay, with included transport, small group, professional guide, and high-end services.