Is It Possible to Visit Saona Island if You Get Seasick Easily?
A dream island… even for travelers prone to seasickness
Saona Island is one of the most iconic destinations in the Dominican Republic. With its palm-lined beaches, crystal-clear water, shallow natural pools and postcard-perfect scenery, it attracts thousands of travelers every year looking for a relaxing, tropical escape. But for many visitors, a crucial question comes before booking an excursion: “Can I visit Saona if I get seasick easily?”
The good news is yes — you absolutely can. With the right type of boat, the right tour operator, and a calm itinerary that avoids fast and bumpy navigation, even travelers who are sensitive to motion sickness can enjoy a smooth and peaceful day in Saona. In this guide, you’ll learn why choosing the right excursion is essential, why a catamaran is the most comfortable option, and how the day is organized to ensure a relaxing experience from start to finish.
Choosing the right Saona excursion makes all the difference
When you’re prone to seasickness, the choice of excursion becomes even more important. Not all Saona tours are the same: some agencies use speedboats that go very fast, bounce on the waves and create strong movements — which can easily trigger nausea. Others, however, offer slow, stable and comfortable catamaran trips designed for travelers who want to enjoy the Caribbean Sea without stress.
A well-organized Saona excursion focuses on comfort rather than rushing. Instead of tight schedules, loud party boats or fast navigation, the day is paced by gentle sailing, quiet moments, and a smooth approach to the island. This is exactly the type of environment that helps reduce seasickness. Travelers who usually avoid boats are often surprised by how enjoyable and steady the ride feels when the excursion is properly designed.
By selecting a catamaran excursion from Bayahibe — the closest departure point to Saona — you reduce the travel time, avoid choppy waters, and maximize your chances of having a calm, pleasant journey. This is often the preferred option among families, seniors, and anyone who gets motion sick easily.
Why a catamaran is the best choice for travelers who get seasick
A catamaran is, without question, the most stable and comfortable boat option to reach Saona Island. Its wide structure, twin hulls, and large deck significantly reduce the rocking motion that usually causes seasickness. Unlike speedboats that hit the waves at high speed, a catamaran glides smoothly across the water, offering a slow and steady ride ideal for sensitive travelers.
Catamarans also offer more space to walk around, lie down, choose your spot in the shade or in the sun, and breathe fresh air — all essential elements for preventing motion sickness. The open-air layout allows you to fix your eyes on the horizon, enjoy the scenery of the Caribbean Sea, and feel more in control of your balance.
Many travelers who usually get nauseous on boats report that catamarans are the only type of boat on which they feel comfortable. For Saona Island excursions, they are simply the safest and most relaxing option.
A smooth and slow-paced Saona itinerary designed for comfort
A well-planned Saona excursion does not rush. The day starts calmly from Bayahibe, with the catamaran leaving the marina at a gentle pace, letting travelers acclimate gradually to the movement of the water. There is no pressure, no speed, no sudden turns — just a slow, peaceful cruise along the Dominican coastline.
The atmosphere on board is relaxed, with music kept at a pleasant level and plenty of space to sit or stand wherever you feel most comfortable. Because catamarans navigate close to the shore and avoid deep, rough waters, the stability remains excellent throughout the journey.
The stops are also perfect for avoiding discomfort. At the Natural Pool of Las Palmillas, the water is only waist-deep, making it an ideal place to get off the boat, breathe, walk a little, and reset your balance. Later, on Saona Island, you enjoy a long break on the beach — a spacious, quiet, private area perfect for relaxing under the palm trees while the sea stays far in the background.
At every moment of the excursion, the rhythm stays gentle, unhurried and designed to prevent motion sickness
Safety, comfort and support: what to expect on board
Catamaran excursions to Saona include several comfort and safety elements that make the experience reassuring for travelers who fear getting seasick. Life jackets are available for all passengers, and the crew is trained to assist anyone who feels unwell or anxious. They know how to help seasick travelers and are used to guiding visitors who are not confident on boats.
The catamaran has enough space to sit comfortably, lie down in the front nets, stay close to the edge for fresh air, or remain near the center for maximum stability. The crew members are attentive, friendly, and always ready to check in with passengers. Many travelers who were initially nervous end up feeling completely at ease after the first minutes of sailing.
If you’re worried about seasickness, most crews also recommend simple preventive actions, such as staying hydrated, avoiding heavy food before departure, and choosing a seat facing forward or near the center of the boat. These small details can make a big difference.
Final tips and why seasickness shouldn’t keep you from enjoying Saona
Getting seasick doesn’t mean you should give up on visiting Saona Island. With a stable catamaran, a calm itinerary from Bayahibe, and a well-trained crew, your experience can be incredibly smooth and enjoyable. The day is designed for relaxation, not speed, and the clear Caribbean waters combined with the tropical scenery create a soothing environment that helps most travelers feel comfortable.
Saona is one of the most beautiful places in the Dominican Republic — and you shouldn’t miss it because of motion sickness concerns. By choosing the right excursion, you’ll be able to enjoy the natural pools, the turquoise lagoons, the white-sand beaches and the unforgettable atmosphere of this paradise island without stress.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with kids, with friends or solo, Saona Island remains accessible, peaceful and manageable even for visitors who are sensitive to the 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?
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