Saona Tour by Catamaran
SAONA ISLAND
Set off on a unique experience aboard the Quetzal catamaran — a peaceful cruise to one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches: Saona Island.
Located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, within the Cotubanamá National Park, Saona Island is a natural gem renowned for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, majestic palm trees, and exceptional biodiversity. Only accessible by boat, it offers a postcard-perfect setting, ideal for a getaway far from mass tourism.
Sail in a small group, away from the crowds, with a professional and attentive French-speaking crew. Your adventure begins with a stop at Catuano, the perfect spot for a snorkeling session in crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish and colorful corals.
Next, head to a private beach lined with coconut trees and pristine white sand, where you can relax in the shade in an authentic and unspoiled environment. A refined lunch served on board accompanies your journey to the natural pool of Las Palmillas — a magical place where you’ll have the chance to observe giant starfish in a transparent lagoon.
No loud music, no party vibes — just soft sand, turquoise sea, and absolute tranquility.
An exclusive and unforgettable day in the heart of the Caribbean, exploring some of the most spectacular beaches in the Dominican Republic.
Perfect for lovers of nature, snorkeling, relaxation, and raw beauty.
🐠Snorkeling in Catuano: dive into the heart of the seabed
Boarding the Quetzal takes place around 8:30 / 9:00 AM for a relaxing 1.5-hour sailing journey through the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, en route to Catuano — a renowned snorkeling site famous for its rich marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
Equipped with fins, mask, and snorkel, you’ll set off to discover tropical fish and colorful corals in an exceptionally clear turquoise sea. This special moment takes place in the company of our passionate guide, who will introduce you to the various marine species you’ll encounter during this peaceful, fun, and educational experience.
An ideal activity for all ages, in a preserved natural setting, perfect for swimming, relaxing, and discovering the underwater world — far from the crowds.
A true invitation to explore the seabed in total serenity.
🌴 Exclusive Beach & Lunch on Board: Relaxation and Comfort Guaranteed
After your snorkeling session in Catuano, it’s time to head to a paradisiacal beach on Saona Island — one of the Caribbean’s most stunning seaside destinations, located in the heart of the Cotubanamá National Park. We’ll take you to a partially privatized area, specially set up for our small group.
Here, no crowds, no loud music... Just the soothing sound of the waves, soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and comfortable loungers in the shade — the perfect setting for a true moment of relaxation facing the turquoise sea. A postcard-worthy landscape, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or strolling peacefully along one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
You’ll enjoy about 1.5 hours on this pristine stretch of sand — a dream location for beach lovers, tropical nature enthusiasts, and seekers of absolute tranquility. During this downtime, our crew will remain at your service, bringing you fresh drinks right on the beach with the same care as on board.
Meanwhile, a delicious lunch awaits you aboard the Quetzal: freshly prepared with local, quality ingredients for a complete and satisfying meal, which you’ll enjoy as we sail back through the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean.
A true moment of comfort, connection, and discovery — set in breathtaking scenery, surrounded by turquoise lagoons, rich marine life, and white sandy beaches.
🌊 Natural Pool of Las Palmillas
The afternoon continues with an unforgettable stop at the natural pool of Las Palmillas, one of the hidden gems of the Dominican Republic, nestled in the heart of the Caribbean.
This incredible turquoise lagoon, located in the middle of the sea, forms a vast submerged sandbank where the crystal-clear water often doesn’t reach above waist level. It’s like walking on the ocean, surrounded by postcard-perfect scenery, with tropical palm trees in the distance and sunshine all around.
Here, time stands still. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful swim, to soak in the warm water, or to snap some of the most stunning vacation photos. In this heavenly cove, you’ll also encounter magnificent starfish — true treasures of the sea — which we’ll observe during a second gentle snorkeling session, with mask, and snorkel.
This corner of paradise is carefully selected for its isolation: far from tourist boats and crowded areas, it offers an exclusive experience in a preserved environment — ideal for lovers of wild nature, tranquility, and turquoise waters.
A moment of pure serenity, in a small group, between sky and sea — where light snorkeling, soft sand, and relaxation come together to create a unique memory, worthy of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
⭐ Why choose Quetzal Excursions?
Because not all Saona excursions are the same.
At Quetzal, we offer you much more than a simple round trip to the beach. We’ve designed an exclusive, comfortable, and peaceful day, in a small group, to let you discover Saona far from the crowds, in the best possible conditions.
✅ A unique catamaran
Our sailing boat is a spacious and high-end model, rare in Bayahibe. It offers:
A large tanning area at the front
A shaded outdoor lounge and an air-conditioned indoor space
Several toilets and showers on board
Cabins available for young children or to rest in complete privacy
✅ A relaxed atmosphere, far from party boats
We prioritize tranquility and quality of experience. No loud music: here it’s all about calm, swimming, exploration and relaxation in a nature-friendly environment.
✅ An exclusive beach, just for you
On Saona, we dock in a partially privatized beach area, far from crowded tourist spots. You enjoy 1h30 of peaceful relaxation, with sun loungers under the palm trees and drinks served directly on the beach by our crew.
✅ A quality meal on board
Lunch, served aboard the Quetzal, is prepared with fresh and local products, carefully selected. A real meal, healthy and tasty, to enjoy at sea during the cruise.
✅ Ideal for families and travelers in search of authenticity
Parents will appreciate the safety and comfort on board, as well as the presence of an attentive English-speaking crew. Kids will be fascinated by the snorkeling, the beach, and the starfish in a peaceful setting.
✅ A truly exceptional moment
Whether as a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, our excursion is designed to leave a lasting memory. It’s an unforgettable experience, far from standardized tours.
Important Information
Departure time of the boat:
08:45am
Duration:
± 8h
Included:
Meal on the boat: various salads, avocadoes, pasta, chicken, beef, fruits and rosé wine
Snacks: Doritos, sandwichs, bananas, cake.
Beer, rum, soft drinks, water and cofee
Live commentary on board
Professional guide
Pickup and drop-off at the same location (Included for hotels in the Bayahibe area; for hotels outside this area, an extra charge will apply)
Not included / Available at extra cost:
Lobster
Massage on Saona Island
Souvenir gifts on Saona Island
Transportation if your hotel is located outside the Bayahibe area
Excursion to Saona Island from La Romana, Punta Cana, and Santo Domingo
Included
Snacks: sandwiches, chips, cake and bananas
Open bar: Beer, rum, soft drinks, water and coffee.
Meal on board: various salads, pesto pasta, chicken, beef, fruits and rosé wine.
Hotel pickup and drop-off at the same location (Included for hotels in the Bayahibe area, for hotels outside this area, an extra fee will be charged)
Additional Information
Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Please indicate any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking. Transfer duration is approximate; the exact time will depend on time of day and traffic conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. A vegetarian option is available, please advise at the time of booking if needed.
Cancellation Policy
All bookings will require a deposit request via Paypal.
In case of bad weather or minimum number of passengers not reached, Quetzal Excursions reserves the right to reschedule the excursion to another day. If passengers are not available on this other day, the deposit will be refunded.
If the client wishes to cancel the booking more than 48 hours before the excursion date, the deposit will be refunded.
Less than 48h before the excursion date, proof must be provided to claim a refund (flight cancellation, illness…) – no refund without proof.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What should I bring for the excursion?
We recommend bringing a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, light clothing with flip-flops or sandals if possible.
As well as some pocket money if you wish to buy coconuts, piña coladas, souvenirs, or even get massages on the island.
How much time do we spend on the beach?
You will generally enjoy 1 to 1.5 hours of relaxation on the beach before getting back on board to enjoy lunch. This duration may vary slightly depending on the day’s itinerary and weather conditions.
Where is lunch served? Is it included?
Lunch is included. It is carefully prepared by our crew while you enjoy the beach and will be waiting for you, ready to be savored, upon your return to the catamaran.
It consists of a fresh salad, a variety of sides such as tomatoes, avocado, cheese, pesto or plain pasta, as well as grilled beef and chicken. Everything is served with sauces, including a vinaigrette and a delicious chimichurri sauce.
Is there shade on board the boat?
Yes, our luxury catamaran features a comfortable indoor lounge as well as a shaded outdoor area, both designed to ensure maximum comfort throughout the cruise.
Is the boat equipped with toilets?
Yes, our Quetzal catamaran is equipped with several restrooms, accessible at any time for your comfort throughout the day.
Why are some excursions $50, while yours is $159?
We are currently the only catamaran in the bay offering an excursion focused on relaxation, in a small group, far from the festive atmosphere of party boats. On board, everything is designed for your comfort: a limited number of guests, a peaceful atmosphere, an exclusive itinerary, and an attentive crew.
Lunch is prepared on board with fresh ingredients, and you’ll enjoy an open bar, a private beach on Saona, and a smooth sailing experience. A day dedicated to tranquility and quality.
Is it a private or group excursion? How many people on board?
Our excursions are held in small groups: we limit the number of participants to a maximum of 28 people so that everyone can fully enjoy the comfort of the catamaran. A full private booking is also available upon request.
Is there music on board?
Our atmosphere is focused on relaxation. We prioritize calm and comfort, with soft background music when appropriate, so you can fully enjoy the beauty of the sea and the soothing sound of the waves.
Is snorkeling equipment available?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided during the excursion: fins, masks, snorkels, and life jackets. We have various sizes to suit most body types. However, we do not offer equipment for very young children (under 3 years old) – in that case, we recommend bringing your own gear.
What are the differences between Saona and Catalina? Which one should I choose?
Our excursion to Saona Island focuses on comfort and relaxation, with its paradise-like beaches and the turquoise waters of the natural pool. Catalina Island, on the other hand, is ideal for snorkeling and marine life enthusiasts: its coral reef makes it a perfect destination for those seeking a more active, water-based experience.
Should I bring cash or can I pay by card?
It is preferable to pay the balance of the excursion in cash (euros, US dollars, or pesos) to avoid additional fees associated with card payments (+10%) or PayPal (+6%).
What happens in case of bad weather?
In case of bad weather, we do our best to reschedule the excursion to another date. If that is not possible, we will of course issue a full refund.
Summary of your Saona excursion in video
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