Saona speedboat excursion at low price
Saona Excursion to the Most Beautiful Beaches
Experience an unforgettable day trip to Saona Island by speed boat, far from the crowds and mass tourism.
Enjoy an exclusive itinerary reserved only for our guests, combining snorkeling, relaxation on a private beach, and a swim in a secluded natural pool.
Your adventure begins with a snorkeling session in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, where you can admire tropical fish and colorful coral reefs.
Next, you’ll arrive at our private beach, an exclusive area accessible only to our company. Thanks to our adjusted schedule, you’ll be among the first to reach the island, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and a friendly beachside aperitif with your toes in the sand.
Here, there’s no crowded buffet shared with hundreds of tourists — your lunch is freshly prepared just for your group, served in our private shaded area under the palm trees, offering all the calm and comfort you deserve.
The day continues with a stop at a natural swimming pool, located far from the busy tourist routes, in a secluded spot that only we visit — a true tropical lagoon where the turquoise waters and starfish create a picture-perfect setting.
This Saona Island speed boat excursion combines authenticity, comfort, and exclusivity, offering the best way to discover the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful island — at your own pace.
🐠 Explore the wild coast of Saona by speedboat
The departure from Bayahibe port is early (starting at 8:30 AM) to make the most of the day. The boat first sails along the Bayahibe bay, then approaches the majestic Peñón cliff, listed as a World Heritage site. This limestone cliff offers spectacular coastal views and shelters fascinating marine caves shaped by erosion.
Right after, the boat cruises by an iconic area made famous by a televised adventure show similar to Koh Lanta (Exatlon), before heading toward the lush mangroves of the Cotubanamá Nature Reserve. These impressive plant formations are home to a rich tropical fauna and flora, including egrets, tropical fish, and sometimes even turtles. A guided tour allows you to understand the exceptional biodiversity of this unique natural park.
Snorkeling takes place in Catuano, a renowned spot known for its marine life, full of tropical fish and colorful coral reefs.
🌴Relaxation on a dream beach and typical Creole lunch
After this boat ride, you will disembark on a private white sand beach reserved for our small group, lined with palm trees and bathed by turquoise waters. A paradisiacal setting, far from crowded areas. This is where you will enjoy 3 hours of free time to relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, take a walk along the shore, or simply sunbathe.
A typical Dominican meal will be served to you directly on the beach, prepared with fresh ingredients. The menu includes rice, grilled meats, vegetables, tropical fruits, and a local open bar (rum, sodas, juices). For seafood lovers, a grilled lobster option is available at an extra cost (outside the reproduction season, in compliance with sustainable fishing regulations).
🌊Natural pool of Las Palmillas, starfish, and drinks in the water
In the middle of the afternoon, head to the famous natural pool, a sandbank submerged in the heart of the turquoise sea. The water is shallow, crystal-clear, and perfect for a refreshing swim. This is where we serve you an aperitif in the water, a unique experience, glass in hand, feet in the water, looking at starfish (which we admire without ever touching, in respect of their habitat).
The atmosphere is all about tropical relaxation, with soft music, sometimes even merengue, in a postcard-perfect setting. An unforgettable moment combining gentle water activities, friendliness, and escape to the heart of the Caribbean.
Return to Bayahibe port is scheduled around 4:30 – 5:00 pm, after a full day filled with emotions, sea excursions, fine sandy beaches, and natural discoveries.
⭐Why choose Saona with Quetzal Excursions?
This budget-friendly excursion to Saona allows you to enjoy an authentic experience without compromising on quality: speedboat for more time on the island, private beach, lunch on the beach, English-speaking guide, and small groups.
🚢 Cruise Ship Excursion: Suitable for Travelers on a Stopover
If you are arriving in the Dominican Republic on a cruise ship, our speedboat excursion to Saona Island can easily be adjusted to fit your schedule. We understand that time can be tight, which is why we offer flexible departure times to match your arrival. Feel free to contact us for more information or to personalize your adventure, so you can fully enjoy this unique experience in complete peace of mind during your stopover.
Important Information :
Available days: Wednesday
Boat departure time:
From 08:30 AM
Duration:
± 8h
Included:
Beach lunch: variety of salads, pasta, rice, red beans, vegetables, chicken, pork, fish, fruits
Snacks: Doritos, cake, pizza slices, bananas
Beer, rum, soft drinks, water, coffee (open bar on the beach)
Live commentary on board
Professional guide
Pick-up and drop-off at the same location (included for hotels in the Bayahibe area; for hotels outside this zone, an extra fee will apply)
Not included / Available at extra cost:
Lobster: 40$US per service (except during reproduction period from March 1st to June 30th)
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
All excursions to Saona Island, regardless of the provider, depart from Bayahibe.
It’s important to note that, although many visitors stay in Punta Cana, boarding takes place in Bayahibe, and nowhere else.
Transfers are included from the Bayahibe / Dominicus area.
We organize semi-private transfers from Punta Cana, shared between 2 to 3 families, in order to reduce travel time and cost for each family.
If you’re staying in La Romana, Boca Chica, or Santo Domingo, we offer private taxi services.
Please note that travel time is approximately 30 to 45 minutes from La Romana / Boca Chica, and 1h45 to 2h from Santo Domingo.
Exact transfer time depends on your location.
Included :
Snacks: Chips and cake
Open bar on the beach: Beer, rum, non-alcoholic beverages, water
Lunch on the beach: Mixed salads, pasta, rice, red beans, vegetables, chicken, pork, fish, fruits (lobster available at extra cost)
Round-trip pickup: Included for hotels in the Bayahibe area; extra charge applies for hotels outside this zone
Additional Information :
Reservation confirmation will be sent within 48 hours after booking, subject to availability. Please inform us of any dietary requirements when booking. Transfer time is approximate; actual duration will depend on departure time and road conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Vegetarian option available — please inform us at the time of booking if needed. Excursion not recommended for people with back problems.
Cancellation Policy:
Deposit: A deposit request via PayPal is required to confirm any booking.
Bad weather or minimum passenger count not reached: Quetzal Excursions reserves the right to reschedule the tour to another date. If passengers are unavailable on the new date, the deposit will be refunded.
Cancellation by the customer: If the customer cancels more than 48 hours before the excursion date, the deposit will be refunded.
Cancellation less than 48 hours before the excursion date: A valid justification (flight cancellation, illness, etc.) is required to request a refund — no refund will be issued 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 Saona Island?
Around 3 hours of relaxation on the beach, with lunch included. Plenty of time to enjoy without rushing.
Where is the meal served?
Lunch is served on the island, in a space reserved for our group. It’s a full local meal, with drinks included.
Is there shade on board the boat?
Yes, our boats are equipped with a canopy for shade, but we still recommend protecting yourself from the sun with light clothing and a hat.
What is the difference between a speedboat and a catamaran excursion?
The speedboat reduces travel time and gets you to your destination faster, leaving more time to enjoy the various stops, such as the natural pool and Saona Beach. In contrast, the catamaran offers a smoother and more relaxing ride: the crossing itself is part of the experience, with a peaceful atmosphere that allows you to enjoy the sea and tropical landscapes throughout the day.
Is the boat equipped with toilets?
No, there are no restrooms on board, but you will find some at the dock before departure and on Saona Island.
What is the maximum number of people on the boat?
Our tours are organized in small groups, with a maximum of 24 participants, for a more friendly and enjoyable experience.
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.
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.
Is the excursion suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
No, speedboats are not recommended for people with back problems, pregnant women, or anyone in a fragile condition. In such cases, we recommend opting for a gentler catamaran excursion.
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