How long does it take to visit Saona Island?
Learn timing, boat travel and time on the island...
Saona Island is one of the most iconic places in the Dominican Republic, famous for its turquoise waters, white sand and postcard-perfect landscapes. If you are planning your first trip, one of the most common questions is simple: how long does it take to visit Saona? Most travelers imagine a quick half-day, but in reality, a proper Saona experience takes most of the day and includes several stages: sailing, swimming stops, time on the island, and lunch.
Because the island is part of a protected national park, there is no quick “pop in and out.” A Saona excursion is designed to let you disconnect, enjoy the Caribbean slowly and soak up the scenery. Here’s what a typical day looks like and how long you should expect each moment to last.
The departure: morning navigation and first impressions
Most Saona tours start in the morning, usually between 8:00 and 9:30 depending on the company and the location of pick-up. Travelers are taken to the departure marina (often Bayahibe) where catamarans or speed boats leave for the island.
The crossing is not just transportation—it’s a real part of the experience. Sailing across crystal-clear Caribbean water, watching the coastline fade, and feeling the tropical breeze sets the tone for the entire day. On a catamaran, the trip is generally a little slower and more peaceful, while speed boats are… well, faster and more direct.
The navigation usually takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on sea conditions and the type of boat. But this is only the beginning: most excursions make a stop along the way for snorkeling or swimming at a natural pool.
Stops on the water: snorkeling and swimming
Before reaching Saona, many boats stop at snorkeling spots, an area with shallow turquoise water where you can swim and take pictures surrounded by fishes.
This stop generally lasts around 30 minutes. Some excursions include snorkeling equipment and a guide in the water, especially if the group is small.
This part of the day usually becomes one of the highlights, especially for families, nature lovers or travelers who want more than just lying on a beach.
Time on Saona Island: around 1 to 1.5 hours free time
Once you arrive in Saona, you don’t just get dropped off and left all afternoon. A typical excursion gives you about one hour to one hour and a half of real free time to enjoy the beach, relax, swim, take pictures and walk around.
Because many boats arrive around the same time, the areas can be busier depending on the company and the season. Some tours choose more secluded beaches or arrive slightly earlier or later to avoid heavy crowds.
Families, couples and travelers who prefer quiet moments often look for tours that limit the number of passengers or that choose less touristic access points.
Lunch on board rather than on the island
In most mass tourism excursions, lunch is served onshore in large beach restaurants. But in certain types of tours, the meal is served on the boat instead.
Having lunch on board offers several advantages:
you avoid crowded buffets
you don’t waste time waiting in line
you enjoy the breeze and ocean view
the atmosphere stays peaceful
The typical lunch includes chicken or beef, pasta, vegetables and fruit. Nothing too fancy, but tasty, fresh and relaxing—especially when enjoyed with a view of the sea.
Lunch takes around 45 minutes, and because it is served on the boat, it gives you more quality time instead of standing on the beach waiting for service.
Sailing back: the end of the day and return time
After lunch and your time on the island, the boat begins the return journey toward the marina. Before arriving, boats stop at the natural swimming pool, where you can enjoy swimming with startfishs before going back to Bayahibe. The trip back is usually calm, with music at a soft level and passengers stretched out in the shade or tanning on the front deck.
Return arrival time is generally in the late afternoon, between 4:00pm and 5:30pm depending on weather and itinerary. You will likely spend a full day outside, between 7 and 9 hours from departure to return, including transportation to and from your hotel.
Once back at the marina, shuttles bring guests back to their hotels. The return drive is usually short (Bayahibe to the Punta Cana area can be 45min to 1h30 depending on your resort location).
So how long does it take in total?
If you count transportation, navigation, swimming stops and time on the island, it is safe to say that a Saona tour takes almost a full day:
hotel pick-up in the morning
boat navigation
snorkeling stop
1h–1h30 on the island
lunch on board
sailing back
hotel return in the late afternoon
You’re looking at about 7 to 9 hours total.
Saona is not a quick visit—it’s a slow Caribbean experience, and it’s made to be enjoyed as a day of relaxation, ocean breeze, turquoise waters and sunshine.
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.