Santo Domingo’s coastal excursions pack a lot of value into their itineraries. The standout choice is the full-day Saona Island Tour ($160), which includes everything you need: transport, food, drinks, and 8 hours of Caribbean exploration. I’m particularly fond of the Bayahibe-to-Saona route ($80) – it’s more affordable and includes the incredible Blue Lagoon stop, where the colors are exactly as advertised. For cruise passengers, the private transfer service ($150 per group) between Las Américas Airport and La Romana Port is reliable and worth the investment. Let’s look at the best boat tours that make the most of Dominican waters.
Key Points
- Saona Island Full Day Tours offer an 8-hour adventure with scenic beauty, social interaction, and amenities like a buffet lunch and alcoholic beverages.
- Alternative Saona Island day trips from Bayahibe provide a more affordable option with similar features, including stops at the Blue Lagoon and a natural pool.
- Private transfer services are available from Las Americas International Airport to the La Romana Cruise Port, ensuring a seamless transition to the cruise experience.
- While Saona Island tours generally receive positive reviews, some customers have reported issues with food quality, tour organization, and limited beverage options.
- Safety concerns have been raised regarding overcrowded catamarans and crew behavior, so it is important to research tour operators thoroughly.
Saona Island Full Day Tours – Catamaran Party From Santo Domingo
One of the most popular excursions from Santo Domingo is the Saona Island Full Day Tours – Catamaran Party, which offers travelers an approximately 8-hour adventure.
Available in English and 4 other languages, the tour starts at $160.00 per person and includes transportation from Santo Domingo to Saona Island via air-conditioned bus to Bayahibe, followed by speedboat and catamaran.
The tour features a stop at a natural pool, a buffet lunch, and alcoholic beverages.
While the overall rating based on 34 reviews is 4.1, customer experiences have been mixed.
Highlights include the island’s beauty and opportunities for social interaction, but some travelers have reported issues with food quality, tour organization, and limited beverage options.
Safety concerns have also been raised regarding overcrowded catamarans and crew behavior.
The tour operators have emphasized their commitment to enhancing customer experiences and addressing staff contributions to customer satisfaction.
Read our full review: Saona Island Full Day Tours – Catamaran Party From Santo Domingo Review
Book now: Check availability
Saona Island From Santo Domingo With Catamaran and Food & Drink
Travelers from Santo Domingo can embark on a captivating day trip to the picturesque Saona Island, accessible via boat from the nearby town of Bayahibe.
The 8-hour excursion includes stops at the Blue Lagoon and a 30-minute visit to a natural pool, with a buffet lunch and open bar on the beach. Guests can choose between speedboat or catamaran transportation options, both of which offer live tour guides in English and Spanish.
Priced from $80 per person, the tour features a reserve now and pay later policy, along with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customer reviews consistently praise the enjoyable landscapes, high-quality buffet, and engaging entertainment on the catamaran. With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 6 reviews, the Saona Island tour from Santo Domingo is a popular choice among travelers from Argentina, Mexico, and the United States, known for its value and overall enjoyment.
Read our full review: Saona Island From Santo Domingo With Catamaran and Food & Drink Review
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Private Transfer From Las Americas Inter. Airport to La Romana Cruise Port
For those seeking a seamless start to their cruise experience, a private transfer from Las Americas International Airport to the La Romana Cruise Port provides a convenient and stress-free option.
Priced at $150.00 per group (up to 6 passengers), this service offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and flexible payment options, including the ability to reserve now and pay later.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and instant confirmation is provided upon booking.
The transfer service lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with pickup from the airport and drop-off at the cruise port.
Travelers can enjoy the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle and access to WiFi during the journey.
While an additional $10 USD tax per person is required at the port exit, the roundtrip service is included in the overall price.
With selection of pickup and drop-off points, as well as specific start times, this transfer service ensures a seamless transition to the cruise experience.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Las Americas Inter. Airport to La Romana Cruise Port Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Santo Domingo offers a variety of cruises and boat tours, from full-day excursions to Saona Island to private transfers to nearby cruise ports. These experiences provide travelers with the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Dominican Republic’s coastline, enjoy music and entertainment, and savor delicious local cuisine. Whether seeking a lively party atmosphere or a more relaxed sightseeing tour, there’s something to suit every preference.