The Dominican Republic’s drinking tours offer well-organized options for travelers seeking sun-soaked adventures. Private party boats stand out as the best choice, combining open bars with water activities and personalized service. I’m particularly fond of the Saona Island excursions – they pack great value with catamaran sailing, swimming in natural pools, and all-you-can-drink beverages included in the experience.
Catamaran cruises deserve special mention for their perfect mix of snorkeling and socializing, while Punta Cana’s Saona Island packages provide hassle-free transfers and comprehensive day trips. Though the Santo Domingo route needs improvement, it still delivers on the essentials.
Let’s explore my top picks for Dominican Republic drinking tours.
Good To Know
- The Party Boat Tour in Punta Cana offers a private, customized experience with an open bar and a 92% traveler recommendation rate.
- The Saona Island Excursion from Bayahibe features a full-day adventure with a catamaran ride, snorkeling, and an idyllic beach setting.
- The Catamaran Cruise experience in Punta Cana combines sailing, snorkeling, and an open bar, with positive reviews highlighting entertainment and enjoyment.
- The Saona Island Day Trip from various locations in Punta Cana includes transportation, boat cruise, natural pool activities, and a buffet-style lunch.
- The Santo Domingo Saona Island Tour is a day-long excursion with a buffet lunch and open bar, though customer feedback indicates some logistical issues.
Party Boat – Private Groups, Snorkeling – Open Bar.
The party boat tour in Punta Cana provides a private, customized experience for groups seeking to celebrate special occasions. Ideal for escaping the crowds, the tour offers a tailored itinerary with activities like swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in the Caribbean Sea.
With an open bar featuring top-quality drinks, snacks, and soft drinks, guests can enjoy an all-inclusive experience. The tour boasts impressive ratings, with 92% of travelers recommending it and a 4.7-star overall score. However, some mixed feedback suggests the experience may not always match the advertisement.
Included in the tour are private transportation, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, bottled water, soda, juices, and a variety of alcoholic beverages and snacks. Optional photo services are available for purchase. The tour starts and ends at the Blue Marine Punta Cana, with pickup options also provided.
Priced from $600 for up to 12 guests, the private boat tour offers a flexible, wheelchair-accessible experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Party Boat – Private Groups, Snorkeling – Open Bar. Review
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Saona Island Excursion With Lunch and Open Bar
One of the most popular day trips from the Dominican Republic is the Saona Island Excursion, which offers visitors a full-day adventure with a mix of stunning natural landscapes, delectable cuisine, and an open bar experience.
Departing from the town of Bayahibe, the 10.5-hour tour takes travelers to the beautiful Saona Island, known for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Along the way, guests can enjoy a catamaran ride, snorkel in the natural pools, and indulge in a delicious lunch with an open bar.
With a duration of 7-10 hours and a cost of $75.00, this excursion boasts an impressive 4.7 rating from 287 reviews, making it a top pick for those seeking a memorable and well-rounded day trip in the Dominican Republic.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore the island’s natural wonders, or simply relax with a refreshing cocktail, the Saona Island Excursion is an excellent choice.
Read our full review: Saona Island Excursion With Lunch and Open Bar Review
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Catamaran Cruise, Snorkel & Natural Pool (Open Bar ) All Included
This excursion offers an exhilarating catamaran cruise, snorkeling adventure, and a visit to a natural pool, all accompanied by an open bar.
The tour includes snacks, alcoholic beverages, soda, snorkeling equipment, photos, souvenirs, and sun blocker cream. Round-trip transportation is provided from hotels, vacation homes, condos, and Airbnbs in the Punta Cana, Cap Cana, Bavaro, Friusa, and Uvero Alto areas.
For those who prefer, the meeting point is at the Bibijagua Shopping Center in Punta Cana. The activity ends back at the same location.
Certain health and safety guidelines apply, as the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with specific medical conditions or limited mobility.
Booking and cancellation policies offer flexibility, with a “Reserve Now and Pay Later” option available.
Reviews for this excursion are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5. Guests have found the experience to be entertaining and enjoyable.
Read our full review: Catamaran Cruise, Snorkel & Natural Pool (Open Bar ) All Included Review
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Saona Island Day Trip From Punta Cana + Lunch & Open Bar
Saona Island, a captivating Caribbean gem, beckons travelers to embark on an unforgettable day trip from Punta Cana. This 8-hour excursion, priced from $85 per person, promises an immersive experience with a maximum of 50 participants.
Guests can enjoy the tour in English, Spanish, or French, with the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
The itinerary includes a bus/coach transfer, followed by a boat cruise to the stunning Saona Island. Highlights include swimming in the natural pool, exploring the turquoise waters, and engaging in beach activities like volleyball and relaxing in hammocks.
A buffet-style lunch featuring chicken, pork, rice, beans, salad, and fruit is provided, with an option to upgrade to lobster and premium drinks.
The tour’s inclusive nature extends to hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, and a 30-minute stop at the largest natural swimming pool. Accessibility is limited, but public transportation is available nearby.
Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Saona Island Day Trip From Punta Cana + Lunch & Open Bar Review
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Santo Domingo Saona Island Catamaran Tour With Lunch & Bar
Embarking from Santo Domingo, the Santo Domingo Saona Island Catamaran Tour with Lunch & Bar offers an immersive day-long excursion to the picturesque Saona Island.
At $110 per person, the tour promises a comprehensive experience, including a buffet lunch, open bar, and transportation via minibus, catamaran, and speedboat.
However, recent customer feedback paints a mixed picture.
While the food and shallow pool stop were enjoyable, participants reported significant logistical issues.
These include disorganization, lengthy delays, and limited relaxation time on the beach due to uncomfortable conditions.
The lengthy transportation time, spanning 16.5 hours from start to finish, also drew criticism.
Read our full review: Santo Domingo: Saona Island Catamaran Tour With Lunch & Bar Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Drinking Tours?
There’s typically no strict dress code for drinking tours, but it’s best to dress comfortably and appropriately for the activity. Light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended to ensure you can fully enjoy the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tours?
Most drinking tour companies don’t allow guests to bring their own alcohol. They provide a curated selection of drinks as part of the experience. It’s best to check the tour’s policy before booking if you have specific preferences or needs.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children?
The tours are generally not suitable for children, as they focus on alcohol consumption. Most companies do not allow minors to participate in these types of activities. Families should consider alternative, child-friendly tours and activities during their visit.
What Types of Food Are Served on the Tours?
The food served on these tours typically includes local Dominican cuisine, such as rice, beans, meat dishes, and tropical fruits. Some tours may also offer snacks or light refreshments. The specific menu can vary by tour operator.
Can I Customize the Itinerary of the Tours?
Yes, many tour companies allow customers to customize the itinerary of their tours. This gives travelers more flexibility to focus on their specific interests and preferences during the tour.
The Sum Up
The Dominican Republic offers an array of exciting drinking tours to suit various preferences. From party boats with open bars to island excursions with lunch and unlimited drinks, there’s something for all. These tours provide a chance to explore the country’s natural beauty while indulging in the local beverages. Whether you’re seeking a lively group experience or a more relaxed cruise, the Dominican Republic has plenty of options to quench your thirst and create unforgettable memories.