For Costa Cruise Ship Passengers: Visit Of Saona Island

For Costa Cruise Ship passengers visiting the Dominican Republic, a trip to Saona Island is a must-do experience. This 8-hour family-friendly boat tour from Bayahibe offers a chance to explore the island’s natural wonders, from the Penon and mangroves to the charming Mano Juan village and its turtle nursery. With a range of inclusions like motorized boat transportation, snorkeling gear, and a relaxing lunch, the tour promises to be a highlight of any Caribbean cruise itinerary. But what truly sets this adventure apart is the opportunity to witness the beauty and serenity of Saona’s beaches and marine life up close.

Key Points

The Saona Island tour departs from Bayahibe office and includes transfer from the cruise ship port, exploration of Penon and mangroves, and a visit to Mano Juan village.
The tour provides an opportunity to observe a turtle nursery, enjoy a beachside lunch, and engage in snorkeling at the Canto de la Playa beach.
The tour package includes motorized boat transportation, snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and entertainment, with a duration of approximately 8 hours.
The tour is family-friendly, with a cost of €109.00 per person, and offers the option to reserve and pay later, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The meeting point is the cruise ship port taxi stand, and the departure time is 8:10 am, with a 20-minute transfer to the Bayahibe office, the tour’s departure point.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Overview of the Saona Island Visit

For Costa Cruise Ship Passengers: Visit of Saona Island

Overview of the Saona Island Visit:
The Saona Island visit is an 8-hour family-friendly boat tour that departs from the Bayahibe office, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the island’s natural wonders.

The tour includes:

Transfer by taxi to the Bayahibe office
Tour of the Penon and mangroves
Visit to the Mano Juan village and turtle nursery
Lunch with views of Saona Beach
Time to relax and snorkel at Canto de la Playa beach
Stop at the Natural Pool to observe the resident starfish

The tour’s inclusions, such as snorkeling equipment, drinks, and entertainment, ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for all.

Detailed Itinerary for the Tour

In an article titled ‘For Costa Cruise Ship Passengers: Visit of Saona Island‘

The tour begins with a 20-minute taxi transfer from the cruise ship port to the Bayahibe office, which serves as the departure point for the day’s excursion.

From there, guests will explore the stunning Penon and mangroves before visiting the charming Mano Juan village and its turtle nursery.

After a delicious lunch with views of Saona Beach, the group will head to Canto de la Playa for relaxation and snorkeling.

The final stop is the Natural Pool, inhabited by enchanting starfish, before returning to Bayahibe port.

Throughout the journey, guests will enjoy a motorized boat tour, onboard amenities, and expert guidance from the tour staff.

Inclusions and Amenities Provided

In an article titled ‘For Costa Cruise Ship Passengers: Visit of Saona Island’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Inclusions and Amenities Provided’.

The tour includes a motorized boat journey, with a toilet and shaded area available on board. Snorkeling equipment, a tasty lunch, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks are also provided. Plus, guests will enjoy entertainment and have the option to purchase photography services during the excursion. On top of that, a beach towel is included to enhance the overall experience.

The tour provides the following amenities:

Motorized boat transportation
Snorkeling gear
Onboard toilet and shade area
Lunch, drinks, and snacks

Pricing and Booking Information

The Saona Island tour costs from €109.00 per person and allows visitors to reserve now and pay later. Travelers can also take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This family-friendly boat tour departs from the Bayahibe office and lasts approximately 8 hours, providing a small-group journey from the cruise ship port. The itinerary includes exploring the Penon and mangroves, visiting the Mano Juan village and turtle nursery, enjoying lunch with views of Saona Beach, and stopping at the Natural Pool inhabited by starfish.

Included in the price are the motorized boat tour, snorkeling equipment, lunch, drinks, and more, making it an all-inclusive and convenient option for cruise ship passengers.

Meeting Point and Departure Details

For Costa Cruise Ship Passengers: Visit of Saona Island

The tour departs from the cruise ship port taxi stand at 8:10am, where a driver will transport visitors to the Bayahibe office, the departure point of the Saona Island tour. This convenient meeting point ensures a smooth start to the day’s adventure.

Once at the Bayahibe office, guests will:

Check-in and receive their tour information.
Board the motorized boat for the scenic journey to Saona Island.
Enjoy the 20-minute transfer to the island, taking in the beautiful coastal scenery along the way.
Arrive at the departure point, ready to embark on the day’s exciting itinerary.

With the meeting and departure logistics taken care of, travelers can look forward to a memorable day exploring the wonders of Saona Island.

Exploring Penon and Mangroves

After the scenic boat ride, visitors explore the lush Penon and mangrove ecosystems of Saona Island.

The diverse natural landscapes provide a captivating introduction to the island’s wonders. Guides lead the way through the mangrove waterways, pointing out the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this coastal habitat. Travelers may spot herons, egrets, and other birds as they glide above the tranquil waters.

The Penon, a rocky peninsula, offers impressive views of the Caribbean Sea and the island’s interior. Visitors can walk along the rocky trails, taking in the breathtaking scenery and learning about the island’s geological formation.

This immersive experience sets the stage for the adventures that await on Saona Island.

Experiencing Mano Juan Village and Turtle Nursery

Next, visitors venture into the charming Mano Juan village, a local community nestled on the island’s eastern coast. Here, they gain insight into the traditional way of life and interact with the friendly inhabitants.

The highlight of this stop is the turtle nursery, where travelers have the opportunity to observe baby sea turtles and learn about critical conservation efforts.

The turtle nursery offers a unique chance for visitors to:

Witness the delicate hatchlings in their protected habitat.
Understand the threats faced by sea turtles and the importance of conservation.
Speak with local experts about the nursery’s role in protecting this endangered species.
Contribute to the cause by making a donation or purchasing souvenirs that support the turtle program.

Relaxation and Snorkeling at Canto De La Playa

Visitors then head to the beautiful Canto de la Playa beach, where they can relax and enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

The natural beauty of the coastline provides the perfect setting for an afternoon of leisure. Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore the vibrant underwater world, where they might spot colorful marine life.

After the snorkeling adventure, travelers can simply unwind on the soft, white sand, soaking up the sun and taking in the breathtaking views. The tour’s inclusion of snorkeling equipment ensures everyone can participate in this enjoyable activity.

With the stunning Saona Beach as the backdrop, Canto de la Playa offers a serene and picturesque end to the island exploration.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour is a small-group journey, though an exact maximum group size is not specified. Travelers can expect to explore Saona Island with a personal, intimate experience in a group small enough to allow for flexibility and personalized attention.

Is This Tour Available Year-Round or Are There Seasonal Restrictions?

The Saona Island tour operates year-round without seasonal restrictions. Visitors can enjoy this family-friendly boat tour from Bayahibe regardless of the time of year, allowing for a flexible and accessible excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment or Is It Mandatory to Use the Provided Gear?

Guests can bring their own snorkeling equipment, but the tour provides snorkeling gear as part of the inclusions. Using the provided equipment is not mandatory, allowing guests to choose whether to use their own or the tour’s gear.

Is Photography Service Included in the Tour Price or Is It an Additional Cost?

The photography service is available during the tour, but it’s an additional cost. The tour price includes other amenities like snorkeling equipment, lunch, and drinks, but the photography service must be paid for separately.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children on This Tour?

The Saona Island tour has no age restrictions and is suitable for families. Children can participate in the activities and enjoy the boat ride, snorkeling, and beach visit. Infants and toddlers can be accommodated on the tour.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

The Saona Island tour from Bayahibe offers Costa Cruise Ship passengers a chance to enjoy the island’s natural wonders.

From exploring the mangroves and Mano Juan village to relaxing on the beach and snorkeling, the tour provides a comprehensive experience that showcases the island’s diverse attractions.

With transportation, gear, and a delicious lunch included, it’s a must-do activity for those seeking to discover the beauty of Saona Island.