Exploring the underwater marvels of Saona Island is an experience that captivates visitors from around the world. This submarine tour doesn’t just take you to the island’s renowned natural pool – it immerses you in the vibrant marine ecosystems that thrive beneath the surface. Imagine floating amidst a kaleidoscope of colorful starfish, as you witness the delicate balance of life in this unique and protected environment. It’s a chance to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the wonders of the natural world. What secrets might you uncover on this unforgettable journey?
Key Points
- This tour offers a submarine descent to view coral reefs and a visit to the idyllic Saona Island with its white-sand beaches and natural pool for starfish observation.
- The tour lasts 9-11 hours and has a maximum capacity of 40 guests, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles.
- Lunch, alcoholic beverages, and souvenirs are included in the package, with additional options like piña coladas and lobster available at extra cost.
- Guests are strictly prohibited from touching or removing starfish from the natural pool, as it can be fatal for the marine life.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infants must sit on laps during the journey.
Tour Overview
The Submarine Tour to Saona Island offers visitors an exciting and unique experience in the Dominican Republic.
Lasting between 9 to 11 hours, including transfer time, the tour takes travelers on a submarine journey to the stunning Saona Island.
With a maximum capacity of 40 guests, the tour departs at 7:30 am and provides an air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, alcoholic beverages, and souvenirs.
The highlight of the tour is the stop at the natural pool, where guests can observe the captivating starfish.
However, it’s important to note that touching or removing the starfish is strictly forbidden, as they’re sensitive to air exposure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Punta Cana.
Exploring Saona Island

Upon arrival at Saona Island, visitors are immediately captivated by its untamed beauty. The island’s stunning white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters create a picture-perfect Caribbean scene.
Guests can explore the island’s lush, verdant interior, home to a diverse array of native flora and fauna. The highlight of the visit is the natural pool, where travelers can observe the mesmerizing starfish that call this unique ecosystem home.
Wandering through the serene, unspoiled landscape, it’s easy to feel a sense of tranquility and escape from the bustling world. With its idyllic setting and abundance of natural wonders, Saona Island offers a truly immersive and unforgettable island adventure.
The Natural Pool Experience
Visitors eagerly make their way to the natural pool, having explored the island’s lush landscapes. This serene oasis is a highlight of the tour, where they can observe the captivating starfish in their natural habitat.
Guides provide a hands-off approach, allowing guests to discover the starfish on their own. The tranquil waters offer a refreshing respite from the day’s activities, inviting travelers to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
With the opportunity to marvel at the vibrant marine life, the natural pool experience leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. It’s a chance to connect with the island’s natural wonders and create cherished memories.
Inclusions and Extras
The tour package includes an air-conditioned vehicle to transport travelers, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.
Lunch, alcoholic beverages (for those 18 and older), and non-alcoholic drinks like soda, coffee, and tea are all provided.
Towels are available, and guests can take home souvenirs from the trip.
The highlight of the tour is the natural pool stop, where visitors can observe and find starfish, though the guide doesn’t assist in this activity.
Additional costs include $10 for a piña colada, $38 per pound for pre-ordered lobster, and a $10 per person transport fee for hotels in certain areas.
Advance booking is recommended, and the tour is accessible for strollers but not wheelchairs.
Important Notes
Confirmation is received immediately upon booking this tour. This excursion is not wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed, and infants must sit on laps. It’s important to note that pulling starfish out of the water is strictly forbidden, as it can be fatal for the creatures. Tourists are welcome to observe the starfish in their natural habitat, but guides will not assist in directly handling them.
| Important Notes | ||
|---|---|---|
| Not wheelchair accessible | Stroller accessible | Infants must sit on laps |
| Pulling starfish out of water is forbidden | Starfish can die when exposed to air | Tourists may only observe, no handling allowed |
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Booking and Cancellation
Booking this submarine tour to Saona Island is a straightforward process. Travelers can reserve their spot online and pay later, providing flexibility.
Upon booking, they’ll receive confirmation immediately. The tour’s cancellation policy is generous, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This gives participants the option to adjust their plans if needed.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed, and infants must sit on laps.
Transportation and Pickup
This submarine tour provides convenient transportation and pickup for participants. All guests are picked up from their hotels in air-conditioned vehicles and then transported to the starting point of the tour. The pickup locations include the following areas:
| Area | Additional Fee |
|---|---|
| Uvero Alto | $10 per person |
| Cap Cana | $10 per person |
| Punta Cana | $10 per person |
Upon completion of the tour, guests are dropped off back at their hotels, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. The tour’s transportation service is designed to make the journey as comfortable and efficient as possible, allowing participants to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the wonders of the submarine adventure.
Tour Highlights
The submarine tour to Saona Island and the Natural Pool offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning marine ecosystems of the Dominican Republic.
Voyagers will descend into the crystal-clear waters aboard a state-of-the-art submarine, witnessing the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life up close.
The tour also includes a visit to the breathtaking Saona Island, where travelers can relax on the pristine white-sand beaches, observe the iconic starfish in the Natural Pool, and indulge in a delicious lunch.
With a maximum of 40 travelers and a duration of 9-11 hours, this tour promises an unforgettable and immersive experience in the heart of the Caribbean.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Deep Does the Submarine Go During the Tour?
The submarine reaches a depth of approximately 100 feet during the tour, allowing visitors to witness the vibrant marine life and coral formations beneath the surface. The experience provides an up-close look at the underwater world.
Can Tourists Interact With the Marine Life in the Submarine?
Tourists cannot interact with the marine life during the submarine tour. The submarine stays submerged, allowing passengers to observe the underwater world without disturbing the delicate marine ecosystem.
Is the Submarine Accessible for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
Unfortunately, the submarine tour is not accessible for individuals with mobility issues. According to the important notes, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed. Infants must also sit on laps during the tour.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Submarine Tour?
The tour’s information doesn’t mention any restrictions on photography during the submarine portion. Travelers are generally free to take photos, but they should be mindful of their surroundings and not interfere with the tour’s operation or other participants’ experiences.
What Types of Safety Equipment Are Provided for the Submarine Ride?
The submarine tour provides passengers with life jackets and other necessary safety equipment to ensure a comfortable and secure ride beneath the waves. The crew carefully briefs participants on proper usage before departure.
Submarine Tour to Saona Island & Natural Pool
The Sum Up
The Submarine Tour to Saona Island & Natural Pool offers an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning marine ecosystems of the Dominican Republic. From exploring the pristine beaches of Saona Island to marveling at vibrant starfish in the natural pool, this tour promises an unparalleled adventure, leaving guests with lasting memories of the island’s breathtaking beauty.























