saona or catalina island

Private tours are not cheap, especially when boat rides or catamaran cruises are included. We did have a fair amount of seaweed in July on our Saona tour, but the beach and the food were fine. If you are seriously interested in private excursions to Isla Saona, you might ask now about the price tag they are coming with. This is where you can relax in shallow waters and search for starfish. Or perhaps you'replanning your first visit to the island. Starfish proliferate there, which are one of the main attractions for tourists. Thats particularly important in times of. The Turtle Sanctuary is our other visit in the small town, to get to know these fascinating animals. Oscar himself met us on the beach with our drinks which we paid for on the Internet and even helped us get on our boat. Tours to Isla Catalina are offering a relaxed cruise and have a snorkeling stop included. We are stopping at La Romana DR this October on the Carnival Conquest. It is known for its coral reefs, which caused shipwrecks of some ships such as that of Captain Kidd, a British pirate who was shipwrecked on the shores of Catalina and nowadays diving enthusiasts can visit his sunken ship in this history museum under the sea. Hop on board, sail along the Caribbean Sea, feel the ocean breeze and sip on an ice-cold beer or a delicious Cuba Libre. Punta Cana AirbnbsPunta Cana Airport TransfersPunta Cana All-Inclusive ResortsPunta Cana BeachesPunta Cana Car Rental Hope this helps! 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. In case of any problem, you can always seek immediate help from the staff or with the organizer. Even the particular beach you visit always depends on the company you book with, but chances are that you visit a less crowded part of the island. Saona and Catalina Island for only $45 USD per adult and $30 USD per child. Think Sun, Sand, Booze, Boats and Bikinis! Isla Catalina offers a more intimate experience because it is a quieter island and tourists don't visit it as often as Saona Island. Hotels Pick-up. Check out the following options if traveling with a big family or a bunch of friends. 100% recomendable. Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean Soul. Our private boat tours let you have the experience of your dreams! The natural pool is so stunning it's not really fair. Isla Saona is a relatively small island just 42 square kilometers long but it has a rich history. Powered by Invision Community. Saona Island is a beautiful Carribean destination to visit, but HOW you visit it matters a lot. Saona Island. However, for the overall experience we'd choose the powerboat excursion with Seavis, great day that! Administratively, it also belongs to the province of La Romana, although in this case it forms its own national park called the same as the island. ), I'm thinking of going to Catalina Island instead using Passion Paradise Adventures. All Rights Reserved. And even the price seems steep at first glance, if you break it down to 15 people, it is just a bit more than 100 US per person a real bargain for a private full-day catamaran cruise! Be the first to receive special offers, event announcements, exciting tour updates, and so much more when you . Excellent choice highly recommended! Yes, it's a killer combination. However, approximately three decades after Columbuss first visit and the Spanish conquest, the Taino population of the Dominican Republic including the Saona Island was diminished by old world diseases, such as smallpox, and brutal work conditions established by the colonizers. Isla Saona: Saona Info | Book it*Dune buggy and ATV excursion: Buggy Info | Book it*Punta Cana Ziplining: Zipline Info | Book it*Party boat & booze cruise: Party Boat Info | Book it*Scape Park Cap Cana & Blue Lagoon: Blue Lagoon Info | Book it*Los Haitises National Park: Los Haitises Info | Book it* Santo Domingo: Santo Domingo Info | Book it*Saman (Salto El Limn & Cayo Levantado): Saman Info | Book it*Helicopter & airplane tours: Helicopter Info | Book it*Whale watching (Jan-Mar only): Whale watching Info | Book it*Looking for more inspiration? At Mano Juan, you will find a few gift shops with typical souvenirs to take back home with you, stands with local art, and a small restaurant that serves fresh island food. It's an All-inclusive, Full-Day, outing and you need some time away from your Punta Cana resort. Is the snorkeling low key or more advanced? We use cookies to improve your experience and to analyze the use of our website. There were lots of vans picking up to go to Saona/Catalina. Required fields are marked *. You will practically be standing in the middle of the Caribbean SeaHow cool is that?! Bayahibe Hotel El Pulpo. The natural park bracelets (tax) are not included in the price:5$ USD per person. I recommend you to discuss the details with your host/organizer after booking and before the tour. With the current price of 450 US (subject to change), it is just 75 US per person an unbeatable bargain. In the section below I am recommending you the best private excursions with competitive pricing. Saona Island ( Mano Juan and Canto de la Playa) (+$130.00 USD ), How many Passengers? The second one will be in a much more relaxed spot, since in The Aquarium we will go down to 8 meters deep, where you will be able to get to know a wonderful underwater world. The great thing about snorkeling is that all you really need is a mask and a life jacket. With over 20yrs. Michele de Cuneo also later became the first governor of Saona Island. Passion Paradise is a smaller operation. Comfortable speed boat for private rental in Bayahibe for up to 12 people. If you are traveling with a large family or a group of friends, the prices of a private tour can be even more affordable than if booked individually. What Is Better: Isla Saona vs. Isla Catalina We use the same quality standards as for our boat tours. On the shore of the beach, the white sand is perfect for relaxing on it. If you need a transfer from Punta Cana, they can organize it as well. We will make our first stop in the middle of the ocean to Snorkel or Dive (depends the program youve booked) with some of our professional guides in the water with the most marine fauna in the Caribbean. (Click below to navigate) If you dont find the right offer among those private tours and you are looking for other excursions to Isla Saona, feel free to send me an email to puntacanatravelblog (at) gmail (dot) com. Want to create a unique itinerary for your Saona Island excursion? Especially when traveling with a large family or small group, the prices are absolutely affordable. Due to the seaweed problem at Saona Island (can anyone confirm this that's been lately? Or, if youre feeling adventurous, go scuba diving or snorkeling in the crystal clear Caribbean Sea to see lots of beautiful fish and interesting sea creatures! Find out in this article what other advantages you have on Saona Island and Catalina Island when booking a private tour. It is led by Negro, a local community organization, that gets turtle eggs from high-risk areas to a safe environment where they can hatch and then be returned to their natural habitat. If this sounds perfect to you, then check out the best Saona Island tour offers here* or continue reading my Isla Saona Guide. Passion Paradise is a smaller operation. It is easy to reach Saona Island by boat or yacht. Children under 3 are FREE! Gabriele il Toscano Escursioni & Diving discounts - what to see at Dominicus - check out reviews and 4 photos for Gabriele il Toscano Escursioni & Diving - popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Gabriele il Toscano Escursioni & Diving It is also an exceptionally good place to fish, where you can find specimens of guatapan, horse mackerel, king mackerel, and other types of temperate-water fish. It's Catalina Island's secret summer. Espero volver a verles pronto!! Includes Captain, boat fuel, and cooler with ice. Isla Saona is an important turtle breeding ground and you can visit a turtle conservation project on your Saona Island trip. And what about water temp? Shop - Saona Island Tour & Excursion SALE (Ermitano Beach) Playa Ermitao Boat tour and Playa Onda, Half - Day Trip, Saman - Dominican Republic. If a speed boat is too small for you and you prefer a private yacht to visit Isla Saona, you can check out this private yacht tour for up to 10 people*. We swapped the waters of Saona for those of Catalina Island. Do you remember the gorgeous Bounty Chocolate commercials that showed off a deserted island with a gorgeous white sand beach and turquoise waters? (Ermitano Beach) Playa Ermitao Boat tour and Playa Onda, Half Day Trip, Saman Dominican Republic. : Has anyone used Passion Paradise Adventures?? Saona island, Catalina island or natural pool of Las Palmillas Let us know your desires we will take care of offering you a tailor-made excursion! Some info about your guide Robert: Hello my name is Robert and originally I am Dutch. Hotel Bayahibe. If you want to snorkel, Catalina island has better snorkeling. Full Day (8 hours) Boat Rental for 12 passengersmax. A private tour to Isla Saona or Isla Catalina comes with many advantages. This article is exclusively about private tours to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina. 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua Tour from Cabarete, Sosua and Puerto Plata. With Catalina you're snorkeling off the boat or off the Wall so less concerns about sand and you have both the Aquarium and the Wall to snorkel. I asked a resident of Bayahibe about the present seaweed conditions and they are very bad around Punta Cana but Bayahibe and areas nearby are very clean, beaches look gorgeous around Bayahibe and Saona. In the afternoon, you head back to your starting point. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2019 - 2023 Punta Cana Hero. I will design your tailor-made itinerary, tell you how to save money on your trip and send you the best insider tips and recommendations. And its not surprising! On the way to Isla Saona, theres a gorgeous natural pool, a large area with waist-deep shallow and crystal clear water. How many opportunities will you have to sail the Caribbean Sea? Especially when looking for a little extra, a Saona Island private tour can be an amazing deal compared to sharing a catamaran with 70 other people. If you ever get hot during your Saona Island trip, simply go for a swim in the crystal clear waters or drink a cold Presidente! Check out the Saona Island Tour and Catalina Island Tour and the Saona Gallery and the Catalina Gallery for some impressions, enjoy! You get the boat, the open bar and the food. 15 Dominican Republic: Saona Sailing Tour with Lunch and Drinks. Maximum for 40 people on board. For further information, check out the following table with the cheapest Isla Saona private tours. Did you like this article and would like to read all new stories about Punta Cana and beyond? Motor catamaran for rent and private tours to Saona Island, Palmilla (natural pools) and Catalina Island with departures from Bayahibe. Both islands are worth the visit and have their advantages, but your experiences will be a bit different. In our catalog you can also find a visit similar to the previous one, but in this case going from Altos de Chavn to the paradisiacal island of Saona. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Visiting Saona Island is usually a day trip and you will be back in your hotel by the early evening, so there is no need to search for accommodations on Saona Island. Mano Juan is the bigger village on the island but still has only about 500 residents who dedicate their lives to fishing, making art, and living in tranquilidad (Spanish for tranquility!). We started out being picked up with two other people to catch a bus which took us to this restaurant to be loaded on a catamaran . Do you have a private boat or maritime excursion and do you want to get benefits? The village of Mano Juan is still there and is one of the two charming fishing villages on Isla Saona, along with a village called Catuano. This excursion should be preferred if you only want to visit some of the must-see sights of Saona Island. $ 120 $ 98 6 - 8 Hours Car SALE 27 Waterfalls Buggies Tour Puerto Plata $ 95 $ 65 3 - 4 Hours buggies SALE 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua Tour from Cabarete, Sosua and Puerto Plata. Catalina Beach. It is very difficult to make a comparison between both islands. You can relax on the beach with a cocktail or a soft drink or join in a volleyball game. . He was able to arrange a private boat at a very good cost to pick up my girlfriend and I right next to our resort on the beach. Saona.fun is focused on quality tours to the islands of Saona & Catalina. When arriving at this picture-perfect island with its stunning coastline, you will feel like you are in paradise. Hence, if you are concerned about Covid-19 in Punta Cana, but still would like to enjoy an easy and worry-free holiday, private excursions are the best choice for you. 4 EXCURSIONS FOR USD250 P/P . Day Trip Saona Island - Quetzal boat; Day Trip Saona Island - Small group; Day Trip Catalina Island; Whale watching . In case you want to try this particular exclusive experience, check out the offers in the widgets further below in this article. Isla Saona is the #1 demanded excursion in Punta Cana so Book now to ensure . Hotel El Eden. When staying in Punta Cana, there are tons of group tours to book, but what should you do if you are looking for a private excursion to Isla Saona or Isla Catalina? So, now you are wondering: Where is Saona Island?. We have often done both in the same holiday as they are the most interesting boat trips from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Started June 21, 2021, By Explore our exciting land and seaactivities & adventures, hotel packages, and otherspecial offers. For a head-to-head comparison of Isla Catalina vs Isla Saona, you can also use the following table. The crowds (which are currently not present due to Covid-19) dont matter that much if you have your own tour anyway. Saona island is an island where you have to go to disconnect, to relax after a few days in the busiest tourist areas. Go on the website and if you cant find exactly what you are looking for, call Oscar and he will set you up. Los Flamencos Aparthotel. Furthermore, you get a customized itinerary and the full personal attention from a company rated No. Save. It is suitable for up to 15 people and comes with a price tag of 1500 USD, lunch and drinks are included. And if Catalina impresses underwater, it also does so on the surface. . They all pretty much go to all the same stops. DESCRIPTION. If this option doesnt suit you, you can check out the following private excursions to Isla Catalina. Isla Saona is generally reached by boat from Bayahibe. This is why we are committed to providing Dominican Republic visitors with an alternative and more exclusive way to experience Saona Island. Furthermore, Isla Catalina offers one of the best snorkeling opportunities in the Southeast of the Dominican Republic. That was Saona Island! Just check out some of the photos here or in my comprehensive guide about Isla Saona. The dives at this point are between 20 and 40 meters, only within the reach of the most experienced divers. Especially in these unprecedented times, private tours are offering an enormous extra value compared to standard group excursions: safety and health. Also, Saona seems to be more of a party. 16 Rum Factory Tour. As you can read in my review about Isla Catalina, it further scores with its catamaran cruise, as you can enjoy it both ways as opposed to the combined speed boat-/catamaran ride to Isla Saona. Go with the pros to Saona! Our private boat tours let you have the experience of your dreams! Catalina Island is also located southeast of the island of Hispaniola, although much closer to important population centers such as La Romana. Posee una superficie aproximada de 9,6 . Visit the Tiki Bar, dance merengue, visit the Tiki Bar, play volleyball, visit the Tiki Bar, walk the beach, visit the Tiki Bar, hit the buffet. This is a real island mon! What Is the Weather Like at Saona Island? Our private half-day or full-day boat tours allow you to escape the crowds for a memorable Saona Island tour to experience this slice of Caribbean paradise on your own terms. B&B Villa Luna. Snorkeling at Saona is nothing special. 2-5 (+cruise ships if applicable). Saona Island is located southeast of the Dominican Republic. .. You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, By The staff is just there for you. Most Saona Island tours with big boats and crowds wont make a snorkeling stop, but Saona can offer an amazing snorkeling experience since it is a part of a large national park, Cotubanam, and a sanctuary to a large number of different species. We have used Seavis Tours for Saona Island and Pro Excursions for Catalina and would highly recommend both of these, they're both located in Bayahibe. Sea water has healing properties. In addition, you should know that all excursions include round trip transfers to and from the hotels where you are staying. Ask Kanta M about Saona Island Paradise From Punta Cana. . You can get a message on a gorgeous white sand beach under the swaying palm trees with a pina colada by your side and feel yourself again. All itineraries are custom designed by the Captain in collaboration with you. Saona Island is a must if you come to spend your vacation in the Dominican Republic and its popularity is well deserved. Explore our exciting land and sea activities & adventures, hotel packages, and other special offers. However, be careful not to touch the starfish you find because your sunscreen is toxic for them. It also offers a better snorkeling experience. Book Online! Hi we were just on the Proexcursion to Sonoa last week. Whatever it is, Mano Juan has brightly colored homes that show a Caribbean carefree way of living. Not Bus Pick Up. Departing from Bayahibe. I would like to thank Oscar who even gave me a generous refund because the boat was not exactly as originally described. Where to begin to describe one of the most beautiful places in the Dominican Republic. If you are interested in further excursions that are Covid-19 safe or certified, check out this article. Board a small speedboat for the thrilling ride out to the island, including a stop at a natural swimming pool where you can see starfish. If you want to enjoy a day of relaxation in one of the most beautiful landscapes of the Dominican Republic, your choice should be Saona Island. Shaded areas, comfortable lounge seats. This is why we are sharing this Complete Guide to Saona Island with you. We'll hit the Caribbean Sea on a speedboat and slowly cruise you back to the mainland on a spacious catamaran. It just depends on what you are looking for. It just depends on what you are looking for. You dont have any strangers on the boat. There were lots of vans picking up to go to Saona/Catalina. It also offers a better snorkeling experience. Let me know how I can help you (check my packages here) and send me a request here! I want the free e-book "15 amazing things-to-do for free in Punta Cana"! Pirates would wait for Spanish ships to sail through their waters to attack and rob them of their riches. It is an island in the southeast of the country, dotted with palm-fringed beaches and surrounded by incredibly blue turquoise waters. The famous Bounty Chocolate commercials were actually filmed on the white sand beaches of Saona Island! It's up to you whether you want to discover one of the islands or, if you have enough time, venture to know the two little jewels of the Dominican Republic. Be the first to receive special offers, event announcements, exciting tour updates, and so much morewhen you sign up for our newsletter. You will start your tour in La Romana and stop at the most famous snorkeling spot in the area, where you can see colorful fish and a tropical reef. We were back by 5 PM and everything went great. Catalina is more recommended if you are in snorkeling and scuba diving. Saona Island has natural sandbars offshore that make the water very shallow, about waist-deep. Transfer and lunch are optional, hence I recommend to make proper arrangements with the organizer of the tour before so that they exactly know what you wish for your private excursion to Saona Island. On a land vacation you hit another Saona Island beach, but for a cruise stop we'd recommend Catalina for the snorkeling. Most unique experience in a small group: Authentic rum tasting* (rating 5.00/5)Best Rated Punta Cana excursion: Jungle Buggies + Zipline Combo* (rating 4.92/5)Most booked through Punta Cana Travel Blog: Small-Group Snorkeling* (rating 4.91/5)Best off-the-beaten-track excursion: Montana Redonda & Costa Esmeralda* (rating 4.78/5)Best excursion for families: Family Buggy Adventure* (rating 4.64/5)Not the right tour for you?Check out the 41 best Punta Cana excursions here at Punta Cana Travel Blog! Saona Island is a must if you come to spend your vacation in the Dominican Republic and its popularity is well deserved. Check out the following widget with some alternative tours. Due to the seaweed problem at Saona Island (can anyone confirm this that's been lately? Still, let's take a closer look at the exact location of each of these islands. Moreover, Saona Islands more secluded beaches that you can reach on a private tour make social distancing much more enjoyable! Enjoy a nice plate of lobster with local rice and a Presidente (the BEST local beer!) Sign-up for the latest Punta Cana travel stories! Saona Island tourism remains largely unaffected by the pandemic. How to get to the Saona island is only arriving from the public beach of Bayahibe, from there you can hire us in different options in package tours, or renting a boat or catamaran yacht . If you want to have a Saona Island day trip, you might be wondering what the best way to visit this beautiful Caribbean island is. And the best of all is that you will practically only have to leave your hotel room, as we will pick you up to take you to La Romana , and then go by catamaran to these dive sites. Land and Jungle Excursions: And we don't forget the land part of the park. I only went to Catalina, but here's something that might make a distance. However, tours are sometimes cheaper than you might think, hence it is worth having a closer look at Catalina Island and Saona Island private tours. Max. The element that contributes most to the marine fauna is the coral reef that surrounds the island. Catalina Island not only for divers but also for snorkeling is a wonderful vacation experience. Dominican Republic does not have strict mandates or lockdown restrictions and you can travel freely. What's so amazing about Isla Saona? Catalina Island features coral very close to the shore that are easily accessible. The cheapest private boats to Saona Island. It is an area of the island that barely reaches 11 meters deep. Boats with Clean & Safe badge on WannaBoats, On-Board Covid-19 Safety Protocols (email). etc. Our most popular Saona excursion is the Saona Crusoe VIP: an adventure per fast speedboat to the most remote and the most beautiful beaches on Saona Island. The quintessential Caribbean island deserves the quintessential Caribbean scenery; ivory sands lined with rows of swaying palms. There were about 20 of us, and only two divers. A good question deserves several good answers: Mornings"Pickup times vary depending on the hotel you are staying at. I'm a little nervous. A much more affordable dive is that of The Aquarium. This is by far the most elegant private tour to Isla Saona a full cruising-style catamaran exclusively for your group*. Saona is more recommended if you are looking for a nice beach with no seaweed and great views. We got you covered! Full-day Saona Island tour from Bayahbe Travel by sailing catamaran Buffet lunch on the island Started August 27, 2021, By Catalina & Saona are on the Caribbean Sea, so the water will be warm. GOOD NEWS! Thank Kanta M . Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos, Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID related Discussions. 13 Punta Cana: Snorkeling Tour to Catalina Island by Cataraman. It's an all day excursion with snorkeling and/or diving. 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua Tour from Puerto Plata. You can roam around freely and create the vibe you want. Everything is included: gourmet food, service, alcohol, water sports, scuba, linens with a Captain, Chef/Hostess, and first mate. When traveling with up to 15 people, there are also other options available you can book online. Breakfast was a bun and a drink. 1 on Tripadvisor (out of 54 water sports and excursion companies in Bayahibe, the departure port to go to Isla Saona). Traveling to Isla Saona in your own private boat is the safest way to explore this beautiful Caribbean island. All you have to do is float on the surface and appreciate what's below it. He knows every captain in the area and every boat. However, the finishing village of Mano Juan does have a small hotel where you can rent a cheap room for the night. Getting to know the way of life on a small Caribbean island is a cultural immersion that can be done in the village of Mano Juan. Book your private, 10 Best Beaches in Punta Cana You Dont Want to Miss, 5 Best Scuba Diving Spots in the Dominican Republic. It's your vacation to Punta Cana and you may only have ONE opportunity to do this the right way. Alternatively, you can check out this return transfer option* as well. Alternatively, you may use, Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort, https://www.proexcursionsbayahibe.com/en/index.html. It is the second largest island after Saona Island in Dominican Republic and is well loved for its spectacular diving sites. I'm a little nervous because they are way down the list on TA, but they do have decent reviews and have been responsive via email. The sand can also be a problem if it's a little rougher. Your email address will not be published. How many islands does the Dominican Republic have? Oh and we pick you up and drop you off at your lobby. BOAT RULES. The Dominican Republic is famous for its incredible seafood, and Saona Island lives up to the expectations! Isla Saona natural pool is the largest natural pool in the world and there are lots of things you can do during your time there, from relaxing in the beautiful waters to dancing merengue on a boat and enjoying some Dominican rum! Do you need help planning a customized vacation in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic? 5 stars all the way, and a nice day with excellent guides. We later passed by another area and swam again. You choose the type of boat: sailing catamaran, motor catamaran, yacht or motorboat. The Saona excursions hit Catuano Beach where the old pier is, the snorkelig can be good or just so so there depending on the conditions because you're closer to shore. Do you want to take some beautiful pictures during your Saona Island trip? Although it is located off the coast of the province of La Altagracia, it is administratively part of the province of La Romana. Or perhaps you're planning your first visit to the island. Any information would be appreciated.