saona or catalina island

These cheerful objects that soaked up the quintessential Dominican lifestyle are guaranteed to brighten up your home! Another underrated activity at Saona Island is scuba diving. GOOD NEWS! Seaweed was present around the first snorkel site at the old pier, not over where we were, but the snorkeling is not great there anyway. Especially when traveling with a large family or small group, the prices are absolutely affordable. A private tour to Isla Saona or Isla Catalina comes with many advantages. This is why we are committed to providing Dominican Republic visitors with an alternative and more exclusive way to experience Saona Island. Isla Saona is generally reached by boat from Bayahibe. Book your private, 10 Best Beaches in Punta Cana You Dont Want to Miss, 5 Best Scuba Diving Spots in the Dominican Republic. Especially when you are traveling with 16 people or more, I am happy to get you in touch with the best companies or give you personal recommendations on your tour. Saona.fun is focused on quality tours to the islands of Saona & Catalina. Tours to Isla Catalina are offering a relaxed cruise and have a snorkeling stop included. In the afternoon, you head back to your starting point. Saona Island. Advantages of private tours to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? How many opportunities will you have to sail the Caribbean Sea? But the highlight of the activity is the visit to the village of Mano Juan, where you can meet the inhabitants of the island. This is why we are committed to providing Dominican Republic visitors with an alternative and more exclusive way to experience Saona Island. Whats Included: Impuestos de parque incluido The captain is included with the boat rental. How to Get to Saona Island? However, any time of the year is perfect to visit these natural wonders. What Is Better: Isla Saona vs. Isla Catalina Although very similar, they also have some differences between them. Of the 539 species found in the park, the small island of 110 km2 is home to most of them. For more information about both islands, check out my comprehensive Isla Catalina and Isla Saona guide. Check out the following options if traveling with a big family or a bunch of friends. Enjoy the National Park of the East in Dominican Republic, the beautiful Saona Island or Catalina . How to find the best Private Tours to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? The cheapest private boats to Saona Island. Are you ready to escape the crowded beaches of Bavaro or Bayahibe and explore the untouched natural beauty of the Caribbean? 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! El transporte que nos organizaron super puntual. Max. Most families in Mano Juan make their living by fishing, so you can expect freshly caught local fish accompanied with yummy and healthy sides, such as plantains, rice, and cassava. Maybe you'd like to spend a relaxing day with family at the beach? 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. The beach stretches as far as the eye can see. Just check out some of the photos here or in my comprehensive guide about Isla Saona. Our last activity is for those who love scuba diving. Saona Island is a beautiful Carribean destination to visit, but HOW you visit it matters a lot. There is currently a push to go back to this original name for Isla Saona. Since it is a part of the national park, Isla Saona and its waters are home to endangered and rare animal species such as rhinoceros iguana, the gentle manatee, and dolphins that you may not see elsewhere! So if you want to find accommodation near these two islands, we share with you the following list of hotels near Saona Island and Catalina island proposed by TripAdvisor: BAYAHIBE. You might be surprised! The famous Bounty Chocolate commercials were actually filmed on the white sand beaches of Saona Island! 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. Saona Island known as Isla Saona in Spanish is a picturesque island only a short boat ride away from Punta Cana and Bayahibe that offers unparalleled wild nature and beautiful beaches. We got you covered! Palmilla Sandbank is the beach where the natural swimming pool is located. The natural pool is so stunning it's not really fair. Drinks & Food options available for an extra fee and depending number of passengers. Daily PRIVATE Trip in motor catamaran - Max 60 persons $ Duration: Flexible. Coco Bongo Punta Cana Also, Saona seems to be more of a party. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. You may be very lucky and see a family of dolphins, a turtle, a whale or even a manatee Some of these species are in danger of extinction, so it will not be easy for you to find them, but not impossible, so be attentive. With us, with the help of professional guides, you will be able to dive in some of the best spots in the Dominican Republic. CC Help Jenn It's an all day excursion with snorkeling and/or diving. Very helpful, glad to hear about the recent experiences! : This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. This excursion should be preferred if you only want to visit some of the must-see sights of Saona Island. The natural park bracelets (tax) are not included in the price:5$ USD per person. 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. Land and Jungle Excursions: And we don't forget the land part of the park. If this sounds perfect to you, then check out the best Saona Island tour offers here* or continue reading my Isla Saona Guide. 14 From Los Melones: Saona Island Day Trip with Lunch. In Mano Juan, a small fishing village on Isla Saona, there is a refuge for turtles that you can visit and you can help the cause with a donation. B&B Villa Luna. Its transparent waters in beaches such as the East, West and North, make putting on your goggles and diving an experience. The second of the excursions we propose is our classic visit to Catalina Island. Punta Cana Currency I was scuba diving down there in November and the water temp was around 80 F. We like the Pro Excursions Saona tour because you are on a 45 ft. catamaran (with bathroom) both ways. Food good, excellent staff for pro excursions. As if that were not enough, in Catalina there is also the wreck of a ship called Cara Merchant, commanded by Captain Kidd at the end of the 17th century. We traveled to the natural pool which is a beautiful Sandbar and were able to swim privately. Our Bahamas private yacht charter does not follow a cruise ship itinerary. Saona Island is a must if you come to spend your vacation in the Dominican Republic and its popularity is well deserved. Professional Music Equipment. Book your Saona Island Tour now! Or perhaps you'replanning your first visit to the island. And then go for another relaxing swim! But why not consider a private tour (from Punta Cana or elsewhere) and setting your own itinerary? Comfortable and safe transfer from your hotel to Bayahibe. Or perhaps you're planning your first visit to the island. Is a pleasure for us to know that you had such a great experience! If youve been wanting to reconnect with your natural side, visiting Isla Saona should be a must-do for your Caribbean vacation! Framed within the Cotubanam National Park, formerly known as the Parque Nacional del Este, it is one of its most important parts. There were lots of vans picking up to go to Saona/Catalina. Board a speedboat as soon as you arrive in the village of Bayahibe, towards the island of Saona to do some snorkeling at Catuano Peers. They make for a gorgeous photo background, too! 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. DIVING + CATALINA ISLAND . . On the catamaran you will have drinks and you will be able to enjoy it with our entertainment group while sailing through the Caribbean Sea. Sea water has healing properties. This is a real island mon! Saona Island I have summarized the best Saona private tours for you in this comprehensive overview. 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. Saona Island (Isla Saona) Tours 77 Tours & Activities 4WD Tours 269 Tours & Activities Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises 833 Tours & Activities Why you are seeing these recommendations Reserve Now & Pay Later Saona Island Beach Day 39 Reviews Cap Cana, Caribbean Save to Wishlist From $70.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers There is also a growing number of ecolodges and eco-tourism camping sites, but we still recommend going back to your hotel and coming back for another visit if you feel like you still have things you want to do and see! Saona Island then remained uninhabited for a long period of time. If you feel that this itinerary might limit your expectations or it is not as much fun as it could be, you should continue reading below, as in this case, a private tour to Isla Saona might be exactly what you are looking for. 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. Find out in this article what other advantages you have on Saona Island and Catalina Island when booking a private tour. Hotels Pick-up. 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. Ask Kanta M about Saona Island Paradise From Punta Cana. Visit Saona Island, an idyllic speck of sand and palm trees in the blue Caribbean, during a full-day tour from Punta Cana. Hotels Pick-up. Isla Catalina is another beautiful Caribbean island, just a short boat ride away from Isla 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. ATV + El Valle Beach & Waterfalls, Baha de las Aguilas: Beach Day Trip by Boat -Day Pass Pedernales, Baha de las Aguilas: Beach Day Trip by Boat -Day Pass Snorkeling & Lunch, Birdwatching in Los Haitises National Park, Birdwatching Punta Cana Birding Tours from Punta Cana to Los Haitises National Park, Catalina Island and Snorkeling with Catamaran Party From Punta Cana Half Day Experience. 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 depends what you meany by "better". Traveling to Isla Saona in your own private boat is the safest way to explore this beautiful Caribbean island. and share your adventures with friends and family. Estoy contento de saber que disfrutaron de la lancha para ir a Isla Saona y las piscinas naturales de forma privada! A few meters away, palm trees and jungle vegetation appear, where we can find endemic fauna and flora of the island. Saona Island is a must if you come to spend your vacation in the Dominican Republic and its popularity is well deserved. For further information, check out the following table with the cheapest Isla Saona private tours. Of course, we would recommend visiting both, but if you can only decide on one, we leave you a brief comparison to help you choose. The first stop will be Catalina Wall. Furthermore, Isla Catalina offers one of the best snorkeling opportunities in the Southeast of the Dominican Republic. What is the best option for a private excursion: the difference between Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? Both islands are an essential part of the beauty that makes up the Dominican Republic. Both meet the prototype of Caribbean paradise islands, with crystal clear waters and beaches of fine yellow sand that lend themselves to spend a day of scandal. Punta Cana Day-TripsPunta Cana ExcursionsPunta Cana Family ActivitiesPunta Cana Family ResortsPunta Cana Free ActivitiesPunta Cana HikingPunta Cana ItineraryPunta Cana MapsPunta Cana NightlifePunta Cana Public TransportPunta Cana SnorkelingPunta Cana Things-to-DoPunta Cana WaterfallsPunta Cana Weather Muy agradables los marineros. 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! Tourism During Covid Bayahibe Travel Guide Saona Island Catamaran Tour 1 Bus Tours from $75.00 $68.25 per adult Saona Blue Paradise from Punta Cana 7 Lunch Cruises from $104.00 per adult Saona Island Full-Day Tour from Punta Cana 19 Bus Tours from $95.00 per adult All-Inclusive Saona Island Tour from Punta Cana (Full Day) Full-day Tours from $85.00 per adult 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 . With over 20yrs. 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. We are stopping at La Romana DR this October on the Carnival Conquest. Be the first to receive special offers, event announcements, exciting tour updates, and so much morewhen you sign up for our newsletter. This is why we offer private and exclusive Saona Island tours, with no-one else on board apart from the crew and your group! Seriously, white sand AND palm trees? Click. Take a Selfie because ocean water this color is found at few places on earth. However, this is different for private tours, which is why I would lean more towards Isla Saona if I had to choose where to go on a private excursion from Punta Cana with my friends or family. If this option doesnt suit you, you can check out the following private excursions to Isla Catalina. We use cookies to improve your experience and to analyze the use of our website. experience in tourism in the Dominican Republic. 2-5 (+cruise ships if applicable). I want the free e-book "15 amazing things-to-do for free in Punta Cana"! Isla Saona is generally reached by boat from Bayahibe. Comfortable speed boat for private rental in Bayahibe for up to 12 people. Alternatively, you may use, Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort, https://www.proexcursionsbayahibe.com/en/index.html. (the BEST local beer!) Day Trip Saona Island - Quetzal boat; Day Trip Saona Island - Small group; Day Trip Catalina Island; Whale watching . Explore our exciting land and seaactivities & adventures, hotel packages, and otherspecial offers. Catalina Island is also located southeast of the island of Hispaniola, although much closer to important population centers such as La Romana. It just depends on what you are looking for. Be the first to receive special offers, event announcements, exciting tour updates, and so much more when you . The island measures about 9.6 . This is the most basic experience to visit the Catalina Island National Park, where you will be able to see its most famous places. 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. Also, Saona seems to be more of a party. Shop - Saona Island Tour & Excursion SALE (Ermitano Beach) Playa Ermitao Boat tour and Playa Onda, Half - Day Trip, Saman - Dominican Republic. 15 Dominican Republic: Saona Sailing Tour with Lunch and Drinks. It also offers a better snorkeling experience. 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. This island also has a lot to offer you. Catalina & Saona are on the Caribbean Sea, so the water will be warm. Where Is Isla Saona Located? We later passed by another area and swam again. There were about 20 of us, and only two divers. Your email address will not be published. With the current price of 450 US (subject to change), it is just 75 US per person an unbeatable bargain. Saona island is an island where you have to go to disconnect, to relax after a few days in the busiest tourist areas. Book your private Saona Island excursion now! Is the snorkeling low key or more advanced? Lunch will be prepared just for your group, which means there is no queue at the buffet. Valid on days: Monday Wednesday and Friday. Most Popular Posts on Punta Cana Travel Blog . Most Saona Island tours leave from Bayahibe and arrive straight to the gorgeous wild beaches shortly after. Has anyone used Passion Paradise Adventures?? Saona VIP is our most complete tour to visit this beautiful island. SHARING IS CARING! It is an area of the island that barely reaches 11 meters deep. 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. Excellent choice highly recommended! The sand can also be a problem if it's a little rougher. I recommend you to discuss the details with your host/organizer after booking and before the tour. Saona island is an island where you have to go to disconnect, to relax after a few days in the busiest tourist areas. We have often done both in the same holiday as they are the most interesting boat trips from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Private charters from La Marina at Casa de Campo Resort, La Romana. Snorkeling at Saona is nothing special. This is by far the most elegant private tour to Isla Saona a full cruising-style catamaran exclusively for your group*. This excursion is perfect to do with children. And its not surprising! We hope! From there we went to Tao restaurant on saona island which was recommended by Oscar and was exceptional we had a luxurious lunch on a beautifully arranged table on the sand From there our captain Moiset took us to an area where we anchored offshore and were able to swim in the most clear blue water you can imagine. We are sure that the crystal clear water of this place will not disappoint you. 13 Punta Cana: Snorkeling Tour to Catalina Island by Cataraman. Do you want to take some beautiful pictures during your Saona Island trip? For a head-to-head comparison of Isla Catalina vs Isla Saona, you can also use the following table. It belongs to the Cotubanama National Park and is fully protected by the Dominican government because of its abundant and wild natural life. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 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. Although it is located off the coast of the province of La Altagracia, it is administratively part of the province of La Romana. $ 95 $ 70 There are two places worth exploring while diving: El Muro, an impressive wall that plunges into the Caribbean Sea, reaching a depth of about 100 meters; and El Acuario, where the dive is 11 meters, full of coral formations, where you can find some of the most typical species of the Caribbean Sea such as seahorses, the famous lion fish or toad fish, among others. Please go ahead and add Punta Cana Travel Blog to your feed: Youll have much smaller groups just the people from your traveling party. Both islands have their advantages. 17 Full day buggy Safari with lunch and Chavon River Tour. Caribbean cruise ships used to call at Catalina pre-Covid. By It is a virgin island of fine white sand, surrounded by turquoise waters and full of coconut trees. We're taking YOU to the Super-Star of off-shore islands in the Dominican Republic. to learn more about private tours to Saona Island that are tailored to your preferences! Do you need help planning a customized vacation in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic? 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. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. It's an all day excursion with snorkeling and/or diving. They drop you off at a central location and there's a lot of people going to Saona, not so many to Catalina. Enjoy the Saona or Catalina Islands with this private tour to suit your group. If you need a transfer from Punta Cana, they can organize it as well. Dominican Republic does not have strict mandates or lockdown restrictions and you can travel freely. Thats when I met Oscar at the other end of the phone He is a super nice and personable guy and immediately understood what we wanted to do and how to do it. Pirates would wait for Spanish ships to sail through their waters to attack and rob them of their riches. The scenery is spectacular, but in addition, Saona Island has permanent population centers, something that is very interesting for tourists. It is very difficult to make a comparison between both islands. It is the second largest island after Saona Island in Dominican Republic and is well loved for its spectacular diving sites. Motor catamaran for rent and private tours to Saona Island, Palmilla (natural pools) and Catalina Island with departures from Bayahibe. The island is also part of a Protected Natural Park of the East. 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. Social distancing can be enforced. If we were seeing what are the differences of both islands, now it's time to put something in common. Check out the 35 best Punta Cana tours! Saona has areas that are contracted by many of the tour operators that do trips there so they have their own little area for each tour group to do their meals and drinks that are included with most trips. ATV Samana Adventures ATV Tours & Excursions in Samana Dominican Republic. Any thoughts on which is a better excursion? Isla Saona and Isla Catalina are two of the most popular excursions when staying in Punta Cana. It offers seemingly endless miles of white sand beaches, but some of the most popular Saona Island beaches are Canto de la Playa, Playa Bonita, and Playa del Gato. Ready to discover Saona Island? So, we kinda take you to a sandbar, far from the coast with clear, waist deep water. Bayahibe Hotel El Pulpo. It is suitable for up to 15 people and comes with a price tag of 1500 USD, lunch and drinks are included. Round Trip. I know it is sometimes boring to read all those articles with all my personal experiences and recommendations. While in most cases the safety measures are fine with hand sanitizer, face coverings and avoiding peoples congestion, the risk of transmitting Covid-19 can never be lowered to 0% especially with 70 other people on the boat. 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. Refrigerator. Check out the Saona Island Tour and Catalina Island Tour and the Saona Gallery and the Catalina Gallery for some impressions, enjoy! Situated 10km from the cruise port and in front of Caleta Beach stated above, Catalina is a tiny uninhabited island consisting of 3.7 square miles. 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. The tours also include a free buffet with typical Dominican food, where you can eat as much as you want. Full Day (8 hours) Boat Rental for 12 passengersmax. History of Saona Island The best things to do in Punta Cana for an unforgettable vacation, Author, Travel Coach & Punta Cana based digital nomad. Just if snorkeling is important for you or if you have already been to Isla Saona, Isla Catalina might be the better pick for you. In case of any problem, you can always seek immediate help from the staff or with the organizer. Even the Dominican Republic has its own (very extensive) hygiene protocol, which gets excellent reviews and international recognition, a group tour is still a group tour with many other people. A much more affordable dive is that of The Aquarium. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2019 - 2023 Punta Cana Hero. You have to pay the full boat and the entire crew, doesnt matter how many persons are in your group. Catalina Island is uninhabited. Let's go there! However, the finishing village of Mano Juan does have a small hotel where you can rent a cheap room for the night. It has an approximate area of 9.6 square kilometers and is uninhabited. Catalina Island, also known as Ikiita Island, is considered a Protected Natural Park and is located half an hour by boat from Casa de Campo in La Romana. Hotel Bocaino. 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. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS I WOULD APPRECIATE IT A LOT. A stop is made at the natural pool in front of Palmilla Beach, where the water will reach your waist and you can enjoy a spectacular natural environment. 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua Tour from Cabarete, Sosua and Puerto Plata. Saona Island is located southeast of the Dominican Republic. Looking for a private Saona Island tour? Icebox. We will be contacting you shortly with the exact time", "Pickup locations vary by hotel. Best Beaches of Saona Island You choose the type of boat: sailing catamaran, motor catamaran, yacht or motorboat. Plenty in the sun! From exploring the natural swimming pools to spotting rare animals, we got you covered! You may also be interested in these articles, Difference between Saona and Catalina Islands, Hidden treasures of the Dominican Republic. Saona has basically two types of excursion; the party trip usually using speedboat one way and catamaran the other (imho speedboat out cat back is best for the party) and our best trip was trimaran both ways , and the eco trip run by Seavis Bayahibe which visits empty beaches and the turtle hatchery at Mano Juan using motor boats. 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. Diving in Catalina Island reaches its maximum expression in places like The Wall or The Aquarium. Did you use Seavis or go through Carnival? This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Caribbean Life & Travel magazine has selected Isla Saonas unspoiled beaches as the best beaches of the Caribbean. There are not as many private tours available for Isla Catalina as for Isla Saona, hence a comprehensive list with different tours and providers doesnt make that much sense. Want to create a unique itinerary for your. Isla Saona is the #1 demanded excursion in Punta Cana so Book now to ensure . Water was beautiful. Drinks and Foodis not included but can be requested at the time of your reservation for an additional price. Great info thank you! They are Saona Island and Catalina Island, located southwest of the island of Hispaniola. Saona is not a tiny off-shore key. In fact, from this town in the south of the Dominican Republic we can perfectly see Catalina Island. The captain is included with the boat rental. saona island All inclusive: Marine transport: motomaran and catamaran with party and entertainment program. For groups of 10 or more, please contact us directly. Some of the ordinary group. You will be limited in time and your itinerary will be determined by your tour guide. It is easy to reach Saona Island by boat or yacht. 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. Where to Stay in Saona Island It is an island in the southeast of the country, dotted with palm-fringed beaches and surrounded by incredibly blue turquoise waters. I only went to Catalina, but here's something that might make a distance.

saona or catalina island 2023