DESCRIPTION. Saona Island is located southeast of the Dominican Republic. Seriously, white sand AND palm trees? And dont forget to set some time aside to search for the gorgeous starfishes that are abound there! Most Saona Island tours leave from Bayahibe and arrive straight to the gorgeous wild beaches shortly after. Catalina Island tour, snorkeling, paddle boarding , kayak on a beach with breakfast and lunch. Each one offers different options, so it is up to you to decide which experience you choose. 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. They make for a gorgeous photo background, too! El transporte que nos organizaron super puntual. Looking for a private Saona Island tour? Started August 27, 2021, By Hope this helps! 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. Saona Island has numerous beaches to choose from. In them we can spend the day in paradise. On the shore of the beach, the white sand is perfect for relaxing on it. 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. Palmilla Sandbank is the beach where the natural swimming pool is located. One of the cheapest and most recommended tours is this Private Saona Island Cruise for up to 6 people*. Are you ready to explore the deserted beaches of Isla Saona? 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. The dives at this point are between 20 and 40 meters, only within the reach of the most experienced divers. 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. After your visit to the natural pool, youll be on your way to Saona island to enjoy its wild beaches! Each one has different activities, and they are perfect for adults and children, either with family, friends or as a couple. How many opportunities will you have to sail the Caribbean Sea? This excursion should be preferred if you only want to visit some of the must-see sights of Saona Island. I have summarized the best Saona private tours for you in this comprehensive overview. If you are seriously interested in private excursions to Isla Saona, you might ask now about the price tag they are coming with. We hope! There is also a Turtle Sanctuary in the village, where you can see both older turtles and hatchlings taking their first steps in the Caribbean Sea. SAONA.FUN Plaza Punta Cana, Local B#54 Bavaro/Punta Cana D.R. Wondering if anyone has been to either or both of these islands as I'm trying to choose which option to decide upon. Let's go there! If you are interested in group tours and regular excursions, please check this article for Saona Island and this one for Catalina Island.Are you interested in further Punta Cana tours? . There is one more geographic curiosity about Saona. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS I WOULD APPRECIATE IT A LOT. Is turquoise, transparent ocean water your thing? You can relax on the beach with a cocktail or a soft drink or join in a volleyball game. The activity starts at your hotel, where we will pick you up to go to our departure point embark in a catamaran to Saona Island. This is where you can relax in shallow waters and search for starfish. Yes, it's a killer combination. Which one to go to? You will be able to request those services while completing your booking process. ), I'm thinking of going to Catalina Island instead using Passion Paradise Adventures. 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. Lion fish, frog fish and seahorses are the real protagonists. This is why we are committed to providing Dominican Republic visitors with an alternative and more exclusive way to experience Saona Island. Thats not surprising if you see the photos of this exclusive catamaran, which will bring you straight to paradise! 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!). The reefs at Saona are considered among the TOP 3 in the country. All you have to do is float on the surface and appreciate what's below it. Saona Island is a beautiful destination to visit during your Punta Cana or Bayahibe vacation. Muy agradables los marineros. Come to enjoy them in Saona or Catalina Island in Dominican Republic. Saona is more recommended if you are looking for a nice beach with no seaweed and great views. And last but not least, the island and the beach of Catalina are beautiful in their very own way. 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! Children under 3 are FREE! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I assume Carnival because we all rave about the buffet Seavis provided - amazing spread. US$ 5 / Person (Mandatory for Saona and Catalina). Check out the 35 best Punta Cana tours! We're talking about 110 sq kilometers. We start approximately 8:00 am from Bavaro - Punta Cana to Bayahibe. Our excursions also include transportation from Punta Cana to the embarkation , so you don't have to worry about anything. For a head-to-head comparison of Isla Catalina vs Isla Saona, you can also use the following table. FULL PACK TOURS . There are two jewels in the Dominican Republic that you must visit before the end of your vacation. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful ride along the waves to Isla Saona and follow your unique itinerary without feeling rushed or completely dependent on your tour provider and a large group of people you have never met before. Any information would be appreciated. Its pristine beaches surrounded by vegetation are also worth seeing, and enjoying its white sand for a couple of hours. There were lots of vans picking up to go to Saona/Catalina. Isla Saona (or in English Saona Island) is the most popular tourist destination for day-trips in the Dominican Republic. Spend a relaxing time on Catalina Island, an uninhabited nature reserve and national park, and enjoy a barbecue-style lunch on the island. Caribbean Life & Travel magazine has selected Isla Saonas unspoiled beaches as the best beaches of the Caribbean. Land and Jungle Excursions: And we don't forget the land part of the park. Or maybe you just want to do some cool sightseeing? Saona island is an island where you have to go to disconnect, to relax after a few days in the busiest tourist areas. When traveling with up to 15 people, there are also other options available you can book online. We traveled to the natural pool which is a beautiful Sandbar and were able to swim privately. Isla Catalina, tambin denominada Isla Ikiita (llamada tambin por los indgenas locales como Toeya), es una isla que se encuentra en el mar Caribe a slo unos kilmetros al sureste de la Isla La Espaola al sur de la provincia de La Romana que es parte de la Repblica Dominicana.Desde La Romana se tarda media hora en llegar a Isla Catalina. Furthermore, there are some companies which are taking the hygienic protocol not too seriously. 15 Dominican Republic: Saona Sailing Tour with Lunch and Drinks. When arriving at this picture-perfect island with its stunning coastline, you will feel like you are in paradise. 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. It just depends on what you are looking for. They drop you off at a central location and there's a lot of people going to Saona, not so many to Catalina. Posee una superficie aproximada de 9,6 . Estoy contento de saber que disfrutaron de la lancha para ir a Isla Saona y las piscinas naturales de forma privada! Both islands are an essential part of the beauty that makes up the Dominican Republic. It has awning and a cooler with ice ready to go! It has awning and a cooler with ice ready to go! No matter what your interests are, Catalina Island offers something for you. The Dominican Republic is famous for its incredible seafood, and Saona Island lives up to the expectations! Whala!Bayahibe If we were seeing what are the differences of both islands, now it's time to put something in common. The first stop will be Catalina Wall. Click. 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. Not Bus Pick Up. We are stopping at La Romana DR this October on the Carnival Conquest. We give you rum and you may find a starfish or two at your feet. 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. With over 20yrs. Due to the seaweed problem at Saona Island (can anyone confirm this that's been lately? 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. However, the finishing village of Mano Juan does have a small hotel where you can rent a cheap room for the night. There were about 20 of us, and only two divers. Isla Saona gets visited every day by thousands of tourists. Where Is Isla Saona Located? 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! https://www.proexcursionsbayahibe.com/en/index.html, Awesome thank you for lmk your experience :). If this option doesnt suit you, you can check out the following private excursions to Isla Catalina. I would like to thank Oscar who even gave me a generous refund because the boat was not exactly as originally described. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2019 - 2023 Punta Cana Hero. 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. 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! Full Day (8 hours) Boat Rental for 12 passengersmax. . Be the first to receive special offers, event announcements, exciting tour updates, and so much morewhen you sign up for our newsletter. 17 Full day buggy Safari with lunch and Chavon River Tour. 60 guests. 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. Enjoy a nice plate of lobster with local rice and a Presidente (the BEST local beer!) The pool is formed because lots of sand naturally gets accumulated in one area, bringing ocean levels to just a couple of feet and making it feel like a pool! Day Trip Saona Island - Quetzal boat; Day Trip Saona Island - Small group; Day Trip Catalina Island; Whale watching . Hi we were just on the Proexcursion to Sonoa last week. To get to Saona and Catalina there is only one method of transportation: boat or catamaran. Hotel Bayahibe. How to find the best Private Tours to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? $ 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. It brings you to the most beautiful places of Isla Saona with a private speed boat. I only went to Catalina, but here's something that might make a distance. Thank you for your review and your trust in us. Has anyone used Passion Paradise Adventures?? Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Isla Catalina offers a more intimate experience because it is a quieter island and tourists dont visit it as often as Saona Island. Both islands are worth the visit and have their advantages, but your experiences will be a bit different. Especially in these unprecedented times, private tours are offering an enormous extra value compared to standard group excursions: safety and health. 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. Private tours to Saona Island are already starting at 450 USD per group, which is a real bargain considering that you have the crew and boat all on your own. You get the boat, the open bar and the food. 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. 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. It is a virgin island of fine white sand, surrounded by turquoise waters and full of coconut trees. to learn more about private tours to Saona Island that are tailored to your preferences! Few tourists actually visit Mano Juan when they come to Saona Island, so incorporating a visit to this fishing village into your Isla Saona itinerary will give you a chance to experience this tranquil tropical island off the beaten track! 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. And if Catalina impresses underwater, it also does so on the surface. If you want to snorkel, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This route also starts at 7 am at your hotel, then you will go by catamaran from La Romana to Catalina Island. The island measures about 9.6 . Private tours are not cheap, especially when boat rides or catamaran cruises are included. However, for the overall experience we'd choose the powerboat excursion with Seavis, great day that! Mainly, tourists who come to Catalina Island do so for two reasons: snorkeling and diving. Choose your destination: GOOD NEWS! Social distancing can be enforced. Please go ahead and add Punta Cana Travel Blog to your feed: Youll have much smaller groups just the people from your traveling party. And its not surprising! My girlfriend and I were visiting vacationing at dreams La Romana and wanted to take a private excursion to saona island without having to go on the 20+ people boats. Maximum 6 passengers. 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. This is why we are sharing this Complete Guide to Saona Island with you. If you want to snorkel, Catalina island has better snorkeling. 14 From Los Melones: Saona Island Day Trip with Lunch. Any thoughts on which is a better excursion? The island is also part of a Protected Natural Park of the East. What Is Better: Isla Saona vs. Isla Catalina If you need a transfer from Punta Cana, they can organize it as well. That was easy! Muchas gracias Antonio por tu amable comentario! There, around the coral reef, we can see all kinds of fish of different colors. 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. By We guarantee you that you will love this Island and it's amazing reefs! 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. Required fields are marked *. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-112206916', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Catalina island has better snorkeling. In this case, have a look at the cheapest Saona Island private tours which are more affordable than you might think. I want the free e-book "15 amazing things-to-do for free in Punta Cana"! BOAT RULES. A catamaran trip to the island is one of the most attractive excursions you can do while vacationing in Punta Cana. Drinks and Food is not included but can be requested at the time of your reservation for an additional price. Our last activity is for those who love scuba diving. MP3 / MOBILE MUSIC plugin. Catalina Beach. Tours to Isla Catalina are offering a relaxed cruise and have a snorkeling stop included. Despite those hordes, it is a beautiful place (I couldnt believe it before I was there for the first time). Or perhaps you're planning your first visit to the island. In case of any problem, you can always seek immediate help from the staff or with the organizer. No matter what your interests are, Catalina Island offers something for you. 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. We use cookies to improve your experience and to analyze the use of our website. Isla Saona is an important turtle breeding ground and you can visit a turtle conservation project on your Saona Island trip. The time on Saona island is priceless. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Book an excursion or rent a private boat and enjoy the best beaches in the Dominican Republic, Why choose WannaBoats.com to rent a yacht, catamaran or speedboat to go to Saona or Catalina in Dominican Republic, Renting an all inclusive luxury catamaran yacht in the Bahamas can be done easily through WannaBoats.com, 1 or 2 weeks on a luxury catamaran for 6 people in the Bahamas, Rent a boat and explore the Exuma Islands, an essential visit in the Bahamas, The Bahamas recognized as a sustainable destination by the UNWTO, Why choose WannaBoats over other private boat rental websites, WannaBoats.com has been awarded the Travelers Choice badge on Tripadvisor from 2020 to 2022. And what about water temp? 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. In the afternoon, you head back to your starting point. For groups of 10 or more, please contact us directly. It is easy to reach Saona Island by boat or yacht. It just depends on what you are looking for. Click here to learn more! And the Cuba Libres flowed freely at the Natural Pool after:D. But highly recommend Seavis for the OP, they arrange the taxi and are just a top-notch outfit. CC Help Jenn Lunch and alcoholic drinks are not included, but you can also bring your own if you do not want to buy them. We got you covered! Dominican Republic ItineraryDominican Republic Road TripIsla Saona ExcursionSanto Domingo AirbnbsSanto Domingo Airport TransfersSanto Domingo Things-to-do, HomeNewest PostsAbout MeTravel CoachingPrivacy Policy. If this sounds perfect to you, then check out the best Saona Island tour offers here* or continue reading my Isla Saona Guide. 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 is the most basic experience to visit the Catalina Island National Park, where you will be able to see its most famous places. With us, with the help of professional guides, you will be able to dive in some of the best spots in the Dominican Republic. Some of the ordinary group. Motorcycle Gma, August 12, 2015 in Dominican Republic. Lunch will be prepared just for your group, which means there is no queue at the buffet. The sand can also be a problem if it's a little rougher. Food good, excellent staff for pro excursions. It is very difficult to make a comparison between both islands. Catalina & Saona are on the Caribbean Sea, so the water will be warm. So, if we like snorkeling, Saona is not the best for this? Isla Saona is not connected to the Dominican Republics electricity grid and runs entirely on solar panels! With an Italian-medieval appearance, this place is famous for being a meeting point for many celebrities. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. The staff is just there for you. Which one suits what I am looking for? Thats just 100 USD per person for a private tour if you go with 15 people, which is much cheaper than most Isla Saona private tours. Snorkeling at Saona is nothing special. It's an all day excursion with snorkeling and/or diving. This is why we offer private and exclusive Saona Island tours, with no-one else on board apart from the crew and your group! 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. Your email address will not be published. The best 5 beaches in the Dominican Republic, Rent a boat and discover the best coral reefs in the Dominican Republic, A good profile picture helps you attract customers, Private Catamaran to Saona or Catalina in Bayahibe, SAONA ISLAND Speedboat for private rental in Bayahibe, VIP Speed Boat for Rent in Casa de Campo to Saona or Catalina islands, Luxury Yacht Charter from Casa de Campo to Saona or Catalina.