Boat tours in Samana offer some of the Dominican Republic’s most rewarding day trips. I’m especially fond of Los Haitises National Park tours, where ancient Taino cave drawings and untouched mangroves create an open-air museum. The 4-hour Cayo Levantado catamaran cruise is a standout – you’ll get pristine beaches and crystal waters without the typical tourist crush. During winter months (January-March), combining whale watching with island hopping delivers amazing value. For nature lovers, the kayaking tours through Los Haitises‘ hidden coves reveal spectacular bird life and secluded beaches most visitors never see. Let’s examine my favorite boat tours in detail.
Key Points
- Los Haitises National Park tours offer 7-10 hour guided boat excursions to explore caves, view wildlife, and enjoy a Dominican buffet at Cayo Levantado.
- Cayo Levantado Day Trip provides a comfortable catamaran ride, swimming, sunbathing, and beach exploration with turquoise waters and onsite dining options.
- Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Tour combines whale observation in their natural habitat with exploration of the Cayo Levantado Island for a full-day experience.
- Los Haitises Excursion and Walking Tour features caves, mangroves, indigenous pictographs, and a buffet lunch at Cayo Levantado.
- Samaná Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling offers a 7-hour tour with two snorkeling stops, an open bar, snacks, and a private beach lunch on Cayo Levantado.
From Samana: Los Haitises Boat and Walking Tour With Lunch
Embarking on a captivating journey through the lush landscapes of Los Haitises National Park, this boat and walking tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the region’s natural wonders.
During the 7-10 hour excursion, guests can expect a guided boat tour, exploration of caves with indigenous artwork, and wildlife viewing of pelicans, herons, and the Ridgway’s hawk.
The tour also includes a visit to Cayo Levantado, known as Bacardi Island, where a Dominican buffet lunch is served.
While the tour has received generally positive reviews, some customers have reported issues with punctuality and food quality.
Read our full review: From Samana: Los Haitises Boat and Walking Tour With Lunch Review
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Samana: Cayo Levantado Day Trip by Boat
This day trip to the picturesque Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island, offers visitors a chance to escape the mainland and enjoy the island’s serene beauty.
Priced from $25 per person, the 7-hour excursion departs from a private dock in Samaná at 9:30 AM and returns around 4:30 PM.
Travelers can enjoy a comfortable catamaran ride to the island, where they can swim, sunbathe, and explore the gorgeous beaches with turquoise waters and white sand.
Onsite dining options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this a convenient and flexible day trip option.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 19 reviews, it’s a highly recommended experience for visitors to Samaná.
Read our full review: Samana: Cayo Levantado Day Trip by Boat Review
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From Samaná: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Boat Tour
For those seeking to witness the magnificent marine life of Samaná, the Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Boat Tour offers an ideal opportunity.
Priced from €61.91 per person, this 4-hour to full-day excursion allows participants to observe whales in their natural habitat and explore the beautiful Cayo Levantado Island.
The tour includes a typical Dominican lunch and the option for hotel pickup.
While customer reviews are mixed, with some noting the boat didn’t approach whales closely and concerns about overcrowding, the tour provides a chance to take in Samaná’s natural wonders.
Live guides are available, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: From Samaná: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Boat Tour Review
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Los Haitises: Boat Excursion and Walking Tour With Lunch
Nestled within the stunning Samana Peninsula, the Los Haitises Boat Excursion and Walking Tour provides visitors with a captivating glimpse into the region’s natural and historical wonders.
Priced from $65 per person, the 7-hour tour immerses guests in the area’s caves, mangroves, and Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island), where they can enjoy a buffet lunch.
Tour highlights include viewing indigenous pictographs and petroglyphs, observing diverse bird species, and relaxing on the beautiful Samana Bay beach.
With flexible booking, complimentary hotel pickup/drop-off, and experienced guides, this excursion offers an engaging way to explore Los Haitises National Park.
However, some past guests have noted communication issues and room for improvement in food quality.
Read our full review: Los Haitises: Boat Excursion and Walking Tour With Lunch Review
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Samaná: Catamaran Boat Tour With Snorkeling and Lunch
Offering a captivating way to explore the stunning Samaná Bay, the 7-hour Samaná Catamaran Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Lunch immerses guests in the area’s natural beauty.
Departing from a private dock, the tour includes two snorkeling stops – a sunken ferry and Cayo La Farola. Guests can then enjoy a delicious lunch at a private restaurant on Cayo Levantado, followed by free time on the beach.
The tour includes an open bar, snacks, and all necessary snorkeling equipment.
With an overall rating of 4.2/5 from 26 reviews, the tour is praised for its exceptional crew, fun atmosphere, and positive experiences, making it a must-do activity in Samaná.
Read our full review: Samaná: Catamaran Boat Tour With Snorkeling and Lunch Review
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From Samana: Los Haitises Hike, Boat Trip, and Kayaking
The Los Haitises Hike, Boat Trip, and Kayaking tour takes visitors on a captivating 6-hour adventure from Samaná. Priced at €452.45 per group (up to 4 participants), the tour includes guided activities like hiking in the rainforest, kayaking through mangroves, and exploring caves.
Participants can spot diverse wildlife, including the Ridgway’s hawk and Hispaniolan Emerald. The tour also features historical significance, with the area serving as a filming location for Jurassic Park. Visitors can explore Taino petroglyphs and ancient drawings.
The tour includes a boat trip, kayaking equipment, guided hike, lunch, and alcoholic drinks. However, it’s not suitable for individuals over 70, pregnant women, or those with back problems.
The meeting point is the Royal Restaurant, Tour Whales Samana.
Read our full review: From Samana: Los Haitises Hike, Boat Trip, and Kayaking Review
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Recap
Samana offers an array of captivating boat tours and cruises. Visitors can explore the stunning Los Haitises National Park, venture to the idyllic Cayo Levantado, or embark on whale-watching excursions. These tours often include activities like hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling, providing a well-rounded experience of Samana’s natural beauty. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s a boat tour to suit every traveler’s preferences in this Dominican Republic destination.