From La Romana: Saona Island for Carnival Cruises Passengers

For Carnival Cruises passengers departing from La Romana, an exclusive tour promises to unveil the breathtaking beauty of Saona Island. This 5-hour adventure combines scenic van rides, guided cruises, and immersive cultural experiences, all while allowing travelers to indulge in snorkeling, a delicious Dominican lunch, and the stunning Natural Pool. With knowledgeable English-speaking guides, visitors can expect to learn about the rich Taino heritage while encountering the island’s natural wonders. What awaits those who embark on this journey is a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration, sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Saona Island tour package from La Romana port costs SEK 1,240 per person with a 5-hour duration and free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• Tour includes a 20-minute van ride, 45-foot engine boat cruise, snorkeling, Dominican lunch, and visit to the Natural Pool to see starfish.
• Guided cruise features highlights such as Penon cliff and insights into Taino culture, led by English, French, and Spanish-speaking guides.
• Tour package provides snorkeling equipment, buffet lunch with Dominican cuisine and drinks, snacks, and beach towels.
• Hassle-free experience with transportation from La Romana cruise port, a dedicated taxi driver, and return to the port after the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Saona Island tour designed for Carnival Cruises passengers departs from the La Romana port and costs SEK 1,240 per person.

The tour lasts 5 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Passengers can also choose the reserve now and pay later option.

The tour includes a 20-minute van ride to the Bayahibe office, where they’ll board a 45-foot engine boat for a cruise, snorkeling, a Dominican lunch, and a visit to the Natural Pool to see starfish.

Highlights include the Penon cliff and insights into Taino culture, all with an English-speaking guide.

Itinerary and Experience

Starting from the Taxi Casa de Campo, passengers embark on a 20-minute van ride to the Bayahibe office, where they board a comfortable 45-foot engine boat for a guided cruise.

The tour includes a boat trip, snorkeling at Catuano Beach, a Dominican lunch at Abanico Beach, and swimming at Saona Island.

Highlights are the Penon cliff and insights into Taino culture. The small group tour is led by an English, French, and Spanish-speaking guide.

Snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch, drinks, and snacks are provided. Passengers also visit the Natural Pool to view starfish, with beach towels available.

An optional photograph service and lobster purchases are offered.

Inclusions

Included in the tour package is a 45-foot engine boat and an English-speaking guide.

Snorkeling equipment, including fins, mask, and snorkel, is provided. Guests can enjoy a Dominican buffet lunch and drinks, including rum, beer, and water.

Snacks such as chips, cake, and pineapple are also included. The tour includes 30 minutes at the Natural Pool to observe starfish, although touching them isn’t allowed.

Beach towels are provided for comfort. While optional, guests can purchase photographs and lobster during the tour.

Meeting Point and Transportation

At the La Romana cruise port, a taxi stand serves as the meeting point for the Saona Island tour.

A taxi driver holding a sign that says "Dominican Attitude" will be there to greet you.

From the taxi stand, you’ll take a 20-minute van ride to the Bayahibe office, where the boat for the Saona Island excursion departs.

After a day of exploring the island and its natural wonders, the tour will provide transport back to the La Romana port, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

The Saona Island tour boasts an impressive 5-star rating based on 6 customer reviews.

Travelers highlight the excellent host experience, praising the knowledgeable and engaging guide who provides insights into the island’s cultural and natural wonders.

The varied activities, from snorkeling to swimming and wildlife viewing, are also widely praised, with the comfortable boat rides and complimentary drinks adding to the overall enjoyment.

Reviewers note the tour’s efficient organization, from the smooth transportation to the delicious Dominican lunch served at Abanico Beach.

The Saona Island excursion appears to be a top-notch experience that allows cruise ship passengers to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Dominican Republic.

Exploring the Penon Cliff

Towering over the crystal-clear waters, the Penon cliff stands as a stunning natural wonder that captivates visitors to Saona Island.

This dramatic rock formation juts out from the shoreline, providing a breathtaking vantage point to admire the island’s natural beauty. Guests can climb to the top of the cliff, where they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and lush tropical foliage.

Along the way, the guide shares insights into the cliff’s significance in Taino culture, adding depth to the experience.

Whether taking in the view or learning about the island’s history, exploring the Penon cliff is a highlight of the Saona Island tour.

Insights Into Taino Culture

Immersed in the natural surroundings of Saona Island, the tour guide illuminates the rich cultural heritage of the Taino people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Dominican Republic.

Guests learn about the Taino’s deep connection to the land and sea, and how they skillfully crafted tools, pottery, and intricate jewelry using local materials.

The guide shares insights into the Tainos’ spiritual beliefs, which centered around the sun, moon, and natural elements.

Visitors gain a newfound appreciation for the enduring legacy of this resilient civilization, whose influence can still be felt in the island’s traditions and customs.

Optional Photograph Service and Lobster

For those interested in capturing lasting memories of their Saona Island adventure, the tour offers an optional photograph service. Guests can purchase professional photos taken throughout the day, ensuring they’ve tangible keepsakes to remember their experience.

Plus, the tour includes the opportunity to purchase fresh lobster during the Dominican lunch. This local delicacy can be enjoyed alongside the other buffet offerings, providing a truly authentic taste of the island’s cuisine.

Whether opting for photos or lobster, these add-ons enhance the overall Saona Island experience for those seeking to commemorate their time on this idyllic Caribbean destination.

Recap

Saona Island offers Carnival Cruises passengers a breathtaking 5-hour adventure from La Romana. The tour includes a scenic van ride, a guided cruise, snorkeling, a Dominican lunch, and exploration of the Natural Pool to see starfish. Knowledgeable English-speaking guides provide insights into the rich Taino culture. With optional photography and lobster, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience in the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: