For cruise ship passengers seeking a tailored Caribbean experience during port visits, the island of Saona offers an enticing excursion. With a thrilling 45-minute speedboat ride from Bayahibe, guests can unwind on a beautiful beach complete with chaise lounges, an open bar, and a Dominican buffet. Highlights like swimming with starfish in a vibrant natural pool and efficient organization ensure visitors make the most of their limited time. Seamless transportation and a focus on relaxation make Saona Island a tempting option for those eager to enjoy the wonders of the Dominican Republic.
About Your Stay
- Saona Island offers an all-inclusive experience designed for cruise ship passengers, providing efficient transportation, beachside amenities, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
- The speedboat journey from Bayahibe to Saona Island takes approximately 45 minutes, allowing cruise passengers to maximize their time exploring the island’s natural beauty.
- The special beach on Saona Island features chaise lounges, canopy beds, an open bar, and a Dominican buffet, catering to the needs of cruise ship travelers.
- Cruise passengers can enjoy snorkeling in a vibrant natural pool and observe starfish, seeing the island’s diverse ecosystem.
- The tour is meticulously planned to ensure cruise passengers make the most of their limited time, with organized transportation, structured schedules, and designated areas for relaxation and dining.
Overview of Saona Island Experience

The Saona Island experience is designed specifically for cruise ship travelers. Visitors will board a speedboat from Bayahibe to reach the island, where they can relax on a special beach with chaise lounges, canopy beds, an open bar, and a Dominican buffet.
The highlight is the opportunity to swim in a natural pool and see starfish. The trip is carefully organized to make efficient use of the limited time cruise passengers have.
Snorkeling equipment and round-trip transportation from the La Romana cruise port are included, ensuring a hassle-free day on the island.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Dominican Republic.
Speedboat Journey to Saona Island

Passengers board an exhilarating speedboat from the coastal town of Bayahibe to embark on their journey to the idyllic Saona Island.
The boat ride is a thrilling experience, with the wind rushing through their hair as they zip across the crystal-clear waters. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, during which passengers can take in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean coastline.
Once they arrive at Saona Island, they’ll be greeted by the stunning natural beauty of the island, with its white sand beaches and lush tropical foliage.
This speedboat transfer is an efficient way for cruise ship travelers to make the most of their limited time and explore the wonders of Saona Island.
Relaxation on the Special Beach

Upon arriving at Saona Island, passengers are ushered to a special beach that’s been meticulously prepared for their enjoyment.
Chaise lounges and canopy beds dot the pristine shores, inviting relaxation. An open bar stands at the ready, serving up refreshing cocktails and cold beverages. Alongside the bar, a mouthwatering Dominican buffet awaits, featuring local delicacies like lobster.
Guests can stroll along the sand, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply bask in the Caribbean sun. For the adventurous, an opportunity to explore a natural pool teeming with starfish presents itself.
With efficient organization, passengers make the most of their limited time on this tropical paradise.
Snorkeling in the Natural Pool

A highlight of the Saona Island experience is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in a natural pool teeming with vibrant starfish.
Guests are provided with snorkeling equipment, allowing them to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and observe the captivating marine life up close.
The natural pool offers a unique and unforgettable encounter, as visitors can witness the graceful movements of the starfish and other fascinating creatures that inhabit this hidden oasis.
This activity not only provides a refreshing break from the beach but also allows travelers to appreciate the island’s remarkable natural beauty and diverse ecosystem.
It’s an experience that truly showcases the wonders of Saona Island.
Efficient Use of Limited Time

The tour organizers recognize the importance of maximizing the limited time cruise ship passengers have on Saona Island. To ensure an efficient experience, the tour is meticulously planned and organized. Passengers are picked up from the La Romana dock, transported to Bayahibe, and then board a speedboat to the island, minimizing travel time. Once on the island, guests can relax on the beach, enjoy a buffet lunch, and have access to an open bar, all within a designated area. The snorkeling excursion in the natural pool is also strategically included to make the most of the available time. This well-designed tour allows cruise passengers to experience the highlights of Saona Island without feeling rushed.
| Time Allocation | Activity |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Transportation from La Romana to Bayahibe |
| 45 minutes | Boat transfer to Saona Island |
| 2-3 hours | Beach time, lunch, and open bar |
| 30 minutes | Snorkeling in the natural pool |
| 45 minutes | Boat transfer back to Bayahibe |
| 30 minutes | Transportation from Bayahibe to La Romana |
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Included Amenities and Services

The Saona Island tour package offers a range of amenities and services to enhance the experience for cruise ship passengers. Included in the cost are alcoholic beverages, soda, and a Dominican buffet lunch featuring lobster.
Guests can also use snorkeling equipment to explore the natural pool and see starfish. A round-trip taxi from La Romana to Bayahibe, where the boats depart, is provided for $15 per person.
Additional services like gift shopping and massages are available on the island. The tour is designed to make efficient use of the limited time cruise passengers have, ensuring they can relax and fully enjoy the beautiful Saona Island during their visit.
Pickup and Transportation Details

Pickup for the Saona Island tour commences from the La Romana dock, where Carnival and Mein Schiff cruise ships dock. The pickup time is arranged based on your cruise ship’s arrival, ensuring an efficient use of your limited time. Upon arrival, you’ll board a round-trip taxi, at a cost of $15 per person, which will take you to the Bayahibe departure point.
| Pickup Location | Pickup Time | Drop-off Time |
|---|---|---|
| La Romana Dock | Cruise Arrival Time | 1 Hour Before Cruise Departure |
| Bayahibe | N/A | Cruise Departure Time |
| Round-trip Taxi | $15 per Person | N/A |
The tour is designed to have you back at your cruise ship with ample time before departure, providing a seamless and stress-free experience.
Pricing and Cancellation Policy
The tour costs start from $119.00 per person. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
The tour has an impressive 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, with no lower ratings. This ensures cruisers can book with confidence, knowing they’ll enjoy a high-quality excursion.
With a maximum group size of 25 travelers, the experience provides an intimate and personalized outing.
The pricing and cancellation policy make the Saona Island tour an attractive option for cruise ship passengers seeking a memorable Caribbean adventure during their limited time in port.
Questions About Your Stay
Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Drinks?
According to the details provided, guests are not allowed to bring their own snacks or drinks. The tour includes alcoholic beverages, soda, and a Dominican buffet lunch, so bringing outside items is not permitted.
Is There a Dress Code for the Beach?
There’s no strict dress code for the Saona Island beach experience. Comfortable, lightweight clothing and swimwear are recommended, as you’ll be relaxing on the beach and swimming. Sunscreen and hats are also advised to protect against the tropical sun.
Can I Extend My Stay on the Island?
Unfortunately, the tour is designed for efficient use of limited cruise ship time and does not allow for extending the stay on Saona Island. Travelers must return to the pick-up location before their cruise ship’s departure.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?
The tour includes all the major expenses like alcoholic beverages, lunch, and taxi transportation. However, additional services at the beach like gifts or massages may incur extra fees. There are no hidden costs beyond these optional add-ons.
What Happens in the Case of Inclement Weather?
If inclement weather occurs, the tour operator will reschedule the experience or offer a full refund. They prioritize guest safety and flexibility to ensure a positive experience, even in the event of unforeseen weather conditions.
Booking Your Stay
Saona Island offers cruisers an exceptional Caribbean getaway. The thrilling speedboat ride, beautiful beach, and immersive natural pool experience make for an unforgettable day. With seamless transportation, organized activities, and inclusive amenities, passengers can make the most of their limited time in port. Saona Island provides an ideal opportunity to relax and explore the vibrant Dominican landscape.
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