Nestled in the captivating Dominican Republic lies Saona Island, a true gem that beckons travelers to experience its breathtaking natural beauty. Paired with the charming Altos de Chávon, a recreated 16th-century Mediterranean village, this catamaran excursion promises an unforgettable day of adventure and exploration. Sail along the enchanting Chávon River, indulge in sun-kissed leisure on Saona’s shores, and savor a delightful buffet of local specialties. Uncover the hidden wonders that await, as this captivating journey unveils the very essence of the Dominican Republic’s enchanting allure.
About Your Stay
- This excursion includes a catamaran cruise to Saona Island, where travelers can enjoy sunbathing, snorkeling, and a buffet lunch with unlimited drinks.
- Altos de Chavón, a 16th-century Mediterranean-style village, is also part of the tour, featuring cobblestone streets, a 5,000-seat amphitheater, and a replica cathedral.
- The excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off service, and the meeting point is at 23000 Punta Cana, with an 8:00 am start time.
- Travelers can purchase optional DVD recordings and souvenir photos to capture the memorable day, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible and infants must sit on laps.
- The excursion has received approximately 5 reviews with a 4.0 out of 5 rating, with highlights including the natural pool and catamaran party, but some issues with time management and communication in Spanish.
👉 Check out our guide to the 5 Best Dining Experiences In Punta Cana
Contents
- About Your Stay
- Exploring the Mediterranean Village
- Catamaran Cruise to Saona Island
- Snorkeling and Sunbathing Adventures
- Buffet Lunch and Open Bar
- Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
- Additional Purchases and Souvenirs
- Accessibility and Traveler Information
- Excursion Reviews and Feedback
- Questions About Your Stay
- Can I Bring My Own Drinks or Snacks on the Excursion?
- How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location During the Day?
- Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Activities?
- Can I Extend My Stay on Saona Island Beyond the Scheduled Return?
- What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place for the Excursion?
- Booking Your Stay
- Our Top Picks in Punta Cana
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Punta Cana
- More Tours in Punta Cana
- More Tour Reviews in Punta Cana
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Punta Cana we have recnetly reviewed
Exploring the Mediterranean Village
The excursion begins with a visit to Altos de Chavón, a meticulously recreated 16th-century Mediterranean village nestled along the Chavón River.
Modeled after an Italian village, Altos de Chavón features cobblestone streets, plazas, and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore the artists’ studios, local shops, and a 5,000-seat amphitheater that has hosted world-renowned performers.
The village also boasts a replica of a 16th-century cathedral, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
With its picturesque setting and attention to detail, Altos de Chavón provides a unique opportunity to take in the charm and ambiance of a bygone era.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Punta Cana
Catamaran Cruise to Saona Island
After exploring the charm of Altos de Chavón, guests embark on the next leg of the excursion – a catamaran cruise to the stunning Saona Island. The crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches of this island paradise await. During the journey, travelers can sit back, relax, and soak up the sun while enjoying unlimited drinks from the open bar. Snorkeling equipment is provided, allowing guests to discover the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. The excursion culminates in a delectable buffet lunch, a perfect way to refuel after a day of adventure.
| Catamaran Cruise | ||
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Destinations | Activities |
| 2-3 hours | Saona Island | Sunbathing |
| Snorkeling | ||
| Open bar | ||
| Buffet lunch |
Snorkeling and Sunbathing Adventures
What better way to spend the day than immersing oneself in the vibrant marine life and basking in the sun’s warmth on the pristine beaches of Saona Island?
The catamaran excursion includes the use of snorkeling equipment, allowing travelers to explore the island’s underwater world. From colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish to the tranquil natural pools, the snorkeling opportunities are truly breathtaking.
After working up an appetite, guests can enjoy a delectable buffet lunch and refreshing unlimited drinks at the open bar.
With plenty of time to soak up the sun and relax on the island’s white sand, this excursion promises an unforgettable day of adventure and relaxation.
Buffet Lunch and Open Bar
Refreshed from their snorkeling and sunbathing adventures, travelers can look forward to a delectable buffet lunch and an open bar offering a variety of refreshing drinks.
The buffet features a spread of local Dominican specialties, including rice, beans, roasted meats, and fresh seafood. Travelers can indulge in unlimited servings while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The open bar provides an array of cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages to quench one’s thirst. This all-inclusive experience allows participants to savor the flavors of the Dominican Republic and stay hydrated throughout the day’s activities.
The buffet and open bar ensure that travelers are well-fed and energized for the remainder of the excursion.
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
The hotel pickup and drop-off service is a convenient feature of the catamaran excursion, allowing participants to seamlessly start and end their adventure.
Pickup is included from hotels in the Punta Cana area, and alternative pickup points can be arranged for private villas and apartments.
The meeting point is located at 23000 Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and the activity ends at the same location.
The start time is 8:00 am, ensuring an early start to the full-day adventure.
This service eliminates the need for travelers to arrange their own transportation, making the experience more accessible and hassle-free.
Ready to catch more wind? More sailing adventures we recommend in Punta Cana
Additional Purchases and Souvenirs
Besides the included amenities, travelers on the catamaran excursion have the opportunity to purchase additional items and souvenirs. A DVD recording of the day’s activities is available for purchase, allowing guests to relive the highlights of their excursion.
Plus, souvenir photos can be acquired, capturing memorable moments from the trip. While these optional purchases aren’t required, they provide a chance to take home tangible reminders of the experience.
Travelers should note that payment for these add-ons is separate from the initial excursion cost. The availability and pricing of the DVD and photos may vary, so it’s best to inquire with the tour guides for more details.
Accessibility and Traveler Information
Wheelchair-bound travelers and those accompanied by infants will find the catamaran excursion somewhat challenging, as the activity is not wheelchair-accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The excursion can accommodate a maximum of 250 travelers, so it’s crucial to book early. Travelers should note that the meeting point is in Punta Cana, and the activity ends at the same location. Meanwhile, those staying in private villas or apartments can arrange alternative pickup points.
| Accessibility | Infants | Maximum Capacity | Meeting & Drop-off Point | Pickup Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not Wheelchair Accessible | Must Sit on Laps | 250 Travelers | Punta Cana | Hotel or Alternative |
Excursion Reviews and Feedback
Approximately 5 reviews with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 have been left for this catamaran excursion.
Travelers highlighted the natural pool and the catamaran party as highlights, but noted some downsides:
- Poor time management, leading to a short visit at Altos de Chavón.
- Rushed lunch experience.
- Long return trip.
- Communication primarily in Spanish, causing confusion for some non-Spanish speaking travelers.
Despite these issues, the excursion seems to offer a memorable full-day adventure in the Dominican Republic, with a good balance of activities and inclusions for the price point.
Questions About Your Stay
Can I Bring My Own Drinks or Snacks on the Excursion?
The excursion includes an open bar, so bringing additional drinks is not necessary. However, you’re welcome to bring your own small snacks, as long as they don’t interfere with the provided buffet lunch.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location During the Day?
The excursion includes a visit to Altos de Chavon, a Mediterranean village recreation, and a catamaran cruise to Saona Island. Time spent at each location is not specified, but the full-day adventure suggests ample time to explore both destinations.
Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Activities?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable and lightweight clothing is recommended. Swimwear, sunhat, and beach shoes are ideal for the activities like sunbathing and snorkeling on the island.
Can I Extend My Stay on Saona Island Beyond the Scheduled Return?
The excursion does not allow travelers to extend their stay on Saona Island beyond the scheduled return time. The tour has a fixed itinerary, and extending the visit would not be possible within the allotted timeframe.
What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place for the Excursion?
The excursion follows COVID-19 safety protocols, including mandatory masks, temperature checks, and limited capacity. Hand sanitizer is provided, and social distancing is enforced. Guests can expect a clean, sanitized environment throughout the day’s activities.
Saona Island and Altos De Chavón: Catamaran Excursion
Booking Your Stay
This catamaran excursion offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to explore the charming Altos de Chávon village, sail to the picturesque Saona Island, and indulge in snorkeling, sunbathing, and a delectable buffet lunch. With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour provides a seamless and memorable day of relaxation and discovery in the Dominican Republic’s stunning natural and cultural landscapes.
