Of course, we would recommend visiting both, but if you can only decide on one, we leave you a brief comparison to help 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. All our Excursions - Quetzal Cata Excursions It just depends on what you are looking for. 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua Tour from Puerto Plata. Maybe you'd like to spend a relaxing day with family at the beach? experience in tourism in the Dominican Republic. Casa de Campo Sailing Catamaran Charter to Saona or Catalina 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. Where to begin to describe one of the most beautiful places in the Dominican Republic. Sorry we have not used that outfit. GOOD NEWS! Although it is located off the coast of the province of La Altagracia, it is administratively part of the province of La Romana. The staff is just there for you. That was easy! Saona island is an island where you have to go to disconnect, to relax after a few days in the busiest tourist areas. Your email address will not be published. Whala!Bayahibe The indegineous Taino people, the native populations of the Dominican Republic, occupied Saona Island before Christopher Columbuss arrival in 1494. In them we can spend the day in paradise. Enjoy the National Park of the East in Dominican Republic, the beautiful Saona Island or Catalina . We give you rum and you may find a starfish or two at your feet. Book your, Saona Island, Dominican Republic: Final Thoughts, Ready to discover Saona Island? As mentioned, there is quite an amount of people visiting Isla Saona (and to a lesser extent Isla Catalina as well). From exploring the natural swimming pools to spotting rare animals, we got you covered! Choose your destination: Enjoy the Saona or Catalina Islands with this private tour to suit your group. From there we went to Tao restaurant on saona island which was recommended by Oscar and was exceptional we had a luxurious lunch on a beautifully arranged table on the sand From there our captain Moiset took us to an area where we anchored offshore and were able to swim in the most clear blue water you can imagine. 13 Punta Cana: Snorkeling Tour to Catalina Island by Cataraman. Isla Saona is a relatively small island just 42 square kilometers long but it has a rich history. I guess it depends on what you want to do! 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. Boats with Clean & Safe badge on WannaBoats, On-Board Covid-19 Safety Protocols (email), Saona Island Vs Catalina Island. If a speed boat is too small for you and you prefer a private yacht to visit Isla Saona, you can check out this private yacht tour for up to 10 people*. Private Catamaran for Rent to Saona, Palmilla or Catalina Bayahibe: Full-Day Saona Island Excursion | GetYourGuide 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. This is not to say that there's not big boats going to Catalina. Wondering if anyone has been to either or both of these islands as I'm trying to choose which option to decide upon. $ 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. (mobile users: please turn your device to landscape mode to enjoy the best view of this table). Thats particularly important in times of. Catalina Island: a picturesque oasis in the Dominican Republic Saona Island vs Catalina Island - Dominican Republic - Cruise Critic You can also enjoy plenty of time at the beach and a local Dominican lunch. On the way to Isla Saona, theres a gorgeous natural pool, a large area with waist-deep shallow and crystal clear water. 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 my comprehensive guide about Isla Saona, check out this post if you are looking for better snorkeling options, Small Group Private Boat to Saona Island*, Private Premium Catamaran to Saona Island*, Affordable Saona private tour from Bayahibe for medium groups*, Affordable Saona private tour from Bayahibe for large groups*, Affordable Saona private tour from Punta Cana for small groups*, Affordable Saona private tour from Punta Cana for medium groups*, Full-service Saona private tour from Punta Cana for small groups*, Affordable Saona private tour from Punta Cana for large groups*, snorkeling opportunities in the Southeast of the Dominican Republic, Check out here the best tours to Catalina Island, Even the Dominican Republic has its own (very extensive) hygiene protocol, 30+ exciting things-to-do in Punta Cana in 2023 (Dominican Republic), Punta Cana itinerary for an easy 1-week road-trip beaches, culture and mountains, 13 Insider tips on how to find the best all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, Excursion to Isla Saona 2023 everything you need to know for your hassle-free Saona Island Tour, further excursions that are Covid-19 safe or certified, check out this article, this Private Saona Island Cruise for up to 6 people, Check Affordable Isla Saona Private Tour*, this private yacht tour for up to 10 people, the most elegant private tour to Isla Saona a full cruising-style catamaran exclusively for your group, Isla Saona offers more spectacular scenery and picture-perfect views, Hoyo Claro how you can save 588 USD when visiting a cenote in Punta Cana, Finest Punta Cana a comprehensive review of this newly built all-inclusive resort, The best dune buggy adventure tours in Punta Cana (Tested and hand-picked), Scuba Diving in Punta Cana your full guide with the best dive sites & dive shops in Punta Cana, Rum Tours in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic, Baha de las guilas hotels, glamping, beach info, things-to-do and a secret+quick way to get there, no transfers included (starts from Bayahibe), no transfers included (boat starts from Bayahibe), approx. The island is also part of a Protected Natural Park of the East. We have often done both in the same holiday as they are the most interesting boat trips from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? And when you find yourself in its crystalline waters, you must remember that you are in one of the most important ecological reserves of the Dominican Republic. The great thing about snorkeling is that all you really need is a mask and a life jacket. This article is exclusively about private tours to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina. You can roam around freely and create the vibe you want. Has anyone used Passion Paradise Adventures?? Are you ready to escape the crowded beaches of Bavaro or Bayahibe and explore the untouched natural beauty of the Caribbean? The Saona excursions hit Catuano Beach where the old pier is, the snorkelig can be good or just so so there depending on the conditions because you're closer to shore. Isla Saona is generally reached by boat from Bayahibe. Bayahibe Hotel El Pulpo. Furthermore, Isla Catalina offers one of the best snorkeling opportunities in the Southeast of the Dominican Republic. Visit Saona Island, an idyllic speck of sand and palm trees in the blue Caribbean, during a full-day tour from Punta Cana. Drinks and Food is not included but can be requested at the time of your reservation for an additional price. Shaded areas, comfortable lounge seats. You can relax on the beach with a cocktail or a soft drink or join in a volleyball game. If you are 9 or older, you must pay the Adult fare. Catalina Island tour, snorkeling, paddle boarding , kayak on a beach with breakfast and lunch. Alternatively, you can check out this return transfer option* as well. Saona Island is a beautiful destination to visit during your Punta Cana or Bayahibe vacation. The first one is The Wall which as we mentioned before, is also known as The Wall of Catalina. Since 24 years I have been living and working together with my better half on the beautiful sun-drenched island called La . I know it is sometimes boring to read all those articles with all my personal experiences and recommendations. Tours and Tickets by Saona Dreams - Saona Catamaran Catamaran and Snorkeling Day Trip to Catalina 6 By Saona Dreams Full-day Tours 6+ hours Leaving from Bayahibe or Punta Cana hotels, you'll navigate on board a catamaran to Catalina, the jewel of the Caribbean Free cancellation from $79.00 per adult Reserve Contribute Write a review Upload a photo But the highlight of the activity is the visit to the village of Mano Juan, where you can meet the inhabitants of the island. . Visit the Tiki Bar, dance merengue, visit the Tiki Bar, play volleyball, visit the Tiki Bar, walk the beach, visit the Tiki Bar, hit the buffet. Maximum 6 passengers. Saona Island ( Mano Juan and Canto de la Playa) (+$130.00 USD ), How many Passengers? Saona Islands beaches are more scenic and overall it is a more popular experience and for a reason! All itineraries are custom designed by the Captain in collaboration with you. In case the proposed option is not to your liking, there are plenty of other yachts you can charter. Motorcycle Gma, August 12, 2015 in Dominican Republic. Catalina Island, a must in Dominican Republic | Saona Dreams This is a real island mon! ATV + El Valle Beach & Waterfalls, Baha de las Aguilas: Beach Day Trip by Boat -Day Pass Pedernales, Baha de las Aguilas: Beach Day Trip by Boat -Day Pass Snorkeling & Lunch, Birdwatching in Los Haitises National Park, Birdwatching Punta Cana Birding Tours from Punta Cana to Los Haitises National Park, Catalina Island and Snorkeling with Catamaran Party From Punta Cana Half Day Experience. LauraS Or maybe you just want to do some cool sightseeing? You can get to Saona Island from Punta Cana or Bayahibe. No matter what your interests are, Catalina Island offers something for you. Isla Saona is the #1 demanded excursion in Punta Cana so Book now to ensure . That's why today we want you to know the best of each one, so you can decide which one you want to visit on your next vacation in Punta Cana. Also, Saona seems to be more of a party. 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. 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. However, in this modality, you will have the opportunity to visit parts of the island such as the Canto de la Playa or the Flamingos beach. Valid on days: Monday Wednesday and Friday. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Moreover, Saona Islands more secluded beaches that you can reach on a private tour make social distancing much more enjoyable! The tours also include a free buffet with typical Dominican food, where you can eat as much as you want. Smaller in size, less popular, fewer visitors and to a certain amount also not as (incredibly) beautiful as Isla Saona thats Catalina Island, just 15 miles away from Saona Island. If you want to snorkel, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I highly recommend this company to anyone wanting to do any type of boating activity. Saona is more recommended if you are looking for a nice beach with no seaweed and great views. However, tours are sometimes cheaper than you might think, hence it is worth having a closer look at Catalina Island and Saona Island private tours. Very helpful, glad to hear about the recent experiences! Most of the Saona Island excursions have a set amount of stops. With a private tour, you can have a more exclusive experience. Isla Catalina offers a more intimate experience because it is a quieter island and tourists dont visit it as often as Saona Island. SAONA.FUN Plaza Punta Cana, Local B#54 Bavaro/Punta Cana D.R. The time on Saona island is priceless. Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos, Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID related Discussions. The first tourist boat to dock at Saona was Christopher Columbus in 1494 and Saona has not ceased to amaze visitors for the last 500+ years! Which one suits what I am looking for? In this case, have a look at the cheapest Saona Island private tours which are more affordable than you might think. It just depends on what you are looking for. Think Sun, Sand, Booze, Boats and Bikinis! Not Bus Pick Up. Isla Saona offers more things-to-see and more spectacular spots. For more information about both islands, check out my comprehensive Isla Catalina and Isla Saona guide. They all pretty much go to all the same stops. Both islands have their advantages. You mentioned the wall. We guarantee you that you will love this Island and it's amazing reefs! Usually, on those big group tours, there is not much that can be done if you are not satisfied. You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, By Saona is not a tiny off-shore key. GOOD NEWS! Are you a small group or maybe even just a couple looking in getting away from the huge groups and the crowded Saona excursions? Afterwards, we will head to our open buffet for lunch on the island, where you will also be able to explore its exquisite white sand beaches surrounded by palm trees and jungle. As there are just your people on the boat, you can decide how long you want to stay or if you want to skip a stop completely. On the catamaran you will have drinks and you will be able to enjoy it with our entertainment group while sailing through the Caribbean Sea. There is one more geographic curiosity about Saona. The natural park bracelets (tax) are not included in the price: 5$ USD per person. Dominican Republic ItineraryDominican Republic Road TripIsla Saona ExcursionSanto Domingo AirbnbsSanto Domingo Airport TransfersSanto Domingo Things-to-do, HomeNewest PostsAbout MeTravel CoachingPrivacy Policy. 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. Its transparent waters in beaches such as the East, West and North, make putting on your goggles and diving an experience. Visit the Tiki Bar, dance merengue, visit the Tiki Bar, play volleyball, visit the Tiki Bar, walk the beach, visit the Tiki Bar, hit the buffet. If you are long overdue for a relaxing SPA day or vacation, a day trip to Saona Island might be just what you need! It is suitable for up to 15 people and comes with a price tag of 1500 USD, lunch and drinks are included. We got you covered! Another difference between visiting Saona Island and Catalina Island is the price. Saona Island is a must if you come to spend your vacation in the Dominican Republic and its popularity is well deserved. Visit Saona & Palmilla (natural pool) or Catalina Island in this confortable sailing catamaran for rent. In fact, from this town in the south of the Dominican Republic we can perfectly see Catalina Island. Catalina Island | Saona Dreams Experience a country of the wonders, one of the most beautiful dive sites in the Dominican Republic, famous for its coral reefs and tropical fish. Instead of being stuck on a large boat with a crowd of other tourists from different countries, you will be traveling on your own private boat to and from the island. So, now you are wondering: Where is Saona Island?. I was scuba diving down there in November and the water temp was around 80 F. We like the Pro Excursions Saona tour because you are on a 45 ft. catamaran (with bathroom) both ways. 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, Are you ready to explore the deserted beaches of Isla Saona? Alternatively, you may use. Saona has basically two types of excursion; the party trip usually using speedboat one way and catamaran the other (imho speedboat out cat back is best for the party) and our best trip was trimaran both ways , and the eco trip run by Seavis Bayahibe which visits empty beaches and the turtle hatchery at Mano Juan using motor boats. Isla Catalina offers a more intimate experience because it is a quieter island and tourists don't visit it as often as Saona Island. See a list of all hotels in Saona Island. Hop on board, sail along the Caribbean Sea, feel the ocean breeze and sip on an ice-cold beer or a delicious Cuba Libre. It belongs to the Cotubanama National Park and is fully protected by the Dominican government because of its abundant and wild natural life. Traveling to Isla Saona in your own private boat is the safest way to explore this beautiful Caribbean island. The captain is included with the boat rental. Advantages of private tours to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? There were about 20 of us, and only two divers. Want to create a unique itinerary for your Saona Island excursion? DIVING + CATALINA ISLAND . If you are interested in further excursions that are Covid-19 safe or certified, check out this article. etc. Private boat rental for full day tour to visit Saona Island or Catalina Island. I asked a resident of Bayahibe about the present seaweed conditions and they are very bad around Punta Cana but Bayahibe and areas nearby are very clean, beaches look gorgeous around Bayahibe and Saona. Icebox. Excursion Isla Saona Vip related sites: , Diving, Excursions, Dominikanische republik, Punta Cana, Ausflge Punta Cana, Shugaring EKB, Yasunizate, Shopnail Yes, it's a killer combination. On the other hand, if your intention is to enjoy a privileged environment where you can also snorkel or dive, you should choose Catalina Island. Saona Dreams - Saona Catamaran (Isla Saona) - All You - Tripadvisor Powered by Invision Community. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Punta Cana AirbnbsPunta Cana Airport TransfersPunta Cana All-Inclusive ResortsPunta Cana BeachesPunta Cana Car Rental The first stop will be Catalina Wall. Best Saona Island Tours Below as well as above the surface you will be astonished by the natural beauty. Catalina & Saona are on the Caribbean Sea, so the water will be warm. Passion Paradise is a smaller operation. Lunch and alcoholic drinks are not included, but you can also bring your own if you do not want to buy them. This island also has a lot to offer you. We later passed by another area and swam again. It is an island in the southeast of the country, dotted with palm-fringed beaches and surrounded by incredibly blue turquoise waters. It is recognized as one of the best diving / snorkeling spots in the Dominican Republic and even the Caribbean and it is not surprising due to its seabed full of corals, sea sponges and tropical fish. Isla Catalina is another beautiful Caribbean island, just a short boat ride away from Isla Saona. The yacht features a kitchen, a covered seating area and sufficient space outside to lounge and to enjoy the sun. Saona Sun & Fun Saona Island then remained uninhabited for a long period of time. Some info about your guide Robert: Hello my name is Robert and originally I am Dutch. Check out the following options for some additional Isla Saona private tours for up to 10, sometimes even 12 people. You dont have any strangers on the boat. 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! With an Italian-medieval appearance, this place is famous for being a meeting point for many celebrities. Our last activity is for those who love scuba diving. Since 2011 I have been living in the Caribbean, among them 5 years in the Dominican Republic. I'm a little nervous because they are way down the list on TA, but they do have decent reviews and have been responsive via email. The weather is still great and there are fewer crowds,which means it's time to plan your next vacation! Hope this helps! Drinks and Foodis not included but can be requested at the time of your reservation for an additional price. 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. The truth is, many tour and excursion providers try to fit as many people as they can on a boat or catamaran and being stuck in a crowd of people you dont know can ruin your entire Saona Island experience. Its easy to say that both are the most beautiful islands in the Dominican Republic as well. On the shore of the beach, the white sand is perfect for relaxing on it. History of Saona Island Best Beaches of Saona Island We are stopping at La Romana DR this October on the Carnival Conquest. The cruise to the island epitomizes the genuine Caribbean holiday feeling. 1 on Tripadvisor (out of 54 water sports and excursion companies in Bayahibe, the departure port to go to Isla Saona). To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Let's go there! Saona or Catalina Island in Dominican Republic: Which to Choose? Each one has different activities, and they are perfect for adults and children, either with family, friends or as a couple. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. How to find the best Private Tours to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? It is an island in the southeast of the country, dotted with palm-fringed beaches and surrounded by incredibly blue turquoise waters. Catalina Island Both islands are an essential part of the beauty that makes up the Dominican Republic. FROM USD175 P/P Diving Equipment, Instructor, Open Bar and Lunch . On a land vacation you hit another Saona Island beach, but for a cruise stop we'd recommend Catalina for the snorkeling. It is an area of the island that barely reaches 11 meters deep. There is an extensive and diverse coral reef system around Saona Island and you can even find mysterious shipwrecks! Some of them have even been married in some of its beautiful chapels and amphitheaters. Pros/Cons? Comfortable and safe transfer from your hotel to Bayahibe. (Click below to navigate) First of all, we show you our classic excursion to Saona Island. The scenery is spectacular, but in addition, Saona Island has permanent population centers, something that is very interesting for tourists. When staying in Punta Cana, there are tons of group tours to book, but what should you do if you are looking for a private excursion to Isla Saona or Isla Catalina? How many islands does the Dominican Republic have? Lunch will be prepared just for your group, which means there is no queue at the buffet. We swapped the waters of Saona for those of Catalina Island. Check out here the best tours to Catalina Island* or continue reading my Isla Catalina guide. It is the second largest island after Saona Island in Dominican Republic and is well loved for its spectacular diving sites. Catalina Island | Hotels, Restaurants & Island Adventures Those are some of the options you have if you are staying in Punta Cana and are looking for a private yacht or catamaran excursion to one of the islands along the Southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. The best private excursion I can recommend for Isla Catalina is this private boat tour*. The element that contributes most to the marine fauna is the coral reef that surrounds the island. So, we kinda take you to a sandbar, far from the coast with clear, waist deep water. How to find the best Private Tours to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina ), I'm thinking of going to Catalina Island instead using Passion Paradise Adventures. Private SpeedBoat Tours Saona or Catalina Islands | WannaBoats The island of Saona is the most visited island in the Dominican Republic. Book your Saona Island Tour now! 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! During the navigation to Saona, you will enjoy an incomparable landscape, observing the beauty of the Cotubanam Natural Park (also known as Parque Nacional del Este), full of beaches, palm trees and mangroves. However, you can check out the following tour which is one of the best private tours to Isla Catalina. : Furthermore, you get a customized itinerary and the full personal attention from a company rated No. Its pristine beaches surrounded by vegetation are also worth seeing, and enjoying its white sand for a couple of hours. 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. Just if snorkeling is important for you or if you have already been to Isla Saona, Isla Catalina might be the better pick for you. It's an all day excursion with snorkeling and/or diving. It offers seemingly endless miles of white sand beaches, but some of the most popular Saona Island beaches are Canto de la Playa, Playa Bonita, and Playa del Gato. Saona has areas that are contracted by many of the tour operators that do trips there so they have their own little area for each tour group to do their meals and drinks that are included with most trips. Caribbean Life & Travel magazine has selected Isla Saonas unspoiled beaches as the best beaches of the Caribbean. Saona Island's beaches are more scenic and overall it is a more popular experience and for a reason! 3. Then you will go to a privileged space at the beach of Saona, area equipped with chaise longue, canopy beds, open bar and a typical Dominican buffet. Please go ahead and add Punta Cana Travel Blog to your feed: Youll have much smaller groups just the people from your traveling party. Michele de Cuneo also later became the first governor of Saona Island. Which one to go to? Although the difference is minimal, Saona is usually cheaper because it is closer to the tourist sites of Punta Cana.