Booking choice: The catamaran from Bayahibe, from $169 per person. Check dates Tour details
Shallow turquoise water and a sandbar you can stand on make Saona tempting with children. But it is a long day with an early start, and some tours do not take young children at all.
Below are the age bands and child discounts straight from each listing.
The quick answer
The small-group tour does not take children under 6 and lists no child discount, so it suits families with older children. The catamaran from Bayahibe discounts ages 3 to 10 and lets infants sit on laps; the big-group day discounts ages 2 to 11; the speedboat tour is not for under-3s and discounts ages 3 to 11.
What is the minimum age for Saona tours?
It depends on the tour: from 6 on the small-group tour, from 3 on the speedboat tour, and no minimum age on the private boat's listing.
These are the age bands from each listing. One caution: the small-group booking form shows a child band from 4, but the listing's own notes say ages 0 to 5 are not allowed, so confirm with the operator before bringing a child under 6.
| Tour | Children | Infants | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small-group full day | From 6; no child discount | Not allowed (0 to 5) | Max 14 guests |
| Catamaran from Bayahibe | 3 to 10, discounted | 0 to 2, on laps | Children with an adult |
| Big-group day | 2 to 11, discounted | n/a | Drinking age 18 |
| Speedboat from Bayahibe | 3 to 11, discounted | Not under 3 | Max 30 |
| Bávaro pickup tour | 3 to 11, discounted | 1 to 2, on laps | Stroller accessible |
| Excursion from Bayahibe | 4 to 12, discounted | 0 to 3 | Bayahibe pickup only |
Is the small-group tour good for kids?
For children 6 and over who cope with an early start and a bumpy boat, yes.
The turtle conservation stop at Mano Juan is a highlight for curious children. But children pay the same price as adults, the day starts at 6:00 AM and lasts about nine hours, and the speedboat ride can be rough.
Travelling with children over 6? The small-group tour includes the turtle stop and two meals.
Check dates for the small-group Saona tourWhich Saona tour is best for young children?
The catamaran from Bayahibe: a gentler ride, a child discount and infants allowed on laps.
Its free pickup only covers Bayahibe and Dominicus, so it is easiest if you stay there. From Punta Cana, the big-group day takes children from 2 with a discount, though it is busy and long.
Families near Bayahibe: a sailing catamaran with lunch on board and child prices for ages 3 to 10.
Explore the catamaran from Bayahibe Tour detailsIs the natural pool safe for children?
It is shallow, but it is open sea: keep children within arm's reach and ask the crew about life jackets.
Most adults can stand at the sandbar. Children should stay close, and the starfish should stay in the water.
How do families cope with the long day?
Pack snacks, water and a change of clothes.
One speedboat-tour guest, travelling with her children, suggested more snacks in the afternoon because swimming builds an appetite. The small-group operator lets you bring your own snacks.
Is there a shorter boat trip for families?
Yes: the half-day snorkel catamaran from Punta Cana, about three and a half hours.
It discounts ages 3 to 11, lets infants under 3 sit on laps, and its guests mention children enjoying the paddleboard. It is not Saona, but it is a much easier day with small children.
Young kids? A half-day snorkel catamaran with hotel pickup and a sandbar stop.
Explore the half-day snorkel catamaran Tour detailsWhat should families pack?
Swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, snacks, water and dry clothes.
See what to bring to Saona for the full list.
Ready to plan? Check dates for the catamaran from Bayahibe.
Check dates for the catamaran from BayahibeFrequently asked questions
Can a baby go to Saona Island?
Not on the small-group tour. The catamaran from Bayahibe and the Bávaro pickup tour allow infants on laps.
Do kids pay less on Saona tours?
On most tours, yes. The small-group tour lists no child discount.
Is Saona good for teenagers?
Yes: every tour we list takes travelers aged 12 and up. Check each listing's age bands before you book.
Are strollers useful on Saona?
Not really; most of the day is on boats and sand. The Bávaro pickup tour is listed as stroller accessible for the transfer.
Ready to book
Choose your day
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
Saona Catamaran Day from Bayahibe
- Pickup from Bayahibe and Dominicus hotels only
- Transfers from Punta Cana, La Romana or Santo Domingo cost extra
- Lunch on board, snacks, unlimited beer, rum and soft drinks
Small-Group Saona Island Full Day Tour
- Bus from Punta Cana to the port of Bayahibe and back; speedboat for the whole day
- Breakfast and a Dominican buffet lunch on the beach
- Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks and bottled water
Saona Day Trip with Lunch & Open Bar
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Punta Cana area
- Speedboat out, party catamaran back
- A 30-minute natural pool stop and about 3 hours on Saona
