Booking choice: The small-group Saona tour, from $165 per person. Check dates Tour details
Every tour here includes lunch and drinks, and some include snorkel gear, so you can pack light. A few items, though, make the difference between a great day and a sunburnt one.
The small-group operator's own list is short: swimsuit, towel, sun block, insect repellent and money.
The quick answer
Bring a swimsuit (wear it under your clothes), a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, a waterproof phone pouch and some cash for tips and island vendors. The small-group tour supplies snorkel gear, breakfast, lunch, drinks and water, and lets you bring your own snacks.
What do the tours provide?
Lunch and drinks on every tour here; snorkel gear on the small-group, catamaran and speedboat tours.
The small-group tour also includes breakfast, bottled water and air-conditioned transport. The catamaran adds snacks and an open bar; the speedboat tour adds snacks and the national park fees.
Breakfast, lunch, drinks and snorkel gear in one price: check dates for the small-group tour.
Check dates for the small-group Saona tourWhat should I wear?
Your swimsuit under light clothes, with sandals or water shoes.
You will step in and out of the boat in shallow water, so shoes that can get wet are easier than trainers. A light cover-up helps on the ride back.
Do I need sunscreen and insect repellent?
Yes, both: the operator lists them, and the sun on the water is strong.
Reapply after swimming. Insect repellent matters on the sand and away from the water; one guest on a big-group tour said she was badly bitten. A reef-friendly sunscreen is a kind choice in a marine park.
How much cash should I bring?
Enough for tips and a few purchases; the tours include the main costs.
On the beach, vendors sell massages, coconuts, pineapples and souvenirs, and some tours sell photos or lobster. Small notes in a waterproof pouch are easiest.
Prefer no surprises? The speedboat tour's guests praise its up-front costs and no pushy sales.
Explore the speedboat tour from Bayahibe Tour detailsCan I bring my own food and drinks?
On the small-group tour, yes: the operator says you may bring what you like and stops at a store before the port.
On other tours, check the listing. Bring a reusable water bottle if you drink a lot; the days are hot.
What about my phone and camera?
A waterproof pouch or case, and a strap.
The speedboat ride can be bumpy and wet. Keep valuables to a minimum and leave the good camera at the hotel unless it is waterproof.
Anything else?
A towel and any medication you need.
The day is about nine hours, so pack as for a full day out. If you travel with children, read Saona with kids.
Packed and ready? Check your date for the small-group Saona tour.
Check dates for the small-group Saona tourFrequently asked questions
Do I need water shoes for Saona?
They are not required, but they make getting in and out of the boat and walking in the natural pool easier.
Is there shade on Saona?
There are palms behind the beaches, and small-group guests mention reserved beach chairs, but bring a hat for the boat and the pool.
Should I bring a towel?
Yes. The small-group operator asks guests to bring towels.
Can I use a drone on Saona?
Only within the civil aviation rules: the Dominican regulation RAD 107 requires you to register the operator and the drone, keep it in sight and ask for a permit before flying near crowds. Saona is also a national park, so tell your operator before the day.
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.
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 Speedboat Tour with Lunch
Up to 30 guests, park fees, lunch and drinks
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
