Photo: Oleg Yunakov · CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Isla Saona Catamaran Tour
The classic Punta Cana day out: bus to Bayahíbe, catamaran or speedboat to Saona Island, a swim in the natural pool, lunch on the beach.
Saona is the most-booked excursion in Punta Cana for a reason: a Caribbean postcard of an island inside a national park, reached by boat from Bayahíbe. Most itineraries combine a catamaran one way with a speedboat the other, a stop at the waist-deep 'natural pool' to look for starfish, and a buffet lunch under the palms.
It is a full day — expect to be collected early and back at the resort by late afternoon — and the bus leg from the Bávaro resorts is the least glamorous part. Choose a smaller-group tour if you want the beach to feel less crowded.
Read more: Our full Saona Island guide.
Pickup from your resort
| Resort | Pickup point | Typical pickup | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barceló Bávaro Palace Bavaro Beach | Palace section lobby desk | 7:15 AM | 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Excellence El Carmen Uvero Alto | Main lobby (northern resort — earliest pickups) | 6:00 AM | 1 hour 55 minutes |
| Excellence Punta Cana Uvero Alto | Main Lobby concierge | 6:00 AM | 1 hour 55 minutes |
| Lopesan Costa Bávaro Central Bavaro | Main resort lobby | 7:00 AM | 1 hour 25 minutes |
| Paradisus Palma Real Central Bavaro | Main Colonial Court lobby | 7:00 AM | 1 hour 25 minutes |
| Riu República Macao Beach | Main lobby gate | 6:40 AM | 1 hour 40 minutes |
| Secrets Cap Cana Cap Cana | Main Security Gate Lobby | 7:35 AM | 55 minutes |
Pickup times, transfer durations and starting prices are typical values compiled from operator listings at the time of writing. They change seasonally — the operator confirms the exact pickup time after booking.
Who it suits
Groups & bachelorette parties
For groups, booking ahead is strongly recommended because larger parties need enough seats on the same transfer and may require earlier coordination at the hotel lobby.
Safety: Keep children seated at all times. Catamaran netting areas require strict adult supervision. Avoid wearing loose jewelry near open boarding gates.
Families
For families, the most important detail is arriving early at the pickup point, keeping children close during boarding, and confirming stroller or bag storage with the operator before departure.
Safety: Keep children seated at all times. Catamaran netting areas require strict adult supervision. Avoid wearing loose jewelry near open boarding gates.
Seniors & less mobile travellers
For seniors or travelers with limited mobility, the main concern is smooth pickup and enough time to board comfortably. Confirm any mobility needs before booking, especially for boat, trail, or off-road excursions.
Solo travellers
For solo travelers, pre-booked transport is useful because it avoids negotiating with beach vendors or informal taxi options. It also gives you a confirmed pickup point and a clear return plan.
Safety: Keep children seated at all times. Catamaran netting areas require strict adult supervision. Avoid wearing loose jewelry near open boarding gates.
What's usually included
- Hotel pickup and return transfer
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Professional tour coordination
- Excursion admission or activity access where included by the operator
- Free time at the destination or activity area
- Support throughout the trip
Frequently asked questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. Every operator collects from the resort lobby or security gate and brings you back afterwards. The exact pickup time is confirmed after booking.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from around US$75 per person, depending on operator, season and what is included.
How long is the transfer from my resort?
Between 55 minutes and 1 hour 55 minutes depending on where you stay — see the table above.