Catamaran tours to Saona Island
The catamaran is the most popular way to reach Saona Island. It is a wide, stable double-hull boat with shaded seating, a sun deck and music on board. Most catamaran tours include an open bar with rum, beer and soft drinks plus a snorkel stop at the offshore reef on the way to the island.
Sailing time from Bayahibe is about 90 minutes one way. Group sizes range from 30 to 80 passengers depending on the operator. Pick a small group catamaran if you want a calmer experience.
Speedboat tours to Saona Island
The speedboat is the fast alternative: you reach Saona in 25 to 30 minutes from Bayahibe. Smaller groups (typically 8 to 12 passengers), more time on the island, but no open bar on the boat and less shade. Best if you have limited time or want to skip the party atmosphere.
Comparison table
| Feature | Catamaran | Speedboat |
|---|---|---|
| Travel time one way | 90 minutes | 25 to 30 minutes |
| Open bar | Yes, on board | Only on the beach |
| Group size | 30 to 80 | 8 to 12 |
| Shade and stability | Excellent | Limited shade, can be bumpy |
| Time on Saona | 2 to 3 hours | 4 to 5 hours |
| Price from | $80 | $120 |
The combo tour
Most popular Saona day trips combine both: catamaran on the way out with the open bar party and snorkel stop, then speedboat on the return for a faster ride back to Bayahibe. Best of both worlds and usually the same price as a catamaran-only tour.
Ready to book your Saona day trip?
Browse catamaran and speedboat tours with hotel pickup and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Frequently asked questions
Catamaran is more relaxed with open bar, music and a sun deck. Speedboat is faster, drier and better if you get seasick. Many tours combine catamaran out and speedboat back, which gives you both experiences in one day.
About 90 minutes one way from Bayahibe to Saona Island on the catamaran, including a snorkel stop on the offshore reef. The speedboat covers the same distance in 25 to 30 minutes.
Speedboats can bounce in choppy seas which is uncomfortable for some travelers. If you suffer from motion sickness or back issues, choose the catamaran which is much more stable. Mornings tend to be calmer than afternoons.
