Saona is the most famous island trip in the Dominican Republic, and most visitors go on large shared catamarans. A private charter lets you avoid the fixed schedule, choose quieter spots and move at your own pace.
The island sits inside a protected national park on the south-east coast. The classic day combines Saona's palm-lined beaches with the natural pool, a sandbank where the water is only waist-deep and starfish are often seen (look, don't touch).
At a glance
Recommended duration
Full day
Departure ports
Bayahibe, Punta Cana, Bávaro
Ideal for
Families, friends, couples
Typical route
Departure → Saona Island beach → natural pool → return
Routes and travel times depend on sea conditions and your departure port; your captain confirms the plan.
Late morning–afternoon: Saona beach time and lunch (optional extra)
Afternoon: return cruise with an optional snorkel stop
Late afternoon: transfer back to your hotel
When to go
Trips run year-round. Calmer seas are generally more common outside the peak of hurricane season (roughly August–October); your captain decides based on the forecast.
Private charter vs shared tour
Shared tours follow a fixed program with dozens or hundreds of people. A private boat means your own schedule, your own music, fewer crowds at quieter spots and a crew focused only on you.
Shared tour
Private with CanaCharter
Who's on board
Other tourists
Only your group
Schedule
Fixed
Flexible
Stops
Set by operator
Planned with your captain
Price
Per person
Per boat
Which boat for your group?
Couples and small groups: speedboat. Families and groups of 8+: catamaran. Large groups: large catamaran.
Tips
Leave early to reach the beaches before the big group tours
Bring reef-safe sunscreen — it is a national park
Don't take starfish out of the water
A national park fee may apply — [confirm whether it's included]
What is included
Included
Private boat
Captain
Professional crew
Fuel
Transfer from your pickup area or hotel, where applicable
Safety equipment
Route planning assistance
Water and basic onboard amenities, where applicable
Optional extras
Food
Premium drinks
Fishing equipment
Special decoration
Additional activities
Extras are quoted separately and are not included unless confirmed on WhatsApp.
