How to Get to Saona Island from Punta Cana: Best Ways, Tours & Travel Tips

When travelers think of the Dominican Republic, two names almost always come up: Punta Cana and Saona Island. Punta Cana is famous for its luxury resorts and pristine beaches, while Saona Island, located within a protected national park, is one of the most iconic day trips in the entire Caribbean.

If you are vacationing in Punta Cana, chances are high that you will want to spend at least one day exploring Saona Island. But how do you get there? Is there a ferry? How long does the journey take? What is the best way to visit?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to get to Saona Island from Punta Cana—including travel times, costs, transportation options, and practical tips. And if you want a hassle-free option, you can book your excursion directly with us at Punta Cana RD and let us handle all the details.

Where is Saona Island Located?

Saona Island is part of the Cotubanamá National Park, a protected nature reserve located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It sits opposite the small fishing village of Bayahibe, which is the main departure point for boats heading to the island.

Although it feels remote and untouched, Saona is not far from the country’s major tourist hubs. From Punta Cana, it takes about 1.5 hours by road to reach Bayahibe and then an additional 30–45 minutes by boat to Saona.

👉 For more background information, check the Wikipedia entry on Saona Island.

How Far is Saona Island from Punta Cana?

Many travelers underestimate the distance because Saona looks close on the map. The actual journey is a bit more complex:

• By road (Punta Cana to Bayahibe): ~75 kilometers (about 1.5 hours by car or shuttle).

• By boat (Bayahibe to Saona Island): 30–45 minutes, depending on whether you take a speedboat or a catamaran.

• Total travel time from Punta Cana to Saona: Between 2 and 2.5 hours one way.

That means a day trip to Saona Island usually lasts around 9–10 hours, including hotel pickup, transfers, boat rides, and time spent on the island itself.

How to Get to Saona Island from Punta Cana

There is no direct ferry from Punta Cana to Saona Island. All visitors must travel first to Bayahibe or La Romana and then take a boat to reach the island. Depending on your preferences and budget, there are three main ways to do this:

By Organized Tour (Most Popular Option)

This is by far the easiest and most convenient way to visit Saona Island. Here’s how it works:

1. Hotel pickup: You’ll be collected directly from your resort in Punta Cana in a comfortable shuttle or bus.

2. Transfer to Bayahibe: The drive takes around 1.5 hours.

3. Boat ride: From Bayahibe, you board either a catamaran (slower, but with music and drinks) or a speedboat (faster and more adventurous).

4. Island time: Once in Saona, you’ll enjoy a few hours on its beaches, usually with a buffet lunch and open bar included.

5. Return trip: In the afternoon, you’ll sail or speed back to Bayahibe and then return by bus to Punta Cana.

💡 Benefits of organized tours:

• No planning required.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off included.

• Food, drinks, and entertainment provided.

• Professional guides.

👉 Book your Saona Island tour from Punta Cana directly through our website: Saona Island Excursions.

By Private Transfer + Private Boat

If you prefer a more exclusive experience, you can arrange a private transfer from your hotel to Bayahibe and then hire a private boat to Saona Island.

This option is ideal for:

• Families who want flexibility.

• Couples seeking privacy.

• Groups traveling together.

With a private excursion, you can choose your own schedule, avoid the crowds, and sometimes even explore quieter beaches like Canto de la Playa, a hidden gem on the island.

👉 Combine your trip with our private airport transfers for a seamless travel experience in Punta Cana.

By Renting a Car + Local Boat

For adventurous travelers, renting a car and driving yourself to Bayahibe is also possible. Once there, you can negotiate directly with local fishermen or boat operators for a ride to Saona.

However, keep in mind:

• Prices vary and often require bargaining.

• Safety standards may not always be guaranteed.

• English-speaking operators are limited.

• Not ideal if you’re unfamiliar with the Dominican Republic’s roads.

This method can be cheaper for groups, but it comes with more risks and less comfort compared to organized tours.

Best Saona Island Tours from Punta Cana

There are several types of tours available. Here are the most common:

1. Classic Saona Day Trip

   • Shared catamaran or speedboat.

   • Buffet lunch and open bar included.

   • Time at the famous natural pool with starfish.

   • Price: ~$70–$90 per person.

2. VIP Saona Tour

   • Smaller groups, more personalized service.

   • Premium lunch (often lobster or seafood).

   • Private beach area access.

   • Price: ~$120–$150 per person.

3. Private Saona Charter

   • Private boat and guide.

   • Flexible itinerary.

   • Ideal for families, groups, or honeymooners.

   • Price: $700+ depending on group size.

👉 Browse our curated selection of Saona Island tours and choose the one that fits your travel style.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Saona Island?

The price depends on the type of experience:

• Standard group tour: $70–$90 per person.

• VIP tour: $120–$150 per person.

• Private charter: $500–$800+ for groups.

Most tours include:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off.

• Boat transportation.

• Buffet lunch.

• Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic).

• Time at the natural pool.

Additional expenses may include tips, souvenirs, or optional upgrades.

Saona Island Travel Tips

To make the most of your trip, here are some helpful suggestions:

• Best time to visit: December to April offers the best weather (dry season). May to November is the rainy season, but tours still run daily.

• What to bring:

  • Swimsuit and towel.

  • Biodegradable sunscreen (to protect marine life).

  • Sunglasses and hat.

  • Waterproof phone case or camera.

  • Small cash for souvenirs or tips.

• Traveling with kids: Saona is family-friendly, but the long day can be tiring for very young children.

• Sustainability note: Please do not touch or remove starfish from the water in the natural pool—this harms them.

FAQs About Getting to Saona Island

Can you go to Saona Island without a tour?
Technically yes, if you arrange private transportation and a local boat. But the safest and easiest option is a tour.

Is there a ferry to Saona Island?
No, there is no public ferry. All transportation is via tour boats or private charters.

How long does it take to get to Saona Island from Punta Cana?
Around 2–2.5 hours one way (1.5 hours by road + 30–45 minutes by boat).

Can you stay overnight on Saona Island?
There are no hotels, only a small eco-lodge with limited facilities. Most visitors return the same day.

Is Saona Island worth visiting?
Absolutely. With its turquoise waters, white sand, and laid-back vibe, it’s considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean.

Conclusion – The Easiest Way to Get to Saona Island from Punta Cana

While there are multiple ways to reach Saona Island, the simplest and most stress-free method is through an organized tour. It takes care of all the logistics—hotel pickup, transfers, boat rides, meals—so you can focus on enjoying your time in paradise.

✨ Ready to go? Book your Saona Island excursion today with us at Punta Cana RD and let us make your trip unforgettable.