The Saona Island Full-Day Tour from Las Terrenas offers travelers an exciting opportunity to explore this picturesque Caribbean island. Departing at 7:00 am, the tour accommodates up to 40 guests and includes a complimentary lunch and open bar, with optional pina coladas and massages available. While the lengthy 3.5-hour drive each way may deter some, the tour’s inclusive amenities and the chance to discover the island’s natural beauty could make it a worthwhile adventure. However, visitors should be prepared for potentially crowded conditions that may impact their overall experience.
Key Points
- The Saona Island Full-Day Tour departs from Las Terrenas at 7:00 am and is operated by Conexion Viajes with a capacity of up to 40 travelers.
- The tour package includes a complimentary lunch and open bar, with optional add-ons like pina coladas and massages available for an additional charge.
- The tour experience has received mixed reviews, with concerns about the lengthy 3.5-hour car ride each way, overcrowded conditions on the island, and disappointing food quality.
- Participants need to navigate boat and island terrain, and the tour may not be accessible for those with limited mobility.
- The overall value of the Saona Island tour is perceived as lacking, with many reviewers preferring to stay in Las Terrenas instead.
Tour Overview
The Saona Island Full-Day Tour from Las Terrenas offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of this Caribbean island, located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic.
This all-day excursion, operated by Conexion Viajes, departs at 7:00 am and can accommodate up to 40 travelers. Priced from £126.55 per person, the tour includes a complimentary lunch, an open bar serving rum and Coke, and optional add-ons like pina coladas and massages.
Guests can take advantage of the island’s white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this tour provides a convenient way to discover the natural wonders of Saona Island.
Pickup and Meeting Details
Guests can select a pickup point for the Saona Island Full-Day Tour from Las Terrenas.
While the schedule is approximate, contact is required to confirm the hotel/accommodation name for the accurate pickup time.
The tour operator will provide the exact pickup time after guests share their hotel or accommodation details. This ensures the pickup schedule aligns with each guest’s location.
The tour company aims to make the process as seamless as possible, by coordinating the pickup logistics based on the participants’ needs.
Guests should be prepared for a slightly flexible schedule, as the tour operator works to accommodate everyone’s travel arrangements for a smooth start to the Saona Island adventure.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour package includes a complimentary lunch and access to an open bar limited to rum and coke, though guests can opt for a pina colada at an additional $10 charge.
Plus, a masseuse is available on the island, offering one-hour massages for $90 or half-hour sessions for $50.
These amenities provide a refreshing and relaxing experience for guests as they explore the natural beauty of Saona Island.
The inclusion of lunch and the open bar ensures that travelers can fully enjoy the day without having to worry about meal planning or additional costs.
The masseuse service also allows guests to indulge in some pampering during their island adventure.
Participant Information
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users. Infants must sit on laps, though most travelers can participate in the experience.
The Saona Island tour offers several important participant details to consider:
- Participants must be able to navigate the boat and island terrain, as the experience isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility.
- Children are welcome, but infants must be held by an accompanying adult throughout the tour.
- The tour is designed for the average traveler in good physical condition, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Saona Island and its activities.
Reviews and Feedback
Travelers have provided a mixed set of reviews for the Saona Island tour, with an overall rating of 3.0 out of 5 based on 2 total reviews.
Some noted the lengthy 3.5-hour car ride each way to the port and crowded conditions on the island, which hindered swimming due to rocks and seaweed. The food was also rated poorly at 5 out of 10.
Travelers experienced a boat engine failure, leading to an extended return time. However, some praised the opportunity to swim in the natural pool and see a starfish.
Duration and Travel Time
Although the Saona Island tour is advertised as a full-day experience, travelers should be prepared for a lengthy 3.5-hour car ride each way to reach the port. This means that a significant portion of the day will be spent in transit, leaving less time to explore the island itself.
Here are a few key points regarding the duration and travel time:
- The total roundtrip travel time from Las Terrenas to the port is approximately 7 hours.
- Travelers should factor in this extended transit time when planning their schedules and expectations for the day.
- The long drive each way may be tiring, so it’s important to plan accordingly and come prepared with entertainment or refreshments for the journey.
Island Conditions and Activities
Once on Saona Island, travelers encountered somewhat crowded conditions, with the swimming areas hindered by rocks and seaweed.
The natural pool provided a highlight, allowing visitors to swim and spot starfish, though the overall island experience was reportedly not worth the money spent.
The lunch served on the island received mixed reviews, scoring a 5 out of 10 on the satisfaction scale.
Some travelers also noted an incident with the boat’s engine failure, which led to an extended return time, adding to the frustration of the day trip.
Overall Value Assessment
The Saona Island tour didn’t appear to offer good value for money. Many visitors felt the long drive, crowded conditions, and subpar food outweighed the enjoyment of the natural pool and wildlife sightings.
Some key issues that detracted from the overall experience included:
- The 3.5-hour drive each way to the port, which many found excessive.
- Overcrowded conditions on the island, hindering the ability to fully enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Food that was rated as only 5 out of 10, disappointing for a tour that included a full-day excursion.
Given these factors, most reviewers didn’t feel the tour was worth the listed price and expressed a preference to simply stay in Las Terrenas instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on this tour. The tour includes a provided lunch and limited open bar, so bringing outside items is not permitted. Check with the tour operator for any specific policies on outside food and beverages.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities on the Island?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available on Saona Island. Visitors have access to basic toilet and hand-washing amenities during the tour. These facilities are located on the island, providing convenience for participants throughout the excursion.
Is There a Recommended Packing List for the Tour?
It’s recommended to pack swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, and light clothing. Bringing snacks or water is also advisable, as amenities may be limited on the island. Be prepared for a potentially long journey to and from the destination.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
Guests are generally allowed to bring their own snorkeling gear on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm if there are any restrictions or rental options available.
Do I Need to Bring a Waterproof Phone Case?
Yes, bringing a waterproof phone case is recommended for this tour. The natural pool and beach areas allow for plenty of opportunities to take photos, so protecting your device from water is advised.
Recap
The Saona Island Full-Day Tour from Las Terrenas offers an immersive island experience, with a complimentary lunch, open bar, and optional activities.
However, the lengthy drive and potentially crowded conditions on the island may impact overall enjoyment.
Prospective participants should weigh the tour’s inclusions and amenities against the logistical challenges to determine if it aligns with their travel preferences and expectations.
