Ahoy there, fellow cruise enthusiasts! After decades of exploring Caribbean waters and countless visits to La Romana, I’m here to spill the beans on the Dominican Republic’s two crown jewels – Saona and Catalina Islands. Trust me, I’ve made every rookie mistake in the book (including that time I forgot sunscreen and looked like a lobster for a week), so let me save you from my blunders while helping you choose the perfect island escape.
The Tale of Two Islands: Saona vs Catalina at a Glance
These islands are like comparing a blockbuster movie to an indie film. Saona Island is the star everyone knows, complete with Hollywood-worthy beaches and crowds to match. Catalina Island? She’s the quirky independent film that wins your heart with authenticity and charm. Both are spectacular, but for completely different reasons.
👉 Shore Excursions in La Romana fill up fast – book direct and save
| Feature | Saona Island | Catalina Island |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 2.5-3 hours | 45 minutes |
| Crowd Level | High (300+ people) | Moderate (50-100 people) |
| Beach Quality | Postcard perfect | Pristine and secluded |
| Activities | Swimming, volleyball, dancing | Snorkeling, diving, hiking |
| Photography | Instagram gold | National Geographic worthy |
Top 10 Island Excursions from La Romana
Saona Island Adventures
1. Classic Saona Island Catamaran Tour
The granddaddy of all Dominican excursions, this full-day adventure includes the famous natural pool stop where you’ll stand waist-deep in crystal-clear water surrounded by starfish. Pro tip: The starfish are actually alive, so please don’t lift them out of the water for that perfect selfie – they need to stay submerged to breathe!
2. Saona Island Speedboat Express
For those who prefer wind in their hair over leisurely sailing, the speedboat cuts travel time in half. Fair warning: you’ll arrive with hair looking like you’ve been in a wind tunnel, but the adrenaline rush is worth it. Pack a waterproof dry bag for your phone – trust me on this one.
3. Saona Island VIP Experience
Smaller groups, premium drinks, and exclusive beach areas make this worth the extra cost. You’ll avoid the cattle-herding feeling of larger tours and actually get to know your fellow travelers. The lobster lunch alone justifies the upgrade.
4. Saona Island Photography Tour
A hidden gem for serious photographers, these tours time arrivals for golden hour and include stops at lesser-known viewpoints. The guides know exactly where to position you for those shots that’ll make your friends back home green with envy.
5. Saona Island Cultural Immersion
Beyond the beaches, this tour includes visits to local fishing villages and traditional craft demonstrations. You’ll learn why coconut water tastes different straight from the tree (spoiler: it’s fresher than anything you’ve ever had).
Catalina Island Explorations
6. Catalina Island Snorkeling Adventure
The coral reefs here are absolutely stunning, and the marine life is more diverse than Saona’s sandy bottom. The underwater wall drop-off is particularly spectacular – like swimming along the edge of an underwater cliff. Don’t miss our detailed guide to Catalina’s snorkeling spots for the best locations.
7. Catalina Island Diving Experience
For certified divers, the underwater world around Catalina is phenomenal. The visibility regularly exceeds 100 feet, and the reef formations are untouched by mass tourism. Beginners can try resort-style diving with professional instructors.
8. Catalina Island Beach & Zip Line Combo
This unique combination includes soaring over the jungle canopy before relaxing on pristine beaches. The zip line offers bird’s-eye views of the island that most visitors never see.
9. Catalina Island Eco-Tour
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate this tour. Expert guides lead small groups through untouched ecosystems, explaining the delicate balance of island life. You’ll spot birds and plants found nowhere else in the Caribbean.
10. Private Catalina Island Charter
For the ultimate splurge, charter your own boat and captain. You’ll have complete freedom to explore hidden coves, create your own schedule, and enjoy the island like a true VIP. Some local captains know secret spots that aren’t on any map.
👉 Shore Excursions in La Romana fill up fast – book direct and save
Insider Secrets Only Cruise Veterans Know
After countless trips, I’ve learned that timing is everything. Book morning departures for Saona – the beaches are less crowded, and you’ll have better photo opportunities. For Catalina, afternoon trips often have better underwater visibility for snorkeling.
Here’s something tour operators won’t tell you: the “natural pool” at Saona isn’t actually natural. It’s a sandbar that shifts with currents and seasons. Sometimes it’s knee-deep, sometimes waist-deep. The starfish? They’re carefully relocated there by local guides to ensure tourist satisfaction.
On Catalina, the best snorkeling spots are on the windward side of the island, but most tours stick to the calmer leeward side. If you’re comfortable in the water, ask your guide about the “secret spots” – they usually know exactly what you mean.
If you’re planning to explore other Dominican ports, you might want to check out the Amber Cove shore excursions or the Samana shore excursions for comparison.
The Real Talk: Challenges and Considerations
These excursions aren’t perfect. Saona can feel like a tourist assembly line during peak season. You’ll share your “pristine paradise” with hundreds of other visitors, and the beach barbecues can resemble a college spring break party more than a serene island getaway.
Catalina’s main challenge is rougher seas. The boat ride can be bumpy, and seasickness is more common than tour operators admit. The facilities are also more basic – don’t expect resort-style amenities.
Both islands have aggressive vendors selling everything from jewelry to coconuts. A firm but polite “no gracias” is your best friend. And please, for the sake of cultural respect, don’t try to negotiate prices after you’ve already agreed – it’s considered extremely rude in Dominican culture.
Essential Packing List for Your Island Adventure
- Sun Protection: Reef-safe sunscreen (many Caribbean locations ban harmful chemicals)
- Water Gear: Waterproof phone case and quality snorkel gear
- Footwear: Comfortable water shoes for rocky areas
- Clothing: Quick-dry shorts and UV protection swimwear
- Electronics: Waterproof camera and portable charger
- Accessories: Hat, sunglasses, and a small daypack
Planning Your Perfect Island Day
Check the Public Holidays for Dominican Republic before booking. Local celebrations can affect tour availability and create unexpected crowds or, conversely, limited services.
For food allergies or dietary restrictions, communicate clearly with tour operators beforehand. The island lunch spreads are generous but not always accommodating to special needs.
Consider exploring other La Romana attractions like Altos de Chavon or checking out the Casa de Campo family activities if you have multiple days in port.
👉 Shore Excursions in La Romana fill up fast – book direct and save
Budget-Friendly Tips That Actually Work
- Book shore excursions through the cruise line for peace of mind, despite higher costs
- Bring small bills in US dollars for tips and vendors
- Pack your own snacks and water bottles to avoid inflated island prices
- Download offline maps before leaving the ship – cell service is spotty
- The conch shells sold on beaches are often illegal to bring back to your home country
- Motion sickness medication is worth packing, even if you don’t usually get seasick
Weather and Timing Considerations
December through April offers the calmest seas and most reliable weather. Hurricane season (June-November) can bring rough waters and sudden weather changes. For detailed weather patterns, check out our La Romana weather guide.
Morning departures generally provide calmer seas and better photo opportunities, while afternoon trips can offer stunning sunset views on the return journey.
Common Questions
Can I swim with dolphins on these island tours? No, neither Saona nor Catalina offer swimming with dolphins. That’s available at Ocean World or through certain Puerto Plata experiences.
Are there restroom facilities on the islands? Saona has basic restroom facilities at the main beach areas, but expect rustic conditions. Catalina has very limited facilities, so use the ship’s restrooms before departure.
What’s the best time of year to visit these islands? December through April offers the calmest seas and most reliable weather. Hurricane season (June-November) can bring rough waters and sudden weather changes.
Can I stay on the island overnight? Both islands are day-trip destinations only. There are no overnight accommodations available for tourists.
Are the beaches clothing-optional? Absolutely not. Both islands are in conservative Dominican territory, and appropriate beach attire is required.
What happens if I miss the return boat? Don’t panic, but don’t let it happen. Tour operators have contingency plans, but you might face additional costs. Always confirm departure times and locations with your guide.
Alternative Dominican Experiences
If you’re considering other Dominican ports, each offers unique experiences. Amber Cove activities focus more on cultural attractions and mountain adventures, while Samana activities showcase incredible whale watching and waterfalls.
For those interested in newer destinations, Cabo Rojo activities offer pristine beaches with fewer crowds, though it’s still developing its cruise infrastructure.
Safety and Practical Considerations
Both islands are generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Keep valuables secure, stay hydrated, and follow your guide’s instructions. For comprehensive safety information, consult our La Romana safety guide.
Transportation between La Romana port and the departure points for island tours is typically included in excursion packages. Independent travelers can reference our La Romana transportation guide for options.
The Verdict: Which Island Wins Your Heart?
After sailing these waters for decades, I can tell you that choosing between Saona and Catalina isn’t about picking the “better” island – it’s about matching the experience to your cruise personality. Saona delivers that postcard-perfect Caribbean fantasy with all the bells and whistles, while Catalina offers authentic island tranquility with nature taking center stage.
My advice? If this is your first Caribbean cruise and you want that classic tropical experience complete with rum punches and beach volleyball, Saona is your island. But if you’re seeking something more intimate, where you can actually hear the waves over the crowd, Catalina will steal your heart.
Many seasoned cruisers return to La Romana specifically to experience both islands. After all, why limit yourself to one slice of paradise when you can have the whole tropical pie? For more comprehensive information about your La Romana visit, check out our complete La Romana cruise port guide.
👉 Shore Excursions in La Romana fill up fast – book direct and save
