Catalina Island Day Trip from Santo Domingo

Overview

A full-day excursion from the capital to Isla Catalina, a small protected island about 2 km off the coast of La Romana. We drive east along the Autovía del Este, board a catamaran or boat, snorkel the reef wall and shallow gardens, and spend the middle of the day on a quiet palm-fringed beach with lunch before returning to Santo Domingo in the evening. Catalina is calmer and less crowded than Saona and has some of the clearest snorkelling water on the south-east coast.

Why book this tour

Most Catalina trips are sold from La Romana and Bayahibe resorts. This one starts in Santo Domingo, so you can stay in the capital and still reach one of the best snorkelling spots on the island's south-east coast in a single day.

Who it suits

Couples, families with children who can swim with a vest, and travellers who prefer a quieter island over the crowds at Saona. Good for first-time snorkellers.

Good to know

Sea conditions decide the exact snorkel spot. Trips may be rescheduled in strong winds. Early pickup makes for a long but relaxed day — most of the time is spent on the water and the beach.

Highlights

• Catamaran or boat crossing from La Romana
• Snorkelling at the Catalina reef ("La Pared" wall and shallow gardens)
• Beach time on Isla Catalina
• Lunch and drinks on the island
• Round-trip transport from Santo Domingo
• Calmer, less crowded alternative to Saona

Itinerary

1. 06:30

   Pickup in Santo Domingo

   Hotel pickup in the Colonial Zone, Gazcue, Piantini or the Malecón.

2. 08:30

   Arrive in La Romana

   About 1 h 45 east of the capital; board the boat to Catalina.

3. 09:30

   Snorkel stop

   Reef snorkelling with a guide — tropical fish, coral and sea fans.

4. 11:00

   Isla Catalina beach

   Swim, relax in the shade and enjoy lunch on the island.

5. 15:00

   Return crossing

   Back to La Romana and the air-conditioned ride home.

6. 17:30

   Back in Santo Domingo

   Drop-off at your hotel (traffic dependent).

Questions