saona or catalina island saona or catalina island

During the navigation to Saona, you will enjoy an incomparable landscape, observing the beauty of the Cotubanam Natural Park (also known as Parque Nacional del Este), full of beaches, palm trees and mangroves. Round Trip. Looking for a private Saona Island tour? They have beaches worthy of a picture postcard, kilometers of sandy beach surrounded by palm trees and bathed by turquoise waters in a protected natural park. The Dominican Republic is famous for its incredible seafood, and Saona Island lives up to the expectations! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The second one will be in a much more relaxed spot, since in The Aquarium we will go down to 8 meters deep, where you will be able to get to know a wonderful underwater world. Be the first to receive special offers, event announcements, exciting tour updates, and so much morewhen you sign up for our newsletter. (Ermitano Beach) Playa Ermitao Boat tour and Playa Onda, Half Day Trip, Saman Dominican Republic. It is very difficult to make a comparison between both islands. In between all of this, youll enjoy a simple but tasty Dominican lunch and, of course, a lot of rum. So if you want to find accommodation near these two islands, we share with you the following list of hotels near Saona Island and Catalina island proposed by TripAdvisor: BAYAHIBE. We will make our first stop in the middle of the ocean to Snorkel or Dive (depends the program youve booked) with some of our professional guides in the water with the most marine fauna in the Caribbean. Would you like to take advantage of someone with years of experience in the tourism industry (knowing all the travel hacks ) and living right in the place where you would like to spend your holiday?Thats what my personal travel coaching is for. The tours also include a free buffet with typical Dominican food, where you can eat as much as you want. etc. Sea water has healing properties. As if that were not enough, after visiting this iconic place you can snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Catalina Island, putting the finishing touch to a perfect day. The indegineous Taino people, the native populations of the Dominican Republic, occupied Saona Island before Christopher Columbuss arrival in 1494. . Check out here the best tours to Catalina Island* or continue reading my Isla Catalina guide. See a list of all hotels in Saona Island. Pirates would wait for Spanish ships to sail through their waters to attack and rob them of their riches. ATV + El Valle Beach & Waterfalls, Baha de las Aguilas: Beach Day Trip by Boat -Day Pass Pedernales, Baha de las Aguilas: Beach Day Trip by Boat -Day Pass Snorkeling & Lunch, Birdwatching in Los Haitises National Park, Birdwatching Punta Cana Birding Tours from Punta Cana to Los Haitises National Park, Catalina Island and Snorkeling with Catamaran Party From Punta Cana Half Day Experience. Some of Mano Juan residents make colorful paintings and art objects that they sell at typical shops and stands. . With its white sand, turquoise waters, and an abundance of palm trees, it truly looks like a slice of Paradise! Water was beautiful. When staying in Punta Cana, there are tons of group tours to book, but what should you do if you are looking for a private excursion to Isla Saona or Isla Catalina? Best Things To Do on Saona Island The truth is, many tour and excursion providers try to fit as many people as they can on a boat or catamaran and being stuck in a crowd of people you dont know can ruin your entire Saona Island experience. It is easy to reach Saona Island by boat or yacht. Diving in Catalina Island reaches its maximum expression in places like The Wall or The Aquarium. Lunch will be prepared just for your group, which means there is no queue at the buffet. Saona Island known as Isla Saona in Spanish is a picturesque island only a short boat ride away from Punta Cana and Bayahibe that offers unparalleled wild nature and beautiful beaches. 10 people max. Plus, they have not responded to my reservation request. That's why today we want you to know the best of each one, so you can decide which one you want to visit on your next vacation in Punta Cana. Aparta-Hotel Villa Baya. Check out the Saona Island Tour and Catalina Island Tour and the Saona Gallery and the Catalina Gallery for some impressions, enjoy! This full-day Saona Island tour includes a buffet lunch served beneath shady palm trees, round-trip transport by sailing catamaran, drinks on board the boat, and four hours of free time to experience Saona Island at your own pace. covid-19 coverage): Book it*. You might be surprised! There were about 20 of us, and only two divers. Dominican Republic ItineraryDominican Republic Road TripIsla Saona ExcursionSanto Domingo AirbnbsSanto Domingo Airport TransfersSanto Domingo Things-to-do, HomeNewest PostsAbout MeTravel CoachingPrivacy Policy. The cheapest private boats to Saona Island. Saona island, Catalina island or natural pool of Las Palmillas Let us know your desires we will take care of offering you a tailor-made excursion! Isla Catalina offers a more intimate experience because it is a quieter island and tourists don't visit it as often as Saona Island. Saona island is an island where you have to go to disconnect, to relax after a few days in the busiest tourist areas. Hope this helps! It is part of the National Park Cotubanam (formerly called Parque Nacional del Este). Book your private Saona Island excursion now! Both islands are worth the visit and have their advantages, but your experiences will be a bit different. Saona.fun is focused on quality tours to the islands of Saona & Catalina. Mainly, tourists who come to Catalina Island do so for two reasons: snorkeling and diving. Isla Saona also has multiple caves that you can explore, but Saona Island beaches are more popular. Wondering if anyone has been to either or both of these islands as I'm trying to choose which option to decide upon. Visit the Tiki Bar, dance merengue, visit the Tiki Bar, play volleyball, visit the Tiki Bar, walk the beach, visit the Tiki Bar, hit the buffet. The first one is The Wall which as we mentioned before, is also known as The Wall of Catalina. Moreover, Saona Islands more secluded beaches that you can reach on a private tour make social distancing much more enjoyable! They drop you off at a central location and there's a lot of people going to Saona, not so many to Catalina. However, this is different for private tours, which is why I would lean more towards Isla Saona if I had to choose where to go on a private excursion from Punta Cana with my friends or family. 14 From Los Melones: Saona Island Day Trip with Lunch. If you ever get hot during your Saona Island trip, simply go for a swim in the crystal clear waters or drink a cold Presidente! Passion Paradise is a smaller operation. ATV Samana Adventures ATV Tours & Excursions in Samana Dominican Republic. and share your adventures with friends and family. It is an area of the island that barely reaches 11 meters deep. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. For a head-to-head comparison of Isla Catalina vs Isla Saona, you can also use the following table. . 3. Any information would be appreciated. You can roam around freely and create the vibe you want. If you feel that this itinerary might limit your expectations or it is not as much fun as it could be, you should continue reading below, as in this case, a private tour to Isla Saona might be exactly what you are looking for. All of this is included in your private catamaran excursion to Saona Island for up to 15 people (just lunch and the national park fee is extra in case youd like to book it). We start approximately 8:00 am from Bavaro - Punta Cana to Bayahibe. Best Saona Island Tours For lunch, you dont have to line up with 30 or more unknown people. Did you like this article and would like to read all new stories about Punta Cana and beyond? But the highlight of the activity is the visit to the village of Mano Juan, where you can meet the inhabitants of the island. I would like to thank Oscar who even gave me a generous refund because the boat was not exactly as originally described. There were lots of vans picking up to go to Saona/Catalina. It has awning and a cooler with ice ready to go! Catalina Island not only for divers but also for snorkeling is a wonderful vacation experience. We got you covered! It's an All-inclusive, Full-Day, outing and you need some time away from your Punta Cana resort. The weather will accompany us and we will be able to bathe in the transparent water of the Caribbean. . You can get to Saona Island from Punta Cana or Bayahibe. There are not as many private tours available for Isla Catalina as for Isla Saona, hence a comprehensive list with different tours and providers doesnt make that much sense. The Wall, is a slope that plunges to 100 meters deep and where a great variety of marine life proliferates. Drinks and Foodis not included but can be requested at the time of your reservation for an additional price. Tourism During Covid Luxury Yacht Charter from Casa de Campo to Saona or Catalina Casa de Campo Marina, La Romana 22000, Dominican Republic 23 5 Verified Crew Included CLEAN & SAFE 450 US$ ( Per boat ) Private Boat Rental to Saona or Catalina Island Tour Bayahibe, Dominican Republic 12 Verified Crew Included Post a free listing to rent your boat A few meters away, palm trees and jungle vegetation appear, where we can find endemic fauna and flora of the island. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful ride along the waves to Isla Saona and follow your unique itinerary without feeling rushed or completely dependent on your tour provider and a large group of people you have never met before. ), I'm thinking of going to Catalina Island instead using Passion Paradise Adventures. Or perhaps you'replanning your first visit to the island. Saona Island. The village of Mano Juan is still there and is one of the two charming fishing villages on Isla Saona, along with a village called Catuano. Motorcycle Gma, August 12, 2015 in Dominican Republic. Few tourists actually visit Mano Juan when they come to Saona Island, so incorporating a visit to this fishing village into your Isla Saona itinerary will give you a chance to experience this tranquil tropical island off the beaten track! Those are some of the options you have if you are staying in Punta Cana and are looking for a private yacht or catamaran excursion to one of the islands along the Southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. The beach is lovely and long and has many of those type areas for many of the groups to spread out and enjoy the afternoon. You will only have contact with your traveling party and social distancing to other people like staff members can always be guaranteed. The best things to do in Punta Cana for an unforgettable vacation, Author, Travel Coach & Punta Cana based digital nomad. Both meet the prototype of Caribbean paradise islands, with crystal clear waters and beaches of fine yellow sand that lend themselves to spend a day of scandal. You may have seen Saona Island in the Pirates of the Caribbean and the Blue Lagoon, since some scenes from these movies were shot on Isla Saona! The reviews lately on the Carnival Saona special are not that great noting the seaweed problem, bad food experiences. Isla Saona is not connected to the Dominican Republics electricity grid and runs entirely on solar panels! From there we went to Tao restaurant on saona island which was recommended by Oscar and was exceptional we had a luxurious lunch on a beautifully arranged table on the sand From there our captain Moiset took us to an area where we anchored offshore and were able to swim in the most clear blue water you can imagine. Los Flamencos Aparthotel. At the island, you have plenty of time to enjoy your private lunch, the beautiful beach and refreshing drinks alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The great thing about snorkeling is that all you really need is a mask and a life jacket. Click, What Is Better: Isla Saona vs. Isla Catalina. . Although very similar, they also have some differences between them. FULL PACK TOURS . We traveled to the natural pool which is a beautiful Sandbar and were able to swim privately. With a private tour, you can have a more exclusive experience. It just depends on what you are looking for. Administratively, it also belongs to the province of La Romana, although in this case it forms its own national park called the same as the island. In them we can spend the day in paradise. Since it is a part of the national park, Isla Saona and its waters are home to endangered and rare animal species such as rhinoceros iguana, the gentle manatee, and dolphins that you may not see elsewhere! (Click below to navigate) Saona Island is a beautiful destination to visit during your Punta Cana or Bayahibe vacation. Started June 21, 2021, By For further information, check out the following table with the cheapest Isla Saona private tours. It's an all day excursion with snorkeling and/or diving. It is the second largest island after Saona Island in Dominican Republic and is well loved for its spectacular diving sites. It also offers a better snorkeling experience. The captain is included with the boat rental. We'll be contacting you shortly with the exact location". The sand can also be a problem if it's a little rougher. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2019 - 2023 Punta Cana Hero. Mano Juan is the bigger village on the island but still has only about 500 residents who dedicate their lives to fishing, making art, and living in, Are you ready to explore the deserted beaches of Isla Saona? Everything is included: gourmet food, service, alcohol, water sports, scuba, linens with a Captain, Chef/Hostess, and first mate. Before we are delving into the private excursions to Isla Saona (and Isla Catalina), lets have a look first at Isla Catalina, which can easily be regarded as the little sister of Isla Saona. Which one to go to? It belongs to the Cotubanama National Park and is fully protected by the Dominican government because of its abundant and wild natural life. Our private boat tours let you have the experience of your dreams! Land and Jungle Excursions: And we don't forget the land part of the park. Catalina is sold as a snorkelling trip rather than a party trip - there is a wall on the east side of the island, the beach is on the west side. You can get a message on a gorgeous white sand beach under the swaying palm trees with a pina colada by your side and feel yourself again. The first stop will be Catalina Wall. And the Cuba Libres flowed freely at the Natural Pool after:D. But highly recommend Seavis for the OP, they arrange the taxi and are just a top-notch outfit. In fact, from this town in the south of the Dominican Republic we can perfectly see Catalina Island. Punta Cana Airport Transfers: Info | Book It*Santo Domingo Airport Transfers: Info | Book It*All-Inclusive Resorts: Info | Book It*Guesthouses & AirBnBs: Info | Book It*Excursions: Info | Book It*Rental Car: Info | Book It*Road-Trips & Self-Drive Tours: Info | Plan ItTravel Insurance (incl. You will feel unique in the world, and even more so when you visit the natural pool, where you can see starfish and walk to infinity without being covered by the water. If you want to have a Saona Island day trip, you might be wondering what the best way to visit this beautiful Caribbean island is. $ 95 $ 70 This is not to say that there's not big boats going to Catalina. I'm a little nervous. Thank Kanta M . Below as well as above the surface you will be astonished by the natural beauty. Another difference between visiting Saona Island and Catalina Island is the price. Interesting Facts Comfortable speed boat for private rental in Bayahibe for up to 12 people. Isla Saona is generally reached by boat from Bayahibe. You get the boat, the open bar and the food. Private boat rental for full day tour to visit Saona Island or Catalina Island. We later passed by another area and swam again. Our private half-day or full-day boat tours allow you to escape the crowds for a memorable Saona Island tour to experience this slice of Caribbean paradise on your own terms. Isla Saona is an island with very few inhabitants and has a small hotel in Mano Juan. In addition, you should know that all excursions include round trip transfers to and from the hotels where you are staying. I only went to Catalina, but here's something that might make a distance. The Saona excursions hit Catuano Beach where the old pier is, the snorkelig can be good or just so so there depending on the conditions because you're closer to shore. We have used Seavis Tours for Saona Island and Pro Excursions for Catalina and would highly recommend both of these, they're both located in Bayahibe. Excursion Isla Saona Vip related sites: , Diving, Excursions, Dominikanische republik, Punta Cana, Ausflge Punta Cana, Shugaring EKB, Yasunizate, Shopnail The best 5 beaches in the Dominican Republic, Rent a boat and discover the best coral reefs in the Dominican Republic, A good profile picture helps you attract customers, Private Catamaran to Saona or Catalina in Bayahibe, SAONA ISLAND Speedboat for private rental in Bayahibe, VIP Speed Boat for Rent in Casa de Campo to Saona or Catalina islands, Luxury Yacht Charter from Casa de Campo to Saona or Catalina. What's so amazing about Isla Saona? We hope! And dont forget to set some time aside to search for the gorgeous starfishes that are abound there! What can be better than a big plate of fresh seafood after a day full of adventure? Isla Catalina offers a more intimate experience because it is a quieter island and tourists dont visit it as often as Saona Island. If a speed boat is too small for you and you prefer a private yacht to visit Isla Saona, you can check out this private yacht tour for up to 10 people*. This is why we are committed to providing Dominican Republic visitors with an alternative and more exclusive way to experience Saona Island. There were about 20 of us, and only two divers. Despues a la llegada al barco habia un chico super amable para recibirnos y explicarnos todo. How many islands does the Dominican Republic have? 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. At Mano Juan, you will find a few gift shops with typical souvenirs to take back home with you, stands with local art, and a small restaurant that serves fresh island food. We have several tours to Catalina and Saona islands. Saona Island tourism remains largely unaffected by the pandemic. It also offers a better snorkeling experience. I looked all over the Internet and it was very confusing/expensive to take a private tour. B&B Villa Luna. Going on a private boat tour to Saona Island allows you to combine the deserted island atmosphere with the comfort of your own exclusive method of transportation and control over your itinerary. The second of the excursions we propose is our classic visit to Catalina Island. He was able to arrange a private boat at a very good cost to pick up my girlfriend and I right next to our resort on the beach. Enjoy the Saona or Catalina Islands with this private tour to suit your group. The first tourist boat to dock at Saona was Christopher Columbus in 1494 and Saona has not ceased to amaze visitors for the last 500+ years! Hotels Pick-up. There is also a growing number of ecolodges and eco-tourism camping sites, but we still recommend going back to your hotel and coming back for another visit if you feel like you still have things you want to do and see! To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Have not read reports of seaweed at these locations but it has been a huge issue throughout the Carib this year. Whala!Bayahibe You will be limited in time and your itinerary will be determined by your tour guide. It has various natural beauties, such as its paradisiacal beaches with white sands and the crystalline waters that surround it live different species of birds and fish. Its a part of the Cotubanam National Park and a sanctuary to unique species of birds and sea creatures. Michele de Cuneo also later became the first governor of Saona Island. Check out the following options for some additional Isla Saona private tours for up to 10, sometimes even 12 people. This is the most basic experience to visit the Catalina Island National Park, where you will be able to see its most famous places. There is currently a push to go back to this original name for Isla Saona. Posee una superficie aproximada de 9,6 . Your email address will not be published. Isla Saona offers more things-to-see and more spectacular spots. Passion Paradise is a smaller operation. Palmilla Sandbank is the beach where the natural swimming pool is located. You will see the natural swimming pool with some starfish, have (sometimes) a quick mediocre snorkeling stop (please note that Isla Saona is not a snorkeling excursion check out this post if you are looking for better snorkeling options), cruise along the coastline of the national park with an ocean catamaran and have a speed boat ride the other way back. Board a speedboat as soon as you arrive in the village of Bayahibe, towards the island of Saona to do some snorkeling at Catuano Peers. A stop is made at the natural pool in front of Palmilla Beach, where the water will reach your waist and you can enjoy a spectacular natural environment. Situated 10km from the cruise port and in front of Caleta Beach stated above, Catalina is a tiny uninhabited island consisting of 3.7 square miles. Due to the seaweed problem at Saona Island (can anyone confirm this that's been lately? For groups of 10 or more, please contact us directly. Saona Island only has two small villages and a total population of just around 500 residents, but the charming villages of Mano Juan and Catuano are well worth your visit. Each boat to Saona Island is different. The Turtle Sanctuary is our other visit in the small town, to get to know these fascinating animals. 5 stars all the way, and a nice day with excellent guides. Isla Saona natural pool is the largest natural pool in the world and there are lots of things you can do during your time there, from relaxing in the beautiful waters to dancing merengue on a boat and enjoying some Dominican rum! Snorkeling at Saona is nothing special. We only did Catalina, the food was great, beach massage a must, but getting a chair in the shade was tough! Includes Captain, boat fuel, and cooler with ice. Catalina for Scuba or just lazing, Saona for a BBQ and snorkelling X, Hotels near Altos de Chavon School of Design, Hotels near Altos de Chavon Regional Museum of Archaeology, Hotels near Prestige Car Rentals Services, Hotels near Samana Whale Watching Tour and Excursions. The scenery is spectacular, but in addition, Saona Island has permanent population centers, something that is very interesting for tourists. in my comprehensive guide about Isla Saona, check out this post if you are looking for better snorkeling options, Small Group Private Boat to Saona Island*, Private Premium Catamaran to Saona Island*, Affordable Saona private tour from Bayahibe for medium groups*, Affordable Saona private tour from Bayahibe for large groups*, Affordable Saona private tour from Punta Cana for small groups*, Affordable Saona private tour from Punta Cana for medium groups*, Full-service Saona private tour from Punta Cana for small groups*, Affordable Saona private tour from Punta Cana for large groups*, snorkeling opportunities in the Southeast of the Dominican Republic, Check out here the best tours to Catalina Island, Even the Dominican Republic has its own (very extensive) hygiene protocol, 30+ exciting things-to-do in Punta Cana in 2023 (Dominican Republic), Punta Cana itinerary for an easy 1-week road-trip beaches, culture and mountains, 13 Insider tips on how to find the best all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, Excursion to Isla Saona 2023 everything you need to know for your hassle-free Saona Island Tour, further excursions that are Covid-19 safe or certified, check out this article, this Private Saona Island Cruise for up to 6 people, Check Affordable Isla Saona Private Tour*, this private yacht tour for up to 10 people, the most elegant private tour to Isla Saona a full cruising-style catamaran exclusively for your group, Isla Saona offers more spectacular scenery and picture-perfect views, Hoyo Claro how you can save 588 USD when visiting a cenote in Punta Cana, Finest Punta Cana a comprehensive review of this newly built all-inclusive resort, The best dune buggy adventure tours in Punta Cana (Tested and hand-picked), Scuba Diving in Punta Cana your full guide with the best dive sites & dive shops in Punta Cana, Rum Tours in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic, Baha de las guilas hotels, glamping, beach info, things-to-do and a secret+quick way to get there, no transfers included (starts from Bayahibe), no transfers included (boat starts from Bayahibe), approx. Boats with Clean & Safe badge on WannaBoats, On-Board Covid-19 Safety Protocols (email), Saona Island Vs Catalina Island. When traveling with up to 15 people, there are also other options available you can book online. Departing from Bayahibe. At 17:00 it will be time to return by boat, and finally we will take you back to your hotel. No matter what your interests are, Catalina Island offers something for you. Think Sun, Sand, Booze, Boats and Bikinis! Isla Saona offers more spectacular scenery and picture-perfect views, Isla Catalina is quieter and has better snorkeling. In case you just have 2 minutes and want to find the best Saona Island private tour immediately, check out the following table. Since 2011 I have been living in the Caribbean, among them 5 years in the Dominican Republic. If you are interested in further excursions that are Covid-19 safe or certified, check out this article. And then go for another relaxing swim! Sign-up for the latest Punta Cana travel stories! Bayahibe Hotel El Pulpo. Tours and Tickets by Saona Dreams - Saona Catamaran Catamaran and Snorkeling Day Trip to Catalina 6 By Saona Dreams Full-day Tours 6+ hours Leaving from Bayahibe or Punta Cana hotels, you'll navigate on board a catamaran to Catalina, the jewel of the Caribbean Free cancellation from $79.00 per adult Reserve Contribute Write a review Upload a photo Catalina is more recommended if you are in snorkeling and scuba diving. BOAT RULES. Saona Island (Isla Saona) Tours 77 Tours & Activities 4WD Tours 269 Tours & Activities Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises 833 Tours & Activities Why you are seeing these recommendations Reserve Now & Pay Later Saona Island Beach Day 39 Reviews Cap Cana, Caribbean Save to Wishlist From $70.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Hi we were just on the Proexcursion to Sonoa last week. We are sure that the crystal clear water of this place will not disappoint you. Although it is located off the coast of the province of La Altagracia, it is administratively part of the province of La Romana. There are two jewels in the Dominican Republic that you must visit before the end of your vacation. The island of Saona is the most visited island in the Dominican Republic. Where to begin to describe one of the most beautiful places in the Dominican Republic. As there are just your people on the boat, you can decide how long you want to stay or if you want to skip a stop completely. Book your, Saona Island, Dominican Republic: Final Thoughts, Ready to discover Saona Island? Still, let's take a closer look at the exact location of each of these islands. Let's go there! By 15 Dominican Republic: Saona Sailing Tour with Lunch and Drinks. Private tours to Saona Island are already starting at 450 USD per group, which is a real bargain considering that you have the crew and boat all on your own. Where to Stay in Saona Island Several families of fishermen, who moved to the island by order of the dictator Lenidas Trujillo, have been living there since 1944. The native Taino population called Saona Island Adamanay in the native Arawak language. It is an island in the southeast of the country, dotted with palm-fringed beaches and surrounded by incredibly blue turquoise waters. So, if we like snorkeling, Saona is not the best for this? Alternatively, you may use. Then you will go to a privileged space at the beach of Saona, area equipped with chaise longue, canopy beds, open bar and a typical Dominican buffet. At 17:00 we will head towards La Romana , from where we will return you to your hotel. Private charters from La Marina at Casa de Campo Resort, La Romana. Isla Saona is generally reached by boat from Bayahibe. GOOD NEWS! Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos, Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID related Discussions. You may be very lucky and see a family of dolphins, a turtle, a whale or even a manatee Some of these species are in danger of extinction, so it will not be easy for you to find them, but not impossible, so be attentive. You will be able to request those services while completing your booking process. And its not surprising! One of the cheapest and most recommended tours is this Private Saona Island Cruise for up to 6 people*. Catalina Island tour, snorkeling, paddle boarding , kayak on a beach with breakfast and lunch. Drinks and Food is not included but can be requested at the time of your reservation for an additional price. Alternatively, you may use, Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort, https://www.proexcursionsbayahibe.com/en/index.html. Christopher Columbus renamed the island to commemorate his friend Michele de Cuneo, an explorer from the city of Savona in Italy. As mentioned, there is quite an amount of people visiting Isla Saona (and to a lesser extent Isla Catalina as well). 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua Tour from Puerto Plata. Hence, if you are concerned about Covid-19 in Punta Cana, but still would like to enjoy an easy and worry-free holiday, private excursions are the best choice for you.