BAYAHÍBE SCUBA FIELD GUIDE
Private Dive Charter to Saona Island — Shipwreck snorkels, coral dives and a starfish sandbar off Bayahíbe
A full-day, private 7-hour boat charter from Bayahíbe that combines snorkeling at the Atlantic Princess shipwreck, two reef dives, a private buffet lunch on Saona Island and a visit to the waist‑deep Starfish Cay sandbar.
Private Dive Charter to Saona Island — Shipwreck snorkels, coral dives and a starfish sandbar off Bayahíbe.
From Bayahíbe, this Private Dive Charter to Saona Island is a deliberately paced full‑day outing that stitches together shallow wreck snorkeling, two guided reef dives and long hours on white sand—designed for mixed groups of divers and snorkelers who want both underwater encounters and island time.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Shipwreck, shallow reef and big‑animal encounters
The itinerary opens with snorkeling at the Atlantic Princess shipwreck, then moves to El Peñon III—a 12‑meter reef known for southern stingrays and sea turtles—and finishes the diving program on a 14–16 meter reef (Reuben or Molly, chosen by conditions) where eagle rays and nurse sharks are often seen.
Private buffet lunch and Saona beach time
Snorkelers are dropped at Saona Island with a guide for free time—swimming, beach walks and snorkeling around the old pier—then the group reunites for a private buffet lunch served on the island.
Starfish Cay and frequent turtle sightings
The day concludes at Starfish Cay, a broad sandbar with waist‑deep, clear water where large starfish are visible; across the sites you can commonly encounter sea turtles, stingrays and colorful tropical fish.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The charter is a balanced day at sea: an early departure from Bayahíbe, a first-stop snorkel over the Atlantic Princess, a relaxed guided 12‑meter dive at El Peñon III while snorkelers explore nearby, then a split program in which snorkelers enjoy Saona Island as divers complete a second reef dive. After regrouping for a private buffet on the island you head to the shallow, shimmering Starfish Cay to finish the day.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits best.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Duration is 7 hours. Normal pick up time is 8:00 a.m., with return around 5:00 p.m. Travel to Saona Island requires about one hour by boat each way; meeting point is Punta Cana Scuba Diving by El Tour Caribet.
Bring your dive certification card if you are a certified diver. Guests wishing to dive without certification must enroll in the PADI Discover Scuba Diving program (minimum age 10).
A private buffet lunch is served on Saona Island during the charter. Expect a mix of active water time and relaxed beach time—pack sun protection and swimwear.
The operator offers private charters that can be customized; groups can request tailored times and activities. Pricing starts at the advertised base rate and the charter accommodates up to 30 guests.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is diving required to join this charter?
No—diving is optional. The charter accommodates both divers and snorkelers; snorkeling is offered for guests who do not scuba dive.
How many dives are included and how deep are they?
The excursion includes two dives: the first at El Peñon III (about 12 meters) and a second at Reuben or Molly Reef (approximately 14–16 meters), with the second site chosen depending on sea conditions.
What are the meeting point and duration of the trip?
Meet at Punta Cana Scuba Diving by El Tour Caribet. The charter is a 7‑hour full day excursion, with normal pickup around 8:00 a.m. and a return near 5:00 p.m.
Is food provided?
Yes—a private buffet lunch is served on Saona Island as part of the charter.
What marine life can we expect to see?
Common sightings include large starfish at Starfish Cay, sea turtles, southern stingrays, colorful tropical fish, eagle rays and occasionally nurse sharks at the reef sites.