Planning an island excursion during your Punta Cana vacation? Saona and Catalina both offer a Caribbean escape, but the experience you choose should match how you want to spend your day.

Would you rather enjoy a social catamaran trip, a natural pool stop and beach time? Or is snorkeling the main reason you want to leave your resort?

Here is a practical comparison to help you choose.

Choose Saona for the catamaran and natural pool experience

Sther’s Saona Island excursion combines a catamaran cruise, a stop at the Palmilla natural pool and time on the island’s beach.

The boat journey is part of the appeal, with music and a social atmosphere during the catamaran portion. If your idea of an island day includes spending time with friends, enjoying the scenery and relaxing by the shore, this itinerary is worth considering.

Choose Saona if your priorities are:

• A catamaran cruise with a lively atmosphere.
• A natural pool stop.
• Beach time as part of a varied island itinerary.

Explore our Saona Island Catamaran and Natural Pool Tour.

Choose Catalina when snorkeling is your priority

Sther’s Catalina Island excursion combines reef snorkeling with beach time. Snorkeling equipment, including a mask, snorkel and life jacket, is included.

If exploring underwater is an important part of your vacation, Catalina is the more direct match between these two itineraries. You can combine time in the water with a break on the beach.

Marine life sightings and water visibility depend on conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Guests should be comfortable swimming; our listed tour is not recommended for non-swimmers or travelers with limited swimming ability.

Choose Catalina if your priorities are:

• A scheduled reef-snorkeling experience.
• Snorkeling equipment included in the tour.
• A combination of water activity and beach relaxation.

Explore our Catalina Island Snorkeling Tour.

Which island excursion is better for your group?

Start with what everyone wants to do.

For friends who enjoy music, a boat trip and several stops, the Saona itinerary may be a good fit. For travelers who specifically want to snorkel, Catalina deserves a closer look.

For families, check the age requirements and activity restrictions before booking. Swimming ability, comfort on boats and the length of the day matter more than choosing the island with the most attractive photo.

If your group has different preferences, contact us before reserving. We can help you compare the available services and discuss private arrangements where available.

What should you check before booking?

Two tours to the same island can have different itineraries. Compare the actual service, including:

• Departure dates and availability.
• Pickup arrangements for your accommodation.
• Boat type and scheduled stops.
• Included meals, drinks and equipment.
• Participation requirements and cancellation terms.

Both excursions take you beyond your resort for a full day. Allow time for road transfers, boarding and the return journey. Your pickup details are confirmed according to your accommodation.

What should you bring?

Pack a swimsuit, towel, sun protection, a hat and sunglasses. A waterproof pouch can help protect your phone, and a change of clothes can make the return trip more comfortable.

Read the specific tour instructions before departure and bring any personal essentials you need for the day.

Ready to choose?



For the catamaran, natural pool and beach combination, explore Saona. For a day built around reef snorkeling and beach time, explore Catalina.

At Sther Travels & Tours, we help you understand the options and coordinate the details before your excursion.

View the Saona excursion or view the Catalina excursion.

Still deciding? Email sthertraveltours@gmail.com with your travel date, accommodation and number of guests.

More Than a Booking. We’re Here Every Step of the Way.