There’s that island under the Dominican sun that you want to add to your bucket list for your next visit to the Dominican Republic.
Here are 5 reasons to join us for a trip to Catalina Island:
And additionally
6. Occasional Surprise Visitors
Imagine an uninhabited tropical island just 2.4km/ 1.5 miles away from the mainland on the south-east tip of the Dominican Republic, an endless stretch of powder-fine white sand, and crystal-clear Caribbean waters that host colorful coral reefs and an abundance of tropical fish. Do you want to be there?
Do you aim to make the most of your day and get real value for your money? Here’s what you are going to experience during your full-day trip:
✓ Comfort – Boat departure directly from the dock in front of our dive center in Bayahibe
✓ Pickup – From the hotels in Bavaro/ Punta Cana upon request
✓ Unlimited drinks
✓ Diving or snorkeling at 2 different reefs with professional guides
✓ Free Nitrox-fills for certified divers
✓ Gear for snorkelers
✓ Lunch buffet on the island
✓ River Cruise along Chavon River
✓ Scenic views and photo-ops
✓ Cool drinks and Caribbean rhythms
✓ Fun guaranteed
Considered one of the best wall dives in the Dominican Republic, this site starts at just under 5m/16 ft depth. Snorkelers can stay in the shallow water to enjoy the healthy coral and its marine life, such as pufferfish, trumpet fish, occasionally eagle rays and sharks.
For divers, The Wall is perfect for all levels of certification and experience. Starting in the shallow, we will descend to 30m/ 98 ft. The Wall is inhabited by crabs, lobsters and beautiful corals of every color, shape and size. Look out for turtles and stingrays!
This incredible diving and snorkeling point is divided into two parts. One part is near the coastal cliff, about 7m/ 23 ft deep and perfect for snorkeling. Here we can find starfish and tropical fish in abundance.
Divers will descend at the other part of the reef, which is 12m/ 23 ft deep, where we can usually see rays, turtles, a variety of fish, and those with good eyesight, even seahorses.
We promise that you will not only be rewarded with amazing views underwater, but even better ones on the surface! Leave some space and battery life on your camera to soak in the scenic ride along the Chavon River on our way back.
With a fascinating history of treasure-hiding pirates, transportation of construction materials like wood, river banks forming a steep alley along the river, Altos de Chavon towering above (replica of an Italian village), and the lush flora and fauna, it provided the set for several famous movies like Apocalypse Now, Rambo 3 and Anaconda.
Sit back, slurp your drink, and let your imaginations run wild!
Whether you are into snorkeling, scuba diving, staying at a hotel in Bayahibe, La Romana or Punta Cana, arriving for a day trip from other parts of the country, or got a stopover by cruise ship, the Catalina Island Excursion is suitable for all kinds of travelers who want to enjoy a fun day out either by themselves or with the entire family. Divers and snorkelers are welcome on the same boat, and even though they briefly split up for each of their guided adventures, they will reunite on the island for lunch.
Who does not love surprises? In particular those BIG ones!? You may be lucky during your trip, as there are usually 3 friendly manatees around Catalina Island that tend to follow us. Sometimes you can spot them at The Wall, the Aquarium, or on our way to the Chavon River. Exciting, aren’t they!?
The following schedule is an example and subject to pre-booking, change, and confirmation by the dive center:
Return-shuttle is available from Bavaro/ Punta Cana available for a fee
09:30 Boarding from private dock in Bayahibe
10:15 First 45-minute stop for snorkeling and diving at The Wall
11:15 Second 45-minute snorkeling and diving stop at Aquarium
12:30 Arrival and spare time at Catalina Island beach
12:45 Lunch at Catalina’s beach buffet (included)
14:45 Departure from Catalina
15:05 Arrival at the Chavon River
15:45 End of the Chavon River cruise
16:30 Arrival at the private dock in Bayahibe
17:00 Departure to Bavaro/ Punta Cana if required
Are you in? Let’s get ready and have fun!
Located on Dominicus Beach, Catalonia Bayahibe is a 20-minute drive from downtown La Romana. This stylish resort features free WiFi, a spa and water sports center. A balcony and minibar are included in each guest room.
Learn moreDetails, personalized service, a royal experience… heaven awaits you at the exclusive adults-only Catalonia Royal La Romana!
Learn moreCATALINA is a beautiful, white sandy island located on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. Catalina is a preservation of ecosystems with natural sand dunes, mangroves and reefs.It´s situated 1.5mi/ 2.4km from the mainland. It features one of the Dominican Republic’s most spectacular drop-off’s and reefs, the Santa Catalina Wall and Aquarium Reef.
Learn more
CATALINA is a beautiful, white sandy island located on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. Catalina is a preservation of ecosystems with natural sand dunes, mangroves and reefs.It´s situated 1.5mi/ 2.4km from the mainland. It features one of the Dominican Republic’s most spectacular drop-off’s and reefs, the Santa Catalina Wall and Aquarium Reef.
Learn more