Every resort beach in Punta Cana has a stream of party catamarans passing by, and most of them are loud, crowded booze cruises. The small-group cruise from Happy Fish Catamarans is the opposite, and it is one of the best-loved experiences in the whole destination, rated 4.9 from more than 2,600 reviews on Viator. A maximum of 16 guests sail close to shore on a comfortable catamaran with an onboard restroom. The first stop is a snorkeling site in a natural reserve that sees far fewer boats than the usual reef stops, where reviewers describe coral, a coral nursery and the odd sea turtle. Snorkel gear is supplied, and there is a stand-up paddleboard if you would rather stay on the surface. The second stop is a sandbar where the water comes to your waist and drinks are served from a floating bar, the kind of natural pool that Punta Cana is famous for. The crew serve rum punch, margaritas, beer and soft drinks throughout, with light snacks, nachos and seasonal fruit, and many reviewers single out the homemade guacamole after the swim.
How to visit: the cruise lasts about three and a half hours, and round-trip transport from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, with the meeting point at Plaza Bibijagua near Bávaro Beach. Exact pickup details arrive by email or WhatsApp; if you have not heard by the day before, contact the operator. The tour is usually booked several weeks ahead, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before.
What to expect: the pace is gentle, with music at a sensible volume and a crew that keeps an eye on weaker swimmers. Children must be with an adult, infants sit on laps, and the boat is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible. Souvenir photos are sold separately.
Making the most of it: bring your own towel, a cover-up and reef-safe sunscreen. The morning sailings tend to have calmer water and clearer visibility for snorkeling.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group catamaran sail with a snorkeling stop in a natural reserve and a sandbar stop with a floating bar.
Best time
A morning sailing on a calm day, when the water is clearest for snorkeling.
How long
About three and a half hours on the water, plus hotel transfers.
Tips
Bring a towel and reef-safe sunscreen, and book a few weeks ahead because the small groups sell out.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a catamaran day that is about the sea, not a party.
- Families
- Children are welcome with an adult, and the waist-deep sandbar is a hit with kids.
- Couples
- A small group, good drinks and a turquoise sandbar make it an easy date.
- Pair with
- The Saona Island trip for a bigger island day, or Coco Bongo for a night out.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How many people are on the Happy Fish catamaran?+
Groups are capped at 16 travelers. That keeps the boat relaxed and the snorkeling stop uncrowded.
Is it a party boat?+
No, it is a relaxed sailing and snorkeling trip with an open bar and music at a sensible level. If you want a loud party, the adults-only booze cruises are a separate choice.
What is included on the catamaran cruise?+
Hotel transfers, snorkel gear, a paddleboard, snacks, fruit and an open bar with soft drinks are included. Bring your own towel.
Can children join the catamaran?+
Yes, children are welcome with an adult and infants sit on laps. The boat is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible.
Where does the catamaran tour start?+
Hotel pickup is included, and the meeting point is Plaza Bibijagua near Bávaro Beach. Pickup details are sent by email or WhatsApp.