Whale Watching & Bacardi Island Day Trip from Santo Domingo

Every year between January and March, hundreds of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Samaná Bay to mate and nurse their young. This seasonal natural wonder is one of the highlights of the Dominican Republic, and this full-day tour from Santo Domingo is your chance to witness it up close.

Your adventure begins with an early morning hotel pickup and transfer to the port of Samaná. From here, board a comfortable boat and head out into the bay with an expert guide who will share fascinating insights about humpback whales. Keep your eyes open for impressive tail slaps, breaches, and even mothers swimming alongside their calves. Seeing these giants in their natural habitat is a breathtaking experience you will never forget.

After the morning on the water, your journey continues to Bacardi Island (Cayo Levantado) — a postcard-perfect tropical escape with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. A Dominican-style buffet lunch is included on the island, where you’ll also have free time to swim, relax under palm trees, or sip a cool drink while enjoying the Caribbean breeze.

This combination of wildlife encounter and island escape makes this tour truly unique. Please note that whale sightings cannot be guaranteed, as they depend on natural conditions, but the chances are very high during the peak season (January–March).

• • Duration: Full Day (≈10–11 hrs including transfers)
  • Departure: 5:30–6:00 AM pickup from Santo Domingo hotels
  • Tour Type: Nature & Wildlife + Island Escape
  • Physical Requirement: Light (boat ride + walking at island)
  • Group Size: Small groups for comfort & exclusivity

• 5:30–6:00 AM – Pickup from Santo Domingo hotels
• 7:30 AM – Arrival at Samaná port and boat boarding
• 8:00–11:00 AM – Whale watching in Samaná Bay
• 11:30 AM – Transfer to Bacardi Island
• 12:00–2:00 PM – Buffet lunch + free time at Bacardi Island (swim, relax, explore)
• 2:00–3:30 PM – Additional beach time / optional snorkeling
• 4:00 PM – Departure from Samaná
• 7:30–8:00 PM – Arrival back in Santo Domingo

⚠️ Disclaimer: Itinerary is for reference only. Timings may vary depending on whale activity, sea conditions, and group pace.

• Roundtrip transfer from Santo Domingo hotels
• Boat trip for whale watching
• Bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
• Buffet lunch at Bacardi Island
• Beach access and free time at Bacardi Island
• Water & soft drinks onboard

• Gratuities/tips
• Personal expenses
• Alcoholic beverages
• Snorkeling equipment (optional, bring your own if desired)

• Swimwear, towel, and change of clothes
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Light jacket (for wind on the boat)
• Camera or phone with waterproof case
• Cash for tips and personal purchases
• Motion sickness medication (if prone to seasickness)