Small Group Saona Island tour is a winner! - My wife and I booked this excursion for a Thursday in late March. I was initially hesitant because the cost is quite a bit more than similar looking trips to Saona Island, but the stellar reviews convinced us to book. And we were very happy we did. We had received a start time of 6:00am at initial booking, with a pick up at our resort. They sent an email through TripAdvisor the day before confirming our actual pick-up time of 6:20am, and we made pick-ups at just two nearby resorts for other people before hitting the road to the port about 45 minutes away. Melvin was our guide for the daytrip, and he was excellent: very knowledgeable with a lot of interesting facts peppering the tour throughout the day. Never felt like you were in a boring classroom lecture though. The boat wasn't huge, but big enough to sit comfortably, and we made good time to the several excursion sites throughout the day. It's not a party boat, so no drinking or dancing onboard like we'd see on some of the bigger catamarans, but the advantage was getting to the various beaches before the larger tours had a chance to arrive. And you'll notice a lot of traffic at the beaches as the day progresses, but not enough to become a serious annoyance. Breakfast was sandwiches, lunch was a bigger sit down affair at a different beach, and both very tasty. Plenty of time to explore the beautiful beaches on your own, the turtle sanctuary was quick but very cool to see (no baby turtles for us that day unfortunately), the starfish sandbar a great stop, and the quick 15 minute snorkeling portion back close to the port a great way to end the day. We would recommend bringing some extra cash in case you want to buy something from one of the vendors at the beaches or donate a few bucks to the turtle sanctuary, or get one of the massages from the MANY ladies at the two beaches. They're persistent, so feel comfortable just saying "No Thanks". Towels are also a good idea, and the snorkeling gear wasn't top notch so I'm glad we brought our own although it wouldn't have been a big deal if we didn't. My wife wished she had brought a sweater for the boat ride, and lots of sunscreen is a must. Melvin takes photos of the group and individuals throughout the day and Airdrops them to you on the drive back once the tour is over. They drop you off at your resort at the end of the day, and we tipped both Melvin and our driver although there was zero pressure to do either. One of the best excursions we've been on over our many years of all inclusive travelling, and very happy with our choice. Two thumbs up.

10/10 would recommend!! I hope I get to do it again! - I cannot think of another trip that can top this tour. We loved every single moment of it and had the best tour guide. He made sure we were always satisfied. I hope I have the opportunity to do this again! Although it is more expensive compared to the other big groups, the experience isn't even near what you get with the cheaper prices.

MUST GO ON THIS TRIP! - Melvin was such a kinda and amazing tour guide! He clearly has such a passion for what he does. We are thankful to his wife for all the amazing fresh juices she made. We give thanks to Melvin for all of the history he told us about the DR. The best part for me was snorkeling with the starfish! My boyfriend loved the starfish and learning all of the cultural history!

EXCEPTIONAL!!! - From the history to the beautiful beaches and great food. We were treated very well. The tour guides made sure we had everything we needed at all times. It's a great trip for families or couples.

Perfect day trip - This was our first time in the DR. After contemplating whether to book the cheaper large group or small group Saona Island tour I am so glad we picked the small group with Melvins company ! It exceeded my expectations , we had a fantastic trip and would highly recommend. The staff could not do enough for you throughout the day including taking photos which are airdropped before heading back to the hotel. This tour is for you if you like a small group setting, with lots of information from a knowledgable tour guide. Not a boozey partying vibe, plenty of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks flowing throughout the day. Lovely breakfast and lunch. Top tip: I wasn’t sure how much cash to bring along but you will need cash only and there are opportunities to buy coconut water / pineapple drink at each stop (approx $5 and souvenir gifts such as Jewellery / magnets (2 for $5), massage at the beach (if that’s your thing) and Tips for your guide/ boat staff. Thank you Melvin and your team, you work so hard - all the best to you!

Awesome day! - Melvin and his team were excellent! Pick up was easy and on time, no waiting. Communication before, during, and after was great. He and his team always made sure we knew where we were going and offered some great history of the Dominican Republic. We were provided breakfast and lunch which had something for everyone (even the picky eaters in my group). We visited multiple beaches and because we left early in the morning we were there before the rush of crowds. The turtle sanctuary was very informative and I enjoyed learning about them. My favorite part of the day was the sandbar with all of the starfish! As we were on the speedboat going over the sandbars we were able to see many fish, a turtle, and so many starfish. When we stopped we were able to get out on the sandbar and hold the starfish. Melvin was great about taking pictures and even sent them to us at the end. Overall this was an awesome day and I would recommend it to anyone!

A true EXPERIENCE, highly recommended! - This excursion is just what you expect it to be! Great tour guide, lots of free time on the beach, good bus & boat ride, small group and a great lunch (surprisingly good). Also to add is that the tour guide is well historically educated and gives lot of information during the excursion tour. Saono island is definitely worth it and the only way is by booking this excursion trust me on this one 😉

Amazing - Amazing and very well organized tour. The pick up time is very early in the morning but it is worth it! Throughout the tour we stopped at 3 or 4 different stops. The tour guide also takes photos of you throughout the day and will send them to you for free at the end, which was a huge bonus. For breakfast we were given some simple sandwiches and fruits, and for lunch we had grilled meats and fish. Throughout the you are also served rum/beer/water. The group size was about 10 people which was perfect. The tour guide is very friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely would recommend this tour.

Very cool !! - We were a family of 5 and I share my children's opinion, it was super cool!! You have to get up early but it's definitely worth it!! In fact, we thus avoid peak hours. We had plenty of time to enjoy each of these beautiful beaches. The moment with the giant starfish in the natural swimming pool was really nice as well as the snorkeling. The equipment offered was of high quality. We liked the turtle sanctuary less. Being in a small group is really nice, there were around 14 of us, which allowed us to get to the island quickly and between each stage of the excursion. Thank you Melvin for this superb organization, you really took care of your hosts. The meal offered at lunchtime prepared “homemade” was very good and the open bar service was top notch!! We recommend.

Great Experience - Melvin was a terrific guide! Very knowledgeable and a great sense of humor! He made the trip! Although my wife says he should speak slower. It was a great day!