Cruise port Cayo Levantado
Info for port Cayo Levantado on 6 Mar 2028
Port information & tips for Cayo Levantado
Cayo Levantado is a true tropical paradise in the picturesque Samaná Bay in the northeast of the Dominican Republic. World-famous as "Bacardi Island," this destination impresses with powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear turquoise water, while offering an exclusive, relaxed atmosphere. Highlights include the stunning Playa Cayo Levantado beach, lush hiking trails through the island's interior, and proximity to the impressive Los Haitises National Park. Since the island does not have a deep-water port, cruise ships anchor in the sheltered bay, and passengers reach the Cayo Levantado Tender Pier comfortably by boat. From this central landing point, all the island's amenities are within walking distance, and regular water taxis also provide short connections to the nearby port town of Santa Bárbara de Samaná.
Cayo Levantado in the Dominican Republic is an idyllic island in Samaná Bay, typically reached by tender boat from cruise ships or via ferry connections from the mainland.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region is primarily by plane. The nearest airport is Samaná El Catey International (AZS), approximately 56 to 68 kilometers from the Samaná region. The journey from AZS airport to the pier for Cayo Levantado takes about 55 minutes. Another option is Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) near Santo Domingo, which is around 171 kilometers away and requires a driving time of approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. Direct flights from Europe to the Dominican Republic usually land in Santo Domingo or Punta Cana, from where further transfers are necessary.
Transfer to the Island
After landing, various transfer options lead to the mainland pier for Cayo Levantado. For guests of the Cayo Levantado Resort, a private transfer to the special Simi Báez pier is offered, from which a free ferry provides the approximately 10-minute crossing to the island every 15 minutes. Cruise passengers are often brought directly from their ship to the island by tender boats. Those wishing to visit the public side of the island take a public boat from the main pier in Samaná Town; this crossing takes 30 to 45 minutes and costs about 7 to 10 US dollars for the round trip.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region and to ensure a relaxed start to your vacation, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel is recommended. Near the ferry piers in Samaná Town, you will find various hotels, including the Bahia Principe Luxury Samana or the Bahia Principe Grand Cayacoa, which provide a comfortable base. Guests of the Cayo Levantado Resort enjoy the advantage of staying directly on the island in their luxurious hotel.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will typically receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
In port on 06 Mar 2028
