What should I bring aboard?  You may bring snacks and beverages of your choice (there are restaurants on the island at Cayo Levantado and Los Haistes National Park, as well as 3 restaurants and a convenience store at the Bannister Hotel and Yacht Club). There is a 50 gallon cooler on board that you may use. You WILL NEED A COPY of YOUR PASSPORT to show the Navy representative prior to departure. Please consider bringing sunhats, sunshirts, extra sunscreen (please apply prior to boarding, as sunscreen will stain the fiberglasss on the boat), money for lunch and drinks, medication if you tend to get seasick, and a beach towel (chairs are available for rent at Cayo Levantado). Life jackets are included.  

How do I enter the marina? Our vessel is kept in Puerto Bahia Marina, a gated community with 24 hour security. In order to enter the gate, you will need to send a photo/copy of your driver's license/I.D. or passport (required by Dominican Government) to us via What's App before arriving for your tour so that we can alert the front gate of your arrival (if you are not staying at the Bannister Hotel).

How long before departure should I arrive? You should arrive 15-30 minutes prior to departure. Returns to the original point.

Where should I meet you? Meet on the marina side of the Bannister Hotel Lobby/Outdoor Lounge Area.

Will I get seasick? If you tend to experience motion sickness, there is a chance that you will experience seasickness, however, this is rare as catamarans are more stable than other types of sea vessels. Seasickness medication can be purchased at the Puerto Bahia convenience store.

Are there accommodations for wheelchairs? Unfortunately, we do not have accommodations for wheelchairs.

Are children allowed? Children must be able to sit up on their own . Children under 15-years-old are required wear a lifejacket at all times while aboard the vessel.

Is there storage? Complimentary storage is available, at your own risk. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Passengers must be able to step in and out of the vessel (step 2-3 ft off and onto the dock as you enter and exit the vessel.)

What hotel accommodations are nearby the marina? Puerto Bahia Marina is located in the gorgeous Puerto Bahia Resort and Yacht Club. For hotel accommodations, visit:  https://www.thebannisterhotel.com/. 

Do you offer transportation? Transportation within a 3 hour drive can be arranged for you at your expense. Please contact us regarding transportation at least 1 week prior to your catamaran tour.

What is the closest airport? El Catey International Airport (AZS) is located approximately half an hour from the city of Samaná. Other frequently used airports are Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) and Santo Domingo, Las Américas Airport (SDQ).

Can I snorkel? Yes, you may snorkel at your own risk. Please bring your own snorkel gear.

Are there shower facilities at the marina? There are shower facilities inside the Bannister Hotel on the 2nd Floor that you may use after your tour, if you plan to stay at the resort for lunch or dinner. 

Do you offer multi-day discounts? If you book more than one tour, you will receive $100 off your second day.

If I pay in advance, can I get a refund? We offer free cancellation up to 1 week in advance; if you cancel within 48 hours in advance, 50% of the amount you paid will be refunded. If you cancel less than 48 hours before your trip start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

When do I make the full payment? Deposit of 20% is required when booking your trip via Paypal, Venmo, Zelle, cash or pesos. Full payment is to be made to the captain prior to the trip. 

Do I get a refund for inclement weather? All accommodations will be made to provide our guests the safest tour possible. If weather, wind, or the sea state is questionable or unfavorable, the captain will reschedule your trip for another day. If you will no longer be in the country when the weather is more favorable, the captain will refund your deposit.

Please let us know of any safety and health issues that may affect your trip prior to boarding.

SV La Bella Vita does not permit the use of illegal drugs or cigarettes (due to potential fire or safety hazards).