Planning a trip to Isla Catalina and Saona

[redberry]

I am trying to make plans to go to both Isla Catalina and Isla Saona (not necesarily in the same trip). The travel agencies charge so much money for these excursions, which I am told, are basically trips to the beach. Does anyone know how to get there and if its possible to arrange tours on your own? I am sure there must ne a way. For example, when I went to Samana last year to see the whales, I realized that there was no reason to do so much planning ahead, because there are so many boats and going out twice a day that were cheaper than what travel agencies quoted. Can you find the same deals at these islands?? Thanks!!!

[riravaga]

Have check it with locals travel agencies?, in the case of Isla catalina you can´t arrange directly a trip there and I guess is the same with isla saona.

I was 2 times in Isla Catalina and was great trip.

[Mirador]

Originally Posted by redberry

I am trying to make plans to go to both Isla Catalina and Isla Saona (not necesarily in the same trip). The travel agencies charge so much money for these excursions, which I am told, are basically trips to the beach. Does anyone know how to get there and if its possible to arrange tours on your own? I am sure there must ne a way. For example, when I went to Samana last year to see the whales, I realized that there was no reason to do so much planning ahead, because there are so many boats and going out twice a day that were cheaper than what travel agencies quoted. Can you find the same deals at these islands?? Thanks!!!

I got the following spam yesterday. There's an interesting one day all inclusive excursion to Saona island for less than US$ 30 per adult (half for children).

http://img500.imageshack.us/my.php?i...alesnov5bu.jpg