Natural pool with starfish in the Dominican Republic: a Caribbean sandbar near Saona island

Starfish at the Natural Pool

The Natural Pool is known for the starfish that can usually be found resting on the sandy seabed.

Because they live in their natural environment, their exact location can vary. Members of our crew know the area well and are happy to help guests find them.

Starfish are living marine animals and an important part of the local ecosystem. They should always remain underwater, as exposure to air harms them and can lead to their death.
The best way to experience them is to observe them beneath the clear water in their natural habitat.

The seabed at the Natural Pool is mostly sandy, without the coral reefs and variety of marine life found around Catalina Island. Complimentary snorkeling masks are available on board for guests who would like to take a closer look at the starfish beneath the water.

Is the Natural Pool suitable for children and non-swimmers?

The shallow water makes the Natural Pool suitable for guests with different swimming abilities.

In the area of the Natural Pool where yachts typically anchor, the water is usually around chest to shoulder height for an average adult, although the exact depth may vary slightly depending on the specific spot and sea conditions.

Confident swimmers can explore the area, but we recommend staying close to your yacht or catamaran and remaining aware of other boats moving through the Natural Pool. Always follow the crew’s guidance while in the water.

Guests who are not confident swimmers should stay closer to the yacht or catamaran and follow the crew’s recommendations.

Floating bar at the Natural Pool

One of the enjoyable features of the Natural Pool experience is a compact inflatable floating bar brought into the water from your yacht or catamaran.

Selected drinks can be placed in the floating bar, allowing you to enjoy refreshments while staying in the water with your group instead of returning on board each time.

It's a simple addition that fits the setting perfectly: warm Caribbean water, your favorite drink within reach, and your private yacht or catamaran nearby.

Combine the Natural Pool with Palmilla Beach

If you would like to combine the Natural Pool with Palmilla Beach, a full-day charter is required. A beach stop requires additional time to go ashore, enjoy lunch, relax, and return to the yacht or catamaran. Trying to fit both destinations into a 4-hour trip leaves very limited time to enjoy each stop without rushing.

A full-day charter gives you enough time to enjoy both the Natural Pool and Palmilla Beach at a comfortable pace.

If you would like to visit only the Natural Pool, you can choose either a 4-hour half-day or a full-day yacht or catamaran charter. Since the Natural Pool experience takes place directly from your yacht or catamaran, no additional time is needed for going ashore.

How are routes planned?

Weather, wind, currents, and sea conditions can influence yacht and catamaran routes.

The Punta Cana Yachts team takes current conditions into account when planning each excursion, helping determine the most suitable route and stops for the day.

What should you bring?

Preparing for the Natural Pool is simple. We recommend bringing:

• Swimwear
• A towel
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• A hat or cap
• A waterproof phone case

Snorkeling masks are available on board, so there is no need to bring your own unless you prefer using personal equipment.