Las Salinas and Other Places in Dominican Republic

Just wanted to let you know that we were not able to check out of the country at Las Salinas (11.3.2009). Officers told us to go to Barahona or Boca Chica for clearance.

At the same time, one boat arrived from the States and he told us that he managed to check into the country. But I do not believe that he was able to clear with all the necessary authorities.

Cap Cana Marina does not have a supermarket or any other stores. You cannot even buy a bottle of water except at a restaurant. The nearest shops for stocking up are 15 miles away and you will have to take a taxi to get there and back. Otherwise, everything works really well. Once the whole marina is completed, it is going to be huge. There will be docks for more than 1000 boats.

Casa De Campo is an excellent place with friendly staff. Well stocked supermarket with lots of imported stuff from Europe. It is just about 500 meters from your boat. Also lots of imported wines and other beverages. And you will almost be forced to take a ride from a golf car operated by marina employees. So it´s an excellent place to fill your boat for longer passages.

Isla Saona is just wonderful and safe place to anchor. Just be prepared for all the charter cats and motor boats which arrive and pass by at high speed creating annoying waves between 10 am – 4 pm. The night is silent and pleasant if the wind and waves stay behind the island (and that´s the way it usually is).

Boca Chica Marina is also really friendly and well managed. Just be prepared for loud music coming from the beach. “The petrol station” has less than 6 feet of water at some spots. With a catamaran, it was quite a task to fill your tanks and get out of the dock without damaging your boat. The wind comes usually from the east and pushes you against a steel fence. Poles for the ropes in front of the dock are also quite badly placed. Luckily we managed to get out without damages. With monohull, the operation should be a bit easier, if you just have enough water under your keel. So fill your tanks at some other place if possible.

Isla Catalina is also nice if there are no cruise ships in. A bit rolly and same thing with charter boats filled with tourists as at Isla Saona. The island is really low so it doesn´t give that good shelter from the wind.