Catalina Island, Dominican Republic

Catalina Island is located a short distance from La Romana. For many centuries Catalina was just a little dot on a map, today up to 5,000 tourists daily from all over the world visit this privately owned island to enjoy the powder white beaches and shallow waters.

Catalina Island consists of three overlapping plateaus, its highest elevation being only 20 mts. above sea level. Entirely "built" out of coral stone it has a very little vegetation. A massive line of sand dunes and mangrove swamps serve as a natural protection line to "intruders".

Uninhabited Catalina has exceptionally beautiful beaches and unlimited views into the blue horizon, helping to sell it as a perfect destination for cruiseships.

Things to See & Do

* beach activities
* water sports
* relaxing and enjoying the views

Cruise Season - Jan - Dec
Currency - Dominican Peso (DOP)
Language - Spanish
Land Area - 48,072 sq km
Population - 26,000,000
Electricity - 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
Time - GMT minus four hours
International Country Telephone Code - 1 + 809

Port Location - Cruiseships tender into Catalina Island.

Transport Links - International flights to and from the US, London and Europe are available from Santo Domingo), 18km (11 miles) east of the city.

Cheap and efficient air-conditioned bus and coach services run from the capital to other major towns. Travelers are recommended to hire tourist taxis or radio taxis that can be arranged in advance. Avoid unmarked taxis. There are several car hire companies in Santo Domingo. Santo Domingo has flat-fare bus and minibus services, and an estimated 7000 share-taxis called Carro de Conchos. These operate a 24-hour service in Santo Domingo, Santiago and Puerto Plata.