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Caribbean

Sunwing Adds Samaná to Dominican Republic Portfolio for Winter Travel Season

By: Caribbean Journal Staff - June 20, 2025 - 4:00 pm

Sunwing Vacations is adding Samaná to its Dominican Republic destination offerings this winter, expanding access for Canadian travelers to one of the country’s lesser-known regions — but one that is increasingly on the radar of hotel developers and travelers.

The move brings new flight and vacation package options out of Toronto and Montreal to the peninsula on the island’s northeast coast, an area long known for its eco-tourism, secluded beaches and whale-watching opportunities.

Samaná becomes the latest destination added to Sunwing’s winter schedule, joining more established resort areas like Punta Cana and Puerto Plata. The company is also partnering with WestJet Vacations Québec to offer additional booking options.

A number of resort properties will be available as part of the new program, including the Eurostars Grand Cayacoa, a four-star hotel that was previously operated as the Bahia Principe Grand Cayacoa. The rebranded property offers bay views and access to the nearby Pueblo Village area.

Other options include Viva V Samana by Wyndham, an adults-only beachfront hotel, and Xeliter Balcones del Atlantico, a long-stay-friendly resort with family accommodations.

Two additional resorts from Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts are expected to join the portfolio soon: the Bahia Principe Grand Samaná, an adults-only hotel with cliffside ocean views, and the Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo, a family-focused property with beachfront access and multiple dining venues.

The announcement marks a broader push to develop tourism in Samaná, which remains relatively under the radar compared to the Dominican Republic’s main tourism corridors. The region is particularly known for its seasonal humpback whale migration, with thousands of whales gathering in Samaná Bay between January and April.

Tour offerings will include excursions operated by NexusTours, including trips to El Limón waterfall and Los Haitises National Park.

Flights and packages are available through Sunwing Vacations and WestJet Vacations Québec

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