Cartagena, CO: Sunset Skyline Pirate Boat Tour with Drinks

Imagine cruising along Cartagena’s waterfront on a small, pirate-themed boat, watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink as the sun dips behind Tierra Bomba. This two-hour sunset cruise costs around $43 per person and promises a mix of scenic beauty, lively atmosphere, and engaging stories. Led by friendly guides (Xavier and Tomas get special shout-outs), this tour combines stunning waterfront views, a lively pirate vibe, and refreshing cocktails served from an open bar.

What we love about this experience: First, the intimate size of the boat makes it feel cozy rather than crowded, giving everyone a good view and space to relax. Second, the unlimited rum-based drinks, such as Pirates Grog and Coconut Lemonade, make the evening feel like a true pirate celebration.

A possible drawback? The tour can be affected by weather conditions, and it’s scheduled to last exactly two hours—so if you’re craving a longer adventure or a different time of day, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

This cruise is perfect for those wanting a laid-back, fun evening with spectacular sunset views, a touch of pirate-themed entertainment, and good value for money. It’s especially well-suited to travelers who enjoy a relaxed social atmosphere and aren’t bothered by a lively, sometimes noisy group.

Key Points

• Scenic Sunset Views: Witness Cartagena’s skyline glowing at dusk, a perfect photo opportunity.
• Historic Stories: Learn about Cartagena’s pirate history and its role in regional conflicts from engaging guides.
• Unlimited Drinks: Enjoy a selection of rum-based cocktails, including Pirates Grog and Coconut Lemonade, served throughout the cruise.
• Intimate Experience: The small boat and friendly crew create a relaxed, personal vibe, ideal for couples or small groups.
• Cost-Effective: At $43, this tour offers a memorable sunset experience with drinks and entertainment included.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour might be modified or canceled if weather conditions are unfavorable, so check the forecast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Pirate Sunset Cruise

Setting Sail from Pegasus Pier

Your adventure begins at Pegasus Pier, known locally as the Wood Dock. Arrive by 4:45 PM for a prompt departure at 5:00 PM. The meet-up is straightforward, with clear instructions to look for the Pirates of Cartagena ship, decorated as a charming, vintage pirate vessel. This small, well-maintained boat is just the right size—not too large to lose intimacy, yet spacious enough for a comfortable cruise.

The First Moments on Deck

Once aboard, you’ll notice the crew’s enthusiasm and pirate-themed props—great for photos and adding to the atmosphere. The crew, including guides like Xavier, are praised for their friendly attitude and attentiveness, which help make the experience feel more personal. The boat’s deck is decorated in a playful, authentic pirate style, with costumes and props available for photos—an instant hit among travelers looking for fun souvenirs.

Cruising Cartagena’s Waterfront

As soon as you cast off, the boat gently moves into open water. The scenic route takes you past Bocagrande, El Laguito, and Playa de Castillo Grande, with views of Cartagena’s modern skyline juxtaposed against the historic city. The cruise navigates the canal between Tierra Bomba and Bocagrande, offering a close-up look at the city’s waterfront life.

What makes this segment special: We loved the way the guides shared stories about Cartagena’s turbulent past—pirate attacks, slave trade, and the city’s strategic importance—adding depth to the beautiful scenery. Many reviews, like Anna’s, highlight how the guides, especially Xavier and Tomas, go above and beyond with storytelling and photo assistance.

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The Best Sunset Spot

The cruise’s highlight is reaching the ideal vantage point to view the sunset. As the sky deepens into hues of orange and pink, you’ll want to snap plenty of photos. The boat’s position in the bay offers an unobstructed view of the horizon, making for a memorable, Instagram-worthy moment.

Many guests, like Fenja and Jason, commend the spectacular sunset views and the attentive service. You’re encouraged to relax, sip your drink, and simply soak in the scenery.

The Open Bar & Pirate Drinks

Throughout the cruise, your unlimited open bar keeps the party lively. The drinks include Pirates Grog, a rum and Coke-inspired beverage, and Pirates Lemonade, a delightful mix of rum, coconut, and lemonade. Kids are served nonalcoholic options, ensuring everyone can join the fun.

Guests frequently mention the generous servings and tasty cocktails, with many raving about the coconut drinks. As one traveler noted, “the rum coconut drink was surprisingly good, and they keep your cup full,” making the experience feel like a true pirate celebration.

The Pirate Cannon & Music

The tour includes a cannon show—a fun and slightly dramatic touch. The crew also plays a mix of Sea Shanties, along with English and Spanish songs, creating a lively, festive atmosphere. Some reviews mention how guides help with staging photos or stage pirate jokes, adding to the enjoyable ambiance.

Return to Pegasus Pier

After about two hours, the boat gently returns to the dock between 6:30 and 7:00 PM. Many guests express how the cruise created a perfect, relaxed evening after a day of exploring Cartagena.

What to Expect: A Breakdown

Itinerary & Highlights:
– Meet at Pegasus Pier around 4:45 PM and depart promptly at 5:00 PM.
– Cruise past Cartagena’s iconic skyline, learning about pirate and slave history along the way.
– Enjoy scenic views of the bay, with plenty of photo opportunities.
– Reach the sunset viewing spot, where the sky explodes into color, providing a stunning backdrop.
– Throughout, you’ll have access to unlimited rum cocktails, pirate-themed props, and lively music.
– The cruise concludes back at the starting point, around 6:30-7:00 PM.

Inclusions & Extras:
– The open bar, pirate drinks, and a souvenir cup add value, especially considering the price.
– The crew’s friendly and attentive service helps guests feel welcomed.
– The pirate costumes and props encourage playful photos, which many travelers cherish.
– An audio guide in English provides additional context, though some reviews mention the guides speak Spanish as well.

Potential Drawbacks:
– Weather can influence the experience; rain or wind might lead to modifications or cancellations.
– The tour is relatively short—only two hours—so if you prefer a longer or more diverse experience, consider other options.
– There’s a dock tax of 14,000 Colombian pesos per person, payable in cash at check-in—an extra cost to keep in mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a fun, relaxed evening with a touch of adventure. It’s ideal for couples wanting a romantic sunset, friends seeking lively atmosphere, or families with children who can enjoy the pirate props and nonalcoholic drinks. If you enjoy scenic views paired with storytelling and a lively crew, you’ll find this tour both enjoyable and good value.

It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate small-group experiences, as many reviews praise the personalized service and friendly guides. Keep in mind, it’s not a long, sightseeing-heavy tour but rather a delightful way to unwind and enjoy Cartagena’s waterfront from a different perspective.

Final Thoughts

For travelers craving a lighthearted, scenic experience, the Sunset Skyline Pirate Boat Tour hits the mark. The combination of stunning sunset views, friendly crew, and unlimited cocktails makes it a memorable evening. It’s a great way to cap off a day of exploring Cartagena, especially if you enjoy lively, social environments with a pirate twist.

While weather could pose a challenge, many guests leave raving about the beautiful scenery and fun atmosphere. The tour’s reasonable price, inclusive drinks, and engaging storytelling offer good value, making it a popular choice among visitors.

If you’re after a casual, enjoyable cruise with plenty of photo opportunities and a festive vibe, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Cartagena trip. Just come with a sense of fun, a camera ready for sunset shots, and an appetite for pirate-inspired drinks.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at Pegasus Pier for the start.

How much does the dock tax cost?
The dock tax is 14,000 Colombian pesos per person, payable in cash at check-in.

What time should I arrive?
Arrive by 4:45 PM at Pegasus Pier to ensure a prompt departure at 5:00 PM.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are served nonalcoholic drinks, and the pirate props make it a fun experience for families.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about two hours, from departure to return.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the cruise, pirate-themed props, unlimited rum cocktails, an audio guide in English, a souvenir cup, and lively music.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour may be modified or canceled due to weather conditions.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for an outdoor boat ride. Bring sunscreen or a hat for protection if the sun is still out.

In short, this pirate-themed sunset cruise offers a winning mix of scenic beauty, lively atmosphere, and good value. Whether you’re a couple after a romantic evening or a group of friends looking for some fun, you’ll walk away with memories—and plenty of photos—of Cartagena’s vibrant waterfront at sunset.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby