Cartagena: Coralina Island Day Trip with Lunch – A Detailed Review

Planning a getaway from the lively streets of Cartagena? If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, soft white sands, and a touch of luxury, the Coralina Island day trip offers just that. For $107 per person, this approximately 8-hour excursion takes you from the historic city center to the tranquil Rosario Islands, where the Caribbean’s beauty is on full display. The tour includes roundtrip speedboat transportation, a delicious lunch, and various options for different levels of indulgence.

We especially appreciate how smoothly everything is organized—from hotel pickup in central Cartagena to a relaxed day on the island. The stunning views during the boat ride set the tone, and we loved the opportunity to unwind on the pristine beaches or explore vibrant marine life through snorkeling. The highlight for us was definitely the thoughtfully prepared fusion lunch, blending Colombian flavors with French culinary touches, offering a memorable taste experience.

One consideration to keep in mind is the entrance fee of $26,500 COP per person for the Rosario Islands—an unavoidable cost—but it’s clearly communicated upfront. This trip suits travelers looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and a taste of local hospitality. Whether you’re a honeymooner craving intimate moments or a family seeking fun in the sun, this tour offers flexibility and a touch of exclusivity.

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Key Points

Stunning Views: The boat ride offers breathtaking vistas of the Caribbean Sea, setting a perfect backdrop for your day.
Flexible Options: Choose from three packages—Islanders, Deluxe, or VIP—to match your comfort needs and budget.
Delicious Lunch: The three-course meal features a variety of choices, from seafood to vegetarian, with a seasonal dessert.
Well-Organized Trip: From hotel pickup to return, the process is smooth, allowing you to focus on the fun.
Authentic Experience: The tour emphasizes natural beauty and local hospitality, providing an authentic slice of Colombian paradise.
Extra Amenities: Facilities include sunbeds, towels, snorkeling masks, and optional kayak use in certain packages.

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The Arrival and Transportation

The tour begins early, with hotel pickups starting at 8:00 AM in central Cartagena neighborhoods like Bocagrande, Getsemaní, and the Old Town. This is a significant advantage because it saves you from organizing your own transport and lets you relax from the start. The ride to La Bodeguita Pier takes around 30 minutes, giving you a chance to gaze at Cartagena’s colorful architecture and busy streets from the comfort of a private vehicle or shuttle.

Once at the pier, you board a speedboat—around a one-hour ride to the Rosario Islands. The boat’s speed and size help avoid long delays or crowded ferries, providing a more intimate experience. During this crossing, you’ll enjoy the scenic beauty of the Caribbean, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or simply relax with a drink in hand.

Coralina Island: The Heart of the Day

Upon arrival on Coralina Island, your group is greeted warmly, and you immediately feel the sense of escape. The island facilities are designed for comfort, with well-maintained beach chairs, sunbeds, and towels ready for your use. The clear waters are ideal for swimming or snorkeling, especially with the provided masks available for all guests.

The personalized assistance on the island ensures you can tailor your day—whether lounging on the beach, exploring the coral reefs, or wandering through the lush mangroves. The reviews rave about the cleanliness and tranquility of the space, making it a perfect retreat from busy Cartagena.

What You’ll Do on the Island

The primary activities include relaxing on the pristine beach, swimming in the calm waters, and exploring the vibrant marine life. For snorkelers, the coral reefs are easily accessible, with free masks provided. Some reviews mention the excellent facilities, making it easy to spend hours simply soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenery.

For the more adventurous, kayaks are included in some packages, giving you a chance to paddle around the mangroves or explore the coastline. The lush mangrove areas offer a different perspective and a chance to observe local ecosystems—an authentic experience for nature lovers.

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The Culinary Highlight: Lunch

No trip to a tropical paradise is complete without a memorable meal, and Coralina Island delivers with a carefully curated three-course lunch. The menu begins with a tempting appetizer, followed by a main course that you select à la carte—offering options like fresh seafood, meats, or vegetarian dishes. The emphasis on quality and presentation turns the meal into a mini feast amid the natural beauty.

The lunch is a highlight for many guests, providing a delicious break to fuel further exploration or relaxation. The seasonal dessert caps off the meal, adding a sweet touch to an already satisfying experience.

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Optional Upgrades and Packages

The tour offers three distinct packages to suit different travelers’ desires:

The Islanders package includes access to the bayside area, with basic facilities, snorkeling masks, and a welcome drink.
The Deluxe package adds an open bar, further enhancing the relaxed vibe.
The VIP option is the most exclusive, offering a private deck in the mangrove area, a 30-minute massage, and kayak use, perfect for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

These upgrades offer flexibility for different budgets and expectations, from casual day-trippers to those craving extra comfort.

The Return Journey

Around 2:30 to 3:00 PM, your boat departs to return to Cartagena, arriving back at La Bodeguita Pier around 4:00 PM. The timing ensures you have a full day of sunshine and activities without feeling rushed, though some may prefer a shorter or longer stay depending on their pace.

The trip back offers more scenic views, and you’ll appreciate the well-organized process that makes the return smooth and hassle-free.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

One of the most praised aspects of this trip, based on reviews, is the genuine warmth of the staff and the carefully curated experience. Guests like Jeffrey praised the attention to detail, mentioning how their host, Alvaro, made them feel like royalty without being pretentious. This personal touch turns an ordinary excursion into a memorable, heartfelt experience.

Similarly, Joyce highlighted the well-organized nature and the exclusive feel of the VIP areas, making it clear that this tour values quality and comfort without sacrificing authenticity.

Price and Value

At $107 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the inclusions: transportation, snorkeling masks, a gourmet lunch, access to facilities, and a selection of packages to meet different expectations. The entrance fee of $26,500 COP is additional and should be budgeted, but it’s standard for park access in Colombia.

When you compare the cost to the quality of the experience—stunning scenery, well-maintained facilities, and attentive service—most travelers find it a worthwhile investment for a chance to relax and explore in style.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This trip is ideal for those seeking a relaxing day in a natural setting—whether lounging on the beach, snorkeling, or enjoying a gourmet lunch. It suits visitors who value well-organized tours, personalized service, and options for more luxurious comforts. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a hassle-free escape from the city’s hustle.

While not suited for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, thanks to boat transportation and walking on uneven surfaces, it offers an authentic taste of Colombia’s coastal beauty. If you love a bit of exclusivity or want to treat yourself to a private experience, the VIP upgrade will not disappoint.

Final Thoughts

The Coralina Island day trip from Cartagena balances beauty, comfort, and convenience. It gives you a taste of the Caribbean without the hassle of planning logistics, all wrapped up in a well-organized package with options for varying tastes and budgets.

You’ll love the stunning views during the boat ride, the delicious fusion lunch, and the chance to unwind in a peaceful, pristine environment. For those who appreciate personalized service and natural beauty, this tour is a standout choice.

In essence, it’s a chance to step away from the crowds, soak up the sun, and enjoy a slice of Colombian paradise—whether you’re here for a special occasion or simply want a well-deserved break.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, roundtrip speedboat transportation, a welcome drink, access to facilities, snorkeling masks, and a three-course lunch. Additional costs include the park entrance fee of $26,500 COP.

What are the different package options?
You can choose from Islander, Deluxe, or VIP packages, each offering different amenities like open bar, private decks, massages, and kayak use.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Cartagena to Coralina Island lasts about one hour, offering scenic views of the Caribbean Sea en route.

When does the tour start and end?
Pickup begins at 8:00 AM, with the boat departing around 8:30 AM. The trip returns to Cartagena around 4:00 PM, giving you roughly 6 hours on the island.

Is this suitable for families?
While the tour accommodates many travelers, it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, especially given the boat ride and walking involved.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the park entrance fee of $26,500 COP and optional extras like souvenirs or extra activities are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. Be mindful to respect the environment by not littering or touching plants.

Is the experience customizable?
Yes, with three different packages, you can tailor your experience from casual to luxurious, depending on your preferences.

Whether you’re after a peaceful day on the water, a taste of local cuisine, or a touch of luxury, this Coralina Island trip delivers a memorable slice of Caribbean life in Colombia.