Imagine gliding across crystal-clear waters on a speedboat, with the wind in your hair and the promise of soft white sand ahead. For around $43 per person, this tour offers a 6-hour escape from the city to one of Colombia’s most famous beaches—Playa Blanca on Barú Island. Led by a friendly local guide, you’ll enjoy quick transportation, scenic views, and a tasty Caribbean-style lunch right on the beach. It’s a straightforward day trip that balances relaxation with a taste of local flavor, making it ideal for those wanting a hassle-free beach day with authentic Colombian hospitality.

What we particularly love about this experience is the speedboat transfer—it gets you to the beach faster than a traditional boat or ferry, giving you more time on the sand. The lunch included is another highlight, offering a genuine taste of Caribbean cuisine. Plus, having a native guide accompany you adds valuable insights and a friendly face to help navigate the experience. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the dock tax of around 26,500 COP, which is an extra cost you’ll need to plan for. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, want a hassle-free day on the beach, and enjoy engaging with local guides.

If you’re seeking a day of sun, sand, and sea with a touch of Colombian charm, this tour can be a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing if you prefer quick transfers, authentic local food, and guided commentary. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or a small group, this outing offers good value and straightforward logistics.

Key Points

Fast Speedboat Transfer: Enjoy a quick, scenic ride to Playa Blanca, saving precious beach time.
Authentic Lunch: Relish a typical Caribbean-style meal in a relaxed beach setting.
Local Guide: Benefit from the knowledge and hospitality of a native guide throughout the day.
Flexible Options: Add hotel pickup for convenience, with advance reservation.
Clear Pricing: Price is competitive for a full-day trip, but remember to budget for the dock tax.
Family Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for most travelers, including wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Tour

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Starting Point and Transport

Your adventure begins at the Bodeguita pier, a lively spot in Cartagena. The tour departs between 8:00 and 8:40 AM, so arriving on time is key. The speedboat ride lasts about an hour, offering spectacular views of the Bocachica castles—a historic fortress guarding Cartagena’s bay—and setting the perfect tone for your day. The fast boat is a highlight, as it slices through the water swiftly, giving you more time to relax once you arrive.

Scenic Journey and Arrival

As you cruise past the castles and open sea, you’ll appreciate the panoramic views that make this trip memorable. The journey itself is a treat—warm breezes, the sound of water, and plenty of opportunities for photos. Once you reach Playa Blanca, the soft white coral beach opens up before you, inviting you to step onto its sands and dip into its turquoise waters.

Playa Blanca: Time to Relax

Once on Barú Island, you’ll have around five hours to enjoy the beach. This is plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the shoreline. The beach is famed for its white sand and shimmering waters—a perfect setting for a leisurely day. You can also take photos of the scenic surroundings or simply relax under a tent or umbrella.

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Lunch in Paradise

A major perk of this tour is the included Caribbean lunch. The food options are typically local and hearty, giving you a taste of traditional flavors. The restaurant area is reserved for lunch, and you can rent chairs and tents nearby if you want more comfort or shade. Be sure to ask for a price list before ordering to avoid surprises.

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Return Journey

After your time on the beach, you’ll hop back onto the boat for the return trip. The boat ride back offers more great views and a chance to reflect on your day. Once back at Muelle de la Bodeguita, the tour concludes, leaving you with time to explore the city or continue your adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

Speedboat transfer to and from Playa Blanca
Typical Caribbean lunch
Accompaniment by a native guide
Optional hotel pickup (if booked in advance)
Assistance and advice in English, plus telephone support

Not Included

Drinks (water, soda, alcohol)
Dock tax (~26,500 COP)
Additional activities like snorkeling or jet skiing
Personal expenses and gratuities

Practical Tips

Bring biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to enjoy the beach comfortably. Pack your beachwear, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Remember, the tour advises requesting a price list before consuming extra services or products on the beach to keep things transparent.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

One reviewer simply described the tour as “a very nice tour,” highlighting the smooth logistics and enjoyable scenery. The quick boat ride is a definite plus, allowing more time to enjoy the beach without long waits. Many appreciate the authentic local guide, who provides helpful insights and makes the whole experience more personal.

Some travelers mentioned that the lunch was delicious, adding to the overall value of the trip. The scenic views, combined with the chance to relax on one of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches, make this a memorable day out.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits those who want a relaxed, scenic day without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a quick escape from the city, who value comfort and convenience. It’s also a good pick for families or groups that want a straightforward, guided experience with authentic local flavors.

If you’re after a stunning beach with excellent photo opportunities, and enjoy simple yet flavorful meals, this trip hits the mark. Keep in mind it’s a full-day activity, so it’s best if you’re comfortable with boat rides and spending several hours on the sand.

FAQs

How long is the boat ride to Playa Blanca?
The boat ride lasts approximately one hour each way, giving you scenic views of Cartagena’s bay and the Bocachica castles.

What time does the tour start?
Departure is between 8:00 and 8:40 AM from the Bodeguita pier, so arriving early is advisable.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup can be arranged if you book in advance, but it may incur an extra cost if there’s no availability.

How much is the dock tax?
The dock tax is approximately 26,500 COP, and it’s an additional expense you should prepare for.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the speedboat transfer, a typical Caribbean lunch, a native guide, and assistance in English.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
While drinks are not included, you can bring your own water or snacks—just be mindful to keep your waste biodegradable and respect the environment.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

How much free time do I get at Playa Blanca?
You’ll have around five hours to enjoy the beach, swim, take photos, and relax.

What if I want to do other activities like snorkeling?
Activities like snorkeling or jet skiing are not included and are at your own risk, usually contracted through third parties.

The Bottom Line

If you’re after a hassle-free escape to a picture-perfect beach, this tour offers solid value. The combination of a speedboat ride, a delicious local lunch, and authentic guided insights makes it a practical choice for those who want to experience Playa Blanca without fuss. The scenic journey and the chance to unwind on Colombia’s most famous beach make this a memorable day.

However, travelers should be aware of the dock tax and plan accordingly. The tour’s flexible options—like the possibility of hotel pickup—add convenience, especially for those staying in Cartagena.

This experience is a great option for first-time visitors and those eager to see the best of Barú Island’s coastline quickly, comfortably, and authentically.

Enjoy your trip—whether it’s relaxing on the sands, snapping photos of the sea, or sampling delicious Caribbean cuisine, Playa Blanca offers a true taste of Colombia’s coastal charm.