Imagine setting sail from the lively Muelle Azul in Santa Marta, Colombia, aboard a colorful catamaran with the Caribbean sun warming your face and the sea breeze gently ruffling your hair. This 6-hour tour (check the schedule for exact times) whisks you through 16 beautiful bays along Santa Marta’s coast, offering a mix of scenic cruising and fun water activities like snorkeling and kayaking. For just $51 per person, you get a chance to experience the coastal beauty of Colombia in a way that feels both relaxed and adventurous.

One of the things we love about this tour is how accessible it is—it’s a well-rounded day that balances spectacular views with engaging activities, all topped off with a typical Colombian lunch and a welcome cocktail. The boat’s itinerary includes stops at Bahía de Santa Marta and Playa Inca Inca, where you can get into the water or simply soak in the scenery. The second highlight is the chance to snorkel in Inca Inca Beach’s vibrant waters, which is perfect for those who love discovering marine life. A small consideration might be that this tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, due to the nature of boat access and activity participation.

This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed yet lively day at sea, those eager to explore Santa Marta’s coast from a different perspective, or anyone looking to combine stunning seaside vistas with a taste of local cuisine. If you enjoy water-based adventures and scenic cruising, this tour offers a well-priced, memorable option.

Key Points

Beautiful Navigation: Sail through 16 islands and bays, enjoying the coast’s natural beauty.
Water Activities: Snorkeling and kayaking at Inca Inca Beach provide fun and vibrant marine encounters.
Authentic Food & Drink: A typical Colombian lunch and a welcome cocktail add local flavor and refreshment.
All-Inclusive: Price includes boat fee, insurance, equipment, and guided activities.
Scenic Experience: Expect breathtaking views and plenty of time to take photos and relax.
Family Friendly: Suitable for travelers comfortable on boats, but not ideal for those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Santa Marta Catamaran Bay Tour

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Setting Out from Muelle Azul

We start our day at the Muelle Azul, a lively dock where the tour guides await with a friendly welcome. The check-in process is straightforward—simply give your name and get ready to set sail. The boat itself is spacious and well-maintained, with plenty of space to sit back and enjoy the ride. The initial part of the cruise offers a panoramic view of Santa Marta’s coastline, with the city fading into the distance as we head toward the open sea.

Cruising Through Santa Marta’s Bays

The highlight of the journey is the chance to cruise through 16 different bays. As the boat glides past, the scenery is simply stunning: rugged cliffs, lush green hills, and sparkling waters. Many reviews mention the “spectacular views,” noting the “crisp blue waters and the sheer number of bays we passed,” which makes this a photographer’s dream.

While the guided tour provides some context about each bay, the real joy is in the experience—the feeling of freedom and the chance to take in the unspoiled beauty of the Caribbean coast. We loved how the breeze kept us cool, and the constant changing scenery kept everyone entertained.

Playa Inca Inca and Water Activities

Arriving at Playa Inca Inca, the mood shifts to one of relaxed exploration. Here, you can snorkel or kayak in the calm, clear waters, with an instructor guiding you for safety and fun. The marine life here is lively, and the underwater visibility is generally excellent, making it easy to spot colorful fish and coral formations.

One guest raved, “The snorkeling was fantastic—the water was warm, and the instructor made us feel safe even if it was our first time.” For those who prefer staying dry, kayaking offers a peaceful way to explore the shoreline, often with dolphins or birds as companions.

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Lunch and Refreshments

Around midday, the boat anchors for a typical Colombian lunch, served buffet-style on deck. The meal includes local dishes, and many reviews describe it as “delicious,” giving an authentic taste of the region’s flavors. Accompanying drinks include refreshing options like local sodas and a welcome cocktail upon boarding, which helps settle your nerves or simply adds to the fun.

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Returning to Santa Marta

The tour winds down by returning to Muelle Azul in the late afternoon. Most travelers agree that the six-hour experience offers plenty of time to relax, explore, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package, priced at $51, covers most essentials: the sea tour, welcome cocktail, typical lunch, drinks, boarding fee, and travel insurance. You’ll also receive equipment and instructors for snorkeling or kayaking, which ensures safety and fun.

What isn’t included? Activities or services outside the listed itinerary—so if you want extra souvenirs or additional water sports, those would be extra. Also, the tour is conducted in Spanish, so some familiarity with the language might enhance your experience.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

Bring your passport or ID card for check-in.
Wear bathing suits under your clothes, and don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and neoprene shoes if you have them—these will make your day more comfortable.
The tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly.
Arrive early at Muelle Azul to ensure a smooth start, especially in busy seasons.

Final thoughts

This tour is a great value for those wanting a full day of seaside fun with minimal hassle. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile, but the water activities and delicious local food elevate the experience. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or friends, the relaxed pace and natural beauty will leave you feeling refreshed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Santa Marta’s coastline from a comfortable boat, love snorkeling or kayaking, or simply want to relax in a Caribbean paradise, this tour suits you perfectly. It’s especially good for travelers looking for a balanced day of sightseeing and activity without the need for strenuous hiking or long excursions.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer land-based adventures, you might want to explore other options. The tour’s focus on boat-based exploration and water activities makes it ideal for those comfortable on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most water activities are suitable for children, but since the tour involves boat travel and water sports, check with the provider if your kids are very young or have special needs.

What should I bring for the water activities?
Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, a hat, and neoprene shoes if you have them. You might also want a towel and dry clothes for after snorkeling or kayaking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with specific starting times available upon reservation.

Are meals included?
Yes, a typical Colombian lunch and drinks are included, along with a welcome cocktail at boarding.

Is the tour conducted in English?
No, it’s a Spanish-language tour, so some basic understanding of Spanish will help.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty for a full refund.

Does the tour include insurance?
Yes, the price includes travel insurance.

Can I join if I have no snorkeling experience?
Absolutely—equipment is provided, and instructors are available to guide beginners.

In summary, the Santa Marta Katamaran Bay Tour offers a beautiful, well-rounded experience of the Colombian Caribbean coast. With stunning scenery, engaging water activities, and a taste of local cuisine, it’s a delightful way to spend a day. Perfect for those who love water, nature, and a touch of adventure, this tour is a solid choice for making your Santa Marta visit truly memorable.