Santa Marta: Sailing day in the Caribbean Sea

Santa Marta: Sailing Day in the Caribbean Sea

Picture this: a full day spent on a sailboat gliding across the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, with the warm sun overhead and gentle breezes all around. For those visiting Santa Marta, this sailing day to Bahía Concha offers a chance to connect with nature, enjoy stunning coastal views, and indulge in relaxed island-style fun. The tour, priced at $106 per person and lasting around 8 hours, promises an authentic Caribbean experience without the hefty price tag.

What we really love about this trip is how it combines scenic sailing with free time on a pristine beach, plus the opportunity to snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard in crystal-clear waters. The onboard lunch, served with a view, is another highlight — a simple but tasty meal that complements the day’s natural beauty.

One potential consideration is the schedule flexibility — itinerary timings are approximate and subject to weather or operational changes, so you’ll want to stay flexible. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic boat rides, and relaxed beach days, especially those eager to experience the Caribbean from the water rather than land.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic sights of the Caribbean Sea during your sail from Santa Marta.
• Natural Beauty: Explore Bahía Concha’s white sand beaches and tranquil surroundings.
• Onboard Dining: Savor a freshly prepared lunch while soaking in coastal vistas.
• Water Activities: Snorkel among coral reefs, kayak, or paddleboard in clear waters.
• All-Inclusive: Snacks, water, a beer, and equipment are included, adding value.
• Flexible Scheduling: Check availability for different start times; the itinerary may vary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Caribbean Adventure

The trip kicks off early at 9:30 AM at the Santa Marta port, where you’ll meet your crew and captain. This initial meet-and-greet is friendly and straightforward — they’ll give you a quick safety briefing and set expectations for the day. Once aboard, the sail begins. As we headed out to sea, the views of Santa Marta’s coastline gradually faded behind us, replaced by the endless blue of the Caribbean. We loved how relaxed the vibe was, with the gentle rocking of the boat and the fresh sea air making it clear that this was a break from everyday stress.

The sail itself takes about an hour and a half, and it’s the kind of experience that immediately puts you in vacation mode. The crew was attentive without being overbearing, regularly offering drinks and snacks to keep us energized. The scenery during the voyage was worth the price of admission—bright blue waters, distant hills, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife.

Exploring Bahía Concha

Once we arrived around 11:30 AM, the boat anchored in Bahía Concha, a crescent-shaped bay fringed with powdery white sands. This section of the coast is frequently praised for its peaceful ambiance and natural beauty. Several reviews mention how “serene” and “pristine” the beaches are, making it a perfect spot for a quiet escape.

You’re free to disembark and walk along the soft sands, where the only sounds are the gentle lapping of water and the occasional call of seabirds. The shallow waters are inviting for swimming, and many appreciated the opportunity to relax in this picturesque setting. Be aware, however, that swimming in the marina’s anchoring area is prohibited by local regulations, so it’s best to stay in designated zones or in the open water away from anchored boats.

Lunch with a View

After some leisure time, everyone reconvenes on the boat for a delicious lunch. The crew prepares simple, fresh dishes that are perfect after a morning in the sun. The meal is served with a side of spectacular coastal views, making it more than just a meal — it’s part of the experience. Several reviews highlight how “the lunch was tasty and plentiful,” emphasizing that the food exceeded expectations given the modest price.

Water Fun and Exploration

Post-lunch, it’s time for some action. The boat moves to an area ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Equipment is provided, including snorkel masks, which many found to be a highlight. Exploring the coral reefs and marine life was a memorable part of the day, with some reviewers mentioning colorful fish and vibrant underwater scenery.

Kayaking and paddleboarding add a fun, more active element to the trip. The equipment is generally well-maintained, but be mindful that losing gear, like masks or paddles, could incur additional costs (e.g., $70,000 COP for a mask). So, treat the gear with care.

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The Return Trip

Around 3:40 PM, the boat begins its journey back to Santa Marta. The return sail offers a chance to unwind again, soaking in the last views of the coast and reflecting on the day’s highlights. The trip wraps up around 5:00 PM at the same port where it all started, leaving you with plenty of time to continue exploring Santa Marta or relax afterwards.

Value and Practicalities

At $106 per person, this tour offers a solid value for an all-day experience that combines sailing, beach time, and water activities. The price covers the boat, equipment, lunch, snacks, water, a beer, and even medical assistance insurance. While it doesn’t include breakfast or extra drinks, the provided amenities are enough to keep you comfortable and refreshed.

The tour runs live in Spanish, but the crew are friendly and accommodating. If language is a concern, it might be worth asking if a guide or interpreter can be arranged. Booking flexibility is available with a “reserve now, pay later” option, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, giving peace of mind.

The tour is ideal for active travelers, families, or couples who enjoy being on the water and exploring natural environments at a relaxed pace. It’s especially suitable if you value authentic moments over highly commercialized attractions.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is perfect for those who appreciate scenic boat rides, serene beaches, and water-based activities. If you’re seeking a day to truly unwind, enjoy the natural beauty of Colombia’s Caribbean coast, and try snorkeling or paddleboarding without a hefty price tag, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s also great for travelers who don’t mind a bit of movement and are comfortable with a flexible schedule, as timings can shift based on weather or operational needs.

The Sum Up

In summary, this Santa Marta sailing day tour offers a wonderfully balanced mix of scenic cruising, natural exploration, and relaxed beach time. It’s a chance to step away from crowded tourist spots and enjoy Colombia’s Caribbean coast in a personal, authentic way. The included activities and meals make it a practical and enjoyable choice for a full day of adventure — especially if you love being on or near the water.

For families, couples, or solo travelers who want to experience the coast’s beauty in style and comfort, this tour delivers. The calm waters, beautiful scenery, and friendly crew create a memorable day that leaves you feeling refreshed and connected to nature. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure, your camera, and some biodegradable sunscreen to keep the experience eco-friendly.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with the start at 9:30 AM and returning around 5:00 PM. The exact schedule may vary depending on weather and operational decisions.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the sailing trip, use of kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel masks, a lunch, snacks, water, a beer, and medical assistance insurance.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
No, ice, food, and drinks are prohibited from being brought into the marina. The boat provides ice and a bar for purchases, so plan to buy any additional beverages onboard.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling in the designated area is generally suitable for beginners. The water is clear, and equipment is provided. Just listen to the crew’s advice for safe exploration.

Are there any restrictions on swimming?
Yes, swimming in the anchoring area of Inca Inca is prohibited by local authority (DIMAR), so it’s best to stay in open waters away from the boat.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a change of clothes, a towel, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, cash, and insect repellent are recommended.

This tour offers a wonderful way to enjoy the Caribbean coast with a blend of leisure, activity, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a water lover or just seeking a peaceful day on the sea, it’s worth considering for your Santa Marta itinerary.

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