Cartagena’s Rosario Islands by Speedboat: A Fun, Flexible Adventure for Groups
If you’re looking to explore Cartagena’s stunning Caribbean waters in style, this private speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to do it. Priced at $920 for your group of up to 12, this 6 to 8-hour journey takes you around the Rosario Islands and Baru’s lively Cholon. With a brand-new 34-ft boat and a flexible itinerary, it’s perfect for friends or family eager for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and a touch of party spirit.
We love how this tour offers both comfort and flexibility — you can customize your stops within Isla Grande, and the boat’s size makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the ride together. The inclusion of alcoholic beverages and bottled water ensures you stay refreshed, and the small group size keeps things intimate and lively. However, keep in mind that the cancellation is non-refundable, so weather can be a factor to consider.
This experience suits travelers who want a private, all-in-one day on the water with plenty of options for swimming, sunbathing, and socializing. It’s also great for those who appreciate well-reviewed guides and want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, all while enjoying the convenience of a mobile ticket from a reputable provider.
Key Points

- Private Group Experience: Customizable stops and intimate atmosphere with your own group.
- All-Inclusive Drinks: 12 beers and bottled water keep everyone hydrated.
- Flexible Itinerary: Visit La Piscina, Caño Raton, Cholon, and other spots within Isla Grande.
- Great for Large Groups: Accommodates up to 12 passengers comfortably.
- Weather-Dependent: Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
- Ideal for Active Relaxation: Combines sightseeing, swimming, and socializing in a single day.
A Detailed Look at the Tour

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Starting Point and Duration
The adventure begins early at Muelle de la Bodeguita in Cartagena, at 9:00 am. The 6 to 8-hour timeframe makes it manageable for a full day without feeling rushed. The mobile ticket makes it easy to confirm your spot, and the small group size means personalized attention from your guides.
The Speedboat: Comfort and Style
The 34-foot speedboat is described as new and fun, offering enough space for groups of up to 12. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to avoid the crowded, large-group tours. The boat provides bottled water, ice, and alcohol, so you can toast the views or cool off after a swim. Keep in mind, WiFi isn’t included, and you’ll need to bring your own towels if you want to dry off comfortably.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do
Pass by Cartagena’s bay sets the scene with panoramic views of the city’s skyline and historic walls — a scenic prelude to your island adventures.
Rosario Island is your first major stop, with visits to La Piscina and Caño Raton. These spots are known for their calm, shallow waters—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the sand. The admission is free, so bring your snorkel gear if you want to explore the vibrant aquatic life.
Within Isla Grande, the tour offers optional requests for other spots, making it flexible if you’d like to customize your experience.
Baru Island follows as a lively stop at Cholon, known locally as a party island. It’s the spot to stretch your legs, grab a local lunch, and soak in the island vibe. The two-hour window here allows enough time to explore or relax on the beach before heading to your final stop.
The last stop depends on your departure time from Baru, giving the guides flexibility based on daylight and weather conditions. Many travelers find this adaptability helpful, especially when weather or sea conditions are unpredictable.
What’s Included and What to Consider
The included drinks are a highlight—12 beers and bottled water are enough to keep hydration levels high. The ice ensures your beverages stay cold all day. The not included items, like towels and WiFi, are worth noting — bringing your own towel is advisable, especially if you plan to swim, and you shouldn’t expect internet connectivity onboard.
Reviews: Authentic Perspectives
One traveler summed it up as the “best time ever!” praising the easy and helpful staff, which is a common theme. They found the experience “amazing”, emphasizing how smooth the process was, thanks to guides who made everything simple.
Another review pointed out the fun and relaxing atmosphere but also warned about checking the currency exchange before ordering lunch in Baru. They praised the knowledgeable guides and the sense of safety throughout the trip, which is reassuring for first-time boaters or those unfamiliar with the area.
Practical Tips for Your Day
- Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure you’re ready for the 9:00 am start.
- Bring towels if you plan to swim or sunbathe.
- Ask about food prices beforehand if you’re planning to eat at Cholon, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local currency conversions.
- Prepare for a weather-dependent schedule; if poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
- Consider bringing cash in local currency for lunches or extras on Baru Island, even though some menus have clear pricing.
Who’s This Tour Best For?

This private speedboat tour is ideal for groups of friends or families wanting a customized, fun-filled day on the water. If you enjoy relaxed sightseeing with options for swimming and lounging, you’ll love how flexible and intimate the experience is. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to skip large tour groups, enjoy refreshments onboard, and visit less touristy spots like La Piscina and Caño Raton.
Given the glowing reviews about helpful guides and beautiful views, this trip would suit those who value authentic, personalized service and want to make the most of their day in Cartagena’s islands.
Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can fit on the speedboat?
Up to 12 passengers comfortably, making it perfect for private groups seeking an exclusive experience.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the private boat, drinks (12 beers and bottled water), and ice. It does not include towels, WiFi, or personal transportation to the meeting point.
What stops are included?
You’ll pass by the bay en route, visit La Piscina and Caño Raton on Rosario Island, stop at Cholon on Baru Island for lunch and relaxation, with the final stop depending on schedule and weather.
Can I customize the stops?
Yes, within Isla Grande, you can request to visit other spots, making this a flexible experience tailored to your interests.
Is this experience suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While not explicitly stated, the stops in calm waters like La Piscina suggest it’s suitable for children and non-swimmers, provided they are comfortable in the water. Always check with your guide on safety measures.
What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunscreen, and cash for lunch or extras. No WiFi is provided onboard, so plan accordingly.
To sum it up, this private speedboat tour combines the thrill of a fast boat ride with the laid-back charm of the Rosario Islands. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a personalized, social, and scenic day on Cartagena’s waters. Whether you want to swim, snorkel, party, or just soak up the sun, this trip offers a well-rounded experience. The great reviews about helpful guides and beautiful views make it clear that you’ll leave with plenty of memories — and probably a few stories to tell. Just remember to plan around the weather, and you’re set for an unforgettable day in the Caribbean.
Happy sailing!
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