Boat rental for the Rosario Islands up to 15 people.

A Personalized Day at the Rosario Islands: Private Boat Rental for Up to 15 People

If you’re in Cartagena and looking for a way to enjoy the Caribbean waters without the crowds, a private boat rental to the Rosario Islands might just be your best move. For $800 per group (up to 15 people), you get a full day of exploring some of the most beautiful islands Colombia has to offer, with the flexibility to tailor your stops and experience. This tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9 a.m. and returning around 5 p.m., giving you plenty of time to relax, snorkel, and soak in the scenery.

What really makes this trip stand out are two key aspects: first, the chance to customize your itinerary—you can spend more or less time at each island depending on your preferences—and second, the personalized service. The crew, including the captain and skipper, are praised for their punctuality, friendliness, and attentiveness, making your day not just scenic but also smooth and enjoyable.

One consideration to keep in mind is that this is a private rental, so if you’re hoping for a lively party vibe or a larger group experience, this is perfect. However, booking well in advance—about 24 days on average—is recommended to secure your preferred date.

This tour suits travelers who value flexibility, intimate experiences, and authentic Caribbean scenery. Perfect for groups of friends, families, or anyone wanting to escape the hustle and enjoy a tailored day at sea.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary: Choose how long to stay at each island, customizing your experience.
• All-inclusive essentials: Captain, fuel, ice, snorkeling gear, and restroom onboard are included.
• Private and personalized: Up to 15 people, with attentive staff who cater to your needs.
• Variety of stops: Visit Isla Grande, Caño Ratón, La Piscina, Cholón, and Aguazul—each offering distinct charms.
• Bring your own: Snacks, drinks, or a typical lunch can be brought or purchased at islands.
• Excellent reviews: Consistently high ratings (5.0/5) and glowing reviews for service and scenery.

Exploring the Rosario Islands by Private Boat: What to Expect

Starting Your Adventure

Your day begins at the Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande 2nda in Cartagena. From there, the crew, including a captain, will take you through a seamless check-in process—most travelers find the meeting point easy to access via public transportation or local taxis. The boat itself is equipped with modern Bluetooth sound systems, so you can jam to your favorite tunes while cruising the Caribbean.

The Journey at Sea

As you set sail, you’ll quickly notice the stunning views of Cartagena’s skyline fading behind you, replaced by the shimmering turquoise waters and vibrant islands ahead. The duration of the trip allows for plenty of sightseeing, photo ops, and relaxing in the sun. The boat comfortably fits up to 15 people, making it ideal for a close-knit group or family.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Isla Grande: The largest of the islands, offering a mix of beautiful beaches and lively spots where you can buy snacks or perhaps indulge in a local lunch. Several reviews highlight Isla Grande’s beautiful scenery and calm waters, perfect for swimming and lounging.

• Caño Ratón: Known for its quiet, natural beauty, this stop is great for snorkeling or simply basking in the tranquility. The crew can help you gear up with snorkeling equipment included in the service, so you’ll get a closer look at the underwater life.

• La Piscina: A shallow pool-like area that provides a safe spot for kids or beginners to enjoy the sea without feeling overwhelmed by currents.

• Cholón and Aguazul: These stops are ideal for experiencing the local vibe—whether that means party-style beach bars or pristine white sands for picnics. One review appreciated the beautiful beaches and friendly pilots.

The boat’s itinerary isn’t fixed; you and your group can decide how long to stay at each place, enhancing the experience’s personal touch. Just keep in mind that once you pass certain points, you can’t return to earlier stops—so plan your day accordingly.

Onboard Comforts and Extras

The boat comes with restroom facilities, bottled water (two 330cc bottles per person), and ice to keep your drinks cool. The crew is known for their courteous and attentive service, ensuring your comfort throughout the day. You are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks or purchase local meals on the islands—an option many travelers appreciate.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

The reviews reveal that many guests consider this private boat a much better experience than crowded group tours. For instance, one traveler mentioned, “The private tour is certainly the way to go for the Rosario Islands.” The ability to personalize your stops means you can avoid the busy, tourist-packed spots and seek out the peaceful corners of the islands.

A notable plus is the security and legality of the service, giving peace of mind during your day. The flexibility allows you to skip the crowded spots like Cholón if you prefer a more serene experience, or linger longer at favorite beaches.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, one notable concern is timing. A less-than-ideal review mentions a captain who didn’t show up because of a perceived lack of time. To avoid similar issues, confirm your booking and communicate your schedule clearly. Also, since alcoholic beverages aren’t included, you’ll need to bring your own or purchase on the islands—something to plan ahead for, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This private boat experience is best suited for travelers who want control over their day and prefer a more intimate, flexible adventure. It’s ideal for groups craving authentic Caribbean scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and unhurried island visits. If you’re traveling with friends or family and wish to avoid the crowds of larger tours, this is a cost-effective way to enjoy the Rosario Islands in a relaxed, personalized manner.

Final Thoughts

A private boat rental to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena offers a fantastic way to experience Colombia’s vibrant marine environment without the noise and chaos of larger tours. You’ll appreciate the personalized itinerary, modern amenities, and the chance to explore some of the most beautiful islands at your own pace. For those seeking authenticity, flexibility, and stunning views, this tour delivers.

While it requires some advance planning—especially to secure your date—it’s a worthwhile investment in a memorable Caribbean adventure. Whether you want to snorkel among coral reefs, lounge on remote beaches, or snap photos of turquoise waters, this trip offers the freedom to craft your perfect day.

In short, this experience is best for groups who crave a tailored, relaxed, and scenic escape—a true highlight of any Cartagena trip.

FAQs

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 15 people comfortably, making it perfect for small groups or families.

What does the tour include?
Your rental includes the captain, fuel, cooler, 13 kilos of ice, a skipper, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and restroom facilities onboard.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring snacks, drinks, or a typical lunch, or you can purchase food on the islands.

What about alcohol?
Alcoholic beverages are not included; you can bring your own or buy them locally. Note that alcohol is an extra cost if you choose to purchase it during the trip.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, from 9 a.m. to about 5 p.m., including travel and island stops.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially since snorkeling gear and calm waters are provided. Just ensure kids are comfortable on a boat for several hours.

How do I book?
Booking should be made about 24 days in advance, as this experience is popular and fills up quickly.

Where do I meet the boat?
At the Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande 2nda in Cartagena, which is easily accessible by taxi or public transit.

To sum it up, this private boat rental offers a flexible, intimate way to enjoy the Rosario Islands’ breathtaking scenery, making it a rewarding choice for groups wanting to skip the crowds and explore Colombia’s Caribbean in style.