Private Boat Tour of the Rosario Islands

A Private Boat Tour of the Rosario Islands: An Authentic Cartagena Experience

Imagine cruising in a well-maintained private boat, with a friendly bilingual crew, exploring some of Colombia’s most beautiful islands. For about $800 per group (up to 10 people), you get a journey that lasts around 8 hours, taking you through crystal-clear waters, lively party spots, and peaceful beaches. This tour is a flexible, personalized way to experience the Rosario and Barú Islands, tailored to your preferences.

What sets this tour apart for us are two key features: First, the ability to customize your itinerary based on your interests—whether snorkeling in colorful coral reefs or relaxing on pristine beaches. Second, the intimate, private nature of the experience, avoiding large crowds and allowing for genuine moments of leisure and fun. One consideration we’d keep in mind is that food and drinks are not included, so budgeting for meals or bringing your own is advisable.

This tour suits travelers who cherish authentic, relaxed days on the water, appreciate personalized service, and want a balance of adventure and tranquility. It’s perfect for groups celebrating special occasions or families seeking a memorable day without the hassle of large tour groups.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience allows you to choose your favorite spots and activities.
• Flexible stops include snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, or partying at Cholón.
• Proficient bilingual crew ensures smooth communication and tailored suggestions.
• Includes crew, fuel, and bottled water, but food, drinks, and snorkeling gear are extra.
• Ideal for small groups up to 10 people seeking an intimate day on the water.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, with weather-dependent rescheduling.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This private boat tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of what makes Cartagena’s islands so special, all wrapped in a flexible package that respects your pace and preferences. It’s designed for travelers who value both comfort and authentic experiences.

Start Point and Duration

The adventure begins at the Cartagena Nautical Club, a convenient location near public transportation options. From there, your own group sets sail in a perfectly maintained boat owned by Premium Boating Services, with a crew that’s professional yet friendly. The full experience lasts around 8 hours, giving ample time to explore, relax, and enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is flexible, but the highlights include four main stops:

Islas de Rosario:
This is the core of your day. The islands boast crystal-clear waters and lively coral reefs—perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Your guides will suggest the best spots, whether in shallow waters or deeper reefs. You might find yourself floating above vibrant marine life or lounging in the sun. The tour typically includes stops at hotels or beach clubs for lunch, with options depending on availability, so it’s worth asking ahead about arrangements.

Cholón:
A lively party island where you can hop off the boat into a designated area to eat, drink, and mingle with other boaters. The reviews often praise Jimmy, Pedro, and Omar for their attentive service here, ensuring you have a good time without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a chance to soak up the island’s vibrant, festive atmosphere.

Playa Agua Azul:
Known for its white sands and calm waters, this beach offers a peaceful break, with optional massages and snacks available at additional costs. It’s a favorite among travelers who want a relaxing spot to unwind after the energetic Cholón.

Playa Blanca:
Another stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water, ideal for a gentle walk, enjoying local crafts, or simply swimming. The option to buy crafts or have a massage makes it a well-rounded stop, blending leisure with local culture.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes crew, fuel, and bottled water (900ml per person), ensuring hydration and comfort. However, food, drinks, snorkeling equipment ($45,000 COP per person), and tips are not included. Many reviews suggest bringing snacks and drinks to enhance your day, especially since the crew is happy to accommodate preferences. The snorkeling gear is an extra expense, but if snorkeling is a priority, it might be worth renting in advance or on-site.

Service Quality and Authenticity

The reviews consistently praise the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. Guests mention Omar, Pedro, and Jimmy for their attentive service—playing music, keeping drinks flowing, and ensuring everyone’s needs are met. One reviewer noted, “They brought us to whichever island we wanted, played our music, and made sure our drinks were never empty”—a clear sign that personal touches elevate this experience.

Flexibility and Customization

One of the tour’s biggest strengths is flexibility. The crew and guides will tailor the itinerary to your preferences—whether focusing on snorkeling, beach lounging, or partying. This personalized approach makes it particularly appealing for groups celebrating birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or families wanting a stress-free day.

Potential Drawbacks

While the itinerary is adaptable, some travelers might find the additional costs for food, drinks, and snorkeling gear a downside. Also, since the tour depends on good weather, poor conditions could lead to rescheduling or cancellations. Planning ahead and being prepared for extra expenses will ensure your day remains enjoyable.

Why This Tour Works Well

This private boat trip is a fantastic choice for those seeking a personalized, relaxed day exploring Cartagena’s most stunning islands. It caters well to small groups looking to avoid crowded tour buses or large parties, giving you the freedom to set your pace. Whether you want to snorkel over coral reefs, lounge on white sands, or enjoy a lively party at Cholón, this tour offers a balanced mix that can be customized.

The value is especially notable considering the private boat, crew, and flexible stops. When you consider the cost per group, it’s a good deal for a full day of exploring with friends or family, with the added benefit of a dedicated crew making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a unique, private experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and local flavor, this tour is a great fit. It’s especially suited for groups who appreciate flexibility and personalized service, and are comfortable handling extra costs for meals, drinks, or snorkeling gear. Perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply escaping the city’s hustle for a day, this trip offers a genuine taste of the Caribbean in Cartagena.

Travelers who value stunning scenery, good-value experiences, and the opportunity to customize their day will find this tour delivers in spades. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your time in Colombia’s coastal paradise.

FAQs

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, making it flexible if weather or plans change.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the crew, fuel, and bottled water for your group. Food, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and tips are extra.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat and in the water.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 1 hour to 3.5 hours, allowing enough time to swim, relax, or explore without feeling rushed.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Not included in the basic price, snorkeling gear costs about 45,000 COP per person. It’s recommended to bring your own if you plan to snorkel frequently.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the Cartagena Nautical Club, a convenient location near public transport.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, snacks, extra drinks, and possibly snorkeling gear if you own it. Remember to budget for additional costs like food, massages, or crafts at the stops.

This private boat tour of the Rosario Islands offers a flexible, enjoyable way to experience Colombia’s coastal beauty. Whether you’re after lively parties, tranquil beaches, or snorkeling adventures, it balances comfort with authentic charm—making it a memorable day for your Cartagena itinerary.