Tour of the Rosary Islands

Tour of the Rosary Islands: An Authentic Caribbean Adventure in Cartagena

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz and dive into Colombia’s turquoise waters and golden sands, the Tour of the Rosary Islands offers a well-rounded taste of what the Caribbean has to offer. For $96 per person, this roughly eight-hour journey takes you through some of Cartagena’s most stunning islands, with stops that promise sun, sand, and a sprinkle of local history. Led by bilingual guides, the trip includes snorkeling, beach lounging, and delicious seafood — all wrapped up in a package that’s popular enough to be booked about 10 days in advance.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure and relaxation. The snorkeling on coral reefs is a highlight — especially the chance to see vibrant marine life in their natural habitat — and the variety of islands ensures there’s something for all. The meal on a private island is another standout, offering fresh seafood in a serene setting. One thing to consider, however, is the long boat rides involved, which might feel a bit tiring if you’re prone to seasickness or aren’t big fans of extended sitting on a speedboat.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Caribbean day with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun, while also enjoying some local flavors and a touch of history. Families, couples, or groups who appreciate a mix of outdoor activities and cultural sights will find this trip hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Stunning island scenery with turquoise waters and white sands
• Incredible snorkeling on coral reefs and marine life encounters
• Delicious seafood lunch on a private island, emphasizing fresh local ingredients
• Expert guides who are attentive, knowledgeable, and bilingual
• All-inclusive price with snacks, drinks, and entrance fees covered
• Long boat rides that could be tiring but offer scenic views and adventure

A Deep Dive Into the Rosary Islands Tour Experience

Starting Point and Early Morning Vibes

The tour kicks off at Centenario Park in Getsemaní, a lively neighborhood that’s a favorite among travelers for its street art and vibrant atmosphere. At 8:00 am, you’ll meet your guide — who often receives praise for being friendly and well-informed — ready for a full day of exploration. The early start is perfect to beat the midday heat and crowds, giving you a head start on enjoying the islands.

Panoramic Views of Forts and Coastal Landmarks

The initial part of the trip offers panoramic views of the Fort of Bocachica and San José, giving a glimpse into Cartagena’s strategic history. From the boat, you’ll see the coast and some of the island defenses, setting the tone for a day that mixes natural beauty with historical intrigue.

The Journey to Islas del Rosario

Once underway, you’ll enjoy drinks on the boat — unlimited until you run out, as the tour description cheekily notes — which helps keep the mood light and social. The boat ride itself is a chance to relax, take in the ocean vistas, and chat with fellow travelers. Keep in mind, the vessels tend to be smaller speedboats, which some might find a bit cramped after a while, especially during longer stretches of travel.

Exploring the Islands: Highlights and Hiccups

Big Island and Snorkeling

The first stop is Big Island, known for its underwater sights — notably the submerged plane associated with Pablo Escobar (a curious bit of local lore). Here, snorkeling is a key activity, with masks loaned to guests for exploring coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. Reviewers have raved about the spectacular views and the chance to see marine life in its habitat. One traveler mentioned, “I loved the snorkeling activity on coral reef,” highlighting how engaging this part is.

However, some reviews have pointed out that snorkeling fins are not included, which might be a slight inconvenience if you prefer to have your own flippers or are a serious snorkeler. Still, the fish and coral make it worth the effort.

Private Island Lunch and Relaxation

The lunch stop on a private island is a real highlight, offering a delicious seafood entrée that many reviews describe as tasty and fresh. The setting is tranquil, allowing you to unwind after snorkeling or just soak up some sun. The feeling of a private island — with fewer crowds and pristine beaches — elevates the experience, and many reviewers mention how well-organized the meal service is.

Cholón Island: The Party Hub

Next is Cholón Island, renowned as the Island of Party, where lively music and vibrant beach bars create a festive atmosphere. Here, you can taste local seafood and enjoy some time in the sun, with the chance to meet other travelers. Reviewers love this part, calling it a “place of fun and good vibes”, perfect for those who enjoy a lively scene.

Barú Island and Playa Calm

The final stop is Barú Island’s Playa Calm, a peaceful stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for the last stretch of relaxation, where you can swim, tan, or simply breathe in the Caribbean air. Reviewers have described this as “a beautiful, relaxing end to a busy day,” and many say they wish they could stay longer.

Additional Perks and Practical Details

The tour includes bilingual guides, snorkeling equipment, lunch, entrance to beach Tranquila, and snacks — mostly seafood — along with some alcoholic beverages until they run out. This setup provides solid value considering the comprehensive itinerary and the number of stops.

One practical note: towels are not included, so you might want to bring your own if you plan to swim and dry off comfortably. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

The Real Traveler Experience

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendly attitude and knowledge, which makes the experience more engaging and relaxed. The scenery, snorkeling, and beaches are frequently described as spectacular, with many saying they would definitely repeat the trip.

Some negative feedback mentions that long boat rides can be tiring, or that the snorkeling gear could be more comprehensive with fins included. These are minor inconveniences in a generally positive experience, and it’s worth considering if you’re comfortable on boats and looking for adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour caters well to adventurous travelers seeking a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and beach time combined with local cuisine and scenic views. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups who want a hassle-free way to see multiple islands in one day, with all logistics handled. If you like organized excursions with a good mix of activity and downtime, this trip will suit you perfectly.

It’s also ideal for those interested in marine life and snorkeling, as the reefs are vibrant and diverse. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer very long boat rides, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

At $96 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the multiple stops, included meals, snorkeling gear, and the scenery you’ll witness. The well-organized nature, friendly guides, and the chance to explore Cartagena’s Caribbean side make it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to experience the islands without the fuss of planning individual boat trips.

The positive reviews and consistently high rating suggest most travelers leave happy, often describing it as an “unforgettable experience”. It’s a great way to see the islands’ natural beauty, enjoy some local flavors, and relax in a stunning setting — all in one day.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at Centenario Park in Getsemaní, Cartagena. You’ll need to arrive by 8:00 am for the scheduled departure.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore each stop and enjoy the beaches.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, you’ll get masks and tubes for snorkeling. However, fins are not included, so if you prefer to use your own fins, you might want to bring them.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a bilingual guide, snorkeling gear, lunch, entrance to beach Tranquila, snacks, and alcoholic beverages until they are exhausted.

Are drinks and alcohol unlimited?
Drinks are offered on the boat until the supply runs out, which usually means unlimited drinks during the trip.

Should I bring my own towel?
Towels are not included, so bringing your own is recommended if you plan to swim or sunbathe.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have young children or special needs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Words

The Tour of the Rosary Islands stands out as a well-rounded, enjoyable day trip that combines natural beauty, fun activities, and tasty local cuisine. It’s perfect for those wanting a balance of adventure and leisure, with the convenience of an organized tour that covers multiple islands in one go. If you’re eager to explore Cartagena’s Caribbean coastline, snorkel among colorful fish, and relax on pristine beaches, this trip is a reliable and enjoyable choice — one that many travelers look back on fondly and recommend highly.