Marmows Full Day Private Boat Tour in San Andreas Islands

Enjoying San Andrés from the Water: A Deep Dive into Marmows Full Day Private Boat Tour

When you think of San Andrés, Colombia, images of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs instantly come to mind. Now imagine exploring all of this from a private boat, with the freedom to choose your stops and spend as long as you like at each location. For around $390 per group (up to 12 people), you get a full-day adventure lasting about six hours, visiting stunning spots like mangroves, sandbars, and coral reefs, with the opportunity to snorkel, relax, and take fantastic photos.

Two things we love about this tour are the personalized experience—you’re not just a face in a crowd—and the variety of stops, which showcase San Andrés’ natural beauty from different angles. The guides, Mario and Julianna, earn high praise for their friendliness and knowledge, adding a layer of genuine local insight that elevates the trip.

One consideration: since the tour visits several spots and lasts up to 6 hours, it can be a long day in the sun, so packing sunscreen and a hat is essential. Also, the tour price does not include lunch or pier entrance fees, so plan accordingly.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love outdoor adventures, snorkeling, and discovering less-touristed natural areas. Families, couples, or groups of friends looking for an authentic, flexible boat day will find it especially appealing.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary: You get to choose how long to spend at each stop, from mangroves to coral reefs.
• Excellent guides: Mario and Julianna are praised for their friendliness, English skills, and local knowledge.
• Great value: Private group setting for $390 offers a personalized, flexible experience not available on larger tours.
• Diverse stops: From mangroves and sandbars to colorful underwater life, each site reveals a different aspect of the island’s natural beauty.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Well-equipped with snorkeling gear and access to vibrant marine life, including fish, rays, and even small sharks.
• Relaxing and fun: Plenty of time to chill on the boat or float in the sea, with optional swimming and photo sessions.

The Experience: A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Point and First Stop: Mangroves de Old Point National Park

Your day begins at Muelle de la policía, the bustling pier in San Andrés. Once aboard, you’ll immediately notice the well-maintained, comfortable boat—a stark contrast to the crowded, noisy pontoons some travelers endure. The first stop takes you to Manglares de Old Point, a lush mangrove forest where you’ll see vibrant flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

This part of the tour is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. The clear waters allow for excellent observation of tropical birds and aquatic creatures. Reviewers rave about how Mario and Julianna are knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone gets good photos and experiences the ecological richness without feeling rushed. Expect around 15 minutes here—enough to appreciate the scenery and snap some pictures.

El Palito Sandbar and Water Sports

Next, the boat heads to El Palito, a postcard-worthy sandbar with white sand and crystal waters. Here, the shallow, calm waters are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Many guests mention the joy of floating on water mats and just soaking in the sun. If you’re into water sports, the guides can point you toward kayaking and windsurfing options, which are free for you to enjoy during your visit.

A key highlight? This stop lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to unwind and take advantage of the natural beauty. Reviewers frequently mention how difficult it is to leave this idyllic spot—so plan your time accordingly.

Coral Reef at Cayo Acuario

The next segment focuses on snorkeling at Cayo Acuario, a vibrant coral cay teeming with marine life. Expect to see colorful fish, rays, small sharks, and other tropical creatures. The clarity of the water and the diversity of species make this one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

Guests often comment on the quality of snorkeling gear provided and the patience of guides helping beginners get comfortable. One reviewer mentions, “Mario is very attentive,” ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. Plus, the picturesque white coral sands and lush underwater scenery make for excellent photographic moments.

Underwater Exploration and Lunch Break

After snorkelers explore the reef, the boat moves to a second snorkeling spot, allowing those who wish to extend their aquatic adventure. During this time, you can rest, enjoy the breeze, or take more photos of the stunning surroundings.

The tour also includes a local lunch at nearby restaurants—though it’s not included in the price, many reviewers describe the food as delicious and authentic, offering a taste of island gastronomy. It’s a great way to recharge and savor the flavors of San Andrés after a morning of activities.

The Natural Pool and Sunset

Later, the boat visits White Water — a natural, crystalline pool within the sea, famous for its seven shades of blue. Floating bars like Ibiza and Raizal add a fun, relaxed vibe as you enjoy the sunset. Many travelers mention this as a magical moment, perfect for taking photos or just relaxing with a drink.

Final Snorkeling and Scenic Return

The last stop involves more snorkeling near a coral reef, where you’ll likely see a variety of colorful marine life. The guides, who are highly praised for their English skills and friendliness, make sure everyone is comfortable and has plenty of time to enjoy the water.

As the boat heads back to San Andrés, you’re treated to spectacular views of the coastline and the open sea—an ideal opportunity to reflect on a day packed with natural beauty and adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

The beauty of this private boat tour lies in its flexibility and intimacy. Unlike larger, more commercial excursions, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience with guides who genuinely care about your enjoyment and safety. The small group size means you can customize your stops, linger longer at favorite sites, and take all the photos you want without feeling rushed.

The diversity of stops—from mangroves and sandbars to coral reefs—ensures you’ll see a broad spectrum of the island’s natural features. Snorkeling here isn’t just a quick dip; it’s an immersive experience with vibrant marine life, as many reviews highlight. Plus, the well-maintained boat and friendly, English-speaking guides make a difference in easing communication and ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

However, keep in mind, the cost does not include lunch or pier entrance fees. It’s worth budgeting a little extra for a local meal and any souvenirs. Also, since the trip is about six hours, it’s a good idea to come prepared with sunscreen, hats, and water to stay comfortable under the Caribbean sun.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who love snorkeling, nature, and exploring at their own pace. It’s perfect for families with kids, as the guides are attentive and the stops are varied and engaging. Couples and groups of friends who want a tailored, private experience will especially appreciate the flexibility and personal touch.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day with opportunities to snorkel, take photos, and enjoy local island flavors, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s also a fantastic way to see parts of San Andrés that remain relatively untouched by mass tourism, making for authentic memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour?
  You’ll have use of snorkeling equipment, a water mat, bottled water, a refrigerator with ice, and the assistance of a captain and guide.

• How long does the tour last?
  It’s approximately six hours, beginning around 10 AM and ending by 4 PM.

• Is the tour private?
  Yes, this is an exclusive experience only for your group, making it ideal for personalized adventures.

• How many people can join?
  Up to 12 people per boat, offering ample space and comfort.

• Are there any additional costs?
  Lunch is not included; pier entrance fees are not covered, so budget extra for meals and any souvenirs.

• What should I bring?
  Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, a waterproof camera, and towels if you plan to swim and lounge.

• Is it suitable for children?
  Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling in open water.

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

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Marmows Full Day Private Boat Tour in San Andrés offers a personalized, flexible, and immersive way to experience the island’s natural wonders. From exploring mangroves and relaxing on pristine sandbars to snorkeling alongside colorful fish and rays, this trip ticks many boxes for avid explorers and casual beach lovers alike.

The guides, Mario and Julianna, stand out for their friendly, attentive service and local knowledge, making the experience not just fun but informative. The boat itself is comfortable, and the itinerary is carefully designed to highlight the very best of San Andrés’ marine and coastal environments.

If you’re seeking an authentic, relaxed, yet adventure-filled day on the water, this tour offers excellent value and a genuine taste of island life. It’s perfect for groups wanting the privacy to customize their day and for anyone eager to discover parts of San Andrés that are often missed on larger group excursions.

To sum it up, this private boat tour is a fantastic way to spend a day in San Andrés—combining scenic beauty, personal attention, and authentic island experiences. Whether you’re snorkeling, relaxing, or taking countless photos, you’ll come away with memories that will last long after the trip ends. It’s especially recommended for travelers who value flexibility, personalized service, and discovering the island’s natural treasures in a comfortable setting.