Full-Day Catamaran Tour through Tayrona

Experience the Beauty of Tayrona on a Full-Day Catamaran Tour

Imagine sailing along Colombia’s striking Caribbean coast, with the wind in your hair, the azure sea stretching out to the horizon, and the promise of beautiful beaches ahead. This full-day catamaran tour from Santa Marta takes you into the heart of Tayrona National Park, one of Colombia’s most treasured natural areas, offering a relaxing blend of sailing, swimming, snorkelling, and eating.

For $85 per person, you’ll spend about 8.5 hours on a comfortable boat, with plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy nature. You’ll visit Bahía Concha, famous for its soft sands and clear waters, with the option to snorkel or paddleboard—no need to bring your own gear as it’s included. Plus, you can indulge in a fresh fish ceviche lunch on deck, while soaking up the views.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: First, the sailing experience itself—there’s something special about gliding over the water on a catamaran, feeling the sea breeze and watching the coastline drift by. Second, the inclusive nature—snorkel gear, paddleboards, lunch, and even the boat ride are all covered, making it an excellent value and effort-free day.

A potential consideration? The beaches can be underwhelming if you’re expecting pristine, well-maintained sands—some reviews mention that chairs on the beach are rented separately, so if you prefer lounging on a beach chair, you might need to pay extra. Still, if you’re eager for a day on the water with good food and fantastic scenery, this tour delivers.

This trip suits travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and socializing. It’s especially ideal for families, groups, or anyone looking for an easy, all-in-one adventure without the hassle of planning meals or gear.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches, with lunch included
• Beautiful Scenery: Coastal views, marine life, and turquoise waters
• Convenient and Inclusive: Snorkel gear, paddleboards, and lunch are provided, saving you time and money
• Authentic Social Atmosphere: Meet fellow travelers and enjoy a shared adventure
• Flexible Beach Options: Swim, sunbathe, or walk along the sands of Bahía Concha
• Value for Money: At $85, it offers a comprehensive and easy way to see Tayrona with minimal planning

Exploring the Full-Day Catamaran Tour in Depth

Starting Point and Departure
The day begins at Santa Marta’s International Marina, with meet-up at 9:00 AM. From here, you’ll set sail at 9:30 AM, leaving behind the busy city for a scenic journey along the coast. The boat’s maximum capacity is around 30 travelers, ensuring a lively but not overcrowded vibe.

First Leg: Coastal Views and Local Life
As you leave Santa Marta Bay, the boat cruises into Taganga Bay, a lively fishing village blending traditional local life with tourism. Watching fishermen at work or boats returning with fresh catch adds a touch of authenticity. Continuing past Granate Bay, you’ll see diving schools and artisanal fishing—each scene offering a glimpse of everyday life by the Caribbean.

The sail then takes you past Aguja Island and Playa Brava, both of which add to the scenic journey. You’ll be able to take photos of sandy coves and lush islands—perfect for sharing your trip with friends or just storing as memories.

The Highlight: Bahía Concha
This is the anchor point of the trip—arguably the most stunning part of the day. Once docked, you have a choice: swim in the warm waters, snorkel among colorful fish, paddleboard over calm seas, or just relax on deck and enjoy the sun.

The reviews praise this part of the tour for its crystal-clear waters and soft sands. One traveler called it the “most beautiful bay in the world,” which, while subjective, hints at how special this spot feels. The shallow waters make it perfect for families or less experienced swimmers, and the snorkeling spot promises a chance to see vibrant marine life.

Lunch on Deck
A highlight for many is the fresh fish ceviche served on the boat. Tour guides emphasize the quality of the food, with many guests raving about how tasty and fresh it is. The inclusive meal allows you to relax and refuel after a morning in the water without worrying about where to find a good bite. Vegetarians and others with dietary needs should check if alternative options are available, but the focus on fresh seafood is a big selling point.

Tayrona National Park
While the park itself is a major draw, note that some reviews mention the park may be temporarily closed for ecological conservation, which is important to keep in mind. If the park is open, you’ll have around 5 hours to explore the area or simply enjoy the beaches. The park is home to a wide variety of species and ecosystems, from sea level to 900 meters in altitude, offering a sense of untouched nature.

Second Beach Stop: Gayraca or Bahía Concha
Back on the water, you’ll sail to another bay, either Bahía de Santa Marta or Gayraca. This is a second chance to swim, snorkel, or lounge, with the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful bay environment. Some reviews mention that the beaches are natural and may have rental chairs, but that’s a small inconvenience in exchange for such beautiful surroundings.

Sunset and Return
The return journey culminates with a quick stop in Santa Marta Bay to watch the sunset, often called the “most beautiful bay in the world” by locals. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with scenic views and seaside fun. You’ll be back at the marina around 5:00 PM, just in time to reflect on your day.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour is designed to be as convenient as possible. Included are lunch, bottled water, soda, use of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, marina entrance fee, and passenger insurance. Such inclusions save you from carrying gear or finding lunch on your own, which can be both a hassle and a cost saver.

However, alcohol isn’t included, so if you’re craving a cold beer or cocktail, plan to bring your own or purchase at the beach. Tips aren’t included either, so gratuities are at your discretion but appreciated if you feel the service was excellent.

Group Size and Booking
With a maximum of 30 travelers and an average booking window of 12 days in advance, this tour appeals to those who prefer a slightly intimate, well-organized experience. The mobile ticket feature means no fuss on the day—just show up and enjoy.

Travelers’ Feedback
Reviews paint a picture of a generally positive experience, with many emphasizing the fantastic crew and good food. Some mention minor hiccups, like a stressful start or beach chairs being rented separately, but these are small compared to the overall enjoyment. The most praised aspects remain the scenery, the crew’s friendliness, and the value of including snorkeling and a delicious lunch.

Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a laid-back day filled with natural beauty, water activities, and good company. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate an all-in-one outing—no need to worry about packing gear or choosing a restaurant.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $85, this full-day catamaran trip offers a pretty solid bang for your buck. You’re paying for a scenic sail, multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel, a tasty seafood lunch, and the chance to relax on some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. The fact that the tour is well-reviewed for friendliness, organization, and value suggests it’s a reliable choice—so long as you keep in mind that beach conditions and park closures can vary.

If you’re after a day that combines leisure, stunning coastal views, and social fun, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s a chance to experience the Caribbean’s natural charm without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. For those wanting a hassle-free, scenic, and activity-packed day, this tour is a great pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, starting at 9:00 AM and returning around 5:00 PM.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers lunch, bottled water, soda, snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, marina entrance fee, and passenger insurance.

Can I snorkel or paddleboard?
Yes, all equipment is provided, and you can choose to snorkel or paddleboard in Bahía Concha or Gayraca.

Is the beach comfortable for kids?
Yes, the shallow waters make it suitable for families, and many reviews mention enjoying the beaches with children.

What if the park is closed?
The tour description states that park closures happen for ecological reasons; if Tayrona Park is closed, the itinerary might be adjusted, but you’ll still enjoy sailing and beach time.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is not included and must be purchased separately if desired.

How do I book?
You can reserve in advance, typically 12 days ahead on platforms like Viator, with mobile tickets for easy access on the day.

In brief, this full-day catamaran tour through Tayrona offers an accessible, scenic, and enjoyable way to experience Colombia’s coast. Whether you’re eager to relax on beaches that many say are among the world’s best, or want to snorkel among vibrant marine life, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just remember, a little flexibility with the weather or park schedules will make your day even better.