Trip (Afternoon) in a Private Sailing Boat in the Tayrona Park

A Private Sailing Day in Tayrona’s First Bay: What You Need to Know

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape on the water, this private sailing trip from Santa Marta to the first bay of Tayrona National Natural Park hits the spot. For around $520 per group, up to six of you can enjoy nearly five hours of sun, sea, and sunshine with a flexible itinerary that includes swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, and even a bit of fun jumping off the boat for those who love a splash. The tour departs in the early afternoon, giving you plenty of time to soak up the scenery, chat with friends or family, and watch the sunset as you sail back to Santa Marta.

What we love is the genuine intimacy of a private tour — no noisy crowds, just your little crew. The boat has a large bathing platform at the stern that makes swimming and paddleboarding easy and safe, and the crew’s friendliness makes all the difference. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins or try your luck with fishing adds a little extra thrill to the day.

One thing to consider is that weather conditions can influence the exact bays visited, as the captain has the discretion to change plans for safety. Also, the price includes drinks stored in a fridge, but bringing your own beverages is encouraged if you prefer specific drinks or want to keep costs down.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of downtime, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate a flexible, intimate experience with stunning views and the chance to truly unwind.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Only your group on the boat, offering personalized service and flexibility.
• Multiple Water Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and jumping from the boat for fun.
• Beautiful Scenery: Sailing past Taganga and the chance to see dolphins and fish if luck is on your side.
• Comfort and Convenience: Large bathing platform, fridge stocked with beverages, and the option to bring your own drinks.
• Flexible Itinerary: Captain might change bays based on weather, ensuring safety and scenic value.
• Ideal for Relaxers: Perfect for those who want a laid-back day on the sea with plenty of downtime.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Getting There and Meeting Point
The tour begins at Carulla Bellavista Sector Los Cocos in Santa Marta, a location accessible via public transportation. The departure time is 2:00 pm, giving you an afternoon of adventure and relaxation. This timing is perfect for catching the sunset on the way back, which many reviews highlight as a memorable part of the trip.

The Itinerary in Detail
Your first stop is Isla de La Aguja, a scenic bay just before La Punta Aguja, where you’ll spend about two hours. This spot is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with the calm waters and the rocky coast creating a beautiful backdrop. The review from Martha captures this well: “Absolutely perfect plan — beautiful sailing boat, sea, sunset, and wonderful hosts.” The large bathing platform makes it easy to hop in and out of the water, and the chance to relax on deck in the sun is hard to beat.

Following that, the boat will cruise past Taganga, a fishing village known for its vibrant atmosphere and seafood, as you enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views. The captain reserves the right to alter the route if weather conditions aren’t favorable, which is a prudent safety measure but something to keep in mind if you’re eager to visit specific bays.

Onboard Amenities and Atmosphere
The boat is well-equipped with a fridge full of beverages like soda, beers, wine, and rum, with prices communicated the day before. Many travelers find this convenient, especially since you can also bring your own drinks. The large bathing platform and the open deck encourage socializing, sunbathing, and easy access to the water.

The Experience of the Crew
Reviews consistently praise the hosts — a French couple who own the boat and are long-term expats in Colombia. Martha described them as “wonderful hosts,” emphasizing that their friendly attitude enhances the trip. Dan added that they are “great hosts,” which shows how much travelers appreciate the personal touch.

What to Expect in Terms of Duration and Cost
Spanning approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, this tour is a solid half-day activity. The $520 fee covers the entire boat for your group, offering good value considering the exclusivity and personalized experience. Remember, booking about 35 days in advance is common, indicating that this experience is popular yet still accessible for those planning ahead.

Additional Considerations
Since the boat is private, there’s no rush, and you can tailor the experience to your interests. Whether you want to spend more time swimming or relaxing, this flexibility is a big plus. The only caveat is the weather’s influence on the itinerary — safety always comes first, so the crew might switch bays if conditions deteriorate.

Why Travelers Would Love This Tour

This trip is particularly suited for those who value authentic, intimate experiences over crowded group tours. If you enjoy scenic sailing, water-based activities, and sunset views, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also a great choice for families or small groups seeking a relaxed day in a beautiful setting.

Many reviewers have mentioned how the friendly hosts and stunning landscape made their trip unforgettable, making it clear that this is more than just a boat ride — it’s a memorable day on the water with the chance to create lasting memories.

Who Should Consider This Tour

• Travelers looking for a private, customizable experience.
• Those interested in snorkeling and swimming in calm, scenic waters.
• Visitors who want a relaxed pace rather than a rushed group tour.
• People eager to see dolphins or try fishing, if luck permits.
• Guests who appreciate friendly hosts and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Anyone wanting to enjoy the beautiful coastline of Santa Marta and Tayrona without the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 4 hours 30 minutes, giving ample time for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the private boat, bathing platform, and beverages stored on board. You can also bring your own drinks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, providing peace of mind if your plans shift.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The tour begins at Carulla Bellavista Sector Los Cocos in Santa Marta. It’s easily accessible by public transport.

What activities will we do?
Expect to swim, snorkel, relax, and possibly paddleboard or fish, with plenty of downtime to soak up the sun.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and water activities suggest it’s generally suitable for families with older children who can swim.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The captain has the discretion to change bays for safety, which means your itinerary might shift based on weather conditions.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are mentioned — drinks on board are paid separately, and bringing your own is encouraged if you prefer specific beverages.

Is the tour environmentally friendly?
While not specified, responsible boating practices are advisable, and the trip’s focus on natural scenery encourages appreciation of the environment.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing trip in Tayrona offers an excellent way to enjoy the coast away from crowds, with the flexibility to customize your day. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape, some water fun, or a scenic sunset sail, this tour delivers. The friendly hosts, beautiful scenery, and peaceful atmosphere make it a memorable highlight for anyone visiting Santa Marta.

If authenticity, comfort, and nature are your priorities, this experience is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited for small groups who want a personal touch and a day on the water that balances activity and relaxation perfectly.

In the end, this tour isn’t just about seeing the scenery — it’s about creating your own seaside story, one splash and sunset at a time.