Tayrona by sea

A day exploring Tayrona National Park via sea offers an entirely different perspective from the usual hiking trails. This 8-hour boat tour departs from Santa Marta’s marina, taking you across the bay to visit Cinto, Playa Cristal, and Concha, along with passing charming spots like Taganga, Garnet, Chengue, and Gayraca. The experience promises breathtaking views, serene beaches, and the chance to snorkel in clear waters—ideal if you prefer to skip the long walks or strenuous hikes.

What we love most about this trip is how smoothly it flows, with minimal effort on your part—just hop on and enjoy. The snorkeling gear, delicious lunch, and friendly crew make it feel like a true escape. Plus, the opportunity to see Tayrona’s bays from the water offers a unique vantage point, giving you a fresh appreciation for these coastal treasures.

A possible consideration? The sea ride can be bumpy, especially on the way out, which might not suit everyone. It’s best for travelers comfortable with a bit of wave action and looking for a relaxed, scenic day. This tour is especially well-suited for those who want to experience the beauty of Tayrona without the hassle of long hikes or multiple transfers—perfect for families, beach lovers, or anyone short on time but eager to see the highlights from the sea.

Key Points

• Comfortable and scenic boat ride across Tayrona’s bays with minimal walking.
• Includes snorkeling, snacks, and a seafront lunch, offering great value.
• Passes through picturesque spots like Taganga and Garnet, adding to the experience.
• Small group size (maximum 16) ensures personalized attention.
• Bumpy seas on the outbound trip might be challenging for some.
• Authentic beaches and wildlife at stops like the old mother river mouth.

An Authentic Sea View of Tayrona’s Best Beaches

Imagine cruising along the coast with the Sierra Nevada mountains framing the horizon, the wind softly tousling your hair, and the shimmering waters inviting you to relax. This is exactly what the Tayrona by sea tour offers. Starting at Santa Marta’s marina, you board a comfortable speedboat, setting off at 8:30 am for an adventure that covers the most stunning beaches of Tayrona Park with a focus on ease and scenic beauty.

You’ll love the personalized touch of the crew, who provide snacks, bottled water, and local fish lunch, allowing you to focus on the views and the moment. The small group size (up to 16 travelers) means a more intimate experience—no overcrowding—allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery and snorkel in peace.

While the journey is mostly smooth, some reviews mention a bumpy ride out, especially on the way to Cinto. This is quite common with open sea trips, and if you’re prone to seasickness, a bit of preparation might be wise. That said, many find the return trip calmer and the overall experience worthwhile.

In short, this tour is perfect for those who want to see the beaches from a different angle, enjoy some snorkeling, and relax without the fatigue of walking or hiking. It’s especially good for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate good value for money and authentic scenery.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Meeting at Santa Marta Marina

The day begins at 8:30 am at Carrera 1 #22-93. From here, you’ll hop onto the boat, setting out toward the end of Tayrona Park, specifically Cinto Bay. The boat ride takes around 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views of crystal-clear waters and sierra Nevada peaks in the distance.

Cinto Bay and Its Natural Wonders

Upon arrival, you can walk along a paradisiacal beach, sunbathe, snorkel, or explore the Old Mother—a river mouth teeming with crabs and other wildlife. Several reviewers love this stop, describing it as a peaceful paradise, perfect for swimming and relaxing away from crowds.

Playa Cristal: Transparent Waters and Delicious Lunch

Around midday, you’ll head to Playa Cristal, renowned for its extremely clear waters—a perfect spot for snorkeling. Many reviewers mention the lunch by the sea here as a highlight; a fish of the day, fresh and flavorful, served with a side of authentic Colombian hospitality. You get enough time for a swim, snorkel, and to soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

Concha Beach and Other Stops

In the afternoon, the boat passes by other scenic spots like Garnet, Chengue, and Gayraca, each offering unique views and photo opportunities. Some reviews highlight the calm, unspoiled beauty of these places, making it clear that this tour offers a mix of popular and lesser-known spots.

Return and Reflection

Around 3 pm, the boat begins its return, giving you a chance to reflect on a day filled with stunning scenery, lively marine life, and relaxed beach vibes. Many travelers remark on how seamless the flow of the day is, thanks to the attentive crew.

What You’ll Experience

The Beaches and Snorkeling

Each stop offers a different vibe—Cinto’s seclusion, the crystal waters of Playa Cristal, and the more relaxed Concha. Several reviews praise the quality of snorkeling, with colorful fish and near-shore reefs. The snorkeling gear is included, and many say it’s a great way to get close to marine life without strenuous effort.

Food and Refreshments

Lunch is included, typically fish served by the water, along with snacks and bottled water. Reviewers frequently mention the deliciousness of the food, with some calling it “the best food on a tour” they’ve had. The crew also provides water and snacks throughout the day, keeping everyone refreshed.

Scenic Views and Wildlife

From the boat, you’ll see Taganga, a fishing village, and pass through Garnet and Chengue, spots less frequented by travelers but equally photogenic. Travelers enjoy the panoramic perspectives of the bay, mountains, and lush coastline that you simply don’t get from land-based hikes.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Ease of access to multiple beaches without hiking.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention.
• Excellent value considering the inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and water.
• Beautiful scenery from the water, especially with Sierra Nevada as a backdrop.
• Authentic beaches and wildlife that aren’t overcrowded.

Cons

• The sea ride can be bumpy on the way out, which could be uncomfortable for some.
• Coordination and communication about the exact meeting point and boat name has been problematic for some travelers, so attention to detail is needed.
• Timing might be slightly long at the first two beaches, leaving some exhausted by the third.
• Limited to good weather days, as poor weather cancels the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat-based tour appeals most to travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with minimal walking. It’s ideal for those who love beach scenery, snorkeling, and fresh seafood. Families with children, couples seeking a romantic escape, or solo travelers eager for a comfortable adventure will find this a worthwhile choice.

If you’re short on time but want to see multiple beaches and experience Tayrona’s coastline, this tour offers that in a convenient package. Just be prepared for some sea swell, and check your comfort level with boat rides.

The Sum Up

Tayrona by sea offers a refreshing and accessible way to experience some of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches without the physical strain of hiking. The combination of scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and delicious local food makes for a well-rounded day. The small group size and friendly crew ensure personalized attention, making this a comfortable and authentic experience.

While the bumpy sea and communication issues about the meeting point** are points to consider, most travelers find the views, beaches, and relaxed vibe more than worth it. It’s especially suitable for those who want to maximize beach time and see the coastline’s beauty from a fresh angle.

If you love the idea of sailing through turquoise waters, relaxing on quiet beaches, and snorkeling amidst vibrant fish, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip to Santa Marta. It’s a cost-effective, scenic, and memorable way to enjoy the best of Tayrona’s seaside.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive at the marina?
You should plan to arrive a little before 8:30 am to ensure you’re ready for the departure. Some reviews mention confusion about the meeting point, so arriving early helps avoid last-minute stress.

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides snorkeling equipment, snacks, a fish lunch, bottled water, and entrance to the marina. The small group size and friendly crew enhance the experience.

Are there any restrictions or special requirements?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, if you’re prone to seasickness, the bumpy ride might be an issue. Check your comfort level with open sea boat trips.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, many reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially since it involves minimal walking and short stops. Just consider sea sickness potential.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof footwear if you want to walk along the beaches. Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen for snorkeling.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—so keep an eye on the forecast.

This boat tour of Tayrona’s beaches combines scenic beauty, authentic encounters, and comfort—making it a fantastic choice for those wanting to enjoy Colombia’s coastline with ease.