Cartagena: 5 ISLANDS by speedboat with SNORKELING & LUNCH

Cartagena: 5 ISLANDS by Speedboat with Snorkeling & Lunch
Location: Bolívar, Colombia
Price: $96 per person
Duration: 7 hours
Rating: 2.8 / 5 (based on 4 reviews)

A quick snapshot of what this tour offers:

This 7-hour adventure takes you by high-speed sports boat across five stunning islands around Cartagena, including the famous Rosario Islands, Cholón, and Playa Tranquila. For $96, you get snorkeling, a Caribbean-style lunch, a shrimp cocktail, and visits to notable spots such as the Pablo Escobar plane wreck.

What we really appreciate about this experience: first, the variety of stops — from snorkeling in coral reefs to relaxing on quiet beaches, it offers a broad taste of the Caribbean’s beauty. Second, the scenic boat ride gives you a chance to enjoy panoramic views of Bocachica and feel the wind in your hair while speeding between islands.

One point worth considering: some reviews mention the tour feeling crowded and the loud music not aligning with travelers seeking peace and quiet. Plus, the timing of lunch can be a bit delayed, which could affect your day of relaxation.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want to see multiple islands in one day and don’t mind a lively, energetic atmosphere. If you’re looking for a tranquil, exclusive experience, you might prefer calmer or smaller-scale options.

Key Points

• Variety of destinations: Visit Rosario Islands, Cholón, Playa Tranquila, and the Pablo Escobar plane wreck.
• Snorkeling included: Explore vibrant coral reefs and underwater life in the Rosario Islands.
• Lively atmosphere: Expect loud music and a busy, crowded setting, which may not suit everyone.
• Seaside dining: Enjoy Caribbean lunch and shrimp cocktail, perfect for seafood lovers.
• Fast-paced transport: Speedboat rides provide exciting, scenic transfers but can be bumpy depending on sea conditions.
• Optional extras: You can add items like beer, cocktails, or a seafood casserole for an extra cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at the experience

Starting point and transportation

The tour begins with pickup from El Laguito, Bocagrande, or Centro, making it convenient for most visitors staying in Cartagena’s main hotel areas. Once aboard the luxury sports boat, you’ll notice that the speed is swift, sometimes bouncing over the waves—meaning a good sense of adventure is part of the ride.

The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering spectacular views of Bocachica and the coastline, setting the tone for an energetic day. Keep in mind, the boat can get wet, so packing a rain jacket or a change of clothes is a wise move, especially if you’re sensitive to splashes. The navigation is handled by an experienced sailor pilot, so while the ride can be bumpy, it’s generally safe.

First stops: Rosario Islands and snorkeling

The first major destination is the Rosario Islands, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. Here, you’ll have free time for snorkeling and photos, which is a real highlight. The reefs are vibrant, teeming with colorful fish, and ideal for underwater photography.

A notable feature is the submerged plane wreck—once owned by Pablo Escobar—which makes for a fascinating, if somewhat surreal, photo opportunity. Several reviewers mention this as a unique highlight; however, one reviewer noted that bad weather and rain can spoil underwater visibility, turning the experience muddy and less colorful.

Cholón: the lively island

Next up is Cholón, known for its party atmosphere. You’ll have about an hour here, which is enough to stroll, take photos, and soak in the lively vibe. Some reviews mention this stop feeling crowded and noisy, with loud music that might not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you’re seeking peace and quiet, Cholón probably isn’t the best fit.

But if you enjoy a fun, upbeat environment with live music and a casual beach scene, Cholón can be quite enjoyable. Be aware that this is a popular spot, so it’s often crowded with day-trippers.

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Baru Agua Azul and Playa Tranquila: beaches and relaxation

Following Cholón, you’ll visit Baru Agua Azul, where a 45-minute swim gives you a chance to cool off in calm, blue waters. This stretch tends to be quieter, and the shallow waters are perfect for relaxing or wading.

Finally, the tour spends about three hours at Playa Tranquila, a serene beach spot ideal for lounging and enjoying the natural beauty of the Caribbean. This is where the tour truly shines for those wanting some downtime amid stunning scenery. The reviews note that the beaches are more beautiful in places like Spain, but Playa Tranquila still offers a pleasant, laid-back end to a busy day.

Here, you can also enjoy your Caribbean lunch—a highlight for many—featuring local flavors and fresh seafood. The seafood cocktail gets positive remarks, but some travelers mention that lunch is served quite late, around 2:30 p.m., which might be a downside if you’re hungry earlier.

Return journey and considerations

The final boat ride back to Muelle de los Pegasos takes about 45 minutes, with more scenic views to enjoy. It’s a good time to relax and reflect on the day.

Authentic insights from reviews

While many travelers appreciate the variety and scenic beauty, some note the crowded feeling and loud music detract from the experience. One traveler from the U.S. said, “The music was very loud, not what we wanted even though we paid a lot for the excursion,” highlighting that the atmosphere may not suit those seeking tranquility.

Another reviewer from Brazil remarked, “The tour is sold as a VIP experience and it is not,” emphasizing that the comfort level might be less luxurious than expected, despite the luxury boat.

A traveler from the Dominican Republic appreciated a “nice tour, but quite crowded,” and pointed out that lunch was delayed, which could lead to some inconvenience.

The boat’s comfort and the scenic stops are appreciated, but the crowd and noise level are common points of critique.

Price and value analysis

At $96 per person, this tour offers a full day of diverse island experiences, including snorkeling, scenic boat rides, a Caribbean lunch, and visits to notable sites like the Pablo Escobar plane. For travelers looking to tick various boxes—adventure, scenery, and local flavor—it’s a decent deal.

However, if you’re seeking an intimate or quieter experience, the large group size might be a drawback. The additional cost for extras like cocktails or seafood casserole** can enhance the day but should be factored into your overall budget.

Who this tour is perfect for

If you enjoy energetic, lively outings with lots of variety and don’t mind a crowd or loud music, this tour can be a fantastic way to experience the Caribbean’s islands in one day. It’s well-suited for adventurous families, groups of friends, or anyone eager to see a bit of the vibrant local scene alongside natural beauty.

For travelers craving serenity, exclusivity, or quiet snorkeling spots, consider other options or smaller private tours.

Final thoughts

This 5 Islands speedboat tour in Cartagena offers a packed, adventurous day filled with beautiful scenery, snorkeling, lively stops, and delicious food. The scenic boat rides and variety of stops are real highlights, giving you a taste of the Caribbean’s diverse charms.

That said, loud music, crowds, and delayed meals can dampen the experience for some. If you’re adaptable and enjoy a bit of hustle and bustle, this tour provides good value and a memorable day.

On the other hand, if your ideal Caribbean escape is peaceful, with tranquil beaches and quiet snorkeling, you might want to explore other options or private charters.

In the end, this tour’s success depends on your expectations for atmosphere and your desire to see multiple islands in one trip. It’s a lively, energetic way to experience Cartagena’s coastal gems—perfect for those ready for a full, active day by the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes all water transport on a luxury speedboat, starting from pickup points in El Laguito, Bocagrande, or Centro.

How long is the boat ride between stops?
The boat rides typically last around 45 minutes each way, providing scenic views and a chance to enjoy the sea breeze.

What should I bring?
Be sure to bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, beachwear, and cash for extras. Because the boat gets wet, packing a rain jacket or change of clothes is advisable.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Caribbean lunch and shrimp cocktail are included, though some reviews mention lunch is served late, around 2:30 p.m.

Can I add extra items like drinks or seafood?
Yes, you can choose to add extras such as beer, cocktails, seafood casserole, or coconut water, at an additional cost.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women and older adults should participate at their own risk, as the boat can be bumpy and the activity involves maritime transport.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly stated, the experience appears to be quite popular, which may mean larger groups.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact visibility and overall enjoyment, especially for snorkeling. Check the weather forecast before booking, as rain can muddy underwater scenes.

In summary, this Cartagena island-hopping tour is best suited for active travelers craving a full day of scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and lively island stops. It offers a good balance of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities for photos, fun, and sampling local seafood. Just be prepared for a lively atmosphere with some crowding, and plan accordingly if you prefer peace and quiet.

You can check availability for your dates here: