Cartagena: 3 Exclusive Destinations in the Rosario Islands

Cartagena: 3 Exclusive Destinations in the Rosario Islands

Imagine spending a full day on three private Caribbean islands, with crystal-clear waters, soft sandy beaches, and a chance to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs. This tour, costing around $120 per person, lasts about 7 hours and covers some of the most serene spots in the Rosario Islands. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll enjoy a combination of history, adventure, and pure beachside relaxation.

What we appreciate most about this experience is how it balances a scenic boat ride with genuine opportunities to unwind—whether lounging at Isla Bela or snorkeling in submerged airplanes. The included typical lunch offers a taste of local flavors, making it a well-rounded day. On the flip side, the tour’s pace can be tight, especially if you’re hoping for more leisure time at each stop.

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a taste of Caribbean paradise with a touch of history and adventure, especially for those who enjoy guided excursions that cover several destinations in one day. It’s ideal for travelers who want an active yet relaxing escape from Cartagena’s city buzz.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private Island Experience: Visit three exclusive islands, avoiding crowded tourist spots.
• Snorkeling in Vibrant Reefs: Explore coral reefs and submerged planes, ideal for underwater photography enthusiasts.
• Historical Highlights: Scenic tour of Bocachica Island and San Fernando Fort offers a glimpse into Colombia’s colonial past.
• Relaxing Beach Breaks: Spend plenty of time lounging on pristine beaches and enjoying a typical local lunch.
• Guided Tour: Led by bilingual guides who provide insightful commentary and assistance.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Many activities, snacks, and lunch are included, offering good value for the price.

A Detailed Look at the Rosario Islands Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: From Cartagena to the Islands

Starting your day with hotel pickup (valid for certain areas like Bocagrande and the historic center), you’ll be whisked away to the dock. From there, the real fun begins as you board a sport boat—a faster and more exhilarating option than traditional ferries. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering panoramic views of the coastline and a taste of the open sea.

The first leg takes about 15 minutes to reach Bocachica Island, a spot that offers more than just a scenic view. On the way, you might catch glimpses of a colonial fortress, the San Fernando Fort, which adds a touch of history to your trip. This brief stop, guided by your knowledgeable guide, sets the stage for the day ahead.

Bocachica Island and San Fernando Fort: A Scenic Welcome

The scenic views of the fort are worth the quick stop, providing a sense of Cartagena’s colonial past. While not the main focus of the tour, it’s a good introduction to the area’s history and a photo opportunity. Many travelers appreciate the insights provided by the guides, who explain the significance of the fort and the island’s strategic importance.

More Great Tours Nearby

Isla Bela: The Relaxation Spot

Next, you head to Isla Bela, where comfort and calm take the lead. This island features oceanfront accommodations that invite you to unwind in a beautiful setting. Travelers often comment on how relaxing this spot is, making it an ideal place to lounge, swim, or simply soak up the sun. The beachfront vibe is complemented by the clear waters, perfect for a quick dip or just a lazy afternoon.

Snorkeling with a View of Underwater Planes

One of the tour’s unique features is the opportunity to snorkel in a submerged airplane located in a coral reef. The waters here are remarkably clear, offering fantastic marine views. Experienced snorkelers or first-timers alike find this activity engaging—an unusual chance to explore both vibrant reefs and a sunken aircraft, creating a sense of an underwater adventure.

Lunch on Mulata Island

At Mulata Island, a typical Colombian lunch awaits, served in a relaxed setting. This break is a highlight for many, who enjoy the flavorful local dishes amid tropical surroundings. The two-hour stop allows ample time to eat, chat, and enjoy the island’s tranquility. Many reviews praise the freshness of the food and the friendly service, making it a satisfying culinary experience.

Isla Ibbiza Beach Club and Relaxation

The final stop of the day is the Ibbiza Beach Club, where a non-alcoholic welcome drink sets the tone for relaxation. Here, you can unwind in a paradisiacal environment, with plenty of space to bask on the sands or take a quick swim. The timing of about 1 hour and 40 minutes is enough to feel the holiday vibe, without feeling rushed—or exhausted.

Returning to Cartagena

After soaking in the last of the sun and sea, you’ll board the boat for the 45-minute cruise back to the port, ending your day at Muelle de los Pegazos. The return trip offers more scenic views, giving you a well-rounded experience of the coastline and the Caribbean waters.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

We loved the carefully curated itinerary that balances sightseeing, cultural education, and leisure. The guided panoramic tour of Bocachica and San Fernando Fort offers context about Cartagena’s colonial history, enriching the experience beyond just beach days.

The snorkeling activities are another highlight—especially the submerged airplane, which adds a playful element to underwater exploration. Many travelers mention the friendly, bilingual guides who help you navigate the water, share interesting facts, and make everyone feel comfortable.

The all-inclusive lunch and welcome drinks add value, especially considering the remote locations and the effort involved in organizing such a trip. Plus, the small group feel helps maintain a personal, relaxed atmosphere, avoiding the crowded feeling some tours can have.

A Few Considerations

One possible downside is the tight schedule, especially if you prefer lingering longer at each island. The 7-hour duration means you’ll spend a good portion of time on the water and moving between spots. If you’re someone who prefers more relaxed, unstructured days, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the boat ride, while exciting, can be bumpy on windy days, so expect some splashes!

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day in the Rosario Islands without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for those interested in history, snorkeling, and beach relaxation in one package. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate guided experiences will find the bilingual guides helpful and friendly.

If you’re looking for a lively, activity-filled day that covers multiple destinations in one go, this tour hits the mark. However, if you crave more flexibility or extended beach downtime, you might prefer a more open-ended visit to the islands.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic introduction to the Rosario Islands, blending history, marine adventure, and pure beachside bliss. The well-organized itinerary, combined with knowledgeable guides and inclusive amenities, delivers solid value for the price.

It’s a day that promises beautiful scenery, underwater surprises, and delicious local flavors—a true Caribbean escape, packed into just a single day. Perfect for travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation without the stress of organizing multiple activities on their own.

While it may be a bit fast-paced for those wanting extended leisure time, it’s an excellent choice for anyone eager to explore key spots in the Rosario Islands with a friendly, professional guide at your side.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup (in specified areas), sport boat transportation, port tax, a bilingual guide, snorkeling opportunities, a typical lunch, a welcome drink at the beach club, and entrance to the beach club.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is about 7 hours, with starting times available depending on your booking date.

Are there snorkeling options?
Yes, you will snorkel in coral reef areas and explore a submerged airplane, with guided assistance provided.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Spanish?
Absolutely—guides are bilingual, offering explanations in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and possibly a waterproof camera. Remember that included activities are in natural settings, so a light change of clothes might be handy for after snorkeling.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Ultimately, this tour offers a well-rounded Caribbean experience, combining history, underwater marvels, and beachside relaxation in one convenient package. It’s perfect for those eager to see the Rosario Islands’ highlights without the hassle of detailed planning—just bring your sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby