Cartagena: 5 Island Boat Tour with Night Bioluminescent Stop

Cartagena: 5 Island Boat Tour with Night Bioluminescent Stop — a full-day adventure priced at $100 per person, lasting approximately 13 hours, promises a lively mix of scenic views, snorkeling, and unique nightlife. This tour takes you on a speedboat across the Rosario Islands, stopping at stunning spots like Isla Grande, Playa Blanca, and Cholón, with a special chance to witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton at night.

What we love: First, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters surrounded by vibrant coral reefs at Isla Grande. Second, the magical experience of seeing the plankton illuminate in the dark — a rare natural phenomenon that feels almost surreal.

A consideration: The tour schedule can be a bit tight, with some reviews mentioning delays and extended stops at certain locations, which might cut into free time or make the day feel rushed.

Who it suits: This tour is ideal for travelers eager for a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and unique light experiences who don’t mind a packed schedule and are comfortable with long boat rides. It’s especially good for those wanting a rundown of Cartagena’s nearby islands with guided commentary.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes visits to Isla Grande, Playa Blanca, Cholón, and Barú, with snorkeling, sightseeing, and cultural stops.
• Unique experiences: Snorkeling in clear waters and witnessing bioluminescent plankton at night.
• Packed schedule: With multiple stops and activities, expect a long, full-day adventure.
• Guide and facilities: Guided tours with some feedback praising attentive staff and knowledgeable guides.
• Price and value: At $100, the tour offers a lot — transportation, activities, meals vouchers, and special experiences — but some travelers find the schedule tight.
• Potential delays: Some reviews mention late departures and extra charges not initially disclosed, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: A Closer Look at the 5 Island Boat Tour

Starting out from Cartagena

The tour kicks off at TODOMAR CHL MARINA SAS, a central point where most travelers meet for their adventure. From there, a speedboat whisks you out into the islands—expect around 20 minutes of lively boat rides as you leave the city’s bustling port behind. The boat is typically comfortable enough for a full group, but a couple of reviews mention that the van back can be cramped, especially after a long day.

First stop: Bocachica

Within about 45 minutes, you arrive at Bocachica, a scenic spot where you can snap some photos and enjoy views on the way. It’s a quick visit, primarily for photos and soaking up the coastal atmosphere, but it offers a glimpse into local life and history.

Isla Grande: Snorkeling and Exploration

Next, after a 30-minute boat ride, you land on Isla Grande—the highlight for many. Here, the clear waters and coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling, with about 45 minutes allocated for the activity. Travelers often rave about the coral areas, describing them as vibrant and lively, making it an ideal spot for underwater photography.

You’ll also have some free time for walking, shopping, or relaxing on the beach. The tour includes a visit and shopping opportunities, giving you a chance to pick up souvenirs or simply enjoy the laid-back island vibe.

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Cholón: A Vibrant Beach Village

After Isla Grande, another short boat ride brings you to Cholón, a lively beach town famous for its party scene and relaxed atmosphere. Here, you’ll have about 50 minutes to explore, take photos, or grab a quick drink. Some travelers say Cholón is perfect for those looking to experience local beach culture, but if you’re after a quiet spot, it might be a bit bustling.

Playa Blanca on Baru Island: The Big Break

The longest stop — approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes — is at Playa Blanca. Known for its powdery white sand and inviting waters, it’s a popular spot for relaxing, swimming, or having lunch. The tour provides a lunch voucher of 30,000 pesos, which you can use at local eateries; many find this a good value, though some wish they had more time to explore the area fully.

This stop offers a guided tour and free time, so don’t expect a full day of quiet lounging if you want to explore beyond the beach. Several reviews mention that the wait time at Playa Blanca can feel long, and some wished they had known about the extended stay beforehand, so they could bring snacks or plan accordingly.

Barú: Snorkeling and Guided Tour

Back on the boat, a final stop at Barú gives you the chance to snorkel again or simply enjoy the views. The 85-minute visit includes a guided tour and the opportunity to see marine life up close, which many find rewarding.

Evening: The Bioluminescent Plankton

As the day winds down, the tour shifts focus to the nighttime plankton activity. This is often highlighted as the most magical part of the whole trip. The glowing plankton, caused by natural bioluminescence, lights up the dark waters in a way that feels almost otherworldly. It’s a peaceful, awe-inspiring moment that caps off the extensive day perfectly.

Return Journey

After the plankton experience, a final speedboat ride brings you back to Cartagena, arriving at the marina around 13 hours after departure. The journey can be tiring, especially with the long hours and multiple stops, but many find it worth it for the variety and unforgettable sights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers round-trip transportation in a sport boat, snorkeling equipment, and a boat trip to several key locations. Highlights include a visit to Bocachica fortress, the chance to swim and snorkel at Isla Grande and Barú, and a welcome cocktail on a private island. The lunch voucher provides good flexibility, allowing you to choose from a variety of local dishes.

However, some things are not included, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, extra drinks, towels, or additional food beyond the voucher. Travelers should bring their own sunscreen, towels, and valuables, as well as a willingness to participate in a busy schedule.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Timing and delays: Expect some schedule variability; a few reviews mention late departures and extra charges, so stay flexible.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, passport or ID.
• Age and mobility: Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with mobility issues due to the physical nature of boat rides and walking.
• Safety: The boat to plankton may not have lights, so be cautious if you’re sensitive to dark or movement.
• Snap happy: Bring waterproof cases for your phone or camera — the views and underwater scenes are worth capturing.
• Consider your pace: With long stops and tight timing, be ready for a full, energetic day.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

Many reviews mention attentive guides and beautiful sights. One reviewer appreciated that their guide, Angel, was “the most fun and attentive,” making the day more enjoyable despite some logistical hiccups. Others highlight the stunning views during the boat rides and the unique glow of the plankton, calling it “almost surreal.”

However, a few travelers experienced late departures and unforeseen extra charges, such as the 20,000 pesos fee not initially disclosed, which can be frustrating if you’re watching your budget. The boat to plankton without lights was a concern for some, but most agree that the highlights outweigh the inconveniences.

Final Thoughts

This full-day boat tour offers a richly varied glimpse into Cartagena’s nearby islands, combining scenic beauty, marine adventure, and a touch of magic with the bioluminescent plankton. It’s well-suited for those who want to see multiple spots in one day and are comfortable with a packed schedule. Expect lively boat rides, opportunities for snorkeling, and cultural stops like Bocachica and Cholón.

The price reflects a good range of inclusions, from transportation to meals and activities, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking value. Nevertheless, be prepared for some delays and extended stops, and bring everything you’ll need for a full day of fun outdoors.

If you’re after a memorable, action-packed day with a chance to witness one of nature’s most dazzling light shows, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just pack some patience, a sense of adventure, and your favorite waterproof gear.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 13 hours, including boat rides, stops, and the bioluminescent plankton activity.

What is included in the price?
Round-trip transportation, snorkeling equipment, visits to key islands, a welcome cocktail, a lunch voucher of 30,000 pesos, and the plankton activity are included.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, extra drinks, towels, and personal expenses are not included. There’s also a mention of a 20,000 pesos fee not specified upfront, so be prepared for possible additional charges.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 80 or 95 years old due to the physical aspects and boat rides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, passport or ID, and waterproof cases for your electronics.

Can I snorkel more than once?
The tour offers about 45 minutes of snorkeling at Isla Grande and additional snorkeling at Barú, so yes, it’s possible to enjoy multiple snorkeling opportunities.

What if I want to skip some stops?
Given the tight schedule, it’s best to accept that this is a full-day, guided experience planned to maximize sightseeing. Skipping stops isn’t typically an option.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour features a live guide in both English and Spanish, praised for their attentiveness and local knowledge.

In short, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and memorable way to explore Cartagena’s island scenery and marine wonders — perfect for those wanting a full, engaging day with a dash of magic at night.

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