Cartagena: 5 Islands Boat Tour with Lunch, Snorkeling, & Bar

Cartagena: 5 Islands Boat Tour with Lunch, Snorkeling, & Bar
Location: Rosario Islands, Colombia
Country: Colombia
Rating: 3.6 / 5 (38 reviews)
Price: $149 per person
Supplier: Cartagena Adventures
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A quick glance at this full-day adventure

This 11.5-hour tour whisks you from Cartagena’s hotel zones — Bocagrande or Laguito — across the bay to explore 5 stunning islands in the Rosario archipelago. Led by guides who earn praise for their friendliness and knowledge, you’ll visit historic sites, snorkel in natural pools, enjoy a Caribbean-style lunch, and end the day with a magical bioluminescent plankton display at night.

What we love about this experience? First, it offers an excellent balance of nature, history, and relaxation, all packed into one day. The boat ride itself is a highlight, giving you sweeping views of Cartagena’s skyline and coastline. Second, the chance to snorkel in clear waters and see the plankton glow in the dark makes it a unique outing you can’t easily replicate elsewhere.

One consideration is the long day, which might be tiring for some. The tour involves a lot of moving parts, and the ride back can be less comfortable if the bus is crowded or the driver is hurried. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, cultural exploration, and natural wonders, especially those who find value in guided storytelling and authentic island experiences.

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Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from major hotel areas
• Highlights are snorkeling, island visits, Caribbean lunch, and bioluminescent plankton
• Guided in English and Spanish by knowledgeable guides
• Long but rewarding day with lots of opportunities for photos and relaxation
• Limited luggage allowed, so pack light
• Weather-proof activity — takes place rain or shine

Exploring Cartagena’s Islands – What to Expect

The Journey Begins – From Hotel to the Bay

The adventure starts early, around 7:30 am, with pickup from your hotel in El Laguito or Bocagrande. This initial stretch by bus lasts about 20 minutes and gets you to Pegasus Pier, where the boat awaits. The ride across the Bay of Cartagena offers a panoramic view of the city’s skyline, with the chance to glimpse Bocachica, the island where Cartagena’s first fortification was built. It’s the perfect way to get in the mood for the day ahead, feeling the warm Caribbean breeze and seeing the waters that have sustained this port for centuries.

Rosario Islands: The First Stops

The main island, Isla Grande, is a highlight, especially because of its historical ties — notably, the mansion built by Pablo Escobar. Tourists rave about this stop, with one reviewer mentioning, “We visited Isla Grande, famously known for Escobar’s mansion and a wrecked plane.” It’s a mix of history and fun photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll visit a natural pool at San Martín de Pajarales, where snorkel gear is provided. The water here is calm, clear, and perfect for observing marine life. We appreciated the chance to see underwater life with snorkel gear included, although some reviews note that goggles are the only equipment provided, so bringing your own might be worthwhile if you want to maximize your experience.

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Lunch on Cholón Island – Caribbean Flavors and Festivities

After some morning exploring, the group relaxes at Cholón Island, known for its lively vibe and beachside eateries. The included Caribbean lunch is a welcome break, with options like grilled chicken, fried fish, or vegetarian choices. Expect a bustling scene with music from boats and yachts, creating a festive atmosphere. One review mentioned that “the water was beautiful and the food was decent,” but also noted flies at the last island, so don’t expect a pristine picnic every time.

Agua Azul Island and Nighttime Magic

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to Agua Azul Island, famous for its crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing among serene waters. Here, the guide will encourage you to appreciate the natural beauty—perfect for a quick dip or some sunbathing.

As evening approaches, you’ll head to a quieter beach where you’ll witness the bioluminescent plankton light show. This part of the tour is often highlighted as a unique, almost otherworldly experience. The glowing plankton—visible in the dark—offers a gentle reminder of nature’s surprises, and many travelers find it to be a highlight of their trip, despite some finding the glow less intense than expected.

Return and Reflection

The day wraps up with a bus ride back to your hotel, but not without some mixed reviews. One guest described the return as “awful,” citing crowded buses and a careless driver who argued about the drop-off location. It’s a reminder that, like many group tours, logistics can sometimes be less smooth than the adventure itself.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Initial Transfer

Starting early ensures you avoid the heat and crowds. The pick-up from El Laguito or Bocagrande is straightforward, with clear instructions to be ready in the hotel lobby about 10 minutes before departure. This part of the trip sets the tone — expect a comfortable bus ride and a chance to chat with fellow travelers.

Sailing Around the Bay

The boat ride is a key highlight—sailing around Cartagena’s bay offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, historic forts, and the surrounding islands. It’s a chance to relax on deck, enjoy the breeze, and snap photos. The boat is described as a “sport boat,” which suggests a lively, energetic atmosphere, especially if music is involved.

Island Stops

Isla Grande stands out, especially for its connection to Colombia’s history with Escobar. Visitors often mention the wreckage of Escobar’s private plane as a noteworthy sight. The stop here is relatively short but packed with photo opportunities and history.

San Martín de Pajarales snorkeling is another favorite. The “natural pool” setting is calm and inviting, making it ideal for families or less experienced snorkelers. The included gear (goggles and life vests) provides convenience, though some reviews suggest bringing your own gear for better comfort.

Cholón Island offers the most lively scene, with a Caribbean lunch and music. The lively atmosphere is a stark contrast to the peaceful waters of Agua Azul, providing variety in your day.

Water and Nighttime Activities

Agua Azul Island is the perfect setting for a dip, with crystal-clear waters that contrast sharply with the lush greenery around. It’s a great spot for relaxation before the sun sets.

The bioluminescent plankton show is a special treat that many travelers cite as unforgettable. You’ll need to stay at the beach as night falls, and depending on the plankton’s activity, the glow can be subtle or quite vibrant.

Practicalities and Considerations

Price and Value

At $149 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day filled with diverse experiences. When you consider the included lunch, snorkeling gear, hotel pickup and drop-off, and guided commentary, the cost appears reasonable—especially for travelers wanting a full-day, guided tour that combines history, nature, and local culture.

Duration and Pace

The 11.5-hour schedule is long but packed. Expect early mornings, active parts of the day, and a lengthy ride back. If you’re tired or not used to long tours, plan some downtime afterward.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While specific group sizes aren’t detailed, the mention of crowded buses during the return suggests a fairly large group. If you prefer quieter, more intimate experiences, this might not be your ideal choice.

Weather and Wear

The tour runs rain or shine, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof clothing if needed. The focus on outdoor activities means weather will influence your experience—rain might make snorkeling or boat rides less enjoyable, but the scenery still remains impressive.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Reviews paint a balanced picture. Some praise the knowledgeable guides—one called out “Carman, who was amazing”—and the stunning views along the way. Others, however, point out logistical hiccups, especially during the bus ride back. The consensus is that the highlight is the natural beauty and snorkeling, but the long day requires a certain level of patience and flexibility.

One reviewer shared, “The water was beautiful but they only give you goggles for snorkeling,” implying a potential area for improvement. Still, overall, travelers seem to find the experience worthwhile, especially if they enjoy a lively, full-day adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who seek a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It suits those who don’t mind long days and want to maximize their island experience without worrying about logistics. The mix of historic sights, natural beauty, and party-like atmosphere on Cholón makes it appealing to a diverse range of visitors.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Cartagena, or if you love watersports combined with cultural insights, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of what the Rosario Islands have to offer. However, if you prefer very quiet, exclusive experiences or are sensitive to long bus rides, you might want to explore other options.

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

All in all, this full-day boat tour packs a lot of value into a single experience. You’ll get to see some of Cartagena’s most intriguing islands, learn about local history, snorkel in pristine waters, and end your day under a glowing night sky. The cost includes quite a bit—good guides, transport, meals, and access to natural wonders.

It’s a great choice for those eager to explore beyond the city, especially if you’re keen on mixing history with nature and don’t mind a humid, active day. The chance to see bioluminescent plankton at night makes it a standout, especially for travelers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime natural spectacle.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins around 7:30 am, with pickup from your hotel in El Laguito or Bocagrande, so be ready in the lobby about 10 minutes early.

What’s included in the price?
Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, a welcome shrimp cocktail, a Caribbean lunch with multiple options, snorkeling gear, and life vests. Guides speak both English and Spanish.

Can I bring my own gear?
The tour provides goggles and snorkeling vests, but if you prefer your own, bringing personal gear might enhance your comfort.

Is there any age restriction?
While not explicitly stated, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or people over 95 years old, likely due to the long duration and physical activities.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. Be prepared for outdoor conditions, and consider waterproof clothing or sunscreen.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride across the bay takes about 20 minutes, offering scenic views and a chance to relax before the island stops.

To sum it up, this Cartagena 5 Islands Tour offers a lively, immersive day that balances adventure, history, and natural beauty. It’s best suited for travelers eager to experience a bit of everything without fussing over logistics, and who enjoy meaningful guides, stunning scenery, and a splash of fun. For those craving a full taste of Caribbean island life and the chance to witness bioluminescent waters, it’s a trip worth considering.

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