Imagine setting out from the vibrant port of Cartagena, aboard a small, modern boat that promises comfort, great views, and a chance to escape the crowds. For around two hours, you’ll glide past historic military arsenals, coastal batteries, and secret coves, with the opportunity to jump into calm waters for swimming and snorkeling. Tours are limited to just 12 passengers, making this experience intimate and personal. Prices are fair, especially considering the inclusion of a drink—whether you prefer beer, wine, or water—and free snorkel gear.
What we love about this trip is how it balances scenic discovery with relaxation. The boat’s comfortable padded seats and the professional skipper ensure a smooth ride, and the route offers a chance to see Cartagena’s coastline from a unique perspective. Plus, the guided commentary in both Spanish and English makes it accessible to most travelers. The only consideration? As it’s a small boat with limited capacity, booking ahead is advisable to secure your spot. This tour suits those who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path spots, or anyone eager to combine sightseeing with a refreshing swim.
If you enjoy discovering lesser-known corners of a city’s coast, want a laid-back activity with light adventure, and appreciate expert guides, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value comfort, small-group intimacy, and a chance to swim in tranquil waters away from busy beaches. Families with non-swimmers or those with mobility limitations might find this trip less suitable, but otherwise, it offers a memorable slice of Cartagena’s coastal beauty.
Key Points
- Intimate Experience: Small boat with only 12 passengers for personalized attention.
- Authentic Views: Passes by Cartagena’s military and coastal landmarks, offering a unique perspective.
- Relaxing Swim Stops: Calm, uncrowded spots ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Comfort & Convenience: Modern boat with padded seats, WC, and a bar with drinks included.
- Professional Guidance: Commentary in Spanish and English from a skilled skipper.
- Flexible & Practical: 2-hour trip, with optional additional purchases and easy cancellation.
Exploring the Loops of Cartagena Bay
This boat route is a fantastic way to see Cartagena’s coastline without the hassle of crowded beaches or over-hyped tourist spots. Departing from the Dársena de Botes, right next to the iconic whale tail statue, the trip quickly reveals the city’s maritime history through its passing landmarks—like the Military Arsenal and Navantia Shipyards. These are not just pretty sights; they tell stories of Cartagena’s shipbuilding heritage and military importance.
As the boat glides along, your guide (who speaks both Spanish and English) will point out coastal batteries such as the Christmas Fort, Punta de la Podadera, and Isla de la Torrosa. These sites, often overlooked by larger tour groups, add a layer of historical intrigue to your scenic journey. We loved the way the guide’s commentary brought these landmarks to life, making the experience both relaxing and educational.
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The Highlight: Swimming and Snorkeling in Secluded Spots
After cruising past the historic sites, the boat anchors in a quiet, picturesque area with calm waters—perfect for a swim. You’ll have the chance to snorkel with provided masks and tubes, exploring under the surface in a tranquil environment free of crowds. As one reviewer put it, “Great activity, very comfortable boat and welcoming and very friendly guide. Honestly very satisfied and pleasantly surprised by this boat trip.” The feeling of swimming in clear, peaceful waters, surrounded by Cartagena’s natural beauty, is genuinely refreshing.
A Well-Equipped, Comfortable Boat
The boat itself deserves praise. It’s modern, with padded seating that ensures you sit comfortably during the ride. Facilities include a WC and a bar, where you can order additional drinks or snacks if desired. The included drink—be it a soft drink, water, or an alcoholic choice—adds a nice touch of hospitality, especially after a quick swim.
What’s Not Included and What to Bring
While the tour is comprehensive, it doesn’t include transportation to the departure point, so plan accordingly. You should bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps some sun protection, as you’ll be out on the water for two hours. Ditch high heels, baby strollers, smoking, drones, and gum—these aren’t allowed and help maintain a relaxed, safe environment.
More Great Tours NearbyItinerary in Detail
Start Point: Dársena de Botes, Cartagena port, near the whale tail statue. From here, the boat departs at your chosen time, with availability to check ahead.
First Stops: The boat glides past Cartagena’s significant military sites and coastal batteries—places that reveal the city’s strategic importance over centuries.
Landmarks Seen: The Military Arsenal, Navantia Shipyards, Christmas Fort, Punta de la Podadera, La Algamecas, and Isla de la Torrosa. These landmarks are fascinating to observe from the water, especially with commentary explaining their history and purpose.
Anchor and Swim: The boat finds a tranquil spot, often a cove or a bay with calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You might find this the most memorable part, as it offers a peaceful respite from city sightseeing.
Return: After about an hour at anchor, the boat heads back to the port, wrapping up your two-hour coastal escape.
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The Authentic Experience: Why It Works
This trip offers a genuine taste of Cartagena’s coastline, away from the typical crowded beaches or overly commercial tours. The small group size fosters an intimate atmosphere, which guides like Alberto (according to reviews) enhance with knowledgeable commentary. The balance of scenic cruising, historical sights, and free time for swimming makes it a well-rounded adventure.
The reviews highlight how pleasantly surprised many travelers are by the comfort of the boat and the friendliness of the crew. One reviewer mentioned, “Very comfortable boat and welcoming and very friendly guide. Honestly very satisfied.” The emphasis on comfort, combined with the opportunity to explore lesser-known areas, makes this trip ideal for travelers seeking both relaxation and discovery.
The Value of a Small Group
With only 12 passengers, you’ll have plenty of space to relax, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or crowded. This setup is especially appealing if you prefer quieter, more personal experiences rather than large, noisy tours.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic taste of Cartagena’s coast. If you enjoy discovering hidden spots, swimming in quiet waters, and listening to expert guides, you’ll appreciate what this trip offers. It’s especially suitable for those with a decent level of mobility (not wheelchair accessible), non-swimmers, and anyone who values comfort and small-group intimacy.
Families with children who are confident swimmers should be fine, but those with very young kids or mobility concerns might find the small boat layout and swim stops less suitable. The tour’s duration and limited capacity make it ideal for a brief but meaningful coastal escape.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?
For a modest price, you gain access to Cartagena’s lesser-known coastal gems, a comfortable boat ride, and the chance to swim in peaceful, uncrowded waters. The guided commentary adds educational value, making the experience both relaxing and enriching. We found it to be a perfect blend of scenic discovery, historical insight, and leisure.
This trip suits travelers looking for a small, authentic adventure rather than a crowded, commercialized cruise. It’s especially great for those who love to combine sightseeing with a refreshing swim, or for anyone wanting a different perspective on Cartagena’s coastline. The friendly guides and well-equipped boat ensure a relaxed, enjoyable outing that leaves you with a real sense of connection to the area’s natural beauty.
FAQ
How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that won’t overextend your schedule.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Dársena de Botes in Cartagena port, right next to the whale tail statue, and returns to the same point.
Is there a guide on the boat?
Yes, a professional skipper provides commentary in both Spanish and English, enhancing your understanding of the sights.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. No high heels, baby strollers, smoking, drones, or gum allowed.
Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Non-swimmers might find the swim stop less appealing, as the activity involves swimming and snorkeling. It’s best suited for those comfortable in the water.
Can I purchase additional drinks or food?
Yes, extra items can be bought during the trip at the boat’s bar, but the included drink covers your initial refreshment.
If you’re after a peaceful, scenic boat ride with the bonus of swimming in undiscovered spots, this Cartagena Bay route delivers. It’s a perfect choice for travelers craving authentic encounters and small-group comfort, all while enjoying Cartagena’s stunning coastline from a new vantage point.
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