Cartagena de Indias: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise

Cartagena de Indias: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise

Imagine drifting along the calm waters of Cartagena’s bay as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the city’s skyline. For just $30 per person, this 2-hour sunset cruise takes you from the Bodeguita pier in front of the historic walled city, offering a relaxing yet lively way to end your day. Onboard a spacious, comfortable yacht, you’ll enjoy scenic views, gentle music, and a touch of romance—whether you’re traveling as a couple or with friends.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines spectacular scenery with comfort and convenience. The cruise’s route covers diverse neighborhoods and islands, giving you a broad perspective of Cartagena’s beautiful coastline. Plus, the inclusion of a non-alcoholic cocktail or soft drink and a tasty appetizer makes the experience feel both special and accessible.

One consideration to keep in mind is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to make your way to the departure point at Bodeguita Dock. This is a minor hassle but worth noting if you’re staying outside the city center. This cruise is best suited for travelers wanting a peaceful yet picturesque way to enjoy Cartagena’s evening, especially if they appreciate good views, relaxing ambiance, and a touch of Latin rhythms.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: See Cartagena’s skyline glow as the sun sets over the bay.
• Comfortable Yacht: Spacious, well-maintained boat with great seating options, including nets over the water.
• Inclusive Snacks & Drinks: One complimentary drink and appetizer are included, with options to purchase more at the bar.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Calm, musical environment with Latin and lounge vibes, perfect for couples or friends.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.
• No Hotel Transfer: Guests need to arrange their own transport to the dock.

A Detailed Look at the Cartagena Sunset Cruise

Location and Embarkation

The cruise departs from Bodeguita Dock (Door #1), situated directly in front of the historic walled city. The check-in begins at 4:30 PM, and arriving early is recommended to ensure a smooth boarding process. The boat itself is a large, well-cared-for catamaran—more spacious than some might expect—and offers plenty of seating, including the popular netted areas over the water where you can lounge as you take in the views.

Route and Itinerary

The cruise’s route is designed to showcase some of Cartagena’s most scenic and iconic neighborhoods. Starting with a sail between Manga and Bocagrande, you’ll immediately get a sense of the city’s modern skyline contrasting with historic charm. Then, the boat cruises between Castillo Grande and Manzanillo Island, giving you a glimpse of lush islands dotting the bay.

The highlight is sailing near El Laguito and Tierrabomba Island, where the sunset creates a mirror-like reflection on the water, and the city begins to light up. As the boat returns, the city lights illuminate the skyline, creating a breathtaking backdrop for photos and reflection.

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Atmosphere and Experience

Most reviews highlight the relaxing and organized environment aboard the yacht. Music is a key part of the vibe—many mention the Latin beats and lounge tunes, which transition nicely into the sunset’s calmness. One reviewer said, “Music was great. The welcome drink was a nice touch and we liked having access to a bar if we wanted more drinks.” It’s not a wild party boat but a laid-back setting ideal for unwinding and enjoying the scenery.

Drinks and Snacks

Included in the ticket price is a choice of beer, wine, or a soft drink, plus a delicious appetizer. Several reviews mention the snacks as being “very yummy,” though some note that additional drinks are available for purchase using credit or debit cards—no cash accepted on board. The bar offers a full bar for those wanting more than the included drink, which many found convenient and reasonably priced.

Comfort and Quality

Travelers consistently praise the size and cleanliness of the boat, with some mentioning that it exceeded expectations. The bathrooms are also well-maintained, which adds to the overall comfort. The boat’s size means it never feels crowded, and there’s ample space to move around, take photos, or just relax on the nets over the water as the sunset unfolds.

Value for Money

In a city known for its romantic views and lively nightlife, this cruise offers exceptional value. For only $30, you get a scenic cruise, a drink, an appetizer, and an hour or two of beautiful views. Many reviews emphasize how worth it this experience is, with some travelers saying they enjoyed it so much they booked additional excursions.

Who Will Love It?

This cruise appeals most to couples seeking a romantic, peaceful evening with stunning photo opportunities, but it’s also perfect for groups of friends wanting to enjoy good music, drinks, and scenic views. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of exploring the city or as a special way to kick off an evening out.

Why You Should Consider This Experience

The spectacular sunset views combined with a comfortable yacht make this a memorable and relatively affordable way to see Cartagena from a different perspective. The route covers key neighborhoods and islands, giving you a sense of the city’s coastal charm. The included drinks and snacks, along with good music, create a friendly, laid-back atmosphere that many travelers find charming.

While it’s not a party boat, the lively Latin vibes and the opportunity to sit on the nets over the water set this apart from more typical sightseeing tours. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the friendly crew and well-organized operation, meaning you can relax and enjoy the moment without worries.

This cruise is ideal if you want an authentic, scenic experience that’s easy to fit into your Cartagena itinerary. It’s especially good if you value relaxation, comfort, and beautiful scenery over high-energy entertainment.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the Bodeguita dock.

What time does the cruise start?
Boarding begins at 4:30 PM, with the cruise departing around 5:00 PM. Arriving early ensures smooth boarding.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes one drink (beer, wine, or soda), a small appetizer, and the docking fees. Additional drinks and bar services are available for purchase.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No, outside food or drinks are not allowed onboard. The cruise provides at least one complimentary drink and snack.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, but it’s wise to check specific needs with the provider when booking.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be altered slightly due to meteorological conditions. The crew will make adjustments, but a cloudy or rainy evening might mean missing a sunset.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity to fit into your evening plans.

Final Thoughts

This Cartagena sunset cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and local charm. For about $30, you’re treated to a relaxing sail with scenic stops, good music, and a tasty drink, all with a view that’s hard to beat. It’s an experience that elevates your appreciation of Cartagena’s vibrant bay and skyline, perfect for lovers of tranquil moments, picture-perfect sunsets, and Latin rhythms.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the ease of access to the departure point, combined with the well-organized service, makes it an attractive option for most travelers. It’s best suited for those wanting a peaceful, beautiful, and reasonably priced way to cap off a day in Cartagena—whether as a romantic evening or a gentle introduction to the city’s coastal beauty.

If you’re after a memorable, uncomplicated experience that highlights Cartagena’s natural beauty and lively atmosphere, this cruise will not disappoint. It’s a lovely way to slow down and savor the city’s stunning sunset from a vantage point few other tours can offer.

Enjoy your trip, and may your sunset be as spectacular as Cartagena’s skyline itself.

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