Cartagena de Indias: Sunset Cruise Open Bar with Dance Show

Cartagena de Indias: Sunset Cruise Open Bar with Dance Show – A Detailed Review

A sunset cruise in Cartagena offers more than just pretty views; it’s a lively, engaging way to wind down your day in this historic port city. For around $45 per person, you’ll spend two hours floating along the bay, with the chance to enjoy an open bar, watch captivating dance performances, and even join dance classes yourself. The cruise departs from Muelle de la Bodeguita and takes you past neighborhoods like Manga and Bocagrande, giving you a different perspective on Cartagena’s colorful skyline and lively coast.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines spectacular scenery with interactive entertainment. The dance shows featuring local performers are lively and authentic, making you feel like part of the celebration. Plus, the open bar offers a variety of drinks, mainly local spirits like rum and brandy, which perfectly complement the Caribbean sunset.

One potential consideration is that the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your own way to the dock. Also, there’s a dock tax of 12,000 Colombian Pesos, which is common in many port-based tours. This experience is probably best suited for travelers who enjoy socializing in a lively atmosphere, love spectacular sunset views, or want to combine sightseeing with a fun, party-like vibe. It’s particularly appealing if you’re eager to see Cartagena from the water while enjoying dancing and music.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Vibrant atmosphere with dance performances and classes
• Stunning sunset views over Cartagena’s skyline and neighborhoods
• Open bar with local liquors for a relaxed, carefree vibe
• Authentic experience with local dancers and entertainers
• Great value for a two-hour scenic cruise packed with entertainment
• Accessible for travelers with wheelchair needs

Exploring the Cartagena Sunset Cruise in Detail

Setting out from Muelle de la Bodeguita

The adventure begins at 4:45 PM at the Bodeguita Dock, a lively spot central to many Cartagena tours. The cruise on the Bequia, a sleek vessel offering smooth sailing, promises an elegant but relaxed setting. The group sizes tend to be moderate, fostering a friendly, social atmosphere that feels intimate without being crowded.

A quick safety briefing precedes your departure, setting the tone for a safe yet fun experience. From the start, the crew is friendly and eager to make sure everyone feels comfortable and ready for the evening ahead.

The cruise: Relaxation meets celebration

As you cruise out into the bay, you’ll notice the spectacular views unfolding. The water is often calm, and the horizon begins to glow with the warm hues of the setting sun. The first highlight is the welcome cocktail from the open bar, which offers a selection of local liquors like rum and brandy, along with mixers. Since beer isn’t included, you might want to bring your own if you prefer.

Once the sun begins to dip, the boat drifts past neighborhoods like Manga, known for its colonial architecture, and Bocagrande, modern and bustling. The scenery is picture-perfect, especially as the sky turns into a canvas of oranges and pinks. One reviewer raves, “the scenery was spectacular,” and we couldn’t agree more.

More Great Tours Nearby

The lively dance show and classes

One of the main attractions is the dance show, where talented local dancers perform energetic routines rooted in Cartagena’s traditions. An enthusiastic entertainer invites passengers to join in dance classes, making the experience interactive. The music, spun by a DJ, turns the deck into a lively dance floor under the twilight sky.

According to reviews, the entertainment is a real highlight. “The dancers and the MC made the experience so much fun,” a reviewer shares. The combination of authentic dance and fun music creates a party atmosphere that’s hard to beat for those who enjoy dancing or simply soaking in a vibrant Caribbean vibe.

The sunset and its magic

The one-hour sunset view is often described as breathtaking. The sky’s changing colors provide a perfect backdrop for photos and peaceful moments. Some reviews mention that “the pictures during sunset were fabulous,” and it’s true — the glow over the city and the water makes for memorable images.

Wrapping up the experience

After about two hours, the boat returns to the Muelle de la Bodeguita. The cruise concludes with a friendly farewell, leaving many travelers with a warm feeling and great stories to tell.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are the 2-hour scenic cruise, the welcome cocktail, dance show, dance classes, and open bar featuring two national liquors, rum, brandy, and mixers. Water and soda are also available in glasses, perfect for hydration after dancing or enjoying the scenery.

Not included are hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the dock. There’s also a dock tax of 12,000 Colombian Pesos, a common fee for port activities, but it’s worth noting as it adds to the total cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a combination of scenic beauty and lively entertainment. If you enjoy dancing, socializing, and local music, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also perfect for those who want to experience Cartagena from the water with a relaxed, party-like atmosphere.

The tour’s social, energetic vibe is especially appreciated by reviews that mention how much fun they had with the staff and dancers. It’s a good choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to meet new people in a vibrant setting.

However, if you prefer a more quiet, cultural, or guided tour experience, this might not be the best fit. Also, those who don’t drink alcohol or prefer a more subdued experience may find the open bar less appealing.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $45, this sunset cruise offers excellent value considering the scenic views, the lively dance show, and the open bar. It’s a great way to spend an evening in Cartagena if you’re craving fun, entertainment, and memorable photos of the city’s sunset. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy social experiences and want a lively, interactive way to unwind.

The tour’s mix of beautiful scenery, local music, and dance makes for an authentic taste of Cartagena’s festive spirit. You’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll carry the energy and joy of the Caribbean night with you.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic cruise with a touch of local flair and fun, this outing should suit you well. Just plan your transportation to and from the dock, and you’ll be set for a memorable evening.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the dock?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Muelle de la Bodeguita.

What is the cost of the dock tax?
There’s a dock tax of 12,000 Colombian Pesos, payable at the dock, which is common for port activities.

Does the tour run in any specific language?
The activity is available in both Spanish and English, with a live guide, ensuring you can follow along regardless of your language preference.

How long does the sunset last?
The sunset view itself lasts about an hour, but the entire cruise is approximately two hours long.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s an open bar with two national liquors, rum and brandy, plus mixers. Water and soda are also served.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

This Cartagena sunset cruise offers a lively, scenic, and culturally rich experience. Combining stunning views with vibrant music and dance, it’s a perfect way to unwind and celebrate the Caribbean sunset with new friends or loved ones.

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