CARTAGENA, EXCLUSIVE launch for Rosario and Baru Islands

Imagine sailing away from the bustling streets of Cartagena on a private boat, with the sun warming your face and the Caribbean breeze whispering past your ears. For those craving an intimate, flexible escape to Colombia’s stunning insular landscapes, this tour promises a day of beaches, snorkeling, and island-hopping—all tailored to your preferences. Priced at $478 per group up to 15, it offers a chance to explore the iconic Rosario and Baru Islands comfortably and privately.

What we love most about this experience is how customizable it is—whether you’re keen to visit specific beaches or marine spots, or just want to relax and soak up the sun, the tour delivers. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and a private boat with all necessary permits ensures both safety and exclusivity.

One potential consideration is the additional expense for attractions, such as the marine aquarium or private beaches, since tickets are not included. This means you’ll want to plan ahead if certain sites are on your wish list. This tour suits travelers who value flexibility, privacy, and personalized service—a perfect fit for groups eager for a bespoke Caribbean adventure.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary allows visits to Rosario Islands, Baru Island, or Tierrabomba, based on your preferences.
• Private boat experience ensures exclusivity, comfort, and the flexibility to set your own pace.
• Snorkeling gear included with optional oxygen tanks and life jackets enhances marine exploration.
• Flexible food and drink options—bring your own or enjoy local eateries on the islands.
• All necessary permits and insurances mean peace of mind during your voyage.
• Availability with multiple start times, with the option to cancel or reschedule easily.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Basics: What’s Offered and Why it Stands Out

This tour offers a full-day escape from Cartagena’s city center, with a focus on personalized exploration of the Rosario and Baru Islands. For $478 per group, up to 15 guests, you get a private boat equipped with two engines, a sound system with Bluetooth, and reclining sun loungers—luxurious touches that make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the ability to choose your own adventure. Whether you want to visit popular beaches like White Beach and Agua Azul or venture further to Tierrabomba Island or the northern tip of Baru Island, the guides are flexible. The tour operator explicitly states that you can specify where you’d like to go or rely on their recommendations—perfect for travelers who want control over their day.

Two standout features are the snorkeling amenities, with gear included, and the private boat itself, which guarantees exclusivity—no crowded tours or shared vessels. This is especially attractive for groups seeking a more intimate, stress-free experience or families with children needing life jackets and a calm environment.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is that tickets to attractions, such as the marine aquarium or private beaches, are not included, so budgeting for those separately is wise. The tour’s flexibility and inclusiveness make it an excellent fit for travelers who prioritize customization, comfort, and a relaxed pace.

The Itinerary: What to Expect and How It Unfolds

The tour begins at the main entrance of the Cartagena marina, where you’ll mention the boat’s name, MAMAJUMA. Once onboard, the captain and guide will escort you on your personalized adventure, with fuel included to ensure smooth sailing.

Because the itinerary is flexible, you’ll start by discussing your preferences—whether it’s snorkeling at coral reefs, lounging on pristine beaches, or visiting specific islands. The cooler with ice allows you to keep drinks cold, perfect for staying refreshed during the sun-filled day.

Visiting Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are a highlight for most travelers, famous for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. You can opt to snorkel with the included gear, or upgrade to oxygen tanks if you’re more adventurous. Multiple reviewers have noted that the snorkeling equipment was a real plus—one mentioned that having vests for children and life jackets for all added peace of mind.

The tour’s flexibility means you can spend as much time as you like at specific beaches, such as Aqua Azul, Cholon, or other less crowded spots. Some guests have praised how they could bring their own food or eat at beachside restaurants, making mealtime easy and relaxed.

Baru Island and Tierrabomba

Baru Island offers a long, white sandy beach that beckons for sunbathing and swimming. Some groups choose to visit public beaches like White Beach or private hotels with exclusive beaches, which may require prior reservations. The tour provider notes that some private beaches and hotels will need pre-arranged access, so if a particular spot is a must-see, planning ahead is smart.

Tierrabomba Island, less famous but equally charming, can be a peaceful stop for snorkeling or beach walks. The flexibility of the tour means you can tailor your visit to include lesser-visited corners of the islands, avoiding the crowds often found at more popular spots.

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Additional Activities and Comforts

For those interested in marine life, the aquarium is an optional stop, with ticket prices paid separately. Shows featuring dolphins and sharks are available—an extra expense but a memorable experience for families or wildlife enthusiasts.

The boat itself is outfitted with a sound system, perfect for relaxing tunes while cruising. The fresh water shower and reclining loungers add comfort after swimming or sunbathing.

The Benefits of a Private, Flexible Tour

What sets this experience apart from standard group excursions is the private nature. With just your group and a dedicated captain and assistant, you avoid crowded boats and have the freedom to modify the schedule on the fly.

This personalized approach is especially valuable if you’re traveling with children or a group with specific interests, such as snorkeling or beach lounging. The included snorkeling gear makes marine exploration accessible and convenient, while the sound system makes for a fun, lively atmosphere.

Many reviewers appreciated the informality and relaxed pace, describing it as a day that felt more like a friends’ outing than a commercial tour. The ability to bring your own food and drinks also helps keep costs down and the experience more personal.

Cost and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $478 for up to 15 people, this tour provides a cost-effective way to enjoy a private boat experience—especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family. When you factor in the snorkeling equipment, fuel, and the exclusivity of a private boat, the value becomes clear.

The additional expense for attractions like the aquarium or private beaches isn’t included, but for many, the core experience—customized, private, and relaxing—more than justifies the price. If you’re looking for a luxurious yet flexible day with personalized service, this tour offers strong value.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a tailored day on the water—families, couples, or groups of friends who value privacy, flexibility, and comfort. It suits those who enjoy snorkeling and beach lounging but want to avoid the crowded, regimented tours often found elsewhere.

It also appeals to travelers eager to choose their own destinations and spend quality time exploring at their own pace. If you prefer a more relaxed, intimate adventure rather than a large-group excursion, this tour checks all the boxes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the boat is equipped with life jackets for all occupants, including children, making it family-friendly. The relaxed pace and private setting are ideal for kids who enjoy swimming and snorkeling.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. The tour provides a cooler with ice for drinks, but you’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages to enjoy on the boat or at the beaches.

What beaches or islands can I visit?
You can visit any part of the Rosario Islands, Baru Island, or Tierrabomba Island. The guide can recommend spots like White Beach, Agua Azul, or local private beaches, depending on your interests.

Are snorkeling masks and fins included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included with previous reservation. Oxygen tanks and vests are available for upgrade, and life jackets are provided for safety.

What about transportation logistics?
Start and end points are at the main marina entrance in Cartagena, where you’ll identify the boat by name, MAMAJUMA. The tour lasts approximately one day, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Is it possible to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility helps if your plans change unexpectedly.

How large is the group?
The maximum group size is 15 people, making it a good size for intimacy without feeling crowded.

What language is the tour guide?
The guide speaks Spanish, but the personalized nature of the tour means communication is straightforward, especially if you speak some Spanish or have a translator.

To sum it up, this private boat tour of Cartagena’s Rosario and Baru Islands offers a flexible, personalized, and comfortable way to enjoy the region’s stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and Caribbean charm. Whether you’re snorkeling, sunbathing, or just cruising in style, it’s an experience that prioritizes your interests and pace. Perfect for groups who want a memorable, intimate escape from the busy city, this tour provides true value and a taste of Colombia’s island paradise.

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