Cartagena: Pirate Ship Ride at Sunset with Open Bar — A Practical and Authentic Experience

Sailing on a pirate ship at sunset in Cartagena isn’t just about the scenery — it’s about the fun, the stories, and the chance to unwind with a drink in hand. For $71 per person and about two hours, this tour offers a lively blend of history-inspired entertainment, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere. It starts at the Muelle de los Pegasos, near the famous clock tower, and takes you along Cartagena’s waterfront, passing iconic skylines like Bocagrande, El Laguito, and Playa de Castillo Grande.

Two things we especially love about this experience are the authentic pirate costumes available for photo shoots and the spectacular sunset views over the bay — perfect for memorable photos. We also appreciate the informative narration about Cartagena’s pirate and slave history, which adds depth to the fun. The open bar serving Pirates Grog and Coconut Lemonade with Rum makes relaxing with a drink easy, especially with the picturesque backdrop.

A minor consideration is the dock tax of $4 USD per person, which isn’t included in the ticket price, and the limited sailing times — check availability ahead of time to ensure it fits your schedule. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, historical stories, and relaxed social environments. Families and couples alike have found it to be a delightful way to see Cartagena from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Scenic sunset views over Cartagena’s bay provide incredible photo opportunities.
Authentic pirate experience with costumes for memorable photos.
Informative narration about Cartagena’s pirate and slave history adds context.
Open bar with pirate-themed drinks and non-alcoholic options keep the mood lively.
Short duration — two hours — makes it a flexible addition to your day.
Accessible and family-friendly with a lively, relaxed atmosphere.

Planning evening activities? Here are other after-dark options we've examined in Cartagena

An In-Depth Look at the Pirate Ship Sunset Tour

The Start and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Muelle de los Pegasos, a picturesque dock located between the Bodeguita dock and in front of the famous clock tower. We found the meeting window from 4:40 p.m. to 4:55 p.m. to be ample, giving us time to settle in and get a quick briefing before setting sail at 5 p.m. It’s worth arriving a little early, especially if you want to take photos of the vibrant waterfront and the pirate-themed setup.

What to Expect on the Cruise

Once onboard the pirate ship, you’ll notice its charming, colorful appearance, perfectly suited for a fun, family-friendly adventure. The crew is friendly and engaging, ready with pirate costumes for guests to borrow and wear for photos — a hit with kids and adults alike. The ship’s design is sturdy enough to handle a gentle cruise, and the atmosphere is lively but relaxed.

The scenic route takes you along Cartagena’s coast, giving close-up views of Bocagrande, El Laguito, and Playa de Castillo Grande. As we sailed through the channel between Tierra Bomba and the mainland, our guide shared interesting stories about pirates and slaves, emphasizing their influence on Cartagena’s past. For history buffs, these stories add flavor and a sense of connection to the city’s tumultuous maritime history.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Best Sunset Spot

The highlight of this cruise is undoubtedly the sunset viewing. As the sun dips toward the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples. We loved how the ship slowed down at the perfect vantage point, giving everyone time to snap photos and soak in the view. The open bar served up Pirates Grog — a rum-based cocktail inspired by ancient recipes — and Coconut Lemonade with Rum, both delicious and refreshing.

For more beverage-focused experiences, here's what we've covered in Cartagena

Drinks and Atmosphere

The open bar is a real plus, especially considering the casual, social vibe. The drinks are served without alcohol for children, and the adult versions are flavorful without being overpowering. The Pirates Grog has a slight sweet and spicy note, while the Coconut Lemonade provides a tropical twist. The atmosphere on deck is cheerful, with people chatting, taking photos, and enjoying the spectacular views.

The Return and Final Moments

After about 20 minutes at the sunset spot, the ship heads back towards Muelle de los Pegasos. The cruise ends at the same spot where it started, making logistics straightforward. The total duration of around two hours makes it easy to include in a day without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

Based on reviews and our experience, this tour is especially good for families and couples who want a relaxed, scenic boat ride with a touch of adventure and history. The informative guides and the chance to dress up as a pirate add to its appeal. The stunning waterfront views and sunset moments justify the price, especially considering the included drinks and the lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

It’s worth noting that the group size is manageable, creating a cozy, lively environment. Also, the wheelchair accessibility makes it inclusive for more travelers. If you’re seeking a fun, memorable way to see Cartagena from the water without a long time commitment, this cruise fits the bill nicely.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

Families with children who enjoy playful activities and scenic outings
Couples looking for a romantic sunset with fun photo moments
Travelers interested in pirate stories and Cartagena’s maritime history
Visitors wanting an easy, relaxed way to enjoy waterfront views

Practical Details and Tips

Price: $71 per person, offering good value for a two-hour scenic cruise with drinks included.
Duration: About 2 hours, with specific starting times; check availability.
Meeting point: Muelle de los Pegasos, between 4:40 p.m. and 4:55 p.m.
Sailing time: Starts at 5 p.m.
Inclusions: Open bar with Pirate Grog and Coconut Lemonade, pirate costumes for photos.
Additional costs: Dock tax of $4 USD per person not included in the ticket price.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.

Final Thoughts

This pirate sunset cruise in Cartagena offers a lively mix of scenic beauty, historical storytelling, and family-friendly fun. The stunning sunset views alone make it worthwhile, but the added touches of pirate costumes, drinks, and stories elevate the experience. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to relax, snap memorable photos, and learn a bit about Cartagena’s maritime past.

While it’s not a lengthy tour, its intimacy and charm leave a lasting impression. If you’re in Cartagena and want to see the bay from a different perspective, especially as the sun sets, this cruise is a delightful way to spend an evening.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The meeting time is between 4:40 p.m. and 4:55 p.m., with the cruise departing at 5 p.m. Check availability for specific dates.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately two hours, including sailing time, sunset viewing, and the return.

Is there an age limit or restrictions?
The tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, with non-alcoholic drinks available for children.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you get open bar service with Pirates Grog and Coconut Lemonade with Rum. Non-alcoholic versions are also available.

Do I need to pay extra for the dock?
Yes, there’s a $4 USD dock tax per person not included in the ticket price.

Is it accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your scheduling.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for an enjoyable, scenic, and slightly playful way to take in Cartagena’s waterfront at sunset, this pirate ship cruise delivers. It’s especially suited for families and couples who appreciate a relaxed atmosphere, great views, and a bit of storytelling. Add in the friendly guides and authentic pirate costumes, and you’ve got a memorable evening that’s worth the modest price.