Cartagena: Private Sunset and Night Boat Tour

Cartagena: Private Sunset and Night Boat Tour

If you’re after a relaxed yet memorable way to see Cartagena’s spectacular bay, this private sunset and night boat tour is well worth considering. For around $187 per group (up to 12 people), you’ll spend two hours cruising the waters on a cozy boat, taking in the city’s skyline, historic landmarks, and the shimmering lights of the night. Starting at Los Pegasos Pier, you’ll glide past the Cartagena Convention Center, the Naval Base, and the lively Bocagrande Bay, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and unwind.

What we love about this experience is the intimate setting—since it’s a private tour, you get the flexibility to enjoy the sights at your own pace, perhaps even with some personal music. Secondly, the views of San Felipe Castle and the bustling port from the water are truly striking, offering a different perspective than walking around the historic center.

A possible consideration is the weather—since this is an outdoor experience at sunset and night, it’s best suited for clear evenings. If you’re someone who loves scenic, relaxing time on the water with a small group, this tour offers a lovely, authentic way to see Cartagena from a different angle. It works especially well for couples, small groups of friends, or families looking for a peaceful, personalized outing.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Enjoy a boat tailored for up to 12 people, making the experience intimate and flexible.
• Scenic Views: See Cartagena’s landmarks like the San Felipe Castle and port from the water, especially beautiful at sunset and night.
• Comfort and Convenience: The boat includes a bathroom, refrigerator with ice, and a Bluetooth sound system for your music.
• Flexible Timing: Usually available in the afternoon or evening, giving you options for the best sunset experience.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by knowledgeable Spanish-speaking drivers who provide informative commentary.
• Great for Relaxation: Perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic escape with light sightseeing and sunset views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The tour kicks off at Galeón Bucanero, a convenient meeting point right across from the Cartagena Convention Center. From there, you’ll hop aboard a private boat that comfortably fits up to 12 guests, making it suitable for small groups, couples, or family outings. The total ride lasts around two hours, during which you’ll cruise through key parts of Cartagena’s bay, including the Bocagrande Bay, Castillogrande Bay, and El Laguito.

The first hour is spent zooming through the Caribbean Sea at a comfortable speed, giving you a chance to settle in, get your camera ready, and enjoy the breeze. The boat ride itself is smooth, and the guide—whose Spanish-language commentary is informative—takes you past notable sights like the Naval Base and the Convention Center, offering insights into their significance for Cartagena’s maritime activity.

As the sun begins to dip, the scenery transforms. We loved the way the sky lights up with hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the historic city. The boat’s open design and unobstructed views allow everyone to soak in the sunset without feeling cramped. If you bring your favorite playlist, you can connect via Bluetooth to the boat’s sound system, adding a personal soundtrack to the experience.

The second part of the tour is all about soaking in the night lights of Cartagena. From the water, you’ll admire the illuminated San Felipe Castle, the port filled with cruise ships and large vessels, and the vibrant cityscape. The boat’s setting provides a peaceful, almost private vantage point—perfect for photos or just quiet contemplation.

Throughout the trip, the boat is equipped with a refrigerator filled with ice, so you can keep drinks cool (although drinks are not included). There’s also a bathroom onboard, which can be a relief on longer or more relaxed cruises. The guide shares interesting tidbits about the city, its history, and its landmarks, enriching the experience without overwhelming it.

What makes this tour stand out is the sense of exclusivity—since it’s private, you can customize your experience, perhaps spending more time at a preferred sight or relaxing with your own music. The small group size ensures a cozy, personalized vibe that larger tours simply can’t match.

While the tour offers excellent value for the price, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring your own snacks and beverages. Also, since this is an outdoor water-based activity, the weather can affect your experience, especially if rain or strong winds roll in unexpectedly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal for travelers who value authentic, relaxed experiences rather than high-energy or crowded excursions. It’s particularly suited for couples seeking a romantic sunset or small groups of friends wanting a private, scenic outing. Families with children comfortable around water will also enjoy the calm, scenic cruise.

If you love panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere, this tour provides a wonderful perspective of Cartagena that’s often overlooked—viewing the city from the water at dusk. It’s a perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing or to add a special touch to your Cartagena trip.

Final Thoughts

This private sunset and night boat tour offers a balance of scenic beauty, comfort, and personalized service. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it both relaxing and informative, giving you a chance to see Cartagena from a different angle. The views of the San Felipe Castle, the port, and the city lights from the water are breathtaking, especially at sunset.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, intimate experience that combines light sightseeing with spectacular scenery, this tour fits the bill. Its value lies in the exclusive nature of the experience, the flexibility to enjoy your preferred music, and the chance to see Cartagena’s landmarks illuminated at night.

This is a fantastic choice for travelers who appreciate quiet moments, scenic vistas, and a touch of local charm—all while enjoying the comfort of a private boat. It’s a memorable way to enjoy Cartagena’s bay, especially as the day turns to night.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get a private boat for up to 12 people, a 2-hour cruise, an ice-filled cooler, a bathroom onboard, and a Bluetooth sound system to play your music.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so you’re welcome to bring your own, especially since the boat has a refrigerator with ice.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suited for outdoor activity. Avoid high heels or smoking on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, if your children are comfortable on boats and can handle outdoor settings, this is a gentle, scenic experience suitable for families.

What is the meeting point?
The tour departs from Galeón Bucanero, located just opposite the Cartagena Convention Center.

What language is the guide?
The guide speaks Spanish. If you’re not fluent, consider bringing a translation app or asking about language options in advance.

Enjoy your time on the water, and don’t forget to watch the sunset—it’s a moment you’ll want to remember long after your trip ends.