Cartagena: Sunset or Night Plan on Dubai Boat with Open Bar offers a relaxed yet lively way to enjoy Cartagena’s spectacular bay. For just $30 per person, you get a 2-hour cruise aboard a luxury sportboat—either during the vibrant sunset hours or under the starry night sky. Led by local guides who keep the vibe friendly and fun, this experience combines scenic views, music, and drinks in a way that appeals to those looking for a casual celebration on the water.

What we really like about this tour is how it blends spectacular vistas of Cartagena’s bay with an easygoing party atmosphere—great for mingling, unwinding, or just soaking up the sunset. The option to choose among three different time slots (5-7 pm, 7-9 pm, or 9-11 pm) makes it flexible for different travel plans. Plus, the open bar featuring rum, coke, and orange juice is a nice touch—though it’s worth noting some travelers found the alcohol quality to be on the cheaper side.

A possible consideration is that the actual boat used can vary, and some guests have experienced late departures or shorter cruise durations than expected, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting a full 2 hours of sailing. However, if you’re after a relaxed, fun way to enjoy Cartagena’s bay with a lively crowd, this cruise still offers good value. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a social experience, enjoy music, and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability in the schedule.

This tour is best for those who want a casual, affordable way to see Cartagena from the water, especially if you’re eager to combine scenic views with the chance to socialize and sip drinks under the sun or stars. If you’re looking for a more upscale or purely scenic cruise, you might want to explore other options. But for a lively, budget-friendly outing that’s easy to join, this sunset or night cruise hits the mark.

Key Points

Affordable Experience: At $30, this cruise offers good value for a scenic bay tour with drinks and music.
Flexible Scheduling: Three time slots allow you to pick a sunset, evening, or night experience that fits your plans.
Party Atmosphere: With a DJ or entertainer and open bar, it’s designed for fun and socializing.
Views of Cartagena’s Bay: Expect stunning vistas of the city skyline, especially at sunset or under night lights.
Variable Boats: The actual vessel may differ, and some travelers report delays or shorter trips.
Bring Your Own Drinks: You can also bring extra drinks without extra charge, perfect for customizing your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

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Location and Booking

You’ll meet your guide at Sibarita del Mar, a convenient spot near the Pegasus Dock where the Dubai boat (or similar vessel) awaits. To keep things simple and flexible, the tour is booked online with the opportunity to reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans change. Once booked, you’ll receive the guide’s WhatsApp contact info for updates and directions.

The Boats and How They Matter

The tour features three different boats: a yacht or sports boat with a DJ onboard, and a pontoon-type boat called Dubai, which has an on-board animator. If you have a preference, you can specify which vessel appeals most based on the photos before booking. The choice of boat slightly influences the experience—larger, party-oriented boats tend to attract younger crowds, while the pontoon might be quieter and more relaxed.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The cruise begins at Sibarita del Mar, where you’ll gather with other travelers. The actual route involves a walk through Cartagena’s bay, offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline, colorful rooftops, and the shimmering water.

During the cruise, music is playing—either a DJ or an on-board entertainer—adding to the lively atmosphere. The focus is on relaxation and fun: enjoying the sunset if you’re in the earlier slot, or the night sky if you’re later. Some reviews suggest the entertainment makes the experience more engaging, especially since the DJ may be replaced with a live entertainer in case of unavailable equipment.

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Drinks and Refreshments

The tour includes an open bar with two options. The first features Club Colombia beer and Ron Viejo de Caldas, a popular Colombian rum. The second offers rum and orange juice—a great combo for a daytime or evening cruise. You’re also welcome to bring your own drinks at no extra cost, which is a nice perk for those wanting to customize their sipping experience.

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Duration and Timing

Each cruise lasts approximately 2 hours—a sweet spot for enjoying the scenery without it dragging on. The three available time slots are precisely 5-7 pm, 7-9 pm, and 9-11 pm. This makes it flexible whether you want a sunset view, a lively evening, or a late-night vibe. Keep in mind that some guests have experienced delays or shorter trips—a common issue with boat tours—so plan accordingly.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

While many guests praise the experience for its scenic views and lively atmosphere, some have expressed dissatisfaction. Multiple reviews mention late departures—almost an hour behind schedule—and shorter cruise times than advertised. One traveler noted, “It was not the boat announced, we left almost 1 hour after the meeting, low-end alcohol, and the cruise lasted less than 2 hours.” Another shared that the boat was full of families and kids, making it less ideal for those seeking a party scene.

These comments highlight that expectations about punctuality and boat quality might vary. It’s wise to arrive early and be prepared for possible delays or changes in the vessel used.

Who Will Love This Tour

This cruise is perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking to enjoy Cartagena’s bay in a relaxed, social setting. It’s especially suited for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers wanting a fun, informal outing with music and drinks. If you’re after a more upscale or quiet sightseeing experience, or if punctuality is crucial, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $30, this tour provides an accessible way to see Cartagena from the water while enjoying drinks, music, and beautiful views. Its low price point makes it appealing for travelers who prioritize a lively, sociable atmosphere over luxury or punctuality. You’ll love the combination of scenic bay views with the relaxed party vibe, especially if you’re keen to mingle and enjoy some Colombian rum with friends.

However, be prepared for some variability—boats might differ, and delays are possible. If you’re flexible and open-minded, this cruise can be a delightful highlight of your Cartagena trip. It’s also a good choice for those who want to combine a bit of sightseeing with an easygoing, festive experience without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, this cruise offers an authentic and fun way to see Cartagena’s bay, making it a fitting choice for travelers who want a casual, memorable outing that combines scenery, music, and a bit of adventure. Just remember to arrive early, pick your preferred time slot, and enjoy the lively spirit of Cartagena from the water.

FAQs

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $30 per person, offering a 2-hour cruise with drinks, music, and scenic views.

What are the available times for the cruise?
There are three options: 5 pm to 7 pm, 7 pm to 9 pm, and 9 pm to 11 pm, allowing you to choose sunset or night views.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own drinks at no extra charge, which allows you to customize your experience.

What drinks are included in the open bar?
Depending on your choice, the open bar offers either Club Colombia beer and Ron Viejo de Caldas or rum and orange juice.

What should I expect regarding the boat and entertainment?
You might be on a yacht, sports boat, or pontoon called Dubai, with an onboard DJ or entertainer. The experience can vary slightly depending on the vessel and schedule.

Is there any information about delays or schedule changes?
Some guests have experienced late departures (up to an hour) and shorter trips, so flexibility is advised.

Who is this tour best suited for?
This cruise is ideal for those wanting an affordable, fun way to enjoy Cartagena’s bay with music and drinks—perfect for socializing and relaxing in a lively setting.

This detailed review should help you decide whether a sunset or night cruise on a stylish boat with open bar matches your Cartagena plans. It’s an enjoyable, budget-friendly option that captures the spirit of the city’s bay—just keep expectations in check regarding schedule and boat variability.