Excursion to the Rosario Islands with Lunch and Snorkeling

Discover the Rosario Islands with a Full-Day Catamaran Trip

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Cartagena and spend a relaxing day on the water, this excursion to the Rosario Islands offers a blend of scenic sailing, gentle snorkeling, and a tasty included lunch. For $92, you get roughly 7 hours and 30 minutes of floating, swimming, and soaking up sunshine, making it an excellent value considering the often high costs of private boat rentals or beach days on your own.

What we love most about this tour is how smoothly it runs—thanks to the well-organized itinerary and friendly crew. The boat itself is spacious and comfortable, and the stops at Isla Grande and Barú showcase a slice of Caribbean paradise with clear waters and lush islands. Plus, the included snorkeling gear and lunch options—seafood rice, rice with vegetables, or chicken—add to the convenience.

A few things to keep in mind: the snorkeling experience can vary and might not satisfy those specifically looking to spot abundant marine life, as some reviews mention murky waters or limited fish. Also, weather and tides could lead to itinerary changes, so flexibility is key.

This tour is ideal for groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day out with light activity, good food, and friendly company. If you’re after a lively party atmosphere, this might not be your best fit, but for those seeking serenity and natural beauty, it often hits the mark.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat experience with spacious seating and onboard restrooms
• Included lunch offers good variety, with seafood rice a highlight
• Snorkeling gear provided makes it easy to jump into the water
• Flexible itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or captain’s judgment
• Mild snorkeling experience; marine life sightings can vary
• Ideal for travelers wanting a balance of sea views, swimming, and good food

The Rosario Islands Catamaran Tour: An In-Depth Look

Setting the Scene

Imagine setting sail from Cartagena’s busy port aboard a ship that feels more like a floating lounge than a vessel. The Bona Vida catamaran, with its roomy decks and friendly crew, carries you out into the Caribbean’s shimmering waters. The trip lasts approximately 7 and a half hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, explore, and enjoy the scenery. Starting early at 8:30 am, the tour begins at the Muelle de la Bodeguita, a central and easily accessible meeting point in Cartagena’s historic district.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour features two main stops. The first is at Isla Grande, anchored at the Luis Guerra reef. Here, you’ll have about 2 hours to snorkel, swim, or just lounge on the boat deck. The reef offers some underwater sights, but reviews suggest the visibility can be murky, and marine life may be sparse. One traveler noted, “the water was rough, and you couldn’t see much underwater,” which is worth considering if snorkeling is your main goal.

The second stop is in front of Punta Gigante in Barú, where lunch is served. Here, you get another 2 hours to soak in the scenery, swim, or simply unwind. The lunch is included in the price, with options like seafood rice, rice with vegetables, or rice with chicken. The food generally receives praise for being tasty, and the relaxed setting makes it easy to chat or enjoy the views. As one reviewer said, “lunch and drinks service were spot on!”

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Snorkeling gear is provided, making it simple to hop into the water whenever you feel like cooling off. However, the snorkeling experience can be hit or miss. Several reviews mention water clarity issues and a lack of abundant marine life. One traveler summed it up: “the snorkeling was pretty blah,” but still appreciated the opportunity to be in the water.

Although snorkeling may not be as spectacular as some hope, the water itself is often described as refreshing, and the scenery from the boat offers plenty of photo opportunities. Plus, the second stop often features calmer waters and beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing swim or lounging.

Food and Drinks

The lunch included in the tour is a highlight for many. The seafood rice seems to be the most popular choice, but options are available for different tastes. The free soft drinks are refreshing, and reviews mention the crew’s attentive service in providing non-alcoholic beverages. Some reviews note that alcoholic drinks are not included, so if you’re craving a cold beer or cocktail, you’ll need to purchase it separately.

Crew, Comfort, and Group Atmosphere

The crew generally receives high marks for professionalism and friendliness. One review states, “the staff was excellent—attentive and friendly,” and many travelers mention how smoothly the trip runs. The boat is described as spacious, clean, and equipped with restrooms, making it comfortable for hours at sea.

The group size is kept relatively manageable—usually up to 100 guests—so the atmosphere is lively but not overcrowded. Music, dancing, and friendly chatter are often part of the experience, making it more social and lively when the mood calls for it.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While many travelers find the experience enjoyable, some point out disappointments. The snorkeling can be underwhelming due to poor water visibility or dead coral in the second stop. Plus, it’s a long day with a significant portion spent sailing—about 5 hours of the total time is spent on the boat traveling to and from the islands.

Another common concern is the presence of vendors on the water, especially on the second stop, where jet skis and floating rafts are offered. If you’re not interested in these sales pitches, be prepared to politely decline or simply ignore.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals to those seeking a relaxing day outdoors—a good balance of sailing, swimming, and eating well. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who don’t mind a slow pace and are content with moderate snorkeling. If your main goal is spectacular marine life or pristine beaches, you might find this tour somewhat limited. However, for scenery, comfort, and a laid-back vibe, it often fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

This Rosario Islands catamaran trip offers a well-organized, enjoyable day in the Caribbean. The comfortable boat, friendly crew, and included lunch provide great value for the price. While the snorkeling might not be the highlight for everyone, the stunning views, relaxed atmosphere, and chance to unwind make it a worthwhile option for many travelers.

For those who prioritize good service, scenic sailing, and a calm environment, this trip is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a balanced mix of activity and leisure without the hassle of planning transport or meals. Just remember to go with an open mind about snorkeling conditions and the potential for itinerary adjustments due to weather.

FAQs about the Rosario Islands Tour

Is transportation included to the meeting point?
No, the tour begins at the Muelle de la Bodeguita, which is centrally located in Cartagena and accessible via public transit or taxi.

What is the tour price?
The tour costs $92 per person. This includes boat ride, snorkeling gear, lunch, and non-alcoholic drinks.

How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 8:30 am and returning to the start point around 4 pm.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included. Only soft drinks and water are provided.

Can I expect to see a lot of marine life while snorkeling?
Not necessarily. Some reviews mention murky water and limited fish, so if snorkeling is your priority, temper expectations.

Is the itinerary flexible?
Yes, it can be modified due to weather or captain’s decisions. The stops and timing might shift to ensure safety and comfort.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your documents for check-in, sunscreen, and a towel. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own.

In all, this Rosario Islands tour provides a comfortable, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy the Caribbean’s beauty without the fuss. It’s best suited for those wanting a relaxed day of sailing, swimming, and good eats—an experience that often leaves travelers with lovely memories and plenty of photos.