Full-day Tour in 5 Islands of Cartagena with Snorkel Included

Exploring the Rosario Islands with a Full-Day Tour in Cartagena

If you’re planning a day trip from Cartagena, this full-day tour takes you through five of the Rosario Islands, offering a mix of scenic views, snorkeling, and local flavor for around $120 per person. The experience lasts about eight hours, starting early at the Torre del Reloj, and includes visits to Bocachica, Isla Grande, Cholón, Agua Azul, and Playa Tranquila. Guided by qualified personnel, the tour promises a variety of activities, from coral reef snorkeling to seafood tastings and beach relaxation.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this experience: first, the chance to snorkel amidst coral reefs and even see a sunken plane at Isla Grande, which adds an adventurous touch. Second, the lively stop at Cholón, better known as the “party island,” where you can enjoy music, fresh seafood, and a relaxed party vibe—perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere.

However, a notable consideration is the organization and comfort level. Several reviews mention that the trip can feel crowded, with some passengers feeling that the boat was cramped and the schedule a bit disorganized. Plus, water was not provided during the long day, which could be problematic in the Caribbean heat. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy guided group outings and don’t mind a busy, bustling atmosphere. If you’re looking for a serene, quietly luxurious day on the water, this might not be your best choice.

This experience will appeal most to adventurous travelers eager to see a variety of islands in one day, and who enjoy snorkeling and local food. It’s also a good fit for those who don’t mind some logistical chaos and are okay with sharing a boat with up to 30 other travelers.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary covering 5 islands with different highlights.
• Snorkeling at Isla Grande with coral reefs, fish, and a sunken plane.
• Cholón offers a lively atmosphere and seafood tasting.
• Long 8-hour day with multiple stops, some of which can feel crowded.
• Price point offers access to several islands and activities but may lack some comforts.
• Group size can be large, impacting the comfort level during the boat rides.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Torre del Reloj

We begin our adventure at the bustling Torre del Reloj in Cartagena’s Plaza de Cervantes. It’s a lively spot, easy to find, and a logical starting point. Here, you’ll check in and get ready for the day ahead. Expect a prompt start at 8:00 am, and note that most travelers book this experience about five days in advance.

Panoramic Tour of the Rosario Archipelago

Once aboard, the boat takes us on a roughly one-hour panoramic tour of the archipelago, home to 27 islands. This part of the trip offers stunning views of the turquoise waters and scattered islands, perfect for snapping photos. The review notes that the boat can get crowded, which might make it less relaxing for some, but the scenery is undeniably beautiful.

Isla Grande: Snorkeling Paradise

The highlight for many is snorkeling at Isla Grande. Here, you’ll be able to glimpse colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even a sunken plane that has become an artificial reef attracting marine life. We loved the way the guide explained the local fish species and coral formations, making the snorkeling both fun and educational.

One reviewer, Nikeisha, mentioned that her guide Guisepe was the best part of the excursion, highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide. That said, others found the boat cramped with too many people, which could affect the snorkeling experience if you’re looking for tranquility or space.

Cholón: The Party Island

Next up is Cholón, famed as “the island of parties.” It’s lively, with music playing in the middle of the sea, and offers a chance to taste fresh seafood. This stop is ideal for those wanting an energetic, social atmosphere. According to reviews, the seafood tasting is a highlight, although the overall experience can feel noisy and crowded. Some travelers felt that the timing at Cholón was not long enough to fully enjoy the island’s vibe.

Playa Agua Azul: Fruit Tasting and Sea Bath

Our journey continues to Playa Agua Azul, one of the most stunning beaches in the archipelago. Here, you’ll enjoy sea bathing and a fruit tasting. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it a perfect spot to relax after the busy stop at Cholón. Travelers appreciated this stop as a refreshing break with opportunities to sample local fruits and enjoy the natural beauty.

Playa Tranquila: Lunch and Relaxation

The final stop is at Playa Tranquila Baru, where the tour’s lunch is served. With several options available, this is a great time to unwind and enjoy some authentic Colombian dishes. The three-hour window allows for a leisurely meal, but some reviews note that the organization could be better. The boat ride back to Cartagena wraps up around 4:00 pm, giving you the chance to reflect on a busy, activity-packed day.

Practical Considerations and Reviewer Insights

While the tour offers a good variety of experiences, the reviews highlight some common issues. Zoltan, for example, felt the trip was “hard to find any really memorable moment” and criticized the lack of water during the long day. He also pointed out that promised hotel drop-offs were not provided, hinting at some logistical lapses.

Nikeisha praised the guide but noted that the boat felt cramped, which could impact comfort during the day. The long bus ride to the tour starting point and disorganized scheduling seem to be recurring complaints, so if you prefer more relaxed, intimate trips, this might not be the best fit.

That said, the value comes from seeing multiple islands in one day and enjoying the snorkeling and food tasting. The guided nature ensures that you’ll learn about the area, even if the logistics aren’t perfect.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who:

• Are adventurous and happy to hop between islands, experiencing different environments and activities.
• Enjoy group outings with guided explanations and lively atmospheres.
• Want cost-effective access to several islands with included snorkeling, food tastings, and lunch.
• Are okay with some crowds and less comfort during boat rides.

It’s less ideal for those seeking serenity, luxury, or personalized attention. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or private tours, you might find this experience a bit hectic.

Final Thoughts

This full-day island-hopping adventure offers a busy but rewarding glimpse into Cartagena’s stunning Rosario Islands. You’ll see a good variety of environments: from coral reefs to lively party islands, complemented by delicious local foods. The highlight remains the snorkeling at Isla Grande, which showcases vibrant marine life and even a sunken plane, appealing to adventure lovers.

However, the crowded boats, disorganized schedule, and lack of some comforts like water mean it’s not perfect. If you’re open to a lively, bustling group experience and want to maximize your time in the islands, this tour delivers decent value for the price. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to explore and try local flavors in a vibrant setting.

Ultimately, for a full day of sea, sand, and social fun, this trip hits enough marks—just prepare for a lively, sometimes chaotic adventure.

FAQ

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at the Monumento Torre del Reloj in Cartagena’s Plaza de Cervantes, with check-in and logistics handled there.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately eight hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning around 4:00 pm.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a typical Colombian lunch at Playa Tranquila, with several options available. Plus, there are fruit tastings at Agua Azul and seafood tastings at Cholón.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
While the tour includes snorkeling activities at Isla Grande, it’s not explicitly stated whether equipment is provided, but guided snorkeling is part of the experience.

What are the main drawbacks?
Some reviews mention crowded boats, disorganized scheduling, and a lack of water during the day. The long bus ride and noisy crowds are also noted.

Can I cancel free of charge?
Yes, cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, making it flexible if your plans change.

This tour offers a lively, action-packed day with plenty of opportunities to see and taste the best of Cartagena’s surrounding islands. Perfect for those who want adventure, variety, and a taste of local life—just be prepared for a bustling, sometimes chaotic experience.