A Taste of Cartagena’s Islands: Full Day Visiting 3 Islands and Beach Clubs

Imagine a day where you hop between three different islands, each offering a distinct vibe, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of opportunities to relax or explore. For $111 per person, you get about 7 to 8 hours of boat rides, beach lounging, snorkeling, and island hopping, guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides like Milton and Jose. The tour visits Rosario Islands, Baru’s Playa Blanca, and Tierra Bomba, with access to exclusive Beach Clubs at each stop, plus included lunch and water to keep you refreshed.

We really appreciate the way this trip balances adventure and relaxation—from snorkeling among coral reefs to soaking up the sun by private pools. The organized transportation makes it hassle-free to move between spots, and the inclusion of lunch vouchers and water adds great value. It’s a well-rounded experience for those looking for a full Caribbean day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

One thing to consider is the group size—it’s popular, so booking 10 days in advance is recommended. Also, some reviews mention variability in experiences at certain stops, like the lunch spot or the boat’s reliability, so keeping an open mind helps. This tour works best for travelers who want a combination of guided sightseeing, beach time, and snorkeling, especially those comfortable with moderate physical activity and boat rides. If you love making the most of your day discovering new landscapes and relaxing at exclusive spots, this will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering three islands in one day
Includes transport, lunch voucher, and water, adding great value
Multiple reviews praise friendly guides, especially Milton and Jose
Snorkeling and beach clubs offer diverse experiences
Some variability in stops’ quality, so expectations should be flexible
Booking early is essential due to high demand and popularity

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Exploring the Full-Day Cartagena Island Tour

This tour is a lively way to experience some of Cartagena’s most beautiful surrounding islands. It’s designed for travelers who want to see more than just the city’s historic walls—who are eager to enjoy the Caribbean’s natural beauty and some exclusive beach club comforts. The tour’s official duration is approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing, swimming, and lounging.

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet early at the Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande at 7:30 am, which gives you a chance to beat some of the midday heat and crowds. The boat ride itself, with music and a friendly crew, helps set a relaxing mood. Expect the group to be up to 200 people, so while it’s popular, the guides aim to keep the experience engaging and personal.

Transportation on the water is usually smooth, with boat staff ensuring everyone’s safety—though some reviews mention boat breakdowns or delays, these are exceptions rather than the rule. The boat’s open layout with music creates a fun, party-at-sea vibe, helping you forget about any minor rough waters or delays.

First Stop: The Historic Fort

Before heading to the islands, the tour includes a quick visit to a key colonial fort. It’s a chance to glimpse Cartagena’s defensive past, where Spaniards once guarded their treasures from pirates. This stop is brief but worthwhile—it’s interesting to see the fort’s sturdy walls and imagine the battles once fought there.

Island 1: Isla Grande and Encantada Beach Club

Your first true taste of paradise is Isla Grande, home to the Encantada Beach Club. This spot is exactly what you’d hope the Caribbean to be—white sands, turquoise waters, and a relaxed vibe. The contrast with the city’s hustle is immediate. Here, you’ll spend around two hours soaking up the sun, swimming, or simply lounging.

What we loved here is the freedom to enjoy the beach at your own pace, with clear waters perfect for a quick dip or snorkeling. The included COP 30,000 lunch voucher allows you to choose from a diverse menu, whether you’re craving fresh seafood, grilled meats, or vegetarian options. Many reviews highlight the delicious food and the opportunity to upgrade or indulge in local flavors.

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Stop 2: Rosario Islands and Snorkeling

Next, the tour heads to the Rosario Islands, renowned for their vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The snorkeling experience is a major highlight—many travelers call it breathtaking and a chance to see a kaleidoscope of fish and coral. The natural park status of these islands means unspoiled scenery and crystal-clear waters.

Guests love the way guides like Angel provide helpful insights, making snorkeling accessible even for beginners. The reviews repeatedly mention the vivid coral reefs and the joy of floating above such diverse marine life. Be sure to bring your water shoes if you’re sensitive to rocky beaches, as some reviewers noted.

Stop 3: Isla Tierra Bomba and Private Beach Club

The final stop is Tierra Bomba, where you’ll find a private beach club offering an exclusive experience. Here, you can unwind by a magnificent pool with jacuzzis or relax on a secluded beach with panoramic views of Cartagena’s skyline. Weekend evenings often feature live DJs and shows, transforming this quiet spot into a lively Caribbean party.

Many reviews highlight the friendly staff, especially the tour guide Jose Daniel, who keeps everyone feeling safe and engaged. The scenery at Tierra Bomba, with its stunning sunset views, makes it a perfect place to wind down your day.

Food, Drinks, and Extra Perks

Throughout the tour, the lunch voucher is a big hit; many describe the food as great quality with options for various tastes. The included bottle of water helps keep everyone hydrated in the tropical heat. Some even recommend BYOB on the boat for added fun.

Considerations and Tips

Some reviews mention variable experiences—for instance, the lunch spot at Tierra Bomba was not always well-rated, and a few travelers experienced boat delays or breakdowns. The group size and popularity mean that booking early (around 10 days in advance) is wise.

If you’re cautious about rough waters, sitting at the back of the boat might help, as some reviewers noted that the front experiences more movement. It’s also a good idea to bring water shoes if you plan to snorkel or walk on rocky beaches.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a full day of variety—from historic sites and coral reefs to private beaches and lively beach clubs. It suits those comfortable with moderate physical activity and boat rides. If you’re seeking a well-organized, guided day with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing, this tour provides a good balance and good value.

The Sum Up

This full-day island tour from Cartagena offers a diverse, scenic, and fun way to experience the Caribbean’s best. With visits to Rosario’s reefs, Baru’s white sands, and Tierra Bomba’s exclusive beach club, you get a taste of everything—history, nature, and luxury. The inclusion of lunch vouchers, water, and organized transport makes it a reliable choice for those looking to maximize their day without the hassle of planning each detail.

While the experience can vary—boat delays, variable lunch quality, or crowded spots—the positive reviews overwhelmingly highlight friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and good value. It’s a great way to see the islands if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive, engaging experience.

If you love beach time, snorkeling, and discovering new places, and don’t mind some unpredictability, this tour is an excellent pick. It suits those eager for a mix of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos, enjoy refreshing drinks, and soak up the Caribbean sun.

FAQs

How early do I need to arrive?
You should meet at the Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande by 7:30 am to start the day on time.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers boat transportation, a bottle of water, a COP 30,000 lunch voucher, insurance, and music on the boat.

Are there any additional costs?
You’ll need to pay a port tax, and water shoes are not included but are recommended, especially for snorkeling and rocky beaches.

How long is each stop?
The tour allocates about two hours at Encantada Beach Club, two hours snorkeling at Rosario, and two hours at Tierra Bomba, giving a good balance between relaxation and exploration.

Is the tour suitable for older adults?
While it requires moderate physical activity, it’s not recommended for older adults who might have difficulty with boat rides or walking on uneven surfaces.

What about safety during the boat ride?
Most reviews mention professional crew members, but some have noted boat breakdowns or fast returns. Sitting at the back of the boat can help with seasickness or rough waters.

Can I change or cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable. Weather cancellations are handled with the option to reschedule or get a full refund.