Experience the Best of Cartagena’s Islands in One Day with a VIP Touch

If you’re after a mix of relaxation, adventure, and luxury, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of Cartagena’s idyllic islands for just $70 per person. Starting early at 7:30 am from the city’s marina, you’ll spend approximately nine hours exploring three distinct islands—Rosario, Isla Grande, and Tierra Bomba. The tour is thoughtfully designed to combine snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs with time at exclusive beach clubs featuring white sands, crystal waters, and panoramic city views.

What we love most is how organized and flexible the experience feels, especially with the inclusion of a delicious lunch voucher and the chance to stay later at Tierra Bomba for the sunset. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel among colorful marine life and unwind at private, luxurious beach clubs makes this a standout day trip.

A possible consideration is the long day’s schedule, which might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer a more laid-back pace. Also, note that the tour requires moderate physical activity—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some walking, boat rides, and water activities. If you’d enjoy a day of exploration paired with high-end amenities, this tour is perfect for couples, groups, or anyone eager to experience Cartagena’s islands without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

All-Inclusive Experience: Snorkeling gear, bottled water, alcoholic shots, and a generous lunch voucher included.
Three Unique Stops: Rosario Islands for marine life, Isla Grande for tranquility, Tierra Bomba for luxury views and sunset.
Flexible & Organized: Well-rated guides make the day smooth, with optional extended stay at Tierra Bomba for sunset.
Authentic & Luxurious: Private beach clubs with pristine beaches, pools with jacuzzis, and live entertainment on weekends.
Affordable Luxury: For just $70, you gain access to high-end amenities and unforgettable scenery.
Limited Group Size: Max 30 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

This tour provides a practical and rewarding way to see some of Cartagena’s most beautiful islands without the stress of independent logistics. From the start, you’ll appreciate the convenience of a mobile ticket and the ease of meeting at the marina early in the morning. The tour’s core appeal is the balance between adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with friends.

The Rosario Islands: Marine Life and Coral Gardens

Your first stop is Rosario Islands, renowned for their vivid coral reefs and diverse marine life. As one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Cartagena, these islands offer a chance to snorkel in colorful waters teeming with tropical fish and coral formations.

The tour guides describe this part as an “unforgettable snorkeling expedition,” giving you easy access to a vibrant coral reef. The reviews echo this enthusiasm—Mollie_T called it “a must-do,” praising the well-organized nature and the knowledgeable guide, Angel, who made the experience engaging.

What makes this stop special isn’t just the marine life but the setting itself—a white-sand beach with options for lounging in private cabanas or simply floating in the calm waters. Expect a relaxing, unhurried pace, perfect for those who want a genuine taste of Caribbean charm while avoiding overcrowded spots.

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Isla Grande and Encantada Beach Club: Serenity and Local Flavor

Next, you’ll visit Isla Grande, home to the Encantada Beach Club. Here, the focus shifts to serenity and comfort. The pristine beachfront setting makes it easy to unwind, whether you prefer sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying the panoramic views.

A COP 30,000 lunch voucher is included, which allows you to select a meal from their full menu—a thoughtful touch that lets you indulge in local flavors or familiar favorites. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the quality and variety of food. Joice_D noted that “the second stop at Lizamar was sensational,” emphasizing the breathtaking setting and friendly service.

This part of the tour illustrates how comfortable and well-equipped these private beach clubs are, offering luxurious amenities without the hefty price tag. You’ll spend around two hours here, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore.

Tierra Bomba: The Grand Finale with a View

The last island, Tierra Bomba, elevates the experience with an exclusive private beach club that offers breathtaking views of Cartagena skyline. The setting features a magnificent pool with jacuzzis, a secluded beach, and live DJs and shows on weekends, making it a lively yet upscale environment.

Here, you can stay longer to enjoy the sunset—a highlight according to many reviews. The tour’s flexibility allows you to remain at Tierra Bomba as long as you wish, then take a complimentary late boat back to Cartagena’s marina, ending the day on a high note.

The unmatched views and premium service on Tierra Bomba make it clear why this is considered the tour’s “grand finale”—a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on your day in the Caribbean.

Included in the tour are bottled water, alcoholic beverages (shots from departure), snorkeling equipment, and the lunch voucher. The accident insurance adds peace of mind, and the use of snorkeling gear ensures you won’t need to rent anything separately.

However, some considerations include the additional costs for water shoes or port taxes at Isla Grande, which aren’t included. Also, note that air-conditioned transportation to your hotel isn’t part of this package, so plan accordingly for your return.

The tour duration of approximately nine hours means a full day on the water, which can be tiring but also deeply rewarding for those wanting a comprehensive experience. The tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, comfortable with boat rides and some walking.

The Value and Real-World Experience

At $70 per person, this tour offers excellent value—combining snorkeling, luxury beach clubs, and scenic views without the hassle of planning individual transportation or activities. Most travelers find the organized schedule and high-quality amenities make the cost worthwhile.

Reviewers consistently praise the tour guides’ knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the overall experience. Mollie_T noted that Angel, the host, was “kind and so knowledgeable,” making the day both fun and informative.

The inclusion of a lunch voucher and access to private facilities ensures you feel pampered while still exploring authentic local environments. The small group size also means more personalized attention and a less rushed experience.

If you’re looking for a balanced day of snorkeling, relaxation, and scenic luxury, this experience hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a well-organized, all-in-one trip that takes care of the details—leaving you free to enjoy the stunning views and authentic Caribbean atmosphere.

Couples, friends, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic beach club environments with live weekend entertainment will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s ideal for those who enjoy water activities and scenic vistas but don’t want to deal with the logistics of island-hopping independently.

This Full VIP Day Tour packs a lot into nine hours, making it perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a comprehensive Caribbean experience. The combination of snorkeling in vibrant reefs, relaxing at private beaches, and experiencing Cartagena’s skyline from Tierra Bomba offers a varied and memorable day.

If your idea of a perfect trip involves beautiful scenery, good food, and a touch of luxury, this tour is an excellent choice. The small group size and friendly guides ensure a personalized experience, and the carefully curated stops mean you’ll get a real taste of what makes Cartagena’s islands special.

While it’s a full day, many reviewers like Mollie_T and Joice_D found it worth every minute—highlighting the well-organized itinerary, stunning views, and delicious food. For those wanting a high-value, authentic Caribbean adventure, this is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, giving you a full day of exploration and relaxation.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, from start to finish, including travel time, snorkeling, and beach time.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can enjoy the reefs without needing to rent anything independently.

Are meals included?
You receive a COP 30,000 lunch voucher, which can be used on the full menu at Encantada Beach Club. Additional charges may apply for special dishes.

Can I stay longer at Tierra Bomba?
Yes, the tour allows you to stay at Tierra Bomba for the sunset and take a late boat back to Cartagena at no extra charge.

Is the tour suitable for older adults?
It’s recommended for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves boat rides and some walking. Not ideal for travelers with mobility issues.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, all at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Cartagena’s islands with a touch of VIP treatment. Whether snorkeling vibrant reefs or lounging by a private pool, you’ll come away with unforgettable memories of your Caribbean escape.