Open Bar Sunset Cruise in Catamaran or Speedboat (Best Deal)

Experience Cartagena’s Sunset from the Water with Open Bar Cruises

When it comes to capturing Cartagena’s vibrant spirit, few experiences match a sunset cruise on the Caribbean Sea. For just $20 per person, you can hop aboard either a speedboat or a catamaran for approximately two hours of scenic splendor, lively music, and a generous open bar. The tours depart from the Centro Historico area, a hub of Colombian history and colorful streets, making it a convenient starting point whether you’re staying in the historic district or nearby.

What makes this experience especially appealing? First, the stunning views of Cartagena’s skyline during sunset create breathtaking photo opportunities—whether you’re dancing, mingling, or simply soaking it all in. Second, the choice between a speedboat and a catamaran allows you to tailor the vibe: a speedboat for energetic, youthful fun with Latin beats and dancing, or a catamaran that’s more relaxed and family-friendly, complete with snacks and full beverage options.

A potential consideration? The tickets are strictly non-interchangeable, so you’ll want to choose your vessel carefully. Also, while the price includes the cruise and open bar, keep in mind that catamaran guests must pay an additional port tax of 16,000 COP if you opt for that boat. Men should also be prepared to wear pants and closed-toe shoes if they plan to attend the after-party.

This tour suits young party-goers craving a lively atmosphere, families looking for scenic, laid-back fun, and solo travelers wanting a safe, social environment. If you enjoy vibrant settings paired with memorable views, this cruise offers a fantastic way to wind down your day in Cartagena.

Key Points

• Two vessel options: Speedboat for energetic nights or catamaran for relaxed scenic cruising.
• All-inclusive open bar enhances the experience, with options for alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Stunning sunset views over Cartagena’s skyline are a highlight, perfect for photos.
• Short duration of around 2 hours makes it an easy addition to your itinerary.
• Optional after-party available, with some dress code considerations (men should wear pants and closed shoes).
• Strict ticketing: speedboat and catamaran tickets are not interchangeable, so choose carefully.
• Reviews are generally positive but highlight the importance of reading the instructions and expectations carefully.
• Value for money: a lively, scenic experience at a very accessible price point.
• Weather dependent: the tour requires good weather; cancellations are fully refundable if canceled due to poor conditions.

A Deep Dive into the Sunset Cruise Experience in Cartagena

Starting Point and Logistics

The cruise departs from Sibarita del Mar, located along Av. Blas de Lezo in Cartagena’s historic center. The meeting time is 4:30 pm, making it an ideal late-afternoon activity before sunset. Be sure to arrive 10 minutes early—the dock can be busy, and finding your boat among the fleet of vessels requires a little patience.

The tour is a mobile ticket experience, which ensures smooth entry and flexibility. The maximum group size is around 50 travelers, creating a lively but manageable atmosphere. Since most travelers book 11 days in advance, it’s clear that this cruise remains a popular choice for visitors seeking a fun evening out.

The Vessel Choices: Speedboat vs. Catamaran

Choosing the right boat really shapes your experience. The speedboat option is perfect for those who want a party vibe—think dance music, mingling with other young travelers, and a faster ride over the water. It’s an intimate, exciting way to kick off your evening, especially if you’re keen on dancing and socializing.

In contrast, the catamaran caters to travelers who prefer a more relaxed experience. It includes a full open bar (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks) and a light snack, making it ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting a scenic, less frenetic cruise. Plus, the full bar means you can sip your drinks at a more leisurely pace while enjoying the views.

The Itinerary and Scenic Highlights

The tour begins in Centro Historico, allowing guests to appreciate Cartagena’s colorful colonial architecture from a unique vantage point. Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, especially as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting golden hues over the water.

The sunset is a true spectacle. Reviewers like Jennie_D called it “beautiful,” noting that the sunset combined with the lively atmosphere made for a perfect last night in Cartagena. The music—Latin beats in particular—amplifies the joyful mood, encouraging dancing, smiling, and capturing photos.

The Open Bar and Snacks

For just the price of admission, guests get access to either a full open bar (on the catamaran) or mixers and spirits (rum, aguardiente) on the speedboat. Guests are also welcome to bring their own drinks, which adds to the flexibility. The light snack included with the catamaran is appreciated, offering a chance to refresh after hours of dancing and sightseeing.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the drinks and the friendly atmosphere onboard. Melissa_C described her experience as “memorable,” emphasizing how she met amazing people and enjoyed dancing the night away. Meanwhile, Federico_P called it an “excellent environment to meet people and have fun.”

The After-Party and Dress Code

An optional after-party is available for purchase, often held at nearby venues. Men should be prepared to wear pants and closed-toe shoes if they plan to join the after-party, as some venues enforce dress code policies. Women can generally wear casual or slightly dressier attire depending on their plans.

Authenticity and Real Guest Perspectives

While most reviews praise the experience, a few negative comments serve as reminders to manage expectations. Some guests, like LaTonya_J and April_R, expressed frustration over what they felt was misleading advertising, citing concerns about boat size and the availability of alcohol. However, these guests also showed that reading the itinerary details carefully and understanding the vessel type helps prevent disappointment.

Others, such as carol_r, found the meeting instructions unclear, but this appears to be a matter of personal oversight rather than tour fault. The tour provider emphasizes the importance of reading the voucher details for clear directions.

Practical Tips for Your Sunset Cruise

• Arrive early to find your boat easily and avoid missing the departure.
• Wear comfortable clothing—especially if dancing or mingling on deck.
• If you’re on the catamaran, remember the additional port tax of 16,000 COP isn’t included in the ticket.
• Men planning to attend the after-party should bring pants and closed shoes.
• Bring tip money—the staff and guides are often praised for their friendliness and energy.
• Remember, weather matters: bad weather could lead to cancellation, with full refunds offered.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sunset cruise is ideal if you’re looking for an affordable, lively, and scenic way to wrap up a day in Cartagena. It appeals to younger travelers who want to dance and meet new people, but also works well for families and solo travelers seeking a safe environment with good views and friendly staff.

If your priority is authentic local vibes with a festive atmosphere, this tour hits the mark. However, if you prefer a quiet, romantic sunset or an experience with more luxury and comfort, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the catamaran option is good for families and all types of travelers. The relaxed vibe and inclusive drinks make it suitable for a broad audience.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, which makes it a good short activity that won’t eat up your whole evening.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 11 days ahead, indicating high demand. Booking early guarantees your spot, especially during peak season.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the speedboat or catamaran journey and an open bar. Snacks are included on the catamaran, but port taxes are additional if you choose that vessel.

Are there any dress code requirements?
For the after-party, men are advised to wear pants and closed-toe shoes. For the cruise itself, casual attire is fine, but bring something comfortable for dancing and sunset photos.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own drinks, which can add to the fun or help you save money.

Is there a bathroom on board?
The tour details specify there is no bathroom on the vessel, so plan accordingly.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

What should I expect from guest reviews?
Most reviews are positive, praising the fun atmosphere and stunning views, but some negative reviews focus on misunderstandings about the boat size or expectations—so read the details carefully.

To sum it up, this sunset cruise offers a lively, affordable way to see Cartagena from the water while enjoying drinks, music, and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those who want a fun, social atmosphere and don’t mind a short, energetic boat ride. Whether you choose the speedboat for dancing or the catamaran for scenic relaxation, you’ll leave with great memories and plenty of photos. Just be sure to read the details carefully, arrive early, and gear up for a memorable Caribbean sunset.