Santa Marta: Sunset Cruise Around the Bay

Santa Marta: Sunset Cruise Around the Bay offers a relaxed yet memorable way to wind down your day in this Colombian coastal city. For $43 per person, you get about 2.5 hours of sailing, with stunning views of Santa Marta’s skyline, rugged coastline, and the Caribbean Sea at sunset. The tour departs from the AquaSport Dive Centre marina and takes you on a gentle boat ride, perfect for anyone wanting to see the city from a new angle without committing a full day.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines the natural beauty of Santa Marta’s bay with a laid-back, customizable atmosphere. You can bring along your own food and drinks—whether snacks, cocktails, or local beverages—and enjoy them at your leisure. The onboard Bluetooth speaker adds a personal touch, letting you set your own soundtrack as the sun dips below the horizon. Two standout features: the chance to capture fantastic photos of the sunset and the relaxed vibe that makes it feel more like a gathering of friends than a formal tour.

One thing worth considering is timing and punctuality. The meeting point is at 4:30 pm, and arriving early is recommended because the guide cannot wait for latecomers. Also, since it’s a sailing experience on the water, it’s not ideal for those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues, as the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

This tour is perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a peaceful, scenic evening and don’t mind bringing their own snacks or music. If you’re seeking a simple, authentic way to enjoy Santa Marta’s coast, this cruise offers excellent value—combining affordability, flexibility, and breathtaking views.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: At $43, it offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy the bay and sunset.
• Customizable experience: Bring your own food, drinks, and music for a personalized outing.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning sunset views over Santa Marta from the water.
• Punctuality matters: Arrive early to avoid missing the departure.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or seasickness.
• Ideal for relaxed, intimate evenings: Perfect for small groups or couples looking for a peaceful escape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sunset Cruise

The Santa Marta Sunset Cruise is a straightforward but charming way to see the city’s bay from a different perspective. Starting at the AquaSport Dive Centre, you’ll meet your guide and the small group around 4:30 pm. The walk from the meeting point to the boat is brief—about five minutes—making it a hassle-free start. We liked that the guide provides safety instructions early on, setting the tone for a relaxed, yet organized experience.

The Departure and Sailing

Once onboard, the boat is comfortable enough for a small group, with a cooler filled with water, soda, and ice, along with a Bluetooth speaker ready for your playlist. The sailing portion lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to breathe in the salt air, enjoy the breeze, and capture some impressive photos of Santa Marta’s skyline and mountains in the distance. The boat’s gentle movement and the calm sea make it a pleasant, almost meditative experience.

The ability to connect your own music adds a fun element—imagine setting your favorite tunes as the sun begins to lower. It’s these small personal touches that elevate the experience beyond just a boat ride. One reviewer noted, “Feel the sun on your face and enjoy your own music while sipping drinks”—that’s the essence of this tour.

Anchoring and Sunset Viewing

Around the halfway mark, the boat anchors in the bay for about an hour. During this time, you can relax, take photos, and soak in the panoramic views. The sunset over Santa Marta is particularly scenic, with the city lights slowly flickering on and the sky painted in shades of orange, pink, and purple. This is when the tour feels most magical. As night falls, the city’s silhouette becomes a striking contrast against the darkening sky.

Returning to the Marina

At approximately 7 pm, the boat departs for the return trip, bringing an end to your water-based adventure. The whole experience is laid-back, with plenty of time to chat, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

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Authentic and Practical Aspects

The tour’s simplicity is part of its appeal. It’s not a hurried or tourist-heavy excursion but rather a peaceful way to see Santa Marta from a different angle. You’re encouraged to bring your own food and drinks, which significantly increases the value—you’re not paying extra for overpriced snacks onboard. The safety equipment onboard gives peace of mind, especially on a boat in open water.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer humorously described the tour as “a robbery,” but from our perspective, the price is reasonable considering the personalized experience, the scenic views, and the flexibility. The tour is rated 4.5 out of 5 from 25 reviews, reflecting mostly positive experiences, though it’s clear that the tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, low-key evening.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: No hotel pickup is included, so plan to meet at the AquaSport Dive Centre. Arriving early is a good idea to secure your spot and avoid missing the departure.

What to Bring: Pack food, drinks, and a playlist if you wish; just remember to bring your ID to enter the marina.

What Not to Expect: The tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or who are prone to seasickness. Pets are not allowed onboard.

Punctuality & Safety: The guide emphasizes punctuality, so plan to arrive a little before 4:30 pm. Safety equipment is provided, but keep in mind that the experience involves some time on the water, which might not suit everyone.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, intimate experience that offers beautiful views without a hefty price tag, this cruise is a great choice. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy peaceful moments, taking photos, or simply unwinding over a drink. It’s especially suited for those who want a personalized experience, bringing their own music and snacks, and are comfortable on a boat for a couple of hours.

However, if you prefer a more structured or lively tour, or need wheelchair accessibility, you might want to explore other options listed under similar experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is suitable for most age groups, but keep in mind it involves some time on the water and may not be ideal for very young children or those with seasickness.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you are encouraged to bring your own food and beverages. The boat has a cooler for keeping items cold.

Is there music onboard?
You can connect your own Bluetooth device to the onboard speaker and enjoy your preferred playlist during the cruise.

How long is the sailing part of the tour?
The sailing lasts approximately one hour, with an additional hour anchored in the bay for sunset viewing.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for warm weather; bring a hat and sunscreen. It’s also wise to have a light jacket or cover-up for evening chills.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to plan without worry.

To sum it up, the Santa Marta Sunset Cruise offers a peaceful, scenic way to celebrate the end of the day. It’s an affordable, flexible experience that puts you in control—bringing your own playlist and snacks turns it into your perfect personal moment. While not for everyone, especially those with mobility issues, it’s a charming choice for travelers eager for a calm, authentic look at Santa Marta’s waterscape in the golden hour. For anyone wanting a memorable, low-key evening on the Caribbean, this cruise hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby