Tour en Velero a Bahía Concha Parque Tayrona

Tour en Velero a Bahía Concha Parque Tayrona: A Scenic Day on the Caribbean

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the water, surrounded by turquoise waves and pristine beaches, then the Tour en Velero a Bahía Concha might be a great choice. Starting from Santa Marta, this 7-hour sailing trip offers a mix of stunning scenery, relaxing beach time, and authentic Colombian hospitality, all for around $81 per person. Led by guides who speak both Spanish and English, this tour is a balanced mix of adventure and tranquility, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and indulge in delicious local cuisine.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the spectacular coastal landscapes you’ll see along the way—Taganga and La Aguja Island are just some of the sights that make the journey memorable. Second, the white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters at Bahía Concha provide a perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging in the sun. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that accessibility for wheelchairs isn’t available — the boat requires steps to board, which can be a hurdle for some travelers.

This tour fits best for travelers who love the ocean, want a taste of local seafood, and enjoy a relaxed, guided day out. If you prefer handcrafted experiences that blend natural beauty with cultural flavor, this sailing trip might just be your ideal escape.

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Key Points

• Scenic Sailing: Enjoy about 1.5 hours of sailing along the coast, with views of Santa Marta’s beaches and islands.
• Authentic Beach Day: Relax on a wide, white-sand beach with clear blue water, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Local Cuisine: Savor a traditional grilled fish lunch with salads, rice, and fried potatoes.
• Flexible Free Time: You get around 4-5 hours ashore, giving you plenty of time to explore or unwind.
• All-Inclusive: The tour includes snacks, fruits, paddleboards, snorkel masks, and a travel insurance.
• Limited Accessibility: The boat involves steps, so it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

An In-Depth Look at the Sailing Adventure

The adventure kicks off at 9:30 am at the Marina de Santa Marta, where you’ll meet your bilingual guides and board the sailboat. This initial part is crucial because the journey itself is as beautiful as the destination. We loved the way the boat gently glided over the Caribbean waters, giving us uninterrupted views of Santa Marta’s coastline, including iconic beaches and the tiny La Aguja Island, which marks the border of Tayrona Park.

From there, the 1.5-hour sail offers a chance to breathe in the salty air, marvel at the scenery, and perhaps snap some photos of the islands and beaches passing by. It’s this part of the trip that adds a sense of adventure, transforming a simple beach visit into a maritime experience. The guides shared interesting tidbits in both Spanish and English, making the cruise accessible to most travelers.

Once we arrived at Bahía Concha, the boat was anchored close to shore, and the real fun began. The beach itself is a photographer’s dream—soft, white grainy sand that artistically contrasts with the vibrant turquoise sea. The tranquil waters are ideal for paddleboarding, snorkeling, or just floating lazily while admiring the seabed.

The reviews echoed our experience, with one traveler noting, “The excursion was good, I enjoyed it a lot…but it is not accessible for people in wheelchairs as indicated.” This is worth considering if mobility is a concern, since boarding the boat involves steps.

The lunch was another highlight—grilled fish served with fresh salad, rice, and fried potatoes, a simple but satisfying meal that gave us energy for the afternoon. The guides emphasize that the authentic Colombian flavor shines through, making the meal a real part of the experience rather than just a necessity.

The free time after lunch is ample for swimming, relaxing, or exploring the surroundings. As the tour wraps up around 3:30 pm, we start heading back, with the return journey concluding around 4:30-5:00 pm at the Santa Marta Marina. The entire day feels well-paced, balancing activity with leisure.

What Sets It Apart

Beyond the obvious scenic appeal, this tour offers value through its all-inclusive nature—snacks, fruits, paddleboards, snorkel gear, and insurance are included, which means you don’t have to worry about additional costs. The guides’ bilingual service makes the trip accessible and enjoyable for international visitors. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Another perk is the authenticity of the experience. The guides’ knowledge adds depth to the trip, making it more than just a boat ride; it’s a chance to connect with local culture and nature.

Possible Drawbacks

The main drawback is accessibility. As one review pointed out, getting on and off the boat requires steps, which could be tricky for travelers with mobility issues. Also, the tour does not include transport to and from the marina—so you’ll need to organize your own way there, which could add to the overall cost or logistical planning.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing trip is ideal for nature lovers, beach bums, and anyone wanting a relaxing escape with a touch of adventure. It suits travelers who enjoy water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, or those simply looking for a scenic day with good food and friendly guides. It’s also perfect if you’re seeking an authentic local experience without the hefty price tag—given the inclusive offerings and the quality of the scenery.

If you’re traveling with children comfortable around water and boat rides, they’ll likely enjoy the beach and snorkeling. But if you or someone in your party has mobility challenges, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For $81, this tour offers a well-rounded day that combines scenic sailing, beach relaxation, and local cuisine. You’ll get to see some of Santa Marta’s most iconic coastal views, enjoy crystal-clear waters, and indulge in a delicious Colombian meal. The guides’ bilingual service makes it accessible, and the included gear adds value, making it an easy choice for a memorable day at Tayrona.

This experience is best suited for sea lovers and those looking for a laid-back, authentic adventure. If you’re seeking a more accessible trip or a highly structured tour, you might want to explore other options. But if your goal is to enjoy the Caribbean’s beauty in a relaxed setting, this sailing excursion hits the spot.

FAQ

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, the tour starts at the main entrance of the Santa Marta Marina, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation there.

How long is the sailing part of the trip?
The boat ride from Santa Marta to Bahía Concha lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering plenty of time to enjoy the coastal views.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the boat ride, lunch (grilled fish with sides), snacks, fruits, paddleboards, snorkel masks, a service bathroom, insurance, and a bilingual guide.

Can I participate in water activities?
Yes, paddleboarding and snorkeling are included, giving you a chance to explore the underwater scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most children comfortable around water and boat rides should enjoy it. Keep in mind the boat involves steps, so check for mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sandals, sunscreen, water, and beachwear for a comfortable day in the sun.

How flexible are the timings?
The tour duration is approximately 7 hours, with departures around 9:30 am; check availability for specific starting times.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In all, this sailing trip balances scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and relaxation—perfect for those wanting to experience Santa Marta’s coast in a laid-back, authentic way. Pack your swimsuit, grab your sunhat, and prepare for a memorable Caribbean day on the water.

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