Cartagena: Rosario Islands Party Boat Tour & Cholon Lunch

Summary

Rosario islands day trip with party stops cholon lunch and local color

You’ll jump straight into Cartagena’s wild side on this Rosario Islands day trip: speed across open water, spot Bocachica fort and Pablo Escobar’s old mansion, eat fresh fish with your toes in the sand, then dance (or just watch) at Cholon party island before heading back sun-dazed and smiling.

What’s the experience like?

“Is this your first time in Cholon?” our guide shouted over the thumping reggaeton as we bounced across the water outside Cartagena. I just grinned because honestly, I’d barely caught my breath since we left the port. The speedboat ride to the Rosario Islands is not for anyone who hates getting splashed or jostled — but that salty spray woke me up better than any coffee. Somewhere between Bocachica’s old cannons and the faded shell of Pablo Escobar’s mansion, I realized I was already sunburned (should’ve reapplied). Our guide, Javier, kept cracking jokes about how even locals can’t pronounce “Barú” right after a few beers.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much with strangers — or to eat grilled fish with my hands at Marina Island while sand stuck to my ankles. Lunch was simple but good, nothing fancy, just fresh and salty and perfect after swimming. There were vendors everywhere on some islands; one woman tried to sell me a bracelet while her son danced around our table. It felt like everyone was hustling or celebrating something. By the time we hit Cholon, it was just chaos: boats tied together, music from every direction, people dancing in waist-deep water with plastic cups held high. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, this isn’t it — but if you want that wild Cartagena energy, well…

The boat ride back was quieter. Everyone slumped against their seats, sun-tired and sticky with salt. Someone started singing along to a Bad Bunny song on the speaker and others joined in, off-key but happy. I still think about that view leaving Barú — all those colors blurring together in the late light — and how for a few hours it felt like we’d been let in on a secret party only this part of Colombia knows how to throw.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Five-stop boat tour with island visits

• Depart from Cartagena
• Stop at Bocachica fort for sightseeing
• View Pablo Escobar’s mansion
• Visit beach club in Barú or Grande Island
• Stop at Marina Island for included lunch
• Enjoy party time at Cholón island
• Return to Cartagena

Top questions

How many stops are included on the Rosario Islands party boat tour?

The tour includes five stops: Bocachica fort sightseeing, Pablo Escobar’s mansion viewing from the water, three island visits including Barú or Grande Island beach club, Marina Island (with lunch), and Cholon party island.

Is lunch included on this Cartagena Rosario Islands day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at Marina Island during the 5-stop tour.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

No food items are allowed except for water; lunch is provided as part of your booking.

What should I bring for the Rosario Islands party boat tour?

You must bring swimwear (it’s mandatory), sunscreen, cash for port tax and vendors, and your own transportation to/from the meeting point.

Are pickups or drop-offs included in this Cartagena boat tour?

No pickups or drop-offs are provided; you need to arrange your own transport to the pier.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?

No; due to rough boat rides and crowded conditions at Cholon, it is not recommended for infants, elderly travelers, pregnant guests, or those with limited mobility.

Do I need to pay any extra fees during the tour?

You are responsible for paying a mandatory tourist port tax at the pier before departure.

What happens if there is bad weather during my Rosario Islands day trip?

The itinerary may be modified due to weather conditions; always check forecasts before departing.

What’s included

Your day covers all five stops by shuttle boat—Bocachica fort sightseeing from the water, passing by Pablo Escobar's mansion ruins, three different island visits including Barú or Grande beach club plus Marina Island where you get lunch included (fresh fish or chicken), finishing at lively Cholon party island before returning to Cartagena on your own transport.