Private Boat Tour Rosario Islands & Barú Cartagena

Summary

Island Hopping Cartagena: Private Speedboat Adventure

If you want to see Cartagena beyond its busy streets, this private boat trip lets you swim over coral reefs, eat fresh seafood on hidden beaches, and soak up local life—from sleepy villages to lively party spots—all at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air felt warm and salty as we pulled away from the dock in Cartagena. Our captain, Andrés, pointed out the city’s skyline—Bocagrande’s glass towers catching the sun, while the old city walls looked almost golden in the early light. The hum of the engine mixed with gulls overhead, and I could smell fresh bread drifting from a vendor near the marina. If you look back as you leave, you’ll see San Sebastián del Pastelillo fort standing guard by the water—locals say it’s one of those spots most tourists miss unless someone points it out.

We cruised past Tierra Bomba, where kids waved from sandy paths and fishermen mended nets under palm trees. The old Spanish forts at Bocachica—San Fernando and San José—loomed up on either side. Our guide told us pirates used to try their luck here centuries ago; now it’s just quiet except for the occasional motorbike or rooster crowing somewhere inland. The breeze picked up as we left the bay behind.

The Rosario Islands came into view—a scatter of green dots on turquoise water. There are 28 islands here (I’d always thought it was fewer), all part of a protected national park. We dropped anchor off Isla Grande, and I slipped into the water with a snorkel mask. It’s hard to describe how clear it is until you’re actually floating above coral and watching tiny blue fish dart around your toes. Some folks tried subwinging for the first time—looks tricky but everyone came up grinning.

Lunch was at a quiet beach club—no menu boards or crowds, just grilled snapper and coconut rice served under a thatched roof. You’ll want some cash for lunch (they only take pesos), and prices depend on what’s fresh that day; lobster costs more but honestly, even the catch of the day is worth it. Afterward, we headed toward Barú. Playa Blanca gets all the hype but our captain knew a quieter stretch where hammocks swung between sea grape trees and there wasn’t another boat in sight.

On our way back, we stopped at Cholón—a floating party spot where boats tie up together in shallow water. Music thumped from somewhere nearby; people danced waist-deep with beers in hand while vendors paddled by selling oysters on ice. I’m not much of a dancer but couldn’t help laughing along with everyone else splashing around.

The return to Cartagena was slower; nobody seemed in a rush as we watched Bocagrande’s towers turn pink in the late sun. Someone popped open a bottle of bubbly (included if you ask ahead), and we just sat there for a bit—quiet except for waves against the hull and distant music fading behind us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat Tour and Island Visits

• View Cartagena skyline
• Pass Tierra Bomba and historic forts
• Explore Rosario Islands
• Relax at Barú and visit Cholón
• Sail back to Cartagena at sunset

Top questions

Is lunch included in the price?

No, lunch isn’t included—you’ll need cash in Colombian pesos (COP). Expect US $40–$90 per person depending on what you order at the beach club.

What time does the boat return to Cartagena?

Boats must be back by 4:00 pm due to port rules or earlier if weather changes suddenly.

Can I bring small children or someone using a wheelchair?

Yes! The tour is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers; infants can ride on laps or use special seats provided onboard.

What should I bring with me?

Sunscreen, hat, swimsuit, towel, some cash for extras like lunch or drinks (pesos only), and maybe a light jacket if you get chilly after swimming.

What’s included

Your own private speedboat with crew (captain plus assistant), hotel pickup/drop-off in Cartagena city area, cold drinks and snacks onboard, all gear for swimming or snorkeling, access to exclusive beach clubs on Barú (lunch extra), plus plenty of time to relax or explore at each stop.