Snorkeling in Cartagena's Rosario Islands: Choose Your Day

You decide which islands, which reefs, and how your Caribbean day ends.

A full-day snorkeling trip from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands where you choose your stops at check-in: dive into coral reefs for 20 to 30 minutes, visit a historic fort, and pick between Cholón Island's floating party scene or a tranquil beach for the afternoon. Bilingual guide, speedboat transport, welcome drink, one beer or soda, rum on board, and a lunch credit of 30,000 COP are included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Rosario Islands and Beaches

• Travel by speedboat from Cartagena
• Arrive at Marine Beach Club & Hotel
• Enjoy welcome drink and relax
• Optional local breakfast at beach club
• Sail to Bocachica Island for Fort San Fernando view
• Take photos and learn fort history
• Boat ride to Corales del Rosario National Park
• Snorkel in coral reefs and clear waters
• Visit Encantada Beach near Isla Grande
• Have lunch with set menu or credit
• Choose to visit Cholón Island party scene
• Socialize and enjoy floating dance floor

The Experience

The day starts with a speedboat ride from Cartagena to Marine Beach Club on Punta Arenas Beach, where a welcome drink and ocean breeze set the pace. Before you settle in, you tell the staff which snorkeling spot calls to you—the choice is yours. The boat then heads toward Bocachica Island, where you'll see Fort San Fernando from the water; your guide spends about 10 minutes explaining how its stone walls once defended Cartagena from pirates. The real draw comes next: Corales del Rosario National Natural Park, where you slip into clear, shallow waters to snorkel among coral reefs and schools of colorful fish. The snorkeling lasts between 20 and 30 minutes, paced to match your comfort and stamina.

Lunch happens at Encantada Beach near the native village on Isla Grande. You get a 30,000 COP credit toward any dish on the menu—fried fish, vegan options, chicken and more fall within that budget, though you can spend extra if you want something else. After eating, the day splits: choose Cholón Island if you want the energy of dozens of boats anchored in a bay with music and dancing, or opt for a quiet beach if you'd rather wind down. Either way, you've got bilingual commentary on board, one beer or soda at the first island, and rum drinks during the boat ride back to Cartagena.

The whole experience runs about 9 hours from pickup to return. Water shoes aren't included but are recommended for the snorkeling, and life vests are provided. Keep your valuables close—the boat crew isn't responsible for items left behind. The speedboat ride itself is fast and can feel rough if the sea is choppy, so moderate fitness and comfort on the water matter here.

What’s included

• Speedboat transport from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands and back.
• bilingual live guide and coordinator.
• welcome drink at the beach club.
• one beer or soda at the first island.
• rum drinks on board.
• 30,000 COP lunch credit at Encantada Beach.
• snorkeling in Corales del Rosario National Natural Park with life vest provided.
• 10-minute stop at Fort San Fernando with historical commentary.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Backpackers Travels S. A. S

Is this one for you?Pick this one if you want to steer your own day—snorkeling, island stops, and the final vibe are all your call. It suits travelers who'd rather decide between energy and calm than follow a fixed schedule, and who are comfortable on a speedboat in open water.

Traveler reviews

4.30★★★★★★★★★★

251 verified traveler reviews

5 ★178

4 ★25

3 ★16

2 ★10

1 ★22

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What's the snorkeling like in the Rosario Islands?

The snorkeling takes place in Corales del Rosario National Natural Park in clear, shallow waters where you'll see coral reefs and colorful fish. The activity lasts 20 to 30 minutes and is paced to your own comfort and stamina, so you're not rushed.

Can I choose which island to visit, or is the itinerary fixed?

You choose at check-in which snorkeling spot appeals to you, and at the end of the day you pick between Cholón Island's party scene with dozens of boats and music, or a quiet beach for a calmer afternoon. The other stops—the beach club, the fort, and lunch—are part of every trip.

What food and drinks are included?

A welcome drink at the beach club, one beer or soda at the first island, and rum drinks on board are included. For lunch at Encantada Beach, you get a 30,000 COP credit that covers most dishes on the menu; if you want something pricier, you pay the difference yourself.

How long is the full day, and what time does it start?

The tour runs about 9 hours total. The exact start time depends on your hotel location and traffic, since the speedboat departs from Cartagena after pickup.

Do I need snorkeling experience or special fitness?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness because the speedboat ride can be rough and the day involves getting in and out of the water multiple times. The snorkeling itself is in shallow water and paced to your pace, so beginners are welcome. Water shoes are recommended but not included.

What happens if the cruise ship I'm on leaves late—can I still do this tour?

If you miss the tour because your ship arrives late or you don't show up on time, refunds are not issued. Make sure your ship's schedule gives you enough buffer time before booking.