Snorkeling in Tayrona Park from Santa Marta: Private sailing boat

A bathing platform at the stern lets you step straight into the water without climbing down a ladder.

Half-day snorkeling activity from Santa Marta on a private sailing boat in Tayrona National Natural Park. You swim, snorkel, sunbathe and paddle in the first bay (Granate), with a captain who speaks English, Spanish or French. The boat carries snorkeling gear, a fridge stocked with beverages, and a large platform for easy water access. Minimum reservation is 48 hours in advance.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private sailing trip in Tayrona Park

• Depart from Santa Marta
• Pass in front of Taganga
• Stop in bay before La punta Aguja
• Swim, snorkel, relax, sunbathe, paddle
• Enjoy drinks and socialize on board
• Possibly fish or see dolphins
• Sail back to Santa Marta at sunset

The experience

You'll spend roughly four and a half hours on the water, starting from Santa Marta and sailing into Tayrona National Natural Park. The boat stops in the bay just before La Punta Aguja, where you have plenty of time to swim, snorkel, sunbathe and relax on deck. A large bathing platform at the stern gives you direct access to the sea without needing to climb down. The captain may choose a different bay if weather doesn't permit reaching the planned one, and if conditions align, you might see dolphins or have a chance to fish.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, along with bottled water and snacks. The boat has a fridge stocked with sodas, beers, wine, rum and other beverages available at set prices (the list comes the day before your trip). You're also welcome to bring your own drinks. You can paddle, jump from the boat, and spend the afternoon however suits you: chatting with friends or family, swimming, or simply taking in the landscape. The return journey to Santa Marta happens at sunset, so you get both the bay and the light show at the end of the day.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment.
• paddle.
• bottled water.
• snacks.
• use of the bathing platform for water access.
• beverages available for purchase in the boat's fridge (soda, beer, wine, rum and others).
• a live guide in English, Spanish or French.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and French

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Vela del Mar

Is this one for you?Book this private boat if you want the bay and the sunset without sharing the space: the captain adjusts the route to weather, so you get the best bay available on the day, and the return sail catches the light as you head back to Santa Marta.

Traveler reviews

4.56★★★★★★★★★★

9 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and French.

What's included in the snorkeling equipment?

Snorkeling gear is provided for the activity in the bay. You'll also get a paddle if you want to explore from the water, bottled water, and snacks during the half-day outing.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?

Yes, you can bring your own drinks. The boat also has a fridge with beverages for sale (soda, beer, wine, rum and others), with prices shared the day before your trip. Snacks are included.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day?

The captain reserves the right to change bays if weather doesn't allow reaching Granate. You'll still have your snorkeling time, but it may be in a different location within the park.

How do I get into the water from the boat?

The boat has a large bathing platform at the stern that gives you easy, direct access to the sea. You step straight in without needing to climb down a ladder.

How far in advance do I need to book?

You must reserve at least 48 hours before your trip. Infants must sit on an adult's lap, and the activity is suitable for all fitness levels.