Is a Beach Tour in Cartagena Worth It?

A beach tour in Cartagena usually means boarding a speedboat or catamaran with 10–30 other people and spending most of the day hopping between islands and sandbars in the Rosario Islands area. Expect turquoise water, decent snorkeling (if the visibility is good), a stop or two at crowded beaches with loud music, and a big lunch of fish, rice, and plantains included. The ride can be bumpy, the boats often have blaring reggaeton, and many of the “private” beaches are basically small resorts that charge extra for loungers and drinks. It’s fun if you want a full day on the water and don’t mind sharing the experience with a group; it’s less ideal if you’re after peace and quiet.

December to March is the best window—seas are calmer, rain is rare, and visibility is better. June to November can be rough and wet. Expect to pay around $60–$110 per person depending on boat size, whether it includes open bar, and how many stops they make. Private tours for small groups run noticeably higher.

Pick a mid-sized boat that leaves early (around 8–9 a.m.) so you’re not arriving everywhere after the bigger crowds. Skip the tours that advertise “party boat” or “unlimited alcohol” unless that’s exactly what you want; they tend to be louder and rowdier. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, cash for extras, and realistic expectations—this is a solid day out, not a secluded paradise.