Boat Trip to Playa Blanca from Cartagena

A boat trip to Playa Blanca on Isla Baru is one of the more popular day excursions from Cartagena. Expect a 45-minute to one-hour ride each way depending on the boat. The beach itself is wide, white, and attractive but gets busy with day-trippers, vendors, and music. The water is usually calm and clear enough for swimming; some tours add a quick snorkel stop at the Rosario Islands on the way. Lunch is typically included – grilled fish or chicken with coconut rice – but quality varies. It’s a full-day commitment (usually 7-8 hours total) that mixes transit, beach time, and a bit of island-hopping.

Best time to go is December to March when the weather is driest and seas are calmer. June to November can be rainy and the water murkier. Expect to pay around $45–$80 per person depending on whether you choose a basic shared speedboat or a slightly more comfortable tour with lunch and snorkel gear. Private options push well over $100.

Pick a morning departure to avoid the worst heat and crowds. Skip the full “party boat” versions if you want any peace; they get loud. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, cash for vendors, and a waterproof bag for your phone. If you only want the beach, consider the cheaper bus option instead – the boat ride is nice but not life-changing.