
Cartagena by boat: Rosario Islands and sunsets over the bay
Speedboat days, private boats and sunset cruises. Pick your trip, book online and check the meeting point.
You’re going to love Cartagena
Cartagena de Indias is one of the most beautiful cities on the Caribbean. Its walled old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of colourful colonial houses, flower-covered balconies and lively squares, with a modern skyline rising next to it on the Bocagrande peninsula.
And behind the city lies a sea of turquoise water. In under an hour a speedboat takes you to the Rosario Islands and their beach clubs, and at sunset a catamaran crosses the bay with the Walled City glowing in the golden light.


The 5 best reasons to visit Cartagena
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A UNESCO old townThe Walled City and the fortress of San Felipe de Barajas are among the best-preserved colonial sites in the Caribbean.
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Colour everywherePainted façades, balconies full of flowers and street life that make every walk a photo.
- 3
Rosario IslandsA short boat ride away: clear water, coral reefs and beach clubs for a day by the sea.
- 4
Great food and musicFresh seafood, ceviche, fried fish with coconut rice, and salsa and champeta in the evening.
- 5
Warm all yearHot, sunny weather and a warm sea make it a destination for most of the year.
What to do in Cartagena
- Walk the Walled CityWander its streets and squares, climb the old walls at sunset and visit the cathedral.
- Visit the Castillo San Felipe de BarajasThe largest fortress the Spanish built in the Americas, with tunnels and views over the city.
- Explore GetsemaníA lively neighbourhood of street art, bars and restaurants next to the old town.
- Take a day trip to the Rosario IslandsSnorkel, swim and relax at a beach club; check the fees that are paid on site.
- Enjoy the nightlifeRooftop bars, live music and dancing, in and around the old town.

When to go to Cartagena
Cartagena is hot and humid all year, with temperatures that rarely change. The drier months run from December to April, and the rainiest from September to November.
High season
December to April
Drier and sunny, with a breeze, especially from December to March, and the best conditions for the beach and boat trips.
€€€The highest hotel rates of the year, especially at Christmas and New Year; book early.
Shoulder season
May to August
Hot, with some showers and long sunny spells, and a warm sea. A good balance of weather and price.
€€Prices drop compared with the peak months.
Low season
September to November
The rainiest months, with heavy showers that tend to be short. Mornings are often the best time for the water.
€The lowest prices of the year, with good offers.
Our pick: December to April for the driest weather and the best days on the water. Remember that the city is hot at midday, so plan your walks for the morning and the evening.
How to get to Cartagena
Cartagena is easy to reach and compact once you are there.
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By plane
Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) is a short taxi ride from the old town and has flights from Bogotá, Medellín and other cities, plus some international routes. Check the current entry requirements before you travel.
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By taxi
Taxis are the easiest way to get around the city; agree the fare before you set off or use a ride-hailing app.
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On foot
The Walled City and Getsemaní are best explored on foot, preferably in the morning or the evening.
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To the boat
Our trips leave from Cartagena’s piers: the Rosario Islands trips from Muelle de la Bodeguita and the sunset cruise from the main tourist pier. Check the exact point on the trip page.

Boat trips and attractions in Cartagena
Cartagena looks its best from the water. A speedboat takes you to the Rosario Islands and their beach clubs for a day of swimming and relaxing, or you can charter a private boat just for your group. In the evening, a catamaran crosses the bay at sunset with an open bar and music.
At the end of this guide you will find all our experiences from Cartagena, with live availability and secure online payment.
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How your day works
Each trip has its own meeting point, times and inclusions: check the trip page before you book.
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Book online
Pick a date with live availability and pay securely.
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Meeting point
The trip page tells you where to meet and whether hotel pickup is included.
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Safe on board
Professional crews, with life jackets and safety equipment where the trip includes them.
Your day, step by step
- 1Book online and choose your date.
- 2Check the meeting point or pickup details on the trip page.
- 3Arrive a little early: some trips ask for 20 or 30 minutes, it is on the page.
- 4Enjoy the trip with your crew.
Before you set off
Exact meeting point
The Rosario Islands trips meet at Muelle de la Bodeguita; the sunset cruise leaves from the main tourist pier. The exact point and the time to arrive are on each trip page.
Address: Muelle de la Bodeguita, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Good to know
- Some fees are paid on site in cash (port fee, dock tax or national park entrance): they are listed on each trip page.
- The snorkel stop depends on the weather and the sea.
- Some trips are for adults only (18+), and alcohol is served only to guests aged 18 and over.
- Arrive at the pier at the time shown on the trip page.
What to bring
- Swimsuit and towel.
- Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- Your booking confirmation (on your phone or printed).
- A little cash for tips or fees paid on site.
What you will see
The Caribbean coast of Colombia, seen from the water.
Rosario Islands
Clear water, coral reefs and beach clubs, under an hour from Cartagena by speedboat.
The Walled City from the sea
The old walls and the Bocagrande skyline, side by side from the bay.
Sunset over the bay
Golden light on the city, with an open bar and music on board.
Enjoy with peace of mind
Local operators
The trips are run by local operators who know these waters.
Live availability
Dates and times come straight from the operator’s calendar.
Clear prices online
The price you see is what you pay online; fees payable on site are listed on each trip page.
WhatsApp support
Message us and we will answer your questions before and after you book.
Ready to sail?
Pick your experience and book direct, or message us and we will help you choose.
Experiences we offer in Cartagena
✓AvailableCartagena⏱ 2 h
Sunset catamaran cruise in Cartagena
Sunset catamaran cruise in Cartagena Bay: 2 hours with open bar, snacks and music, views of the Walled City. Book online, live availability.
- Duration
- ⏱ 2 h
from €58.07 / person
★RecommendedCartagena⏱ 6 h 30 min
Private boat day to Rosario Islands from Cartagena
Private boat to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena: 6.5 hours for up to 12 guests with snorkelling, beach club, drinks and bilingual guide. Book online.
- Duration
- ⏱ 6 h 30 min
- Type
- 🛥 Private, per boat
from €1,428.28 / boat

