5 Islands Tour (Cholon the Party Island and Snorkeling)

The 5 Islands Tour offers an exhilarating day of exploration and adventure for up to 20 guests. Featuring the vibrant Cholon Island and snorkeling opportunities, this tour promises a memorable experience starting at 7:30 AM. With transportation, lunch, gear, and drinks included, it’s a well-rounded package priced reasonably. While the guides are engaging and the atmosphere is lively, travelers should be mindful of potential vendor harassment and weather-related changes. However, maintaining a positive attitude can significantly enhance the overall enjoyment of this unique adventure. There’s more to uncover about this tour that might just pique your interest.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Snorkeling Experiences In Cartagena.

Good To Know

• The 5 Islands Tour offers a full-day experience, including visits to multiple islands, complimentary lunch, alcohol, snorkeling equipment, and transportation.
• The tour accommodates up to 20 people and starts at 7:30 AM, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before.
• Guests should be aware of potential vendor harassment and collusion between tour operators and vendors on the islands.
• Private tour alternatives provide increased flexibility, smaller group sizes, and a more immersive cultural experience, albeit at a higher cost.
• Maintaining a positive attitude and understanding tour limitations can significantly enhance the overall enjoyment of the 5 Islands Tour experience.

Tour Overview

The 5 Islands Tour (Cholon – The Party Island and Snorkeling) takes travelers on an adventure around the islands near Cartagena, Colombia.

Costing from COP$12,926.28, this tour accommodates up to 20 people with a 07:30 AM start time. Guests can expect a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour includes lunch, alcohol, snorkeling equipment, transportation, and all fees and taxes, with tips provided.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Travelers should be cautious of vendors and consider the weather conditions before booking this tour for a better overall experience.

Included Experiences

This tour offers a range of included experiences to enhance the island adventure.

Travelers will enjoy a complimentary lunch during the day. The tour also provides 2 beers per person and national liquor until supplies run out, allowing guests to enjoy the party atmosphere of Cholon Island.

Snorkeling equipment is included, enabling participants to explore the vibrant underwater world.

Throughout the experience, an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfortable transportation, and all fees and taxes are covered.

At the end of the tour, guests will be transported back to their hotel, with tips included in the package.

Pickup and Accessibility

Pickup points are available for this tour, with confirmation of the time and place provided one day before the experience starts.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the transportation. Plus, the tour’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

Considering these accessibility limitations, future travelers should review the details carefully to ensure the tour meets their needs.

While the operator provides transportation back to the hotel, guests should plan accordingly for any mobility challenges during the island activities and boat transfers.

Customer Reviews

Reviewers offer a mixed assessment of the 5 Islands Tour experience.

While some praised the fun atmosphere, music, and informative guides, others cited issues with the boat size, number of islands visited, food and drink discrepancies, and vendor harassment.

Customers complained about alleged collusion between tour operators and vendors, leading to additional costs and lost personal items.

The operators claim weather conditions affected the itinerary and safety, limiting snorkeling and island visits.

They encourage future guests to read tour details carefully and maintain a positive attitude for a better experience.

Travelers are advised to be cautious of vendors and consider private experiences for a more tailored adventure.

Operator Responses

According to the tour operators, weather conditions affected the itinerary and safety, limiting the number of islands visited and the ability to snorkel.

They’ve provided clarifications regarding the included drinks, stating that the tour offers 2 beers per person and national liquor until supplies run out.

Plus, they’ve explained the nature of the "party island" experience, acknowledging that it may not align with everyone’s expectations.

The operators encourage future guests to read the tour details carefully and maintain a positive attitude, as they believe this plays a significant role in the overall enjoyment of the experience.

Vendor Cautions

Visitors should exercise caution when interacting with vendors at the islands. Several reviews mentioned issues with vendor harassment and theft, suggesting a need for vigilance.

The tour’s remote island setting can make guests vulnerable to pushy sales tactics or even stolen personal items. Travelers are advised to avoid flashing valuables, keep a tight grip on belongings, and politely decline any aggressive offers.

It’s also prudent to be wary of potential collusion between vendors and tour operators, which could lead to unexpected costs. Overall, maintaining a cautious and alert mindset when dealing with vendors can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable island experience.

Private Tour Alternatives

For travelers seeking a more personalized experience, private tour alternatives may provide a better option than the party-focused group tour. Private tours often offer a tailored itinerary, smaller group sizes, and the ability to adjust the pace and activities to individual preferences. This can be particularly advantageous for those interested in a more immersive cultural experience or focused on specific activities like snorkeling. The table below outlines some key differences between private and group tours:

Feature	Private Tour	Group Tour
Customization	High	Low
Group Size	Small	Large
Flexibility	High	Low
Cost	Higher	Lower

While private tours may come at a higher price point, the enhanced experience and personalization can make them a worthwhile investment for some travelers.

Importance of Attitude

The attitude with which travelers approach an experience can significantly impact their overall enjoyment.

According to the reviews, a positive attitude played a vital role in determining how much guests appreciated the 5 Islands Tour. Travelers who embraced the party atmosphere and understood the limitations imposed by weather conditions tended to have a more enjoyable time.

On the other hand, those who were quick to complain about minor issues or felt entitled to a perfect experience often left dissatisfied.

For future travelers, maintaining an open and flexible mindset can help ensure a memorable and fulfilling journey, despite any unexpected challenges that may arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Life Jackets Provided for the Boat Ride?

Life jackets are provided for the boat ride, according to the tour overview. The inclusion of safety equipment like life jackets is standard practice for tours involving boat transportation.

Can Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Meals Be Accommodated?

Vegetarian and dietary-restricted meals can be accommodated, but travelers should inquire about the options when booking the tour. The operator encourages guests with specific dietary needs to communicate them in advance for the best experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Alcoholic Beverages?

The tour includes 2 beers per person and national liquor, but supplies are limited. Travelers should inquire about any additional restrictions on alcoholic beverages, especially for those with dietary requirements.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour information doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. The package includes a set itinerary and schedule, so travelers would need to book a separate tour if they want more time.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Visit Additional Islands?

The tour can likely be customized to visit additional islands, but this may incur extra costs. Travelers should discuss their preferences with the operator in advance to see if a tailored itinerary is possible within the tour’s parameters.

The Sum Up

The 5 Islands Tour provides an exciting opportunity to experience Cholon’s lively atmosphere and enjoy snorkeling. While potential vendor harassment and weather changes may impact the itinerary, a positive attitude can significantly enhance the overall enjoyment of this adventure. Travelers should be mindful of these considerations to make the most of this fun-filled day on the islands.