Colombia’s coastal waters offer several worthwhile boat experiences. The most practical tours operate from Cartagena’s harbor, where sunset cruises along Bocagrande Bay combine local rum drinks with stunning views. For active travelers, the Rosario Islands and Barú Island tours deliver excellent snorkeling opportunities and beach time in crystal-clear waters. My favorite option: the 8-hour private sailing tours, which provide a perfect mix of activities and relaxation away from the crowds.
Let’s explore the best boat tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- The Sunsets Boat Party offers a 2-hour tour with unlimited Cuba Libre drinks and free cancellation, catering to adults aged 18 and above.
- Barú at Freedom Beach provides a 6.5-hour experience with a beach visit, swimming in the Rosario Islands, and a welcome cocktail and lunch.
- Sailing Atypic offers an 8-hour private group sailing trip with snorkeling, subwing, and relaxation on a floating island.
- The Full Day at Barú Island tour includes a speedboat ride, snorkeling, local cuisine lunch, beach relaxation, and sunset viewing.
- The 5 Islands Boat Tour is a 7-hour experience that explores the Rosario Islands, offering snorkeling, beach relaxation, and city skyline sunset viewing.
Sunsets Boat Party: Around Bocagrande Bay
Experiencing the Sunsets Boat Party around Bocagrande Bay in Cartagena is a captivating way to learn about the vibrant Caribbean culture.
For $46.99 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour boat tour with magnificent sunset views, entertainment, and unlimited Cuba Libre drinks. You can even bring your own beverages.
The tour includes an animator, English-speaking guide, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. While not suitable for children under 18, the experience offers a chance to engage with local dances and liqueurs.
Just be sure to bring your passport or ID and note the meeting point at Muelle de los Pegasos at 4:45 PM.
Read our full review: Sunsets Boat Party: Around Bocagrande Bay Review
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Enjoy Barú at Freedom Beach + Boat Transportation
Frequently, travelers can enjoy the captivating Barú at Freedom Beach by taking a convenient boat transportation option.
This 6.5-hour experience costs $61.08 per person and departs from Muelle de la Bodeguita at 9:00 AM. The speedboat ride to Freedom Beach takes 30 minutes, where you’ll receive a welcome cocktail and have the option to enjoy a 40-minute lunch.
Spend 2 hours exploring the beach and 1 hour swimming in the turquoise waters of the Rosario Islands. The return speedboat ride is also 30 minutes.
Included are round-trip transportation, a cocktail, lunch choices, sun loungers, and beach games.
However, note the small beach club, slow lunch service, and limited bed availability based on customer feedback.
Read our full review: Enjoy Barú at Freedom Beach + Boat Transportation Review
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Sailing Atypic
The Sailing Atypic excursion offers a unique and captivating way to explore the natural wonders of the Tayrona National Park and Bahia Granate.
For $585, you’ll enjoy an 8-hour private group sailing trip with up to 15 participants. The experience includes snorkeling, subwing (underwater flying), and relaxing on a floating island.
You’ll depart from the International Marina of Santa Marta at 9:20 am and return around 5 pm. While customer reviews are mixed, the trip promises impressive scenery and activities.
Snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and lunch are included, and hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as equipment, are provided.
Read our full review: Sailing Atypic Review
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Full Day at Barú Island by Boat: Snorkel + Sunset + Plankton
Set out on a captivating full-day adventure to Barú Island, where you’ll learn about a tapestry of snorkeling, sunset viewing, and a spellbinding encounter with bioluminescent plankton.
This 11-hour tour, priced from $82.23 per person, offers free cancellation and no upfront payment.
After a 30-minute speedboat ride, you’ll enjoy a welcome cocktail, an 80-minute snorkel, and a delicious lunch featuring local cuisine.
Spend two hours relaxing on Freedom Beach before witnessing a breathtaking sunset.
Then, explore the mangroves and visit with raccoons.
The return journey includes an air-conditioned bus and speedboat ride.
While reviews are mixed, this unique experience showcases Colombia’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Full Day at Barú Island by Boat: Snorkel + Sunset + Plankton Review
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8-Hour Boat Tour to Cholón With Music and Fun
Escape the ordinary and embark on an 8-hour boat tour to the captivating destination of Cholón. Priced from $82.23 per person, this tour offers an unforgettable experience with a live DJ on Saturdays and Sundays.
Enjoy a scenic cruise, swim, and savor a delicious lunch, all while sipping on two complimentary welcome beers. With a maximum capacity of 20 people and 3 crew members, this tour ensures an intimate and personalized adventure.
Pickup is available from various hotel areas, and the tour ends at the iconic Sibarita del Mar. Restrictions apply for certain groups, but the overall reviews highlight the tour’s excellent music, food, and atmosphere.
Read our full review: 8-Hour Boat Tour to Cholón With Music and Fun Review
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5 Islands Boat Tour With City Sunset
Venture across the tranquil waters on an islands boat tour that culminates in a breathtaking city sunset.
Explore the Rosario Islands, a stunning archipelago off the coast of Cartagena, on a 7-hour tour. Snorkel among the vibrant marine life, relax on white-sand beaches, and enjoy a delicious lunch.
As the day winds down, witness the sky transform into a canvas of colors as the sun dips behind the historic city skyline.
With a rating of 4.7 from over 1,400 reviews and a price starting at $97, this tour offers an unforgettable experience that combines nature, culture, and the beauty of Colombia.
Read our full review: 5 Islands Boat Tour With City Sunset Review
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San Andrés: Island Pontoon Boat Tour
Explore the picturesque waters surrounding San Andrés Island on a pontoon boat tour.
You’ll visit three stunning locations – El Palito, Cayo Acuario, and Rocky Cay – with transport times ranging from 15 to 20 minutes.
Enjoy the crystal clear waters and observe marine life, all while dancing and listening to music.
The tour includes round-trip transportation and entrance tax to Cayo Acuario. However, it excludes food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment, making it unsuitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.
While some customers found the tour expensive, others enjoyed the overall experience, though they noted it’s a lot to fit into one day.
Secure your spot with the reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: San Andrés: Island Pontoon Boat Tour Review
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The Sum Up
You’ll find an excellent selection of boat tours and cruises in Colombia. Whether you’re looking for a lively party, a relaxing day at the beach, or a scenic island adventure, there’s something to suit your preferences. Explore the country’s stunning coastline, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and experience the vibrant culture from the comfort of a boat. Colombia’s boat tours offer a unique and unforgettable way to discover the beauty of this remarkable destination.