Santa Marta’s boat tours offer efficient ways to explore Colombia’s stunning coastline. Most excursions head to Tayrona National Park‘s pristine waters, lasting between 2.5 and 7.5 hours. The basic tours include swimming stops and snacks, while premium options feature full meals and open bars.
We especially love the sunset cruises around Santa Marta Bay for their excellent value and photo opportunities. The half-day sailing trips to Tayrona Park stand out for combining nature viewing with snorkeling at crystal-clear coves.
These carefully selected boat tours showcase the best maritime experiences in Santa Marta.
Key Points
- Sailing excursions to Tayrona National Park offer 8-hour tours and sunset cruises with stunning views and marine life exploration.
- A variety of boat tours are available, including a 7.5-hour sailboat trip to Tayrona Park and private sailing experiences.
- Tours provide activities like swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxation on the beach, along with inclusive lunch, snacks, and beverages.
- Cruises are generally not suitable for individuals with accessibility concerns or prone to seasickness, but the crew is available to assist passengers.
- Flexible cancellation policies allow for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers.
Sailing to Tayrona With Luis and His Team: Unique!
One of the most unique and popular boat tours in Santa Marta is the “Sailing to Tayrona With Luis and His Team.”
Lasting approximately 8 hours, this excursion departs at 11:00 am from the International Marina, taking guests on a scenic journey to the stunning Bahia Concha within Tayrona National Park.
Travelers can look forward to swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and dolphin watching, with a freshly grilled fish or sandwich lunch included.
The 17-meter yacht accommodates up to 25 passengers and offers amenities like snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Reviews highlight the friendly crew, beautiful beach, and delicious food, though some note a lack of shade on the boat and high prices for drinks on the beach.
Read our full review: Sailing to Tayrona With Luis and His Team: Unique! Review
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Santa Marta: Sunset Cruise Around the Bay
While the full-day sailing excursion to Tayrona National Park offers a unique and memorable experience, Santa Marta also features a captivating sunset cruise around the bay.
Priced from $37.55 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise departs at 5:00 PM, providing stunning sunset views and photo opportunities. Guests can expect a safety briefing, sailing, and a return to the marina around 7:00 PM.
The tour includes water, soda, a cooler for personal drinks, and a Bluetooth speaker. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 21 reviews, this sunset cruise is an excellent way to experience the beauty of Santa Marta’s coastline.
Read our full review: Santa Marta: Sunset Cruise Around the Bay Review
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Tayrona Bay Sailboat Trip
The Tayrona Bay Sailboat Trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic coastline of Santa Marta. Passengers embark on a 26-capacity boat for a journey to Playa Concha.
Despite initial motor issues, the crew prioritized safety and offered alternative options. The successful second trip accommodated 16 passengers, who enjoyed a professional crew, a private beach area, and limited snorkeling visibility.
The provided lunch, snacks, and beverages enhanced the overall experience. While the crew maintained safety standards, the trip may not be suitable for those with back issues or wheelchair users.
Feedback highlights the crew’s attentiveness, the scenic views, and the value for the price, though some concerns arose about limited snorkeling and language barriers.
Read our full review: Tayrona Bay Sailboat Trip Review
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Santa Marta: Sailboat Day Tour to Tayrona Park
A popular activity among visitors to Santa Marta is the Sailboat Day Tour to Tayrona Park. This 7.5-hour excursion departs from the Marina Internacional de Santa Marta, taking guests to the stunning Tayrona National Park.
The tour has a capacity of 26 people and costs $53.97 per person. Highlights include sailing to Bahia Concha, swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and enjoying a grilled lunch.
The tour also includes sightseeing of Taganga Bay, Granate Bay, and Aguja Island. While the tour provides some amenities, additional costs like beach chairs and WiFi may apply.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The Sailboat Day Tour to Tayrona Park is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Read our full review: Santa Marta: Sailboat Day Tour to Tayrona Park Review
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One Amazing Day in a Private Recent Sailing Boat in the Tayrona Park. the Best Sail Trip From Santa Marta!
Offering an exclusive and personalized sailing experience, the One Amazing Day in a Private Recent Sailing Boat in the Tayrona Park tour from Santa Marta provides travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning coastline of Tayrona National Natural Park.
This 7.5-hour excursion aboard a private sailboat accommodates up to 8 participants, allowing for intimate and tailored experiences. Theres some good activities like diving, swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in the park’s picturesque bays.
The scenic cruise departs from Santa Marta and concludes back at the original meeting point. Praised for its exceptional hosts, beautiful scenery, and memorable experiences, this tour is a must for those seeking a unique and relaxing day on the Caribbean waters.
Read our full review: One Amazing Day in a Private Recent Sailing Boat in the Tayrona Park. the Best Sail Trip From Santa Marta! Review
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Santa Marta Beaches Private Boat Tour
Exploring the stunning coastline of Santa Marta has never been more accessible than with the Santa Marta Beaches Private Boat Tour. Priced at $422.76 per person, this 8-hour excursion offers a chance to swim in pristine blue waters, visit the area’s most beautiful beaches, and enjoy a traditional regional lunch.
The tour includes hotel pickup, a private boat, and a knowledgeable guide who can provide commentary in both Spanish and English. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing day away from the city noise.
The itinerary includes stops at Playa Santo Cristo, Inca Inca, and the private Playa Blanca.
Read our full review: Santa Marta Beaches Private Boat Tour Review
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Sunset in the Bay of Santa Marta in a Sailboat
Travelers can enjoy a magical 3-hour sunset sail along the picturesque bay of Santa Marta aboard a comfortable sailboat.
The activity concludes at the original meeting point, and a full refund is available if canceled 24+ hours in advance.
The scenic experience is ideal for families and groups, with an average rating of 5.0 based on 17 reviews praising the crew’s attentiveness and friendliness, as well as the stunning views.
Bookable through Viator, the sunset sailing tour starts from $47.00, and early reservations are recommended for best availability.
Customers can visit the Viator Help Centre for inquiries and access comprehensive resources to enhance their travel experience.
Read our full review: Sunset in the Bay of Santa Marta in a Sailboat Review
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Santa Marta Bay: Sunnset on a Sail Boat
The sunset sailing tour on the Santa Marta Bay offers a captivating 3-hour experience aboard a classic 38-foot sailboat.
Priced from €43.77 per person, the tour sets sail at 5 PM from the Marina Internacional, with a maximum capacity of 12 participants.
Highlights include sightseeing, sunset viewing, and a chance to socialize or relax.
The itinerary covers a safety briefing, 70 minutes of sailing, and a 30-minute photo stop with snacks and drinks.
Included are a life vest, water, a snack, and one beer.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with certain health conditions or limitations.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.
Read our full review: Santa Marta Bay: Sunnset on a Sail Boat Review
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Afternoon in a Private Sailing Boat in the Tayrona Park
A private sailing excursion in Tayrona Park offers visitors an idyllic afternoon on the water.
With the product code 234627P3, guests can book this experience through Viator’s Help Centre, which provides assistance for any booking or service issues.
Traveler photos showcase the scenic views, stunning sunsets, and wildlife encounters, giving a glimpse of the unforgettable sailing experience.
Reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the hosts, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 6 reviews.
At a starting price of $430.00, the private sailing trip allows guests to enjoy the beauty of Tayrona Park from the comfort of a sailing boat, with the option to customize their experience based on group size and special requests.
Read our full review: Afternoon in a Private Sailing Boat in the Tayrona Park Review
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Sunset Sailing Santa Marta Bay
Sailing Santa Marta Bay at sunset offers visitors a chance to unwind and admire the coastal beauty.
This 2.5-hour cruise provides an instant mobile ticket and is available in English and 3 other languages. Suitable for various travelers, the tour accommodates groups of all sizes and includes complimentary Coca-Cola and bottled water. Guests can bring their own snacks and alcoholic beverages.
The meeting point is in front of AquaSport Dive Centre, with optional hotel pickup available. Reviewers praise the enjoyable atmosphere and scenic views, highlighting the punctuality and attentive service.
With a 5-star rating from 6 reviews, the sunset sailing cruise is highly recommended for a relaxing and visually stunning experience.
Read our full review: Sunset Sailing Santa Marta Bay Review
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Tayrona Sailing PRIVATE
One private sailing excursion departing from Santa Marta Marina takes guests on a mid-morning journey to explore the Tayrona region.
The trip includes an anchor at a beach in Tayrona, allowing for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing. An on-board picnic is provided during the excursion, and the return trip may feature sailing downwind to enjoy the sunset, depending on wind conditions.
This private tour ensures exclusive participation and a relaxed atmosphere, with a professional crew available for assistance.
While not suitable for those with back problems, the tour is accessible via public transportation, though not wheelchair-friendly.
Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Tayrona Sailing PRIVATE Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for These Cruises and Boat Tours?
Most cruise and boat tour operators require passengers to be at least 12 years old. However, some may have a minimum age of 6 or 8 years old if accompanied by an adult. It’s best to check with each company for their specific age policies.
Do the Boats Have Restroom Facilities on Board?
Most boat tours and cruises have restroom facilities on board to ensure passengers’ comfort and convenience throughout the journey. The availability of these facilities varies by operator, so it’s best to inquire about specific amenities when booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Most boat tour operators allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on board, providing a more affordable and flexible experience. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour company beforehand to confirm their policies.
Are Pets Allowed on the Cruises and Boat Tours?
Most cruise and boat tour operators don’t allow pets on board for safety and cleanliness reasons. However, some may make exceptions for service animals with proper documentation. It’s best to check the policies of each company before booking.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Excursions?
The cancellation policy typically allows guests to cancel with a full refund if they do so within a set timeframe, such as 24-48 hours prior to the scheduled departure. Fees may apply for later cancellations.
The Sum Up
Santa Marta offers a variety of cruises and boat tours that allow visitors to explore the stunning Tayrona National Park and the surrounding bay. From private sailing trips to sunset cruises, there are options to suit different budgets and interests. Visitors can take in the natural beauty, spot wildlife, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the Caribbean sea.