Cartagena: 5 ISLANDS by speedboat with SNORKELING & LUNCH

If you’re considering a day out on the waters around Cartagena, the “5 Islands by Speedboat” tour promises a full day of island-hopping, snorkeling, and beach lounging. This experience is designed to show you some of the most photogenic spots in the Colombian Caribbean, with a mix of vibrant scenery, lively stops, and a taste of local seafood. But, as with many tours, it’s worth digging into what’s truly on offer—and what might be a misfit for your travel style.

We’re especially drawn to the way this tour combines scenic boat rides with snorkeling in coral reefs and fun stops like Cholón’s lively party scene, which could be the highlight for those craving both adventure and a taste of local beach life. We also appreciate that it includes lunch and a shrimp cocktail, making it a bit more complete than some half-day excursions. On the flip side, the mixed reviews about loud music and crowded beaches suggest it’s not aimed at travelers seeking peace and quiet or exclusivity.

This tour would suit adventurers, beach lovers, or families looking for an active, fun-filled day. But if you’re after a serene escape or a more luxurious setting, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Varied itinerary: Combines snorkeling, island sightseeing, and beach time.
• Lively atmosphere: Expect music, crowds, and a bustling vibe—less tranquil than some trips.
• Inclusive package: Lunch, snorkeling gear, photographs, and guide included in the price.
• Multiple stops: From Rosario Islands to Cholón and Playa Tranquila, offering a mix of nature and local culture.
• Value depends on your expectations: The boat comfort and food are good, but reviews point out loud music and crowded beaches as potential downsides.
• Best suited for: Active travelers, families, or groups wanting a full, fun day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

If you’re looking for a tour that offers a taste of everything, this one tries to deliver. Starting with pick-up options from El Laguito, Bocagrande, or the city center, the journey begins comfortably enough with a roughly 20-minute coach ride to the boat departure point. The boat itself is described as luxury, but don’t expect a sleek, private yacht—it’s more of a well-maintained speedboat designed to handle a group comfortably.

The first scenic highlight is the pass by Bocachica, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views and photo opportunities. The boat trip lasts around 45 minutes to the Rosario Islands, giving travelers plenty of time to take in the crisp sea air and enjoy the thrill of high-speed travel. The boat’s speed creates a bumpy ride at times, especially depending on the sea conditions, which is worth considering if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility concerns.

Once at the Rosario Islands, the tour offers free time, sightseeing, and snorkeling. We loved the idea of visiting coral reefs, which promise vibrant underwater scenery—perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy shots. However, one traveler pointed out that bad weather and rain can make underwater visibility poor, so keep an eye on the forecast if underwater exploration is a priority.

A unique feature of this tour is the sunken plane that belonged to Pablo Escobar. It’s a quirky, intriguing site that adds a dash of local lore and history to your trip, even if it’s just a quick photo stop.

Next is Cholón, famous for its party atmosphere. The stop here lasts about an hour, where you can enjoy live music, local seafood, and beach vibes. However, reviews note that music can be very loud, which could be a downside if you’re seeking peaceful relaxation. One traveler even said, “The music was very loud, not what we wanted even though we paid a lot for the excursion,” highlighting how this part of the tour might be more about fun and socializing than serenity.

After Cholón, the tour heads to Playa Tranquila—a quieter spot where you can swim, relax, and enjoy natural beauty. This stop is longer, about three hours, giving plenty of time to soak up the sun, take a dip, or simply lounge on the soft sand. This stretch might be the most relaxing part of the day, especially if you enjoy beach scenery without the crowds.

The itinerary also includes a visit to Blue Water Island and a natural pool at Rosario, although details are sparse—these stops likely add to the variety but might also be crowded or touristy depending on the day.

Lunch and Food

The included Caribbean lunch is a highlight for many, offering a taste of local flavors. The shrimp cocktail is frequently praised as a delicious addition, providing a refreshing break amid the busy day. One review mentioned that lunch was served at 2:30 p.m., which might be a bit late for some travelers expecting a more timely meal—so if you’re hungry earlier, plan accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

The speedboat is described as comfortable but not luxurious. Expect bumping and some wetness, especially since maritime transport involves getting a bit soaked—pack accordingly with sunscreen, hats, or a waterproof jacket if you want to stay dry. The group size isn’t specified but given the itinerary and type of boat, it’s likely a medium to large group, which can feel lively and energetic but less intimate.

Cost and Value

At $96 per person, this tour offers a lot—multiple stops, snorkeling, lunch, and photographs. The value hinges on your preferences: if you enjoy active days, lively beach scenes, and a variety of sights, you’ll likely find it worth the price. However, some reviews feel it’s not quite the VIP experience promised, with loud music and crowded beaches making it less exclusive and more touristy.

Extras like additional drinks or seafood are available at extra cost, and optional aquarium entrance or taxes can add to your expenses if you choose to indulge.

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Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

This tour leans heavily into the fun, social side of Cartagena’s islands, which is great if you’re looking for lively, picture-worthy moments. It’s less about quiet relaxation and more about seeing multiple spots in one day. Some travelers appreciated the professional guide and the photos taken during the day, but others felt it was a bit crowded and noisy, especially with loud music in Cholón.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want a full, active day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, sightseeing, and beach fun. It’s ideal if you’re okay with group settings, lively music, and some crowds, as long as you’re seeking a fun, energetic atmosphere rather than peace and quiet.

Families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a balance of adventure and relaxation will find this a good choice. However, if your priority is serenity or exclusivity, you might prefer more specialized or private tours.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Cartagena’s islands, blending scenic boat rides, snorkeling, cultural sights like the Escobar plane, and beach time at Playa Tranquila. It’s a solid option for adventurous travelers who enjoy lively environments, good food, and a packed itinerary.

The inclusion of lunch and photographs increases its value, but keep in mind the noisy atmosphere and potential for crowds and weather issues. It’s not a tour that promises exclusivity or peace, but it does deliver a fun, active day full of variety and scenic beauty.

For those who want a day of island-hopping with plenty of photo ops and a taste of local life, this tour hits the mark. Just pack your patience — and maybe some earplugs — for the full Cartagena island experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes sports boat transport and a coach ride from designated pickup points, making it easy to get to and from the islands.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash. Since it’s maritime travel, expect to get wet—wear appropriate clothing or bring a waterproof cover.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, stops, lunch, and free time on the beaches.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling is part of the itinerary, allowing you to explore coral reefs and underwater scenery.

What’s the quality of the boat?
The boat is described as a luxury vessel, but the ride can be bumpy and wet depending on sea conditions, so pack accordingly.

Are there any age restrictions?
Pregnant women and older adults are advised against participation due to the boat’s speed and bumpiness. Those who choose to participate do so at their own risk.

Can I buy extra food or drinks?
Yes, extra drinks like beer, cocktails, or seafood dishes are available at additional cost.

What is Cholón like?
Cholón is lively, with live music and seafood, but the loud music may not suit those seeking peace. It’s a popular party spot.

Are there any hidden costs?
Optional extras like aquarium entrance, taxes, and additional beverages are not included in the base price.

Is this a good tour if I want quiet beaches?
Probably not. The tour’s stops tend to be lively, especially Cholón, and the beaches can be crowded, so if peace and solitude are your priorities, look for alternatives.

Whether you’re after fun in the sun, snorkel adventures, or a vibrant party atmosphere, this tour provides a thorough taste of Cartagena’s island life. Just remember, it’s a day full of activity, not tranquility.

You can check availability for your dates here: