Cartagena: All-Inclusive Rosario Islands Speedboat Tour

Cartagena: All-Inclusive Rosario Islands Speedboat Tour
Location: Rosario Islands, Colombia
Country: Colombia
Rating: 3.9/5 (based on 19 reviews)
Price: $81 per person
Supplier: AV COL

Introduction: Why This Tour Might Be Your Perfect Day Out

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising through turquoise waters, lounging on white-sand beaches, and discovering Colombia’s beautiful Rosario Islands, this all-inclusive speedboat tour has a lot to offer. It promises a mix of scenic views, engaging activities, and convenient logistics—all wrapped into a roughly 7-hour trip.

What we love about this experience is how it combines adventure with comfort—from round-trip speedboat rides to the thoughtful inclusion of lunch and a visit to the Oceanarium. Plus, the native English-speaking guides and assistance make navigating this trip easier for non-Spanish speakers, which is a real plus.

One potential consideration is the timing and activity structure. The itinerary is packed, with some passengers finding the pace a bit rushed or the lunch spot not quite meeting expectations. Also, it’s important to note that pregnant women and those with mobility issues are advised against participating due to the speed and physical demands of boat travel.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a full-day, semi-guided adventure—particularly those who value the convenience of an all-in-one package and are comfortable with boat rides. It might not be ideal if you’re craving a more relaxed, unstructured beach day or have specific accessibility needs.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines boat rides, snorkeling, aquarium visit, and beach time in one day.
• Inclusive Pricing: Lunch, entrance fees, taxes, and transportation are covered—no surprise costs.
• Guided Tour: Native English-speaking guides help you understand and appreciate the sites.
• Active Schedule: The itinerary is busy, with multiple stops and activities packed into 7 hours.
• Mixed Reviews on Food: Lunch gets varied feedback—some find it tasty, others disappointed.
• Travel Flexibility: Free cancellation and pay later options add peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Rosario Islands Speedboat Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins early at La Bodeguita, where a friendly guide in a distinctive turquoise uniform welcomes you, verifies your reservation, and hands out your lunch ticket. You’ll need to arrive by 8:00 am if you’re not using hotel pickup, which is scheduled for around 7:50 am if you’re staying in Bocagrande or El Laguito. The meeting process is straightforward, but be prepared for a quick check-in—this is a well-organized operation.

Once aboard, you’ll set sail after securing the necessary authorization from the port captain, usually around 8:30 to 9:00 am. The speedboat ride itself is 1 hour long, passing by Tierra Bomba Island, which is only accessible by water and home to four small towns. The boat trip offers a chance to enjoy the breeze and see forts San Fernando and San José, remnants of Cartagena’s colonial past.

The Journey and Its Highlights

The most striking aspect of this tour is the scenic crossing of Corales de Rosario National Park. We’re told the boat trip takes about 45 minutes to reach the islands—an exhilarating ride over open sea, with some passengers noting that the boat’s speed and bumpiness can be quite lively. It’s worth noting that the boat’s speed is controlled by the skilled captain, but if you’re sensitive to rough waters, this might be a consideration.

Stop at Barù Island

On arrival at Barù Island, you’ll find a peaceful, quiet beach area where your meal awaits. The included lunch varies based on your chosen plan—options like fish, coconut rice, plantains, and salad. Reviewers have mixed feelings about the food: some praise it as delicious, while others describe it as dry or not very memorable. The restaurant area is exclusive for lunch, and chairs and tents can be rented if you want to settle in a particular spot. This is a highlight for many—relaxing, scenic, and a perfect break from the boat ride, though some note that Barù Island itself doesn’t offer a sandy beach suitable for lounging.

Optional Activities at the Rosario Islands

The core of the tour involves a visit to the Oceanarium, where entry is included, and a chance to snorkel. You’re allotted approximately 45 minutes to an hour for these activities. The Oceanarium provides a different kind of experience—an aquarium with marine life, which many find fascinating, especially if you prefer indoor attractions. Some guests have expressed frustration when the guide suggested swapping snorkeling for the Oceanarium, citing crowded conditions and difficulty seeing fish during snorkeling.

The Beach and Snorkeling Experience

For those who wish to snorkel, be prepared for busy conditions and limited visibility if the boat is crowded. A review pointed out that the Rosario Islands can be chaotic, with too many visitors at certain spots. Still, others enjoyed the opportunity to see marine life and appreciated the guided explanations.

Time at Playa Blanca

After the Oceanarium, the tour continues to Playa Blanca on Isla Barú, where you get around two hours of free time. This stop is famous for its clear waters and soft sands, making it ideal for swimming, walking, or simply soaking up the sun. Some travelers found Playa Blanca a bit crowded or overly commercialized, but most agree it’s a gorgeous spot for a quick beach visit. Sunset views here are often praised, adding a lovely end to the day.

Return Journey

The trip winds down with a 1-hour speedboat ride back to Cartagena, arriving at La Bodeguita around 4 pm. The return trip gives you time to reflect on the day’s highlights and snap some final photos.

The Experience from Reviews and Practical Insights

Many guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides who add context and help navigate the day’s busy schedule. One review mentions a guide who was “super friendly,” making the journey more enjoyable. Others, however, highlight inconsistent communication—such as a reviewer who was frustrated with the lack of clarity about the schedule and a long wait at the aquarium.

Food quality is a common mixed bag: some find the included lunch to be tasty and satisfying after a morning of activities, while others find it dry and unimpressive. It’s worth considering bringing snacks if you’re particular about how you like your meals.

The transportation logistics are well-structured, with the boat being the main attraction for moving between sites. The speedboat’s swift pace can be invigorating but may be uncomfortable for pregnant women or those with mobility challenges—this is explicitly advised against.

The tour’s price point of $81 per person generally offers good value when you consider the round-trip transportation, entrance to the Oceanarium, and lunch. For travelers seeking a full day of diverse activities with a guide to help, this package simplifies planning and maximizes time.

The Practicalities and What You Need to Know

Timing: Early mornings are essential for a smooth experience, especially if you’re not using hotel pickup. The boat departs between 8:30 and 9:00 am, so punctuality is key.

What to Bring: Waterproof clothing or jackets, hats, and sunscreen are highly recommended given the boat rides and exposure to the sun. If you prefer to stay dry or avoid getting wet, consider protective gear, though water splashes are common.

Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women or travelers with mobility issues due to the physical demands and boat speed.

Food & Drinks: While lunch is included, other drinks such as beers are not, and chairs or tents are rented separately.

Duration: Expect about 7 hours for the entire tour, including transportation, activities, and free time at Playa Blanca.

Cancellation & Flexibility: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later—adding flexibility to your plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a packed day of exploring and don’t mind the boat rides or crowds. Families with older children or teenagers might enjoy the mix of activities, though caution is advised for those sensitive to sea travel. Beach lovers seeking scenic views and a lively atmosphere will find Playa Blanca particularly appealing.

If you value guided explanations and included logistics, this tour takes the hassle out of planning, making it easy to enjoy the islands without worrying about tickets, transportation, or meals. However, if you prefer a laid-back, unstructured beach day, or are looking for a relaxing experience without a tight schedule, you might find this tour a little too busy.

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The Sum Up

The Cartagena All-Inclusive Rosario Islands Speedboat Tour offers a good blend of adventure, convenience, and scenic beauty for those wanting a full day on the water. The combination of boat rides, snorkeling or aquarium visits, and beach time makes it a well-rounded option for travelers eager to see the highlights of the Rosario Islands without the stress of planning each detail.

The included lunch and guide assistance add value, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area or language. The main drawbacks—crowded spots, variable food quality, and physical demands—are worth considering, but they don’t overshadow the unique experience of cruising through Caribbean waters and soaking in island life.

This tour suits active, curious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with plenty of memorable sights. It’s best for those comfortable with boat travel and eager to explore multiple attractions in one day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you’re staying in Bocagrande or El Laguito, pickup is scheduled around 7:50 am. Otherwise, you’ll need to meet at La Bodeguita at 8 am.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof clothing, hats, sunscreen, and possibly snacks. Chairs and tents can be rented at the beach.

Can I do activities other than snorkeling and visiting the Oceanarium?
The tour primarily offers snorkeling or Oceanarium entry, but no other activities are specified. Non-you will need to wait outside the activities area.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to boat speed and physical activity involved.

How long is the boat ride?
The crossing to the Rosario Islands takes about 45 minutes to an hour in open sea conditions.

What is the lunch like?
Lunch options include fish, coconut rice, plantains, and salad. Feedback on the food is mixed—some find it tasty, others say it’s dry.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are taxis or taxis boats available at the islands?
The tour itself doesn’t specify additional transport options; most activities are included in the package.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is noted to be wheelchair accessible, but it’s wise to confirm specific needs when booking.

This comprehensive look at the Rosario Islands speedboat tour should help you decide whether it fits your travel style. With its mixture of scenic beauty, guided activities, and logistical convenience, it offers a solid option for an active, memorable Caribbean day.

You can check availability for your dates here: