Cartagena: All-Inclusive Rosario Islands Speedboat Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Cartagena to explore the Rosario Islands, this all-inclusive speedboat tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into the details and reviews to give you a straightforward, honest breakdown of what to expect. It’s designed to give travelers a taste of the natural beauty, marine life, and laid-back vibe of these islands, all packaged into a manageable 7-hour experience.

What immediately appeals to me about this tour is the inclusion of activities like the oceanarium and snorkeling—these really add value if you’re looking to see more than just beaches. Plus, lunch is included, which can be a real lifesaver on such a long day, especially if you’re hungry after exploring. However, it’s worth noting that some reviewers found the lunch somewhat disappointing, so keep that in mind if you’re a foodie expecting gourmet.

One potential consideration is the timing and flow of the day. The schedule is packed, with multiple stops, and the trip relies heavily on good weather and smooth logistics. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has specific expectations about beaches or activities, this might not be ideal. That said, for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with guided insights, it could be just right.

This tour seems best suited for visitors who want a well-rounded day that combines sightseeing, marine life, and a taste of local flavors. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and some variability in food quality, it could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Food, entrance fees, taxes, and transportation are covered, simplifying your day.
• Guided Experience: You’ll be accompanied by a native guide providing live commentary in English, which enhances the understanding of each site.
• Multiple Activities: Options include visiting the oceanarium, snorkeling, and exploring the islands, giving a diverse experience.
• Short & Structured: The tour packs in several stops within 7 hours, ideal if you’re short on time but want variety.
• Some Variability: Reviews highlight inconsistency in food quality and guide communication—things to keep in mind.
• Good for Adventure Seekers & First-Timers: The fast-paced nature and highlights make it a solid choice for those new to Cartagena or marine excursions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Might Love This Tour

The speedboat ride itself is a highlight—passing by Tierra Bomba Island and seeing forts San Fernando and San José from the water offers a cool perspective on Cartagena’s colonial past. The scenic boat trip is a rush, especially if you enjoy a bit of adventure and speed on the sea.

Once you arrive at the islands, the visit to the oceanarium adds a fun element, especially if you’re curious about marine life or traveling with kids. The flexibility to choose between snorkeling or the oceanarium means you can tailor the experience to your interests. The lunch at Playa Blanca gives you a taste of local flavors, with options like fish, coconut rice, plantains, and salads, served in a relaxed setting.

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who help bring each stop to life, sharing insights about the islands’ history and natural environment. The beautiful views and crystal-clear waters make it worth the trip, even if some found the lunch and organization a bit hit-or-miss.

The Realities of the Experience

The itinerary is quite full, starting with hotel pickups (for those in Bocagrande and Laguito) around 7:50 am, with departures from the dock between 8:30 and 9:00 am. The early start means you’ll need to be ready, but it also means you get a full day’s worth of exploration.

The first part of the trip takes you past Tierra Bomba Island, which is only accessible by water, and you get a look at its four towns. The boat ride to the Rosario Islands takes around 45 minutes, with some having bumpy waters depending on the weather, something some reviews mention. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering that the boat can be fast and sometimes bumpy.

Once you reach the Rosario Islands, the tour splits into two options. Some visitors opt for the oceanarium or snorkeling—both offer about 45 minutes to an hour of activity. The oceanarium is a guided attraction where you can learn about local marine species, while snorkeling offers a chance to see the underwater world directly.

The break at Barù Island is typically at a quiet beach area where lunch is served. The lunch menu includes simple but tasty options like fish and rice, though some reviews suggest it can be dry or not as fresh as expected. Chairs and tents are available for rent if you prefer a more comfortable spot to relax after eating.

Post-lunch, there’s more free time for swimming or walking around before heading back. The return trip takes about an hour by speedboat, giving you a little extra time to enjoy the sea views.

Insights from Reviews

A few commenters point out the guide’s helpfulness and knowledge as a plus, making the experience more enriching. Others mention that the lunch was disappointing, with some describing the food as dry or mediocre. A traveler from Uruguay noted that the chaotic atmosphere during snorkeling made it hard to see the fish, which highlights that the experience can vary depending on the crowd and conditions.

One reviewer from Spain expressed frustration, criticizing the unpredictability and poor animal treatment at the oceanarium, which is a reminder to do your own research if animal welfare matters to you. Conversely, many others appreciated the friendly guides and scenic views, emphasizing the tour’s convenience and the beautiful waters.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring a waterproof bag for your valuables, as getting wet is inevitable.
• Wear comfortable clothing and swimwear—the boat trip can be bumpy, and you’ll want to be prepared for water activities.
• Pack snacks or extra drinks if you want more variety than the included lunch.
• Arrive early for the pickup, especially if you’re not in Bodeguita or Laguito, to ensure you don’t miss the boat.
• Be flexible with the schedule—weather conditions or crowd size might cause some adjustments.
• Consider your comfort: if you’re pregnant, elderly, or have mobility issues, this might not be the ideal trip due to the speedboat ride and activity constraints.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour works well for adventurers and first-time visitors who want to see a range of attractions without fussing over arrangements. If you’re curious about marine life, enjoy sightseeing by water, and don’t mind a somewhat busy schedule, it’s a solid pick. The inclusion of a guided tour and transportation makes it especially suitable for those preferring a hassle-free adventure.

However, if you’re someone who values luxury, gourmet food, or a relaxed pace, this might not meet your expectations. The mixed reviews on lunch quality and the quick pace suggest you should be okay with some unpredictability.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive Rosario Islands speedboat tour offers a practical, efficient way to experience Cartagena’s nearby marine paradise. It combines the thrill of a fast boat ride, the chance to see marine life at the oceanarium, and the relaxing vibe of Playa Blanca, all under the guidance of knowledgeable locals.

It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore multiple highlights in a single day without stressing about logistics. The value lies in the convenience, the scenic boat ride, and the variety of activities packed into a manageable schedule. Just be prepared for some variability in food quality and organization, and bring your sense of adventure.

For those looking for a full day of sunshine, water, and guided insights, this tour could very well hit the spot—just go with an open mind and a spirit ready for a fun sea day.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour? Yes, a vegetarian or fish lunch is included, served at Playa Blanca. Some reviews mention it being dry, so managing expectations is good.

How long does the trip last? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting with early pick-up and ending back at the dock.

Are there any activities I can choose? Yes, you can opt for visiting the oceanarium or snorkeling, but only one activity can be done at a time.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women? No, pregnant women and those with mobility issues are advised not to participate, mainly due to the speedboat ride and activity demands.

What’s the best time to go? The tour departs between 8:30 and 9:00 am, so plan accordingly. Early mornings are best for good weather and full experience.

Are there any extra costs? The tour covers taxes, entrance fees, and transportation. Extras like chairs, tents, or additional activities are not included.

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, if you’re in Bocagrande or Laguito, pickup is around 7:50 am. If you’re outside these areas, you’ll need to meet at the Bodeguita dock at 8 am.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

This tour offers a practical, fun way to see Cartagena’s surrounding islands, especially if you appreciate guided adventures and don’t mind a busy schedule. Keep these insights in mind, and you’ll be prepared for a memorable day out on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: