Cartagena: Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip and OPEN BAR

Planning a getaway to Cartagena and dreaming of a day spent lounging on pristine beaches with excellent food and drinks? If so, the Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip might be just what you’re after. Offered by AV COL, this tour promises a combination of scenic boat rides, relaxing beach time, and a good dose of Caribbean flavor. It’s a popular choice, with a solid 4.1 rating, and it’s easy to see why — but, as with any tour, it’s worth digging into what it really offers to see if it’s the right fit for you.

What draws us to this experience is the chance to enjoy unlimited drinks in a stunning setting, along with a delicious typical Caribbean lunch and panoramic views of Rosario Island. We love that it’s a well-organized way to see the islands without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. On the flip side, the six-hour duration might feel long for some, especially if you’re not big on boat rides or full days at the beach. Still, if you’re looking for a relaxing, all-inclusive day on the Caribbean, this tour ticks quite a few boxes.

This experience is generally best suited for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and scenic views, and who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere. It’s not necessarily geared towards those seeking adventure or intense activities, but the stunning vistas and good food make it a memorable option for most.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Enjoy a full day with unlimited drinks, three lunch options, and scenic boat rides.
• Stunning Views: The tour offers panoramic views of Rosario Island and the Corales Islas National Natural Park, perfect for photographers.
• Relaxing Beach Time: Plenty of free time to sunbathe, swim, or stroll along the white sands.
• Convenient Transport: Speedboat transfers make the journey quick and exciting, though sometimes bumpy depending on sea conditions.
• Family Friendly: Children’s menu options are available, and the relaxed pace suits families, but check for specific needs.
• Value for Money: At $128 per person, the tour offers good value considering food, drinks, and transportation included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Once you’re booked, the adventure starts early — meeting at Muelle de la Bodeguita at 7:15 am. This makes for a long day, but the early start is necessary to maximize your time on the islands. The boat ride to Rosario Island takes around 45 minutes, and it’s quite the scenic journey. The speedboat can be a little bumpy depending on sea conditions, and the ride is fast, sometimes quite lively; if you’re prone to seasickness, packing some motion sickness remedies might be a good idea.

The Panorama Tour and Oceanarium Stop

The tour includes a panoramic drive to Rosario Island, with a photo stop and a visit to the Oceanarium. Here, you’ll get a quick look at marine life, although entrance to the Oceanarium isn’t included in the price. It’s a brief stop designed for photos and a bit of sightseeing, plus a guided overview of the area. Reviewers appreciate the scenic views en route and find this part a nice preview of what’s to come.

The Beach Club and Free Time

The core of the experience is at the beach club, equipped with umbrellas and sunshades to keep you comfortable. The white sand and crystal-clear waters really are as picture-perfect as they sound. The beach area is spacious enough for relaxing, swimming, and even some casual snorkeling if you bring your gear.

You’ll have about five hours at Rosario Islands, which is generous for enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. Many reviews highlight how stunning the views are — “the scenery is breathtaking,” one says. The water is warm and inviting, with vibrant marine life that’s visible just off the shore.

Food and Drinks

The open bar is a highlight, offering unlimited national drinks like beers and house cocktails, such as Piña Coladas and Mojitos, along with bottled water, soda, and juices. It’s a lively addition that keeps the atmosphere bright and social. The three lunch options are traditional and straightforward: Fish, Grilled Chicken, or Vegetable Chaufa Rice. Reviewers often praise the deliciousness of the food, especially the typical Caribbean flavors.

Children aren’t left out, as a special menu provides bottled water, soda, juice, and familiar lunch options, making it family-friendly. The beverage and food quality generally meet expectations, especially considering the setting.

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Returning and Final Thoughts

The return trip begins around the same time as the lunch, with a 20-minute boat ride back to the mainland, followed by the final hour-long boat ride to the meeting point. While the boat ride is fun, some reviews mention that the speed and sea conditions can make it a little rough. Be prepared for some splashes if you opt for the open deck.

What the Tour Gets Right (and What It Doesn’t)

The highlights are clear: the stunning scenery, delicious food, and limitless drinks create a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The scenic boat rides add a touch of adventure, and the six hours on the islands is enough to really enjoy the environment without feeling rushed.

However, a few travelers mention that bumping boat rides can be uncomfortable if seas are choppy. The timing means you’ll need to get up early, which might be a concern if you’re not an early riser. Also, since entrance to the Oceanarium isn’t included, some might find this part a little underwhelming if they expected a full visit.

Price-wise, $128 can seem steep, but considering the included transport, food, drinks, and guided panoramic tour, many find it reasonable for a day trip in this beautiful setting. It’s a convenient way to enjoy Rosario Islands without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxing day with good food, drinks, and scenic views, this trip is a solid pick. It’s particularly well-suited for groups, couples, or even families who want a day of beach, sun, and fun without worrying about planning every detail. The all-inclusive nature makes it ideal for travelers who prefer to indulge without extra fuss.

But, if you’re seeking adventure, snorkeling, or a more active excursion, you might find this tour a bit tame. The focus here is on relaxation, scenery, and comfort. Also, those sensitive to boat rides or seasickness should prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Rosario Islands day trip offers a pretty enjoyable slice of Caribbean paradise. With gorgeous views, an open bar, and tasty lunch options, it’s a good way to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of Colombia’s coast. The convenience of transportation and guided panoramic views add to its appeal, especially for travelers who want a hassle-free experience.

While it’s not perfect — some might find the boat ride bumpy or the long hours a bit tiring — overall, it’s a well-rounded option for anyone craving a day at the beach with all the comforts included. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or simply need a break from city touring, this trip delivers a nice balance of scenery, leisure, and good eats.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, boat transportation from Muelle de la Bodeguita to Rosario Islands and back is included. The speedboat ride is quick and offers beautiful views, though it can be bumpy depending on sea conditions.

What are the lunch options available?
You can choose from Fish, Grilled Chicken, or Vegetable Chaufa Rice. The meals are typical Caribbean dishes, enjoyed in a relaxed beach setting.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the open bar offers unlimited national drinks such as beer, house cocktails (Piña Colada, Mojito, Gin Tonic, etc.), soda, bottled water, and lemonade.

Can children participate?
Absolutely, a children’s menu is available, offering bottled water, soda, juice, and similar lunch options, making it family-friendly.

How long is the free time on the island?
You’ll have approximately five hours to enjoy the beach, swim, sunbathe, or take photos. It’s enough time to relax and explore at your own pace.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay port tax ($26,500 COP) and tourist insurance ($5,500 COP). Entrance to the Oceanarium is not included in the price.

If you’re craving a straightforward, relaxing day on beautiful Caribbean sands with good food and drinks, this tour offers a convenient and scenic option. Just remember to bring your sun protection, cash for extras, and a sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: