Cartagena is a fantastic port city that offers more than just historic streets and lively plazas. Its prime location along the Spanish coast makes it a perfect spot for boat tours and cruises, providing travelers with unique perspectives of the region’s sights, culture, and natural beauty. Among the many options, the Cartagena and Murcia full-day shore excursion stands out for its mix of history and personalized experience, while the Taxi Boat to Tabarca Island offers a quick escape to one of the most charming islands in the Valencian Community. For those interested in trying something more adventurous, the Baptism of diving from a boat provides a memorable underwater introduction.
In this guide, we’ll explore three highly-rated boat tours and cruises in Cartagena, each with its own flavor—from cultural explorations to island hopping and diving. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the water or an active aquatic adventure, you’ll find something here that suits your style.
Types of Tours on Our List
The tours we’ve selected cover a variety of experiences, including full-day cultural excursions (Cartagena and Murcia), short island trips (Taxi Boat Santa Pola to Tabarca Island), and introductory diving experiences (Baptism of diving from boat). Each offers a different way to enjoy Cartagena’s coastal setting and surrounding waters. Keep reading to see which one fits your travel style best.
1. Cartagena and Murcia – full day shore excursion for cruise guests
At number one, this full-day shore excursion hits the mark for travelers wanting a well-organized, intimate look at two historic cities. This tour is perfect if your cruise time is limited but you want to experience both Cartagena’s maritime charm and Murcia’s cultural scene. The group size is capped at just 18 people, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention from your guide.
The tour begins with a pickup directly from Cartagena’s port, making logistics simple. You’ll visit landmarks like Cervantes House and the Romeo Theater, learning about the region’s literary and theatrical past. Then, you’ll transfer to Murcia for a three-hour stroll through its historic streets and a visit to the Centro de Artesania.
What makes this tour stand out is its carefully curated itinerary, which avoids the crowds common on larger tours. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide who shares engaging stories, like one reviewer who called the guide “organized and full of backstory.” The price of around $126.56 per person reflects its personalized approach and the inclusion of private transportation.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a relaxed, in-depth experience of two cities in one day, ideal for history lovers and those wanting a small-group feel.
2. Taxi Boat Santa Pola to Tabarca Island
At number two, the Taxi Boat Santa Pola to Tabarca Island is the perfect quick getaway for those who want to combine relaxation and marine exploration. The trip takes just about 15 minutes by taxi boat, making it a short, hassle-free voyage to one of Spain’s most charming inhabited islands.
Tabarca is known for its history, marine reserve status (since 1986), and excellent snorkeling spots. You can walk around the walls, explore the old gates and towers, and enjoy the island’s authentic atmosphere. The lighthouse and the San Rafael Church are highlights, along with trying the local specialty, “Caldero Tabarquino“.
The boat ride costs around $17.29 per person and includes round-trip tickets, making it a budget-friendly option. Reviewers love the speed and enjoyment of the trip, with one mentioning, “The boat was very quick and enjoyable, and the island was beautiful.” Keep in mind, prices are a bit steep considering the short duration, but the experience is compact and memorable.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, scenic escape during your cruise stop, especially if you’re interested in snorkeling, history, or just relaxing by the sea.
3. Baptism of diving from boat
For those curious about underwater adventures, the Baptism of diving from a boat offers a chance to try scuba diving without prior experience. This tour, rated at 3.5/5 from five reviews, is less about sophistication and more about taking your first breath underwater in a safe, guided environment.
The experience lasts around three hours and provides all necessary equipment, including a boat trip to the dive site. The guide will explain basic safety and diving techniques, making it suitable for complete beginners.
What makes this tour special is its accessibility—it’s designed for first-timers who want a taste of diving without the commitment of certification. At $106.56 per person, it offers good value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. One reviewer called it “an amazing experience” that was well-organized, though the limited number of reviews suggests it’s best for those genuinely interested in trying diving.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers or those considering a future dive trip, this is a fun, hands-on intro to the underwater world from Cartagena’s waters.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Cartagena
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and time constraints. For a cultural day trip, the [Cartagena and Murcia full-day shore excursion] offers a rich experience with minimal hassle. If you’re after a quick island escape, the Taxi Boat to Tabarca Island is perfect for a half-day of sun and sea. For adventure seekers or curious minds, the Baptism of diving from boat provides a memorable underwater experience.
Budget, mobility, and personal interests will guide your choice. Keep in mind that booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours, to secure your spot. Look for tours that align with your preferred pace—whether that’s exploring historic sites, relaxing on an island, or trying something new like diving.
Final Thoughts
Cartagena offers a fantastic selection of boat tours and cruises that cater to different interests. For a balance of culture and comfort, the full-day Cartagena and Murcia tour is hard to beat. If your goal is a quick, scenic island trip, the Tabarca Island boat is a smart choice. And for adventurous souls looking to dip into diving, the baptism experience makes that possible in a safe, guided setting.
No matter which you pick, these tours are a wonderful way to expand your experience beyond land-based sightseeing. Be sure to book early, pack a sense of curiosity, and prepare for some memorable moments on Spain’s coast.
