Cartagena: Private Island in Rosario Islands, Open Bar

If you’re dreaming of spending a day lounging on a pristine beach, sipping unlimited drinks, and enjoying good company, then a trip to this private island in the Rosario Islands might be just what you need. Based on plenty of user reviews and the tour description, this experience offers a mix of relaxation, scenic views, and a taste of local flavors — all in a package that’s reasonably priced for what you get.

What really catches the eye are the unlimited non-alcoholic drinks and the delicious buffet lunch with three options—these add real value and make the day feel indulgent without breaking the bank. Plus, the free use of social spaces like hammocks, pools, and sports courts means you can truly unwind at your own pace. The main downside? If you’re expecting a packed adventure with lots of activities, this one leans more toward leisurely lounging.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a stress-free, scenic escape rather than a high-energy excursion. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of beautiful beaches, comfort, and good food, and it can be especially appealing if you’re traveling with friends or want to treat yourself to a laid-back day in paradise.

Key Points

• Relax in comfort: All social areas — hammocks, pools, and sports facilities — are included.
• Great value: Price includes boat transport, buffet lunch, and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks.
• Flexible schedule: You get roughly 4 hours on the island, plus time for optional excursions.
• Beautiful scenery: Scenic boat rides and views of colonial forts along the way.
• Additional options: Visit to an oceanarium available at extra cost.
• Check fees: Port fees and oceanarium entry are additional, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Step-by-Step Journey & What to Expect

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at Muelle de la Bodeguita in Cartagena, with a required check-in at 7:30 a.m. The early start makes sense — the entire day is packed, and getting an early head start means you’ll maximize your time on the island. The boat departs between 8 and 9 a.m., so arriving on time is key to sticking to the schedule.

The Boat Ride: A Scenic 1-Hour Journey

The trip to Rosario Islands is by speedboat, which is pretty standard for this kind of tour. The ride is generally around an hour, and it’s a good chance to enjoy the breeze and take in the views. You’ll pass fortresses like Fort San Sebastián del Pastelillo and others on Tierra Bomba, which are interesting historical sights along the way. It’s a reminder of Cartagena’s strategic history, and the tour mentions these as part of the scenic backdrop.

Time on Isla Grande: Relax, Explore, Take Photos

Once you arrive, the main highlight is the large social spaces. Think sun loungers, beach hammocks, and shaded areas that are perfect for unwinding. There’s also a volleyball court, ping-pong, and a pool table for those wanting a bit of fun activity. Plus, the freshwater pool with a bar is a nice touch — ideal for cooling off after some sunbathing.

You’ll have about two hours here to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the vibe. Many reviews mention the tranquil atmosphere and the chance to unwind without vendors bothering you, since it’s a private island. The lack of aggressive sales pitches is a big plus for those who want a peaceful experience.

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Optional Visit to the Oceanarium

After a brief break, the tour includes an optional trip to the Rosario Islands Oceanarium. It’s a paid activity ($45,000 COP or around $13 USD), and you might find it adds a fun element for marine life enthusiasts or families with kids. The tour mentions scenic views en route, so even passersby get to enjoy the scenery. If you’re not interested, you can skip this without missing the main highlights.

Lunch Time: Tasty and Filling

Next, it’s time for a buffet lunch with three options—fish, chicken, seafood rice. Reviewers often praise the quality, calling it delicious and plentiful, which is a win given the price. The all-you-can-drink open bar with soda, lemonade, and bottled water adds to the value, making this a relaxing, no-pressure meal.

Final Hours and Return

After lunch, you get another two hours of free time. You can lounge, swim, or just soak up the sun. The scenic boat ride back takes about 45 minutes, giving you one last chance to enjoy the views and reflect on the day.

Back to Cartagena

The tour wraps up with a return to Muelle de la Bodeguita, arriving around 4 p.m. The timing is convenient for those who want an early start and a full afternoon back in the city.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Value for money is a common theme among reviews. For $132 per person, including transport, lunch, drinks, and social amenities, it’s a pretty good deal. The scenic boat rides and the peaceful, private setting of the island are also big draws. The delicious buffet gets high marks, with many reviewers mentioning the variety and quality of food.

Travelers also appreciate the unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, which keep everyone refreshed without additional costs. The social spaces like hammocks and pools are great for relaxing, and the optional oceanarium visit adds a bit of extra adventure if you’re interested.

The Not-So-Perfect Aspects

While many find this tour relaxing and enjoyable, some points are worth considering. The port fees of around $26,500 COP or $10 USD aren’t included in the price, so you’ll need some cash on hand. The oceanarium costs extra, which can add up if you opt for multiple activities.

Another thing is the focus on relaxation—if you’re someone who craves high-energy activities or exploring many different spots in a short time, this might feel a bit slow. Also, since it’s a private island experience, vendors don’t bother you much, but if you’re expecting a lively, crowded beach scene, you might miss that.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a peaceful day in nature with minimal fuss. It’s well-suited for travelers who want good food, scenic views, and social amenities without a ton of scheduled activities. Families, couples, or friends wanting a chill day would find it perfect, especially if you value comfort and convenience.

It’s not really tailored for adventure seekers or those wanting a packed itinerary with adventure-packed excursions. Also, pregnant women and seniors over 95 should consider safety and comfort, as the tour involves boat rides and some walking.

Final Thoughts

This private island day trip in the Rosario Islands offers a simple but effective way to escape the hustle of Cartagena. With its focus on comfort, good eats, and scenic relaxation, it’s a smart choice for anyone who wants to unwind in a beautiful setting. The value is solid, and the experience manages to feel both indulgent and laid-back.

If you love the idea of lounging in a hammock or swimming in a pool with a tropical drink (or just soda), you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The optional activities and scenic boat rides add flavor, but the main appeal remains the tranquility and natural beauty.

For those on a budget but still seeking a quality day by the sea, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to bring cash for fees and optional extras, and settle in for a day of easygoing fun in Colombia’s stunning Rosario Islands.

FAQ

Is transportation to the island included?
Yes, round-trip boat transport from Cartagena’s La Bodeguita dock is included in the price.

What’s the schedule for this tour?
It departs between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m., with check-in at 7:30 a.m., and lasts about 6 hours, returning around 4 p.m.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you get unlimited non-alcoholic drinks like soda, lemonade, and bottled water throughout the day.

What food options are available?
You can choose from three buffet options: fish, chicken, or seafood rice. The food gets good reviews for its flavor and variety.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, port fees are approximately $26,500 COP (around $10 USD) per person, payable in cash. The oceanarium costs an additional $45,000 COP (about $13 USD).

What social amenities are available?
You’ll find hammocks, sun loungers, a freshwater pool with a bar, volleyball, ping-pong, and pool tables.

Is there an age restriction?
Pregnant women and those over 95 years old might find this tour unsuitable due to boat rides and walking involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

If you’re after a relaxed day in beautiful surroundings with good food and simple pleasures, this tour could be a great pick. It’s not about adrenaline or packed sightseeing; instead, it’s about unwinding, enjoying the scenery, and having a hassle-free experience in Colombia’s stunning Rosario Islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: