Cartagena: 5 ISLANDS by speedboat with SNORKELING & LUNCH

Discover Cartagena’s 5 Islands by Speedboat with Snorkeling and Lunch

This 7-hour tour in Cartagena offers a lively exploration of five stunning islands in the Bolívar region, perfect for those seeking a mix of adventure, scenic views, and local flavors. The tour is priced with flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it accessible for spontaneous plans or well-organized trips.

The adventure begins with a high-speed boat ride that provides sweeping views of Bocachica, leading to the Rosario Islands, where snorkeling among coral reefs becomes a highlight. The tour includes visits to a submerged plane associated with Pablo Escobar, a stop at Cholón for lively music and fresh seafood cocktails, and ends at Playa Tranquila, a peaceful stretch of beach. While the tour promises an exciting day on the water, reviews note that the experience may not feel as exclusive as some expect, and the boat ride can be bumpy.

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Key Points

• Duration: 7 hours, including multiple stops across islands.
• Highlights: Snorkeling at Rosario Islands, viewing a submerged Pablo Escobar plane, enjoying seafood cocktails in Cholón, and relaxing at Playa Tranquila.
• Transport: Fast-paced speedboat, with scenic drives between stops.
• Included: Caribbean-style lunch, shrimp cocktail, and access to facilities at Playa Tranquila.
• Booking: Flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
• Limitations: Not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility challenges; expect some boat bumping depending on sea conditions.

Starting Point and Logistics of the Tour

This tour departs from three main pickup locations: Centro, El Laguito, and Bocagrande. If you are outside these areas, the meeting point is at the clock tower in Cartagena. The journey begins with a 20-minute bus or coach ride to the harbor, followed by a 45-minute boat transfer to the islands. The entire trip involves a mix of scenic drives and high-speed boat rides, designed to maximize both comfort and adventure.

Pickup is included, and the tour guide leads the group in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations of each stop and activity. You should prepare for getting wet during the boat rides and bring essentials such as sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for purchases.

Highlights of the Stops: Rosario Islands and Snorkeling

The Rosario Islands are the centerpiece of this tour, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs. Visitors get time to capture photos and explore the underwater scenery at their own pace. The pass-by scenic views en route make the journey more enjoyable, and the islands themselves provide a stunning backdrop for relaxing or taking memorable shots.

While the snorkeling experience is a key attraction, conditions like weather and sea state can impact underwater visibility. In some reviews, water clarity was affected by rain or disturbances, so it’s wise to manage expectations on water visibility.

Visiting the Submerged Pablo Escobar Plane

One unique feature of this tour is the stop at a submerged plane that belonged to the infamous Colombian drug lord, Pablo Escobar. This photo stop offers a glimpse into a historically significant wreck, now partially underwater, providing an unusual and intriguing photo opportunity.

This stop combines a little history with adventure, appealing to those interested in Colombia’s past. The site is accessible during the visit, and the guide explains its story clearly, adding an educational twist to the day.

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Cholón: The Colombian Caribbean Party Spot

The tour includes a break in Cholón, a well-known party destination famous for live music and fresh seafood cocktails. Here, travelers have about an hour to explore, take pictures, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

While Cholón is lively and offers a taste of local beach party culture, some reviews mention that the crowd can be large and busy, which might diminish the sense of tranquility that some expect from island excursions. The seafood cocktail served here is often praised, adding a flavorful touch to the experience.

Relaxing at Playa Tranquila on Isla Baru

The final major stop is Playa Tranquila on Isla Baru, offering around 3 hours for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of the blue waters and white sandy beaches. The facilities available at Playa Tranquila enhance the experience, allowing visitors to unwind and take in the scenery.

This stop provides a peaceful contrast to the earlier lively stops, making it a suitable place for sunbathing or gentle swimming. The scenery and calm sea create a perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon.

Food and Drink on the Tour

A Caribbean lunch is included in the tour, allowing guests to sample local flavors. Plus, the shrimp cocktail served during the day is a favored part of the experience, appreciated for its freshness and flavor.

The tour emphasizes local seafood, and these culinary highlights complement the scenic island visits. However, reviews suggest that some might find the meal offerings to be average, so expectations for gourmet dining should be tempered.

Bumpy Boat Rides and Sea Conditions

The speedboat rides are generally fast and exhilarating, offering impressive panoramic views of the coastline and islands. However, the boat’s speed can sometimes lead to bumpiness, especially depending on tides and sea conditions. Travelers should be prepared for a bumpy ride and consider bringing jackets or hats to stay comfortable.

Pregnant women or older adults are advised not to participate due to the boat’s speed and potential for sudden bumps. Those opting to go do so at their own responsibility, and seating at the back of the boat is recommended for safety and comfort.

Who Might Be Disappointed by the Tour

While the tour covers many highlights, some reviews point out that it does not feel particularly “VIP” or exclusive, despite marketing claims. The boat, though comfortable, is not luxury-class, and the experience may resemble other standard group tours.

Plus, the crowded nature of some stops, especially Cholón, might not suit travelers seeking peace and quiet. The timing of lunch, sometimes delayed until late afternoon, can also affect those craving a more timely meal.

Final Thoughts on the Cartagena: 5 Islands Tour

This 7-hour adventure offers a solid introduction to some of Cartagena’s most beautiful islands, combining scenic views, snorkeling, local food, and lively stops like Cholón. It’s well-suited for travelers looking for a full day of water-based activities with a mix of relaxation and excitement.

However, those expecting a luxury experience or tranquil, uncrowded beaches might be disappointed, as the tour delivers a busy, lively atmosphere with some bumpy boat rides. The inclusion of unique sights like the Pablo Escobar plane and snorkeling makes it stand out, but water clarity can vary.

The tour can be a fun and scenic day for visitors wanting to see key islands and enjoy some local flavor, with the understanding that it’s a group experience with some limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickups from Centro, El Laguito, and Bocagrande, as well as boat transfers between islands.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for optional purchases.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women and older adults are advised not to participate due to the speedboat rides and sea conditions. Participants do so at their own caution.

How long is the snorkeling?
Snorkeling is available during the visit to Rosario Islands, with free time for photos and exploring coral reefs.

What is the quality of the food?
The Caribbean lunch and shrimp cocktail are included, with some reviews mentioning the food is average but sufficient for a day trip.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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