Cartagena: Undersea Tour, underwater wine tasting with local pairing on board

Experience a one-of-a-kind wine adventure with the Cartagena: Undersea Tour, priced at €95 per person and lasting 2 hours. Departing from the historic port of Cartagena, this tour takes you on a boat ride to an underwater winery on the island of Escombreras, located 4 nautical miles from the coast. It’s designed for those curious about how sea and land flavors can blend, offering a comparative tasting of underwater wines versus land-based counterparts from the same batch, complemented by local gourmet pairings.

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore a novel aging process, as well as sea lovers interested in how the Mediterranean influences wine. Keep in mind that the activity is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or children under 18, due to tasting restrictions and safety considerations. The live guide speaks Spanish, and weather conditions may lead to schedule changes, so flexibility is advised.

Key Points

• Unique underwater wine aging experience with comparative tastings
• Boat trip from Cartagena’s port to the underwater winery on Escombreras Island
• Two red wines and two white wines, each available underwater and on land
• Gourmet pairings including Chato Murciano ham, tuna mojama, almonds, and mini Raf tomatoes
• Duration of 2 hours, with live Spanish-speaking guide
• Price is €95 per person, with a kids’ rate of €35

You can check availability for your dates here:

Sailing from Cartagena’s Historic Port to the Underwater Winery

The tour begins aboard the catamaran Yolé, departing from the coordinates 37.597347259521484, -0.9836385250091553 in Cartagena. The boat ride itself offers a scenic view of the Bay of Cartagena and sets the stage for the wine tasting experience.

Travelers are briefed on Bodegas Undersea’s history and the sea-aging process of their wines. The journey provides a chance to enjoy the Mediterranean scenery while preparing for the unusual tasting ahead. The boat ride lasts around two hours, making it a comfortable outing that balances relaxation with education.

The Underwater Winery on Escombreras Island

The core of this tour is the underwater winery itself, situated on Escombreras Island. The site is accessible only by boat, emphasizing its exclusive nature. Visitors observe how wines are aged beneath the sea, with the explanation provided by the guide.

This process is described as a spectacle reserved for those interested in wine innovation. Being able to see up close the sea-aged wine offers a different perspective that land-based wine tasting cannot provide. The underwater environment adds a unique flavor—literally and figuratively—to the entire experience.

Tasting the Undersea and Land Wines Side by Side

The comparative tasting involves 2 glasses of red wine—one submerged and one land-based—and the same for white wines. Both wine types come from the same batch, highlighting the impact of aging under the sea.

The tasting includes 3 gourmet pairings: Chato Murciano ham, tuna mojama with almonds, and mini Raf tomatoes with cold-pressed Picual oil. The pairings are designed to complement the flavor profiles of both the underwater and land wines, offering a sensory comparison.

The Flavors and Aromas of Sea-Aged Wine

Sea aging is said to influence the wine’s characteristics, potentially adding subtle mineral notes and a distinctive texture. The guide explains this process, giving insight into how the sea environment interacts with wine aging.

The tasting strategy emphasizes comparison—allowing participants to detect the differences and similarities between submerged wines and their land counterparts. This contrast enhances understanding of wine development influenced by marine conditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This 2-hour experience is priced at €95 per person, with a kids’ rate of €35. Booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in planning.

The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or wheelchair users. The live tour guide delivers the commentary in Spanish, making this ideal for Spanish-speaking visitors interested in local wine culture.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point is aboard the catamaran Yolé at the specified coordinates. The boat ride offers a comfortable and scenic start to the wine adventure. Because weather and sea conditions may affect the schedule, travelers should remain flexible and check the conditions before finalizing plans.

Why Choose the Cartagena Undersea Tour?

This tour offers a rare opportunity to observe wine aging under the sea while tasting comparable land wines. The Gourmet pairings enrich the experience, emphasizing local flavors like Murciano ham and mojama tuna.

The boat journey and underwater visit combine scenic beauty with culinary discovery. It’s well-suited for wine lovers and sea enthusiasts eager to experience something different from traditional wine tastings.

Final Thoughts on the Undersea Wine Tasting Experience

The Cartagena: Undersea Tour stands out as a distinctive activity that blends marine environment with wine culture. The comparison of sea-aged and land wines provides valuable insights into how aging methods influence flavor.

While the activity is accessible mainly to adults and Spanish speakers, it offers a memorable experience for those curious about innovative winemaking. The gourmet pairings add depth, and the scenic boat ride enhances the overall enjoyment.

For anyone seeking a bespoke, educational, and scenic outing in Cartagena, the Undersea Tour promises an unconventional journey into the world of wine and the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 are not allowed to taste the wine, but they can participate in the pairings if accompanied by an adult. The tour is primarily designed for adults.

What languages are available during the tour?
The live guide delivers commentary in Spanish only, which is ideal for Spanish-speaking participants.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the activity accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the boat and site access.

What is included in the tasting?
Participants taste 2 red wines and 2 white wines—each underwater and land-based—paired with local gourmet foods like ham, mojama tuna, and mini Raf tomatoes with oil.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for boat travel and outdoor conditions are recommended. Bring sunscreen and hat for sun protection.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat journey lasts approximately two hours total, including the trip to and from the underwater winery.

Is weather a concern?
Yes, sea conditions may lead to schedule changes or cancellations. Travelers should check weather forecasts before booking.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
Since the guide speaks Spanish only, language may be a barrier for non-Spanish speakers unless a translator is available.

What makes this tour different from other wine tastings?
The key feature is the sea-aging process combined with comparative tasting and local pairings, creating a distinctive experience that links sea and land in wine craftsmanship.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby