Rosario Islands 5-Stop Boat Tour with Lunch and Beach Clubs Cartagena

Bocachica Fort and the Journey Out of Cartagena Bay

Your Rosario Islands tour from Cartagena begins with a boat ride out through the harbour and the narrow Bocachica channel, the historic sea gate to the city. Guarding it is the Fort of San Fernando de Bocachica, built in the eighteenth century on Tierrabomba island to protect Cartagena from attackers, and part of the city's famous defensive system. The tour includes a short sightseeing stop of about ten minutes to see the fort from the water.

After the fort the boat heads into open water towards the archipelago, and the guide explains the history of the bay and what to expect during the day. If you are wondering how to get to the Rosario Islands, the easiest way is an organised boat tour like this one, because the crossing takes place in a shuttle boat or speedboat, depending on your ticket, and all transport is arranged for you.

Rosario Island and Snorkelling on the Coral Reef

The Rosario Islands are part of a national natural park protecting coral reefs, seagrass and mangroves, with clear turquoise water and white sand. On the Eco ticket, one stop is Rosario Island itself, where you can snorkel on the reef, and on the VIP ticket you snorkel at Islabela Island. Snorkelling is optional and a mask and tube are provided, so you only need swimwear.

For snorkelling in the Rosario Islands, expect small colourful fish, sea fans and other reef life close to the surface, in calm shallow water that suits beginners. The guide explains how to use the equipment and reminds everyone not to touch the coral, and to use sun protection that is friendly to the reef. Children and non-swimmers can enjoy the shore while others snorkel.

Beach Clubs, Grande Island and Marina Island

The tour includes three beach club passes with beach beds and parasols, so you can swim, lounge and take photographs without needing to book anything yourself. On the Eco ticket the island stops include Rosario Island, Grande Island, the largest island of the group, and either Marina Island or the Oceanarium, which has an entry fee if you choose it. On the VIP ticket you visit Islabela Island, Marina Island and an exclusive resort.

The beach clubs of the Rosario Islands are the main reason people choose this tour rather than a simple boat ride: each stop gives around an hour and a half to relax before the group moves on. Extra purchases at the clubs are paid on your own, and the guide helps with questions about the day.

Lunch, Port Tax and Choosing Between Eco and VIP

Lunch is included and offers a choice of fish, chicken or a vegetarian dish. A local port tax is paid on the day by card or cash and is not included in the ticket, so keep it in mind when you plan. The tour departs in the morning, the Eco ticket at 08:00 and lasts about seven hours, while the VIP ticket departs at 08:30 and lasts about six and a half hours.

The Eco ticket uses a shared shuttle boat and is the most popular choice, while the VIP ticket uses a comfort speedboat and adds an exclusive resort stop. The best time to visit the Rosario Islands is in the drier months from December to April, when the sea is usually calmer, though the trip runs all year. Check the differences in the booking panel before you choose.