Cartagena: Rosario Islands Day Tour with Snorkel & Lunch

Introduction

If you’re heading to Cartagena and craving a day spent exploring stunning islands, the Rosario Islands Tour with Snorkel & Lunch is a tempting option. We’ve reviewed countless Caribbean trips, and this one offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and relaxing beach time.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to visit three distinct islands in just one day, each offering its own atmosphere. Second, the quality of the guides and crew, many reviewers mention how helpful and friendly they are, making the day smoother and more enjoyable. Third, the delicious lunch options and snorkeling experience that appeal to both food lovers and underwater enthusiasts.

However, a potential consideration is the fast-paced itinerary, which might leave some wishing for more time at each stop. This tour suits travelers who want a full, active day of sightseeing without sacrificing comfort and who don’t mind a brisk schedule. It’s ideal for those looking to maximize their time and see a variety of spots in one go.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Diverse island visits with opportunities for sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on private beaches
• Guides and crew praised for their helpfulness, friendliness, and knowledge
• Delicious buffet lunch with options for fish, chicken, or vegetarian diets
• Fast yet well-organized itinerary covering Isla Grande, Playa Blanca, and Tierra Bomba
• Includes snorkeling gear, bottled water, and insurance for peace of mind
• Timing and transportation are efficient, though the schedule is quite packed

Exploring the Rosario Islands Tour: What to Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins early at Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande—a straightforward meeting point with signage and staff in backpacksers uniforms. Be sure to arrive by 7:30 am to prepare for departure at 8:00 am. You’ll hop aboard a speedboat, which whisks you across the water in about 45 minutes to your first stop.

Travelers consistently mention how smooth the boat ride is, although you should be prepared for some splashes and choppier waters—so bring seasickness tablets if you’re prone to motion sickness. The boats are small, intimate, and designed for efficiency, with many reviews highlighting how attentive the crew is during the ride.

Isla Grande: A Beach Lover’s Dream

Your first island stop is Isla Grande, home to the Encantada Beach Club. Here, the focus is on relaxation and stunning scenery. The white sands and crystal-clear waters make it the perfect spot for a photo, a swim, or just lounging in a beach chair under an umbrella.

Reviewers like Vanessa from New Zealand appreciated the helpfulness of the guide José and the boat crew, who made the experience smooth and enjoyable. Many mention that Isla Grande’s beaches feel almost private, with some reviewers recommending not snorkeling unless you’re eager to explore underwater—others prefer to just soak up the sun in peace.

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Playa Blanca: The Vibrant Party Spot

Next, you head to Playa Blanca on Baru Island, a lively and bustling spot known for its energetic vibe. This is where the tour really hits a sweet spot—offering a mix of activities, scenery, and food. Visitors often comment on how stunning the beaches are, with the long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters.

The highlight here is the buffet lunch at the Mambo Beach Club, where you can choose between fish, chicken, or vegetarian options. Many reviews emphasize how good the food is, with some mentioning the fresh fish and well-seasoned dishes. After lunch, you’ll have roughly 2.75 hours of free time to relax, shop around, or take a scenic walk along the coast.

Be aware that Playa Blanca can feel crowded, especially with vendors trying to sell souvenirs or drinks—some reviews note the commercialization and high prices, so bringing cash and setting a firm limit might be wise.

Tierra Bomba: The Exclusive Escape

The final island stop is Tierra Bomba, home to the Vista Mare Beach Club. This location offers a more upscale experience, with private beaches, pools, and panoramic views. Reviewers like Karen from the UK loved the peaceful ambiance and the opportunity to unwind after a busy morning.

Here, you’ll find a quieter environment, perfect for taking photos of the sunset or lounging on a comfortable beach chair. The 2-hour stop is appreciated by many for the chance to relax and enjoy the scenery away from the crowds.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day moves swiftly but logically. After departing early from Cartagena, the group spends about 45 minutes on the water to Isla Grande, giving enough time for photos and a quick visit. You then get two hours to enjoy the beach, with options for swimming or just soaking up the sun.

The journey continues with a 30-minute boat ride to Playa Blanca, where the main activities revolve around lunch and relaxation. This stop is the longest, giving nearly three hours for sightseeing, shopping, or simply chilling out.

Finally, a 45-minute boat ride takes you to Tierra Bomba, where you’ll have a couple of hours in a more tranquil setting before heading back. The entire day wraps up with a speedy 15-minute return to the starting point, making for a long but fulfilling 8-hour adventure.

Snorkeling and Underwater Highlights

One of the biggest draws is the snorkeling experience, which many reviewers describe as a highlight—especially the colorful fish and coral reefs. Backpackers Cartagena supplies snorkel equipment, and the guides are generally knowledgeable about marine life, often sharing interesting facts.

Victoria from the US mentioned how the snorkeling was “very different from what I was used to,” with the freedom to explore underwater at your own pace. For non-snorkelers, most islands offer ample beaches for relaxing while others enjoy the underwater sights.

Food and Drinks

The included lunch is well-regarded, with options catering to different tastes. The buffet-style meal typically features fresh fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, and reviews like Sophie’s from the US praise the “great food” and “delicious” experience.

While bottled water is provided, you should carry your own cash for extra drinks or souvenirs. Some reviewers mention that vendors on some islands can be pushy, especially on Playa Blanca, so be prepared for a lively shopping scene.

Guides and Crew

Throughout the reviews, guides like Benjamin, Franklin, and Santiago are frequently commended for their helpfulness, friendliness, and English-speaking skills. One reviewer, Yavette, highlighted how Alex took special care of her family, including her mother with mobility issues.

Most guides are knowledgeable about local culture and marine life, and their attentiveness often earns praise for making the trip smoother and more enjoyable. The boat crew is also consistently described as helpful and cheerful, maintaining safety and comfort during the fast-paced journey.

Value for Money

At $95 per person, this tour provides a lot of value. You get transportation, guided visits, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and a substantial lunch—all within an 8-hour window. Many travelers feel the experience is worth the price, especially considering how many sites and activities you cover in one day.

However, some reviews suggest that the schedule is quite tight, and the crowd on Playa Blanca can sometimes feel overwhelming. Still, for those who want a comprehensive look at the Rosario Islands without multiple bookings, this tour delivers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits adventurous travelers eager to see multiple islands in one day, with a balance of relaxation, sightseeing, and underwater exploration. It’s perfect if you don’t mind a fast-paced schedule and want a guided experience with helpful staff.

It’s also ideal for families with older children, given the focus on beach time and snorkeling, but less suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the inclusive nature of the price, but be prepared for some commercialization at certain stops.

This tour offers a fun, active day with stunning scenery, tasty food, and plenty of opportunities to unwind or explore. It’s a practical choice for making the most of your time in Cartagena’s surrounding islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children and teenagers who enjoy beaches and snorkeling. Younger kids or those with mobility issues might find the schedule too busy or challenging.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, water, and cash for extras. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for walking.

How long is the boat ride between islands?
The speedboat rides vary from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the leg of the journey. These are generally smooth but expect some splashes.

What’s included in the tour?
Your package covers boat transportation, bottled water, snorkel equipment, a guide, and travel insurance. The port tax is not included.

Can I snorkel if I don’t want to?
Yes. If you prefer not to snorkel, you can relax on the beaches while others explore underwater. The optional snorkeling is a highlight but not mandatory.

How long do we stay at each island?
Expect roughly 2 hours at Isla Grande, 2.75 hours at Playa Blanca, and 2 hours at Tierra Bomba—making for a packed but diverse day.

Is there a limit on the group size?
The tours tend to be small and intimate, especially if you upgrade to VIP, but even the regular trips keep groups manageable, with many reviews praising the guides’ attentiveness.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended, especially during peak season. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Cartagena Rosario Islands Day Tour with Snorkel & Lunch is a solid choice for travelers wanting a full spectrum of island experiences in one day. From the calm sands of Isla Grande to the lively energy of Playa Blanca and the serene vistas of Tierra Bomba, the itinerary offers variety and convenience.

The tour shines thanks to helpful guides, quality snorkeling, and tasty food, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to unwind, explore, and indulge. While the schedule is fast and some spots might feel crowded, the overall value and diversity make this a worthwhile option for many.

If you’re eager to tick off multiple islands, enjoy underwater adventures, and savor good food in a lively atmosphere, this tour could be your perfect day out near Cartagena. Just remember to pack light, bring cash, and go with an open mind for a fun, memorable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: