Travelers planning a day in San Andrés often look for that perfect mix of scenic beauty, authentic island vibe, and hassle-free adventure. The Luxury Private Tour Boat 6 in 1 offers just that — a curated water-based exploration designed to show you the best of Colombia’s famed archipelago. While it’s marketed as a luxury experience, reviews suggest it’s more of a comfortably equipped private boat trip with some standout highlights.
What we like about this tour? First, it provides access to multiple island stops that showcase the diverse beauty of San Andrés. Second, the bilingual guide can help deepen the understanding of each location, adding educational value. Third, the bluetooth-equipped boat enhances the vibe with music, making the ride more fun. However, on the downside, some reviewers point out that the boat isn’t particularly modern or luxurious and that certain spots in the itinerary aren’t always included as advertised.
This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a private, flexible day on the water with beautiful scenery, without the need for extensive snorkeling gear or a high-end vessel. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of island hopping at a reasonable price, especially if they’re not expecting a five-star boat but rather a personalized experience with plenty of natural beauty.
Good To Know
- Flexible private group allows you to enjoy the islands without the crowds.
- Multiple stops including Johnny Cay, Aquarius, and Old Point Mangrove offer varied scenery.
- Cost-effective considering the variety of locations visited in a single morning or afternoon.
- Some limitations include outdated boat facilities and spots in the itinerary that might be skipped.
- Guides are bilingual and knowledgeable, adding context to your visit.
- Reviews highlight a mix of positive experiences and some dissatisfaction with boat quality and overcrowding.
What to Expect from the Tour
This one-hour tour provides a snapshot of San Andrés’ natural beauty, traveling on a private boat that departs from the main police dock early in the morning. The route promises visits to iconic spots, with a focus on island beaches, marine life, and scenic waters, all within a flexible, semi-private setting.
Starting Point and Route Overview
You’ll meet at the Policía Dock, a straightforward location on the main island. After a 15-minute boat ride, the adventure begins with stops at several key spots, each offering different views and experiences.
Johnny Cay (1.5 hours)
The first major stop is Johnny Cay, renowned for its white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees. This island is often crowded, but it remains a favorite for its postcard-perfect scenery. Visitors can relax on the beach, explore the island’s small inland paths, or mingle with iguanas that are quite used to travelers. Some reviews mention that Johnny Cay can be overcrowded, making it less ideal for those seeking solitude.
Rose Cay (1.5 hours)
Next, you’ll visit Rose Cay, another popular island destination. The reviews don’t specify much about this spot, but it’s known to offer more relaxed vibes compared to Johnny Cay. Expect turquoise waters and decent snorkeling opportunities, although the tour doesn’t include gear — you’ll want to bring your own masks and fins if you plan to snorkel.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFaro Haynes Cay (1 hour)
A quick stop at Faro Haynes Cay provides a chance to enjoy panoramic island views. The lighthouse offers a picturesque backdrop perfect for photos. It’s a brief visit, but the scenery is worth capturing.
Old Point Mangrove (30 minutes)
The Old Point Mangrove area is a highlight for those interested in the island’s flora and fauna. This mangrove sanctuary is home to crabs, mussels, and various birds. It’s an ideal spot to appreciate the natural ecosystems of San Andrés, especially for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Interior Bay and the Sea of 7 Colors (Unknown duration)
The tour’s pièce de résistance is the Bay of the 7 Colors, famous for its stunning blue hues. The boat stops here for a short swim, giving travelers a chance to cool off and enjoy the remarkable water clarity. It’s often the most talked-about part, with most reviews praising the view’s vibrancy and the experience of floating in such clear waters.
Lunch Stop at Cayo Haynnes
The tour includes a lunch stop at Cayo Haynnes, where a restaurant offers local dishes starting at around 45,000 COP. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, many find the prices reasonable for a scenic meal with a view. Some reviewers note that the restaurant service can be slow or crowded, so plan accordingly.
The Itinerary and Its Realities
The detailed itinerary suggests visits to Johnny Cay, Rose Cay, Faro Haynes Cay, Old Point Mangrove, and the Sea of 7 Colors, plus optional detours. However, reviews reveal that not all locations are always included or may be skipped depending on weather or other operational factors.
One reviewer shared that Rocky Cay and Haynes Cay were not part of their trip, despite being on the itinerary, which points to some flexibility or inconsistency in the actual route. The boat used by the provider was described as small and old, not quite the “luxury” vessel one might expect for the price, but still functional.
What the Tour Provides
- Duration: 10 hours, starting at 10 am and ending around 5 pm.
- Transportation: Private boat, usually small and not very modern.
- Guide: Bilingual, helpful, and knowledgeable.
- Cost: At $481 for a group up to 12, it offers decent value considering the multiple stops and personalized setting.
What’s Missing or Could Be Better
- Snorkeling gear is not provided, so bringing your own masks, fins, or water shoes would improve the experience.
- Facilities on the boat are basic, and some travelers may find the vessel’s age and amenities lacking.
- Inconsistent visitations to certain spots, like Rocky Cay or Haynes Cay, can be disappointing if you’re expecting to see those locations.
Authentic Experiences from Reviews
One traveler from the US mentioned, “the crew is friendly and helpful,” but also noted that the boat wasn’t luxurious and that the vessel was small. Meanwhile, another reviewer appreciated the great views and relaxing ride, which suggests that despite the boat’s age, the scenery and guides sometimes make up for it.
A Dutch traveler found the overcrowding and loud music from other boats detracting from the natural beauty, highlighting a common frustration with tour boats in popular areas. The lack of snorkeling gear and unclear advice on what to bring** also emerged as points to consider when preparing.
Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour
- Bring your own snorkel gear, water shoes, and possibly drinks, as these are not included.
- Arrive early at the Police Dock to secure your spot and avoid last-minute rushes.
- Expect a smaller, older boat — if seeking a high-end luxury vessel, this may not meet those expectations.
- Plan for some spots to be crowded or skipped, depending on weather and operational decisions.
- Use the bilingual guide to deepen your understanding of each location’s significance.
- Dress in beachwear and bring sun protection, as most stops are outdoors with limited shade.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour suits travelers looking for a cost-effective, private day trip that hits multiple sights without the need for fancy amenities. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples who value natural scenery over luxury or extensive snorkeling.
If you’re comfortable with a smaller, older boat and are aware that some spots might be skipped or crowded, this is a great way to see key parts of San Andrés while enjoying the company of a friendly guide.
Final Verdict
The Luxury Private Tour Boat 6 in 1 offers a practical, scenic way to explore San Andrés with a private group, plenty of natural beauty, and a flexible itinerary. While it doesn’t quite deliver a luxury experience in terms of boat quality or amenities, it compensates with stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the convenience of visiting multiple island hotspots in one day.
For travelers who prioritize value, natural scenery, and a personalized approach, this tour can be a delightful addition to your San Andrés itinerary. Just remember to bring your snorkel gear, be prepared for some crowds, and keep expectations realistic regarding boat comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children or babies?
Babies under 1 year are not recommended, likely due to the boat size and activity level.
How long is the tour?
The scheduled duration is approximately 1 hour, but the entire experience spans from 10 am to 5 pm, including all stops and transfers.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, guide, and island stops listed in the itinerary. Lunch is not included but is available at the restaurant in Cayo Haynnes for extra cost.
Are snorkeling gear provided?
No, snorkeling equipment is not provided, so bring your own if you plan to snorkel.
What language are the guides?
Guides are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, helping to make the experience accessible to international travelers.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
In essence, this tour is about enjoying the natural splendor of San Andrés at a relaxed, private pace. It’s perfect for those who want a straightforward, scenic water adventure with the freedom to customize a day on the island’s beautiful waters.
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