The Rosario Islands are an hour from Cartagena by speedboat and feel like a different place entirely. The water shifts from green to turquoise depending on the depth and the time of day. The beaches are small, the islands too, and that gives them a scale Bocagrande doesn’t have. The city noise disappears as quickly as the coastline recedes behind the boat.
For most first-time visitors to Cartagena, this is the excursion they remember most. Here’s how to do it well.
What the Rosario Islands are
A National Natural Park since 1977. Twenty-seven islands and islets about 45 kilometers southwest of Cartagena in the Colombian Caribbean. The park designation protects the coral reefs surrounding the archipelago — one of the richest marine ecosystems on the Colombian coast.
The most visited islands are Isla Grande (the largest, with the most tourist infrastructure), Isla del Rosario (where the San Martín de Pajarales Aquarium is), and several islets with shallow-water beaches good for snorkeling.
Types of tours
Standard group tour: The most common and affordable option. A boat with 20 to 40 people, preset stops (usually the aquarium and a beach island), lunch included, return in the afternoon. Between $25 and $45 USD per person.
All-inclusive tour: Transport, aquarium entry, lunch, drinks, and beach time. Some operators add snorkeling gear. Between $40 and $55 USD per person.
Private boat: You charter the whole boat for your group, which means setting the itinerary and choosing how long to spend at each stop. Right for families, honeymooners, or groups who want privacy. Between $150 and $375 USD for the whole boat, depending on size and itinerary.
Kayak and snorkel tours: Some operators run more active outings with kayaking between islands and snorkeling in reef areas. For those who want more than beach time.
Island stays: Some islands have lodging, from rustic eco-lodges to more developed options. You can stay overnight and return the next day.
The San Martín de Pajarales Aquarium
Nurse sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and tropical fish in open tanks where you can swim with some of them. For families with children between 5 and 14, this is usually the most memorable stop of the entire day. For adults it varies — some consider it the best part, others prefer free time on the natural beaches.
Aquarium entry isn’t included in every tour. Confirm before you leave whether your package includes it or whether you pay separately (roughly $5 to $10 USD additional per person).
When to go
December to April (dry season): Less rain, more breeze, better underwater visibility. The catch: northerly winds from December through February generate swells on the speedboat crossing. If you get seasick easily, these months can be rough on the open water.
May to November (rainy season): The sea is calmer, which makes the crossing smoother. Fewer visitors on the islands and lower tour prices. July and August have the veranillo — less rain, good prices, and thinner crowds. If you’re flexible on dates, this window is worth considering.
Easter week, December, and U.S. holiday weekends: Tours fill up and prices rise. Book several days in advance during these periods.
How to get to the dock from Bocagrande
La Bodeguita dock: The main departure point for group tours. Near the Historic Center, about 20 minutes by taxi from Bocagrande. Tours leave between 8:00 and 9:00 am.
Pegasos dock (Maritime Terminal): Also near the Historic Center, close to the Clock Tower. Some operators depart from here. Same transfer time from Bocagrande.
From Hotel Regatta Cartagena, the taxi to either dock costs between 12,000 and 20,000 pesos (roughly $3 to $5 USD) and takes 15 to 25 minutes.
What to pack
Water-resistant sunscreen: No buildings to provide shade out here. SPF 50 minimum, reapply every two hours.
A change of clothes: You will get wet. Dry clothes for the return make a real difference on the boat ride back.
Water shoes: For entering the sea and getting on and off the boat. Some island shores have rocks or coral at the water’s edge.
Cash: Island restaurants and vendors don’t take cards.
Motion sickness medication if needed: The round trip adds up to almost two hours at sea. During wind months, the swell can be significant.
Snacks and water: Most tours include lunch, but something for the outbound crossing is useful if you’re leaving the hotel without eating first.
How to organize the day from Hotel Regatta
6:30 am: Breakfast at the hotel. The restaurant opens at this time.
7:30 am: Taxi to the dock. With a 15 to 25-minute ride, you arrive with enough time to check in before departure.
8:00 to 9:00 am: Departure from the dock.
3:00 to 5:00 pm: Return to the dock. Taxi back to the hotel.
Afternoon: Hotel pool or rest. It’s a full day of sun and water and you’ll feel it when you get back.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Rosario Islands tour take?
The full day. Departure between 8:00 and 9:00 am, return between 3:00 and 5:00 pm. Actual time on the islands is roughly 4 to 5 hours.
Is the speedboat crossing safe?
Yes. Tour boats hold certification from the Harbor Master’s office. During wind months the crossing can be rough, but operators have weather-based safety criteria for departures.
Are the Rosario Islands good for kids?
Yes, with age in mind. For children under 5, the boat ride can be uncomfortable. From 5 and up, the aquarium and beaches work very well.
Can you snorkel without experience?
Yes. No prior experience needed. Tours with snorkeling included provide gear and basic on-site guidance.
Do you need to book in advance?
During high season and long weekends, yes. In mid-season you can often book the day before or the morning of, through the hotel or at the dock.
What’s the difference between the Rosario Islands and Playa Blanca (Barú)?
The Rosario Islands have clearer water and coral reefs. Playa Blanca has longer, wider beach but the water isn’t as clear. For snorkeling and marine life: the Rosario. For a long beach day: Barú.
Where to stay for the excursion
Bocagrande is the most practical base. The La Bodeguita dock is 20 minutes by taxi, the hotel breakfast covers the early departure, and the hotel pool is waiting when you get back.
Hotel Regatta Cartagena has breakfast from 6:30 am, 24-hour front desk to coordinate the taxi, and beach service for days you’d rather stay in Bocagrande.
Book directly at Hotel Regatta Cartagena, reach us at reservas@hotelregattacartagena.com or contact us on WhatsApp.
