Cartagena: 5 ISLANDS by speedboat with SNORKELING & LUNCH

Planning a day out on the water around Cartagena? The “5 Islands” tour promises a high-energy day full of scenic views, snorkeling, delicious food, and lively stops. It’s marketed as an adventure-packed way to see some of the region’s most beautiful spots, but as with many experiences, it’s not without its quirks.

We’ll break down what you can really expect — the good, the not-so-good, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What we like most about this tour is the stunning scenery and the variety of stops — from snorkeling in coral reefs to enjoying fresh seafood in Cholón. Plus, the speedboat ride offers a quick, exhilarating way to cover a lot of ground.

On the downside, some travelers mention the loud music and crowds, which might not suit everyone seeking a tranquil escape. It’s a good fit for those looking to experience a lively day on the water and don’t mind a bit of chaos.

If you’re after a full day of fun, exploring multiple islands, with a focus on vibrant scenery and social energy, this tour is a solid option. However, if your priority is a peaceful, relaxed day or luxury comfort, you might want to consider other options.

This experience made our article of Cartagena’s 2 Best Lunch Experiences: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Scenic speedboat ride offers quick access to multiple islands with impressive views of Cartagena’s coast.
• Snorkeling at Rosario Islands provides a chance to explore coral reefs and underwater life.
• Lively stops in Cholón include live music and seafood cocktails, perfect for social travelers.
• The lunch is included, featuring Caribbean flavors, but timing can be a bit late for some.
• Crowd levels can be high, and music loud, which might not suit all travelers.
• The tour is not luxury but features comfortable boats and a packed itinerary.
• Reviews highlight both enjoyable moments and some frustrations, especially about noise and weather conditions.
• It’s best suited for adventure seekers who enjoy lively environments rather than those seeking tranquility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Cartagena 5 Islands Tour

What Does the Tour Cover?

This tour is designed as a seven-hour adventure, taking you by speedboat to some of the most popular spots in the Cartagena region. It begins with a pickup from key locations like El Laguito, Bocagrande, or the city center, followed by a short drive to the docking point where your boat adventure starts.

From there, you’ll hop aboard a luxury sports boat that speeds you along the coastline, offering panoramic views of Bocachica. These scenic drives are a highlight, setting the scene for a full day of island hopping.

Rosario Islands: Snorkeling and Underwater Highlights

The Rosario Islands are the star attraction, renowned for coral reefs teeming with marine life. We loved the way the tour includes snorkeling here, giving you a chance to see colorful fish and underwater structures. However, some reviews mention that bad weather or rain can make underwater visibility less than ideal, so be prepared for muddy waters at times. But when the weather cooperates, this stop becomes a true highlight — especially if you enjoy looking beneath the surface.

Pablo Escobar’s Submerged Plane

One of the more unique features is the visit to a submerged plane that belonged to Pablo Escobar. It’s a striking photo opportunity and a tangible piece of Colombia’s complex history, offering a different angle on the region’s past. It’s not a long stop, but it adds a memorable element to the day.

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Cholón: The Party Spot

Next, you arrive at Cholón, dubbed the “party island” of Cartagena. The reviews suggest a lively atmosphere with live music, beach bars, and plenty of seafood cocktails. It’s an ideal spot for socializing and soaking up the energetic vibe, but if you’re seeking peace and quiet, this may not be your favorite stop. One traveler noted, “The music was very loud, not what we wanted even though we paid a lot for the excursion.”

Baru Agua Azul & Playa Tranquila

The tour also includes a stop at Baru Agua Azul for swimming and relaxing. The water here is clear, and you’ll have about 45 minutes to enjoy the ocean. Later, the most extended stop is at Playa Tranquila, where you’ll spend roughly three hours lounging on the sand, swimming, or simply soaking in the sun. This is a good chance to unwind or take some photos of the stunning scenery.

Lunch and Refreshments

A “Caribbean lunch” is included, generally described as delicious, adding significant value. Plus, you get a shrimp cocktail — a nice touch for seafood lovers. Some reviews mention that lunch is served late, around 2:30 pm, which might be inconvenient if you’re hungry earlier in the day. Extras like beers, cocktails, or seafood casserole are available at an additional cost.

The Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a luxury speedboat, which is comfortable but also fast and sometimes bumpy, depending on sea conditions. Several travelers mentioned that the boat’s speed and bumping can be intense, and the loud music adds to a lively, noisy atmosphere. Group sizes can vary, but it’s often a crowded experience, so those seeking personal space might find it a little overwhelming.

Practical Considerations

• Weather can significantly impact the experience, especially underwater visibility and boat comfort.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or older adults who might be sensitive to the fast, bumpy ride.
• Mobility issues are a concern, as the activity isn’t designed for those with impairments.
• What to bring: sun protection, swimwear, towels, cash, and possibly a jacket if you’re sensitive to wind and water spray.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

While the tour showcases some iconic spots — like the coral reefs and Pablo Escobar’s plane — it’s also very touristy with a lively, party atmosphere. That’s part of the appeal for many, but if you’re seeking a quiet, contemplative day, this isn’t it. Some reviews point out that for the price, the experience is not as VIP or luxurious as advertised, though it delivers on the list of what’s promised.

The Value for Money

At $96 per person, the tour packs in a lot: multiple island stops, snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and photographs. But considering crowd levels and loud noise, some travelers say the experience is more average than exclusive. It’s a good value if you want a busy, adventure-filled day, but those wanting serenity or luxury may want to explore alternative tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventure lovers, social butterflies, and those eager to see multiple islands in one day. It’s perfect if you enjoy lively environments, snorkeling, and seafood. It’s also a solid pick if you’re comfortable with bumpy boat rides and don’t mind loud music — some find it fun, others may find it overwhelming.

If you’re traveling with families or older adults or craving a peaceful escape, look elsewhere. The tour’s crowd density and party atmosphere might not be your thing.

Final Thoughts

This “5 Islands” tour offers a full-day adventure filled with scenic views, snorkeling, lively stops, and good food. It’s a value-packed experience for those who want to cover a lot of territory in one day and are okay with the noise, crowds, and unpredictability of marine weather. The combination of beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and a unique wreck makes it a memorable outing, though the loud music and busy atmosphere can detract if you’re seeking tranquility.

In short, if you’re after a fun, social day on the water with plenty of photo opportunities and lively stops, this tour could be a great fit. If you prefer a more relaxed, peaceful experience, you might want to look at other options that focus on serenity and luxury rather than excitement.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from select pickup points and a luxury speedboat to the islands.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, with a detailed itinerary that includes multiple stops and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and some cash for extras or tips.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel at the Rosario Islands, enjoying coral reefs and underwater life.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Caribbean-style lunch and a shrimp cocktail are part of the package. Lunch may be served late, around 2:30 pm.

Can I get a refund?
Yes, the activity offers free cancellation if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women and older adults should take caution due to the fast, bumpy boat rides. Children may need supervision, depending on age.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact visibility and comfort. It’s wise to check the forecast before your trip and understand that some stops may be affected by rain or rough seas.

In essence, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and tasty way to explore Cartagena’s nearby islands. It’s ideal for those who want a full, energetic day with plenty of photo moments, snorkeling, and social vibes. For quieter days or luxury travelers, it might be worth considering other options. Whichever you choose, be sure to pack accordingly, stay flexible, and enjoy the ride!

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