Cartagena: Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip and OPEN BAR

If you’re considering a day trip from Cartagena that combines stunning scenery, relaxing beaches, and a lively atmosphere, the Rosario Island Beach Club tour might be just what you need.

While we haven’t personally hopped aboard this particular boat, reviews and descriptions paint a pretty inviting picture of what travelers can expect. It’s a well-rated experience—averaging 4.1 out of 5—offering a balance of comfort, sights, and fun.

What we love about this tour? First, the spectacular views of Rosario Island during the panoramic boat ride, giving you a true taste of the Caribbean’s beauty. Second, the all-you-can-drink open bar adds a layer of indulgence that’s hard to beat.

That said, a few considerations include the pace of the boat ride, which can be lively (sometimes bumpy), and the fact that some extras, like entrance fees to the Oceanarium, are not included.

It’s perfect for those who want a lively, social day on the water—families, couples, or groups of friends who want a mix of relaxation, adventure, and good food.

This tour suits travelers looking to indulge in a comfortable day of sun and sand without too many surprises or complicated logistics. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, delicious meals, and a scenic boat ride — all within a manageable 6-hour span. Now, let’s unpack what makes this trip a solid choice, along with some of the finer details you’ll want to know before booking.

This experience made our article of 2 Most Highly Rated Drinking Tours In Cartagena.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenic views of Rosario Island during the boat rides
• All-day access to a beach club with sunbathing, swimming, and marine life
• Unlimited open bar with national drinks, including cocktails and soft drinks
• Delicious typical Caribbean lunch options catering to various tastes
• Approximately 6 hours of fun, including sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing
• Convenient departure from Muelle de la Bodeguita early in the morning

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic boat rides, beach leisure, and good food, making it a popular choice for travelers wanting a taste of the Caribbean without the fuss of organizing every detail themselves. It’s a full-package experience—transportation, food, drinks, and scenic stops—so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your surroundings.

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The Journey Begins at Muelle de la Bodeguita

The adventure kicks off early, with the meeting point at Muelle de la Bodeguita, door #4, at 07:15 am. The boat departs anytime between 07:20 and 08:00 am, so arriving on time ensures you don’t miss out on the scenic first leg. Expect a lively ride as you speed away from Cartagena, taking about an hour to reach the Rosario Islands. The boat ride is generally fast, with some bumps and splashes, especially depending on the sea conditions, so bring something to cover your head or a jacket if you’re sensitive to motion.

Scenic Scenic Views and the Oceanarium

After the initial boat ride, you’ll have a chance to stop at the Oceanarium for a quick visit and photos. This part of the trip offers a guided tour and scenic views, adding a touch of marine life and aquatic wonder to your day. Although entrance to the Oceanarium isn’t included, a quick stop here provides some great photo opportunities and a chance to learn about Colombia’s marine ecosystems.

The Heart of the Day: Rosario Island Beach Club

The main attraction is the beach club itself—an inviting slice of Caribbean paradise with soft white sands and turquoise waters. This stretch of coast is part of the Corales Islas National Natural Park, renowned for its vibrant marine life. Expect plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or just relax under umbrellas or in sunshades. We loved the way the beach club feels like a private oasis, but with enough amenities to keep everyone comfortable.

Lunch and Refreshments

Food is a highlight here. The tour offers three typical Cartagena lunch options: fish, grilled chicken, or rice with vegetables Chaufa. This variety caters well to different tastes, and the meals are served in a setting that emphasizes local flavors. Many reviews highlight the quality and freshness of the food, making it more than just a quick snack. The open bar is unlimited and includes beers, house cocktails like Piña Colada, Coco Loco, Mojito, and more, plus sodas and juices—perfect for cooling down or just adding a festive touch to your day.

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Marine Life and Water Activities

While swimming in the crystalline waters, you might catch glimpses of vibrant marine life, especially if you bring your snorkel gear (which isn’t included but recommended). The waters are warm and inviting, and the soft sands make for a relaxing day in the sun. The tour includes some free time—about five hours—so you’re free to take it slow or join others in more active pursuits.

Return Journey and Reflection

Around 1 pm, the boat departs for the return trip, taking about an hour back to Muelle de la Bodeguita. The boat ride back can be just as lively as the way out—expect a few more bumps and splashes—so prepare accordingly. The tour concludes after a total of roughly six hours, giving you just enough time to experience Rosario Island without feeling rushed.

To truly enjoy the experience, come prepared with essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a towel. Towels aren’t provided, and you’ll want to dry off after swimming. Given the marine environment, some travelers recommend beach shoes, as the sand can contain coral remains. Remember, food and drinks beyond those included are not permitted on the boat, and alcohol or drugs are prohibited—safety first.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal, but it’s worth checking with the provider if you have specific needs.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $128 per person, this trip offers a comprehensive experience that combines scenic boat rides, beach time, and a tasty, plentiful meal with unlimited drinks. When you consider the cost includes transportation, food, drinks, and some scenic stops, it presents good value—especially in a setting where many similar tours charge more for fewer amenities.

Some reviews note that the experience is lively and social, ideal for those who enjoy a party atmosphere. Families with children will find the children’s menu helpful, though parents should supervise swimming and ensure safety in the water.

This day trip suits those who want a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. If you love scenic boat rides and lively beaches, you’ll enjoy the panoramic views and the open bar. It’s also perfect for travelers wanting a proven, organized outing, especially if they prefer not to plan every detail themselves.

The tour’s social vibe, combined with the chance to savor local flavors, makes it engaging for groups of friends or couples. If your priority is a quiet, secluded retreat, this may not be the best fit, but for a fun, vibrant day on the water, it’s hard to beat.

This Rosario Islands beach club day trip offers an enjoyable way to experience a slice of Caribbean paradise without overcomplicating things. The boat rides, combined with the chance to swim and relax in crystal waters, are genuinely memorable. The inclusion of a generous lunch and unlimited drinks adds to its appeal, making it a well-rounded outing for those seeking a lively, hassle-free day.

The main draw is undoubtedly the stunning views and the chance to unwind in a beautiful setting. While the ride can be bumpy and some extras cost extra, the overall value is solid, especially for travelers wanting a full experience packed into a manageable 6 hours.

If you’re after good food, lively atmosphere, and scenic beauty, this tour fits the bill perfectly. Just bring your sunscreen, your swimwear, and your sense of adventure.

What is the meeting point for this tour?
The tour starts at Muelle de la Bodeguita, door #4, with departure between 07:20 and 08:00 am. Arriving early ensures you won’t miss the boat.

How long is the boat ride to Rosario Islands?
The initial speedboat ride takes about 45 minutes to reach the islands, and there’s a shorter 20-minute ride on the way back.

Are meals included in the tour price?
Yes, you get a typical Caribbean lunch with three options: fish, grilled chicken, or rice with vegetables Chaufa.

What drinks are available at the open bar?
The unlimited open bar includes beers, house cocktails (Piña Colada, Mojito, Caipirinha, among others), sodas, bottled water, and lemonade.

Can I snorkel or swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s plenty of time to swim and enjoy the water, with scenic marine life in the turquoise waters. Snorkel gear isn’t included but is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children have a menu with bottled water, soda, orange juice, and three lunch options. The tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sunhat, swimwear, beach shoes, and a towel. Cash is also recommended for extras.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, port tax ($26,500 COP) and tourist insurance ($5,500 COP) are not included. Entrance to the Oceanarium also costs extra.

This tour is a good pick for travelers who want a lively, relaxing day in the Caribbean with scenic boat rides, great food, and plenty of sunshine. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate good value, social atmospheres, and stunning natural beauty—without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a carefree day at the beach, this Rosario Islands experience will leave you with plenty of memorable moments.

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