Cartagena is famous for its lively streets, colorful buildings, and excellent bars, but it’s also a fantastic place to explore by boat and enjoy a drink with a view. The city’s coastal location and scenic islands make it ideal for drinking tours that combine tropical scenery with refreshing beverages.
Among the options, we particularly like tours that offer a mix of open bars, great food, and memorable sightseeing on the Rosario Islands, giving you a taste of both adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re after a quiet day lounging on a private island or a lively beach club experience, Cartagena’s got you covered.
One of our favorites is the Cartagena: Private Island in Rosario Islands, Open Bar—it’s a full day out with sun, sand, and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks, plus three different lunch options.
For those who prefer a more social atmosphere, the Cartagena: Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip and OPEN BAR offers a laid-back vibe with a focus on beach fun and good drinks. Both tours are excellent choices to add a splash of leisure and local flavor to your Cartagena trip.
Quick Overview
We’ve rounded up the best drinking tours in Cartagena that combine scenic boat rides, tasty food, and drinks with fun activities. The list below includes two top-rated tours that balance relaxation and adventure, each offering unique experiences and great value for your budget:
- Cartagena: Private Island in Rosario Islands, Open Bar – a full-day private island escape with unlimited non-alcoholic drinks and scenic sightseeing.
- Cartagena: Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip and OPEN BAR – a lively beach club experience with a focus on sun, sand, and Caribbean flavor.
Now, let’s explore each tour to help you decide which one suits your style.
1. Cartagena: Private Island in Rosario Islands, Open Bar
At number 1, this tour takes you on a 6-hour journey to a secluded island, with an included open bar of non-alcoholic drinks. You will start at Muelle de la Bodeguita and hop onto a speedboat for an hour-long ride to the Rosario Islands. Once there, you’ll have plenty of time to unwind on sun loungers or beach hammocks, making it perfect for those looking to relax in privacy.
The tour includes three types of lunch, catering to different tastes, and features a lovely pool with a bar—ideal for cooling off after sunbathing.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic boat trips, a visit to the oceanarium, and the chance to enjoy scenic views along the way. Reviewers note that the scenic drive and photo stops add a special touch, making it more than just a beach day. The tour’s value is excellent considering the inclusions, especially for travelers seeking a mix of quiet leisure and light sightseeing.
While the focus is on non-alcoholic drinks, the relaxed atmosphere and well-organized itinerary make this perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a peaceful island retreat. The optional oceanarium visit adds a fun, educational element.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a private, all-inclusive island experience with plenty of comfort and scenery, this trip is a solid choice.
2. Cartagena: Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip and OPEN BAR
Coming in at number 2, this 6-hour tour offers a lively day at a beach club combined with a panoramic boat ride to Rosario Island. Starting from Muelle de la Bodeguita, you’ll enjoy a quick 20-minute boat trip before arriving at the beach club, where the focus is on sun, sand, and good drinks. The tour includes a delicious Caribbean-style lunch with three options, giving you a taste of local flavors.
The highlight here is the OPEN BAR, which covers soft drinks and cocktails, allowing you to unwind without worrying about extra costs. The free time at the beach—about five hours—is ample to swim, sunbathe, and take photos. Visitors mention that the scenic drive and guided tour of Rosario Island provide a deeper appreciation of the area’s natural beauty.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed but social atmosphere. It’s particularly suited for groups, couples, or anyone who just wants to enjoy a day of beachside fun with drinks. A few reviews highlight that the lunch and drinks make the experience worthwhile, especially when combined with the beautiful island scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a lively yet laid-back day with good food, drinks, and plenty of beach time.
How to Choose Your Perfect Cartagena Drinking Tour
When deciding between these two options, consider your priorities. If you prefer a peaceful, private island with scenic boat rides and a focus on relaxation, the Private Island in Rosario Islands tour (see details here) offers a more exclusive experience.
On the other hand, if you want to spend your day lounging at a beach club with an energetic atmosphere and unlimited drinks, then the Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip (see details here) is your best bet.
Both tours are roughly six hours, but your choice depends on whether you want quiet scenery or lively beach fun. Budget-wise, they are comparable, but the private island offers more comfort and exclusivity. Make sure to book early during peak seasons to secure your spot and enjoy the best weather.
Final Thoughts
Cartagena offers a range of drinking tours that cater to different tastes—whether it’s a peaceful day on a secluded island or a lively beach club experience. For a tranquil escape with scenic boat rides and optional oceanarium visits, the private island tour is ideal. If you’re after a fun, social day surrounded by sun and sand, the beach club trip delivers on relaxed vibes and unlimited drinks.
No matter which you pick, these tours promise a memorable way to enjoy Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Book early, pack your swimsuit, and prepare for a day full of sun, sea, and good company.