How to Visit the Rosario Islands from Cartagena — Complete 2026 Guide
Prices in USD per person, checked against our booking pages in October 2026. Pier fees are paid in Colombian pesos (COP), in cash at the dock. Each booking page shows the current price.
The Rosario Islands Colombia are located 35 km southwest of Cartagena, in Bolívar, inside the Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo. If you are researching Rosario Islands Cartagena Colombia, Colombia Rosario Islands, or Rosario Island Cartagena, this is the island chain most travelers visit as a day trip from Cartagena.
Getting from Cartagena to Rosario Islands by speedboat from Muelle La Bodeguita takes 45 to 50 minutes. Boats depart between 7:50 and 8:30 AM. Most clubs charge a cash fee at the pier of up to COP 40,300 per person, and boats return between 3:00 and 4:00 PM. Book your beach club or Rosario Islands boat tour in advance: the best options sell out 2 to 3 weeks ahead during high season.
This step by step guide covers everything you need to plan a Rosario Islands day trip from Cartagena in 2026, from how to get to Rosario Islands from Cartagena to beach clubs, pier logistics, fees, boat tours, private boats, hotels, snorkeling, and what to bring. It also explains something most guides skip: Cartagena has no single dock. The Rosario Islands, Tierra Bomba, Barú, and the San Bernardo Islands are separate, privately owned destinations, and each one is reached from a different departure point. Step 3 below covers exactly where to go for each.
Browse all Rosario Islands beach clubs, or contact our team on WhatsApp if you want everything organized for you.
Rosario Islands Colombia: Quick Travel Snapshot
| Search intent | Direct answer |
|---|---|
| Rosario Islands Colombia | A protected Caribbean island chain in Bolívar, Colombia, famous for turquoise water, coral reefs, beach clubs, snorkeling, and day trips from Cartagena. |
| Cartagena to Rosario Islands | 45–50 minutes by speedboat from Muelle La Bodeguita, near the Clock Tower in the Historic Center. |
| Rosario Islands boat tour | Choose a shared beach club day pass, island hopping tour, or private boat tour depending on your budget and group size. |
| Rosario Islands snorkeling | Among the best snorkeling near Cartagena: protected coral reefs, 10–15m visibility in dry season, tropical fish, and clear turquoise water inside the national park. |
| Rosario Islands day trip cost | Day passes cost $82 to $377 per adult, round-trip boat included. Most clubs add a cash pier fee of COP 18,000 to COP 40,300. A private island for your group (Isla Amores) starts at $1,422. |
| Rosario Islands Colombia hotels | A few island hotels allow overnight stays, but most travelers visit on a day pass from Cartagena. |
| San Bernardo Islands Colombia | A different island chain farther from Cartagena; better for overnight escapes, not the standard Cartagena day trip. |
Quick Answer: How to Get to Rosario Islands from Cartagena
The best way to get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena is by licensed speedboat from Muelle La Bodeguita, near the Clock Tower in the Historic Center. The Cartagena to Rosario Islands crossing takes 45 to 50 minutes. Boats depart 7:50–8:30 AM daily. Most clubs charge a cash fee at the pier before boarding, up to COP 40,300 per person depending on the club (see Step 4). Return boats leave the Rosario Islands between 3:00 and 4:00 PM.
Location: Rosario Islands, Bolívar, Colombia, often searched as Rosario Islands Bolivar Colombia
Distance from Cartagena to Rosario Islands: 35 km southwest by sea
Travel time: 45–50 minutes by speedboat from Cartagena to Rosario Islands
Departure point: Muelle La Bodeguita, near the Clock Tower, Historic Center. Cocoa, Mangata, Coralina, Mantas and IBBIZA leave from Muelle Todomar in Bocagrande, and Corona Island from Club Náutico (see Step 3)
Departure times: 7:50–8:30 AM
Return: 3:00–4:00 PM from the islands
Pier fees: COP 18,000 to COP 40,300 per person in cash, depending on the club. Corona Island includes it
Step 1: Choose Your Beach Club (and Know Its Pier)
The club you choose sets the whole day: the boat, the pier you leave from, the cash fee you pay there, the food and the atmosphere. Choose the club first, then plan how to reach its pier. Prices below are per adult in USD and include the round-trip boat. "Most booked" means the plan our own travelers choose most often.
Clubs Leaving from Muelle La Bodeguita (Historic Center)
Isla Bela
The lowest entry price to a Rosario Islands beach club, with three plans. Departs about 8:00 AM, returns about 3:00 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Bela Express | $82 (same price for children 3 to 10) | Round-trip speedboat, beach and club access. Food and drinks à la carte |
| Traditional + Lunch | $120 | Speedboat, welcome drink, Caribbean lunch |
| Open Bar + Lunch | $133 | Speedboat, welcome cocktail, unlimited national open bar, lunch, DJ |
Cheapest: Bela Express. Most booked: Open Bar + Lunch, the plan most of our travelers pick at Isla Bela.
Isla del Pirata
A small coral island with a protected reef, for travelers who want snorkeling and quiet over a party. Departs 8:30 AM, back in Cartagena about 4:00 PM. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard with Lunch | $95 | Speedboat, welcome cocktail, Caribbean lunch, natural pools, bilingual guide, Wi-Fi, optional Oceanarium transfer |
| Premium+ Open Bar + Lunch | $133 | Everything in Standard, 4-hour open bar (10 AM to 2 PM), lunch with 5 à la carte options, snorkel masks and floats |
Cheapest and most booked: Standard with Lunch.
Isla del Sol
Our family pick: a calm private island with a beach, a seawater pool and a buffet lunch. Children under 3 go free. Arrive 7:40 to 8:00 AM, back in Cartagena about 4:00 PM. Everyone in one booking must choose the same plan.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard + Lunch | $120 (child 4 to 10: $73) | Boat, welcome cocktail, buffet lunch with 6 options, soft drink, dessert and coffee, loungers, beach and seawater pool, towel, showers |
| Full Open Bar + Lunch | $139 (child 4 to 10: $88) | Standard plus fried snacks on arrival and open bar 10 AM to 2 PM (beer, cocktails, soft drinks), with a kids' bar for children |
Cheapest: Standard + Lunch. Most booked: Full Open Bar + Lunch.
Pa'ue Beach Lounge
One pass with two zones: a calm Family Beach and an adults-only Party Beach. Departs about 7:45 AM, return boat leaves the island at 3:00 PM. Recommended for ages 8 and up.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Day pass | $145 (child 4 to 7: $101) | Sport boat, welcome champagne, 2x1 happy hour all day, lunch with 8 options, front-row bed for 2, kayak, SUP, beach tennis, DJ, panoramic island tour |
One plan, and one of the passes our travelers book most in the Rosario Islands.
Capri Beach Club
The club with the widest choice of open bar plans. Check-in 7:20 AM, return boat about 3:00 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | $142 (child 5 to 9: $88) | Sport boat, welcome mocktail, open bar 11 AM to 1 PM, lunch and drink, lounger, towel, snorkel mask, paddleboard |
| Premium (adults only) | $171 | Same as Classic with open bar all day |
| Diamond (adults only) | $282 | Premium bar all day, lobster or red snapper lunch, 30-minute massage, private lounge |
Cheapest: Classic. Most booked: Premium, with Classic close behind.
Luxury Beach Club
The longest beach in the archipelago, with unlimited national open bar on both plans and a DJ every day. Check-in 7:15 AM, return boat 3:00 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Open Bar | $133 (child 4 to 8: $85) | Tritón speedboat, unlimited open bar (margarita, cuba libre, mojito, beer), lounger and parasol, 4 lunch options |
| VIP Open Bar | $149 | Wider cocktail list, welcome wine, beach bed per couple, service at your bed, 10 lunch options |
Cheapest: Beach Open Bar. Most booked: VIP Open Bar.
Bora Bora Beach Club
Adults only (18+), with DJ music all day. Check-in 7:30 AM, return boat about 3:00 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Club Area | $139 | Shared speedboat, welcome cocktail, lunch with 6 options, bed from the second row (up to 3 people) |
| VIP Area | $171 | Front-row bed facing the sea, welcome cocktail, 10+ lunch options, VIP area access |
Cheapest: Club Area (a front-row bed upgrade costs COP 100,000 per bed in cash). Most booked: VIP Area.
Hotel Rosario del Mar
A hotel-style day run by Tequendama, calmer than the party clubs. Reception 7:30 AM, boarding 8:00 AM, return 3:00 PM. Children from 10 pay the adult price.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Arrecife | $126 (child 4 to 10: $85) | Boat, welcome drink, lunch with 6 options and a soft drink, sun chair |
| Abanico | $164 | Arrecife plus a 2-hour open bar and sun loungers |
Cheapest: Arrecife. Most booked: Abanico.
San Pedro de Majagua
An eco-hotel on Isla Grande where the plans differ by lunch. Departs 8:00 AM, back in Cartagena about 4:00 PM. No party music.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Silver | $130 (child 3 to 8: $82) | Shared speedboat, welcome punch, starter, whole fish, dessert, one drink (beer included), beach chair and towel |
| Gold | $161 | Silver with grilled lobster as the main dish |
| Diamond | $183 | Silver with a seafood grill platter and one ecological activity |
Cheapest and most booked: Silver.
Pao Pao Beach Club
Mangroves, reef snorkeling and a kayak through the mangroves. Ages 12 and up. Check-in 7:15 AM, back about 3:45 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Day pass | $136 | Speedboat, reserved lounger, welcome cocktail, Caribbean lunch with drink, beach and pool, reef snorkeling area, kayak |
One plan. Snorkel gear is rented on site.
Isla del Encanto (Barú)
Isla del Encanto is on Barú, not in the Rosario Islands, but it uses the same shared boat from La Bodeguita and is part of the 3 Islands tour. It is a private island resort with several pools and child pricing. Departs 8:00 AM, returns about 2:30 PM. Small dogs up to 8 kg are welcome with prior notice.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | $133 (child 4 to 10: $111) | Speedboat, welcome drink, buffet lunch with drink, beach, loungers, pool, beach sports |
| Black | $152 | Premium plus a limited national open bar |
| Gold VIP | $212 | Pier fee included, unlimited open bar, à la carte lunch, Balinese beds, guest-only pool, jacuzzi |
Cheapest and most booked: Premium.
Clubs Leaving from Muelle Todomar (Bocagrande)
Todomar is closer to the Bocagrande and Castillogrande hotels, and for most clubs the cash fee at the pier is lower than at La Bodeguita.
Cocoa Beach Club
The day pass our travelers book most: a newer, calm club with kayak and paddleboard included. Arrive 7:30 AM, return about 4:00 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Day pass | $130 (child 3 to 10: $114) | Round-trip boat, water on the ride, welcome drink, lunch with 5 options, oceanfront sunbed, kayak, paddleboard, showers, DJ on weekends |
One plan. Alcohol is not included.
Mangata Ocean Club
The pass with the most activities included: snorkeling outside the island, kayak, paddleboard and a bike ride on Isla Grande. Arrive 7:30 AM, return in the afternoon.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Day Pass | $126 | Boat, welcome champagne or juice, bed or lounger, panoramic tour, snorkeling, kayak, paddleboard, bike, DJ, lunch with 8 options and a soft drink, towel |
| Open Bar Day Pass | $158 | Classic plus open bar all day (mojito, margarita, tinto de verano, cuba libre, beer) |
Cheapest and most booked: Classic Day Pass.
Isla Coralina
Adults only, with a strict daily capacity. Every plan includes a 30-minute massage. Check-in 8:00 AM, return 4:00 to 4:30 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| VIP Relax | $196 | Boat, welcome drink, private sun deck, massage, VIP lunch, towel, kayak and snorkel gear |
| VIP Relax Premium | $256 | VIP Relax plus a bottle of wine (or 6 beers) and 4 waters |
| Super Premium | $377 | Premium plus a private sport boat (groups over 5) and a later return |
Cheapest and most booked: VIP Relax.
Mantas Beach Club
Calm and family friendly, with 2x1 cocktails all day. Arrive 7:30 AM, return about 4:00 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Lounge Chair Zone | $120 (child 3 to 7: $85) | Speedboat, welcome champagne or lemonade, à la carte lunch with 8 options, 2x1 cocktails, second-row lounger, DJ, paddleboard and kayak, Wi-Fi |
| VIP Beach Daybed | $136 | Same, with a front-row daybed |
| Lounge Chair + Open Bar | $152 | Lounger zone with open bar |
| VIP Daybed + Open Bar | $169 | Front-row daybed with open bar |
Cheapest and most booked: Beach Lounge Chair Zone.
IBBIZA Island Beach Club
A party club with live DJ and a saltwater pool. About 60 minutes by sport boat, back between 3:00 and 4:00 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Club Day Pass | $117 | Sport boat, welcome cocktail, one beer, soft drink, beach bed, pool, DJ, snorkel and kayak, Oceanarium transfer, lunch with 7 options |
| VIP Day Pass | $149 | Club pass plus champagne, front-row bed and lounge, towel, 4 premium dishes |
Cheapest: Club Day Pass. Most booked: VIP Day Pass.
Leaving from Club Náutico (Manga)
Corona Island
A private island in the Rosario Islands with no other beach club on it, so the whole island is for Corona guests. Adults only, unlimited Corona beer, and the pier fees are included. Departs 7:30 AM, back about 4:00 PM.
| Plan | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Experience | $250 | Speedboat, park and departure fees, beachfront sunbed, 3-course à la carte lunch, unlimited Corona beer, kayak, paddleboard |
One plan, with nothing to pay in cash at the pier.
See More Than One Island in a Day
| Tour | Price per adult | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Snorkeling & Oceanarium Tour | $89 | Speedboat, bilingual guide, about 30 minutes of guided snorkeling with gear, Isla Marina, lunch on Isla Grande, then the Oceanarium or Isla Bela (Oceanarium ticket extra) |
| Top 2 Rosario Islands | $126 | Two beach clubs in one day |
| 3 Islands: Cocoa, Coralina, Encanto | $136 | Cocoa Beach and Isla Coralina (Rosario Islands) plus Isla del Encanto (Barú) in one day |
| Top 3 Islands: Pao Pao, Isla Bela, Bora Bora | $158 | Speedboat, bilingual guide, a welcome cocktail on each island, lunch at Isla Bela, panoramic tour. Adults only |
The Snorkeling & Oceanarium Tour is the lowest-priced way to reach the Rosario Islands with us. Top 3 Islands is the multi-island tour our travelers book most.
Photos and schedules for every stop: Cartagena Island Hopping, Every Tour Compared Stop by Stop.
For a side-by-side ranking of every club: Best Beach Clubs in the Rosario Islands — 2026 Ranking.
How Much Does a Rosario Islands Day Trip Cost?
Shared day passes cost $82 to $377 per adult, round-trip boat included. Add the cash fee at the pier, which depends on your club (see Step 4). With that fee, a Rosario Islands day runs about $89 to $383 per adult. A private island for your group, such as Isla Amores, starts at $1,422.
Full breakdown by club and season: Rosario Islands Day Trip Cost — 2026 Prices.
Rosario Islands Boat Tour Options from Cartagena
When travelers search for a Rosario Islands boat tour, they usually mean one of three experiences: a shared beach club day pass, an island hopping Cartagena tour, or a private boat charter. The right choice depends on whether you want structure, multiple stops, or full control of the itinerary.
- Shared beach club day pass: best for couples, families, solo travelers, and first time visitors. Includes round trip speedboat transportation, beach club access, lunch, and a defined return time. The most organized and predictable option.
- Island hopping Cartagena tour: best for travelers who want several water stops, snorkeling at multiple reefs, visits to Cholon, Agua Azul, or Isla Grande in one day. More movement, less structure. Ideal for active travelers and groups.
- Private boat tour Rosario Islands: best for groups, birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette trips, and travelers who want flexible timing, custom itineraries, and stops at Cholon lagoon, Playa Blanca, or multiple islands in the same day.
If your goal is comfort and clear logistics, book a beach club. If your goal is movement, snorkeling at multiple reefs, and multiple stops including Cholon, choose a private boat or island hopping tour.
Browse beach club day passes → · Browse private boat charters →
Step 2: Book in Advance
The most popular Rosario Islands beach clubs operate with limited daily capacity and sell out fast. During high season in Cartagena (December to March and July to August), clubs like Capri, Pa'ue, and Bora Bora can sell out 2 to 3 weeks ahead. Even in low season, booking 7 to 10 days in advance is strongly recommended.
After booking through Cartagena Day Tours you receive a confirmation with your exact departure point, gate (if departing from Muelle La Bodeguita), departure time, what to bring, and the dock fee amounts. No surprises on the day.
All Rosario Islands day trips from Cartagena in our catalog: Browse all options →
Step 3: Getting to Your Departure Point (It's Not Always Muelle La Bodeguita)
One of the most common mistakes first time visitors make is assuming there's a single pier in Cartagena where "the boats to the islands" leave from. There isn't. Depending on which beach club or destination you've booked, you could be departing from a formal pier, a private marina, a nautical club, or even a stretch of open beach. You can't show up at the coast and flag down any boat. You need to know your exact departure point, because it depends on which club and destination you're booked for.
Muelle La Bodeguita: Shared Boats to the Rosario Islands and San Bernardo
Muelle La Bodeguita, on Avenida Blas de Lezo in El Centro, Cartagena's Historic Center, is the departure point for most Rosario Islands beach clubs and for boats to the San Bernardo Islands. It's 4 minutes on foot from the Clock Tower. Google Maps: Muelle La Bodeguita →
How to reach the pier from the main neighborhoods in Cartagena:
- From Bocagrande: 10 minutes by Uber or taxi, approximately $4–6 USD. Drop off at the Clock Tower.
- From the Historic Center (Centro): 4 minute walk from the Clock Tower. Look for the waterfront promenade.
- From Getsemaní: 8–10 minute walk through the walls, or 5 minutes by taxi.
- From Castillogrande / Manga: 12–15 minutes by car depending on traffic.
- From Zona Norte / El Laguito: 15–20 minutes by Uber.
We offer private hotel to pier transfers from any hotel in Cartagena. Ask about hotel transfer on WhatsApp →
Muelle La Bodeguita is organized into several numbered gates, and each beach club or tour operator checks guests in at a specific one. Your booking confirmation tells you which gate to look for, so you can go straight to your stand instead of asking around once you arrive. Lines form both for entry and for paying the dock access fee, so plan to arrive by 7:30 AM. Boats depart between 7:50 and 8:30 AM and will not wait for late arrivals.
Muelle Todomar, Bocagrande: Private Departures for Several Rosario Islands Clubs
Muelle Todomar, at Carrera 2 No. 15-364 in Bocagrande, is a private marina used by several Rosario Islands beach clubs, including Mangata, Cocoa Beach Club, Isla Coralina, IBBIZA, and Mantas Beach, among others. Because it's private, every guest needs to be preregistered by name for the marina to allow entry, so don't skip the ID details when you book. Open in Google Maps →
Once you arrive, each beach club has its own check in stand inside the marina. Head to the stand for your specific club to register and confirm before boarding, and don't assume any boat at the dock is yours.
Club Náutico de Cartagena, Manga: Corona Island's Departure Point
Club Náutico de Cartagena, on Calle 24 between Carrera 18B and 20 in the Manga neighborhood, is a private nautical club. Of the clubs in this guide, Corona Island, a private island in the Rosario Islands, is the one that departs from here. This is worth knowing if you've booked Corona Island and were expecting to meet at the Historic Center pier like most other Rosario Islands clubs. Open in Google Maps →
Tierra Bomba: An Informal Beach Meeting Point, Not a Pier
Tierra Bomba isn't the focus of this guide, but if your Cartagena trip includes clubs like Kabanna or Palmarito, it's worth knowing that Tierra Bomba departures work differently again. Boats for these clubs leave from a stretch of beach in Castillogrande, near Hospital de Bocagrande. There's no built dock here, you step straight from the sand into the boat. It's an everyday meeting point used by both locals who live on Tierra Bomba and visitors heading over for the day, and the crossing itself is short, around 10 minutes. Makani, Eteka, and Fénix are the exception: they leave from Muelle La Bodeguita, Gate 1, with a dock fee of about COP 18,000 in cash. Open approximate location in Google Maps →
San Bernardo Islands: Logistics for a Longer Crossing
San Bernardo boats also leave from Muelle La Bodeguita, but earlier than the Rosario Islands boats, around 6:00 AM, because the crossing takes about 2 hours each way, considerably longer than the 45–50 minutes to the Rosario Islands. Because of the distance, a San Bernardo day trip is a longer day than a Rosario Islands one, so plan for an earlier start and a later return. (See the full Rosario Islands vs San Bernardo Islands comparison further down this guide.)
Popular experiences in the San Bernardo Islands include:
- Tritonia Beach Club, Isla Tintipán
- Isla Palma: the most popular San Bernardo experience with our travelers
- Isla Múcura
What Time Do the Boats Leave? Departure and Return by Destination
Departure times vary by destination, and knowing them ahead of time makes it easier to plan your morning:
- Rosario Islands beach clubs: boats depart 7:50–8:30 AM and must be back at the dock by 3:00–4:00 PM, regulated by DIMAR (Dirección General Marítima, Colombia's maritime authority) based on sea conditions.
- San Bernardo Islands: boats leave earlier, around 6:00 AM, to cover the longer 2 hour crossing each way.
- Tierra Bomba: more flexible, with departures between about 9:00 and 11:00 AM depending on the club, and a crossing of only 10 to 20 minutes.
- Private boats and charters: usually depart around 9:00 AM, though exact timing can be arranged directly with your captain.
Whichever destination you're headed to, confirm your exact meeting time (and, at Muelle La Bodeguita, your gate number) when you book. Arriving on time and at the right spot is the easiest way to avoid a stressful start to your island day.
How to Visit Playa Blanca, Barú
Playa Blanca is on the Barú peninsula, not in the Rosario Islands, and you can reach it by boat or by road. A tour or private boat gives you a fixed ride back, which matters because return transport is hard to find there in the afternoon. Everything else about Playa Blanca is in our Playa Blanca Cartagena guide, and Barú tours are in the Barú collection.
Step 4: Pay the Pier Fee in Cash
Most clubs charge a cash fee at the pier before boarding. It covers the national park entrance and, at some piers, maritime insurance. The amount depends on your club and where it departs, and your booking confirmation states it. Bring Colombian pesos.
| Club or tour | Pier | Cash fee per person |
|---|---|---|
| Capri, Luxury Beach Club, Isla Bela, Isla del Sol, Bora Bora, Pao Pao, Top 3 Islands, Snorkeling & Oceanarium Tour | La Bodeguita | COP 31,500 park fee + COP 8,800 insurance = COP 40,300 (about $10) |
| Pa'ue, Rosario del Mar, San Pedro de Majagua, Isla del Pirata | La Bodeguita | COP 31,500 (about $8) |
| IBBIZA | Muelle Todomar | COP 31,500 (about $8) |
| Isla del Encanto (Barú) | La Bodeguita | COP 31,500; included in the Gold VIP plan |
| Mantas | Muelle Todomar | COP 28,500 (about $8) |
| Mangata | Muelle Todomar | COP 25,000 (about $7) |
| Isla Coralina | Muelle Todomar | COP 18,500 port tax + COP 5,000 medical insurance |
| Cocoa | Muelle Todomar | COP 18,000 (about $5) |
| Corona Island | Club Náutico | Included in the price |
Bring at least COP 50,000 per person in cash from a city ATM the night before. The ATM near the pier often has a long line or runs out of cash on busy mornings. Good options: Bancolombia in Bocagrande, Davivienda in Getsemaní, or any ATM in the Historic Center.
Step 5: The Boat Crossing from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands
The speedboat crossing from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands takes 45 to 50 minutes each way. Life jackets are provided and mandatory to wear during departure. The crossing is generally calm between December and April (dry season) and can be choppy between May and November when the wind picks up.
If you are prone to seasickness, take medication before the crossing, not after. The open Caribbean section between the coast and the island chain is the roughest part. Once inside the archipelago, the water calms significantly.
The view on the crossing is worth the early wake up. The water transitions from dark bay green to vivid turquoise as the national park boundary approaches. The Rosario Islands appear on the horizon 35 to 40 minutes into the crossing.
Step 6: Your Day on the Island
On arrival at the Rosario Islands beach club you will be shown to your assigned sunbed or seating area and receive your welcome drink. Most beach clubs include a 3 course Caribbean lunch between 12:00 and 1:30 PM. Snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available at most clubs during the morning.
Rosario Islands Snorkeling: What to Expect
Rosario Islands snorkeling is among the best near Cartagena. The protected reef system inside the national park means healthier coral, more marine life, and significantly better water visibility than anywhere on the coast. In dry season (December to April), underwater visibility reaches 10 to 15 meters. You can expect tropical fish, coral formations, sea fans, and occasional sea turtles depending on the spot.
The best snorkeling at the Rosario Islands is in the morning before 11 AM, when the water is clearest before boat traffic and afternoon currents stir the surface. The best beach clubs for Rosario Islands snorkeling specifically are:
- Isla del Pirata: a small coral island surrounded by a protected reef
- Mangata Ocean Club: snorkeling outside the island area included in the day pass
- Pao Pao Beach Club: reef snorkeling and mangrove kayak tour
- Snorkeling & Oceanarium Tour: about 30 minutes of guided snorkeling with gear included
Snorkeling gear is available to rent at most clubs. Bring your own mask if you have one. The fit is better and it makes a real difference in the experience. Use reef safe sunscreen only. Regular sunscreen is prohibited inside the national park and damages coral.
What to Do in the Rosario Islands Beyond the Beach
Beyond swimming and the beach, here is what to do in the Rosario Islands during your day:
- Snorkel the protected reefs: best in the morning, gear available to rent at most clubs
- Kayak through mangroves: Pao Pao includes a kayak through the mangroves; Mangata, Cocoa, Mantas and others include kayaks
- Visit the Oceanarium (Acuario San Martín de Pajarales): optional add on available from several clubs; entrance paid separately on site
- Paddleboard in calm waters: available at most beach clubs; beginner friendly inside the protected lagoon areas
- Island hopping between stops: if you book a private boat or island hopping tour, you can visit Cholon lagoon, Agua Azul, and multiple beach clubs in one day
- Photography at sunrise and morning light: the Rosario Islands are most photogenic between 8 and 10:30 AM before crowds and midday haze settle in
Photography tip: the Rosario Islands are most photogenic between 8:00 and 10:30 AM when the light is soft and the beach is uncrowded. If photos matter, make the most of the morning before lunch service.
Want a professional photographer at the island? We arrange photographers on location and drone sessions. Photoshoot from $219 →
Step 7: Return to Cartagena
Return boats from the Rosario Islands to Cartagena depart between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, regulated by the DIMAR maritime authority based on sea conditions. The crossing back takes 45 to 50 minutes and arrives at Muelle La Bodeguita in the Historic Center.
You arrive back in Cartagena between 4:00 and 5:00 PM, with enough time for a sunset dinner in the Historic Center, Getsemaní, or Bocagrande. For a sunset on the water instead, combine your Rosario Islands day with an evening sunset cruise in Cartagena Bay from $249.
Island Hopping Cartagena: Rosario Islands Multistop Tours
Island hopping from Cartagena is the best way to see multiple islands in a single day, stopping at Cholon lagoon, Agua Azul, snorkeling reefs, and a beach club for lunch without being tied to one location all day. The most popular island hopping Cartagena route covers:
- Cholon: the iconic anchored boat party lagoon inside the Rosario Islands. Most private boat tours stop here for swimming and socializing.
- Agua Azul: a calm, clear water area ideal for snorkeling and swimming without a beach club structure.
- Isla Grande: the largest island in the archipelago; home to Luxury Beach Club and several eco lodges.
- Rosario Islands snorkeling stops: reef areas between islands that are only accessible by private boat or dedicated snorkeling tours.
Island hopping works best on a private boat, since you control the itinerary, the timing, and the stops. Private boats for a full island day from $699 → · Top 3 Islands Shared Tour →
Rosario Islands vs San Bernardo Islands Colombia
The Rosario Islands Colombia and the San Bernardo Islands Colombia are part of the same protected national park system, but they are not the same destination for most travelers staying in Cartagena.
The Rosario Islands are the best choice for a day trip from Cartagena because the boat ride takes about 45 to 50 minutes and most tours return the same afternoon. The San Bernardo Islands are farther south and usually make more sense for overnight stays, slow travel, island hotels, and travelers with more time.
| Destination | Best for | From Cartagena |
|---|---|---|
| Rosario Islands | Day trips, beach clubs, snorkeling, boat tours, island hopping, private boats | 45–50 minutes by speedboat |
| San Bernardo Islands | Overnight stays, quiet island hotels, remote Caribbean escapes | About 2 hours by speedboat |
Rosario Islands Colombia Hotels: Should You Stay Overnight?
Most visitors book a Rosario Islands day trip from Cartagena, but there are also Rosario Islands Colombia hotels for travelers who want to stay overnight. Staying on the islands gives you quiet mornings, sunset views, and a slower Caribbean experience after day trip boats leave.
For a first visit, a beach club day pass is easier and more predictable. For honeymoons, anniversaries, or travelers who want to disconnect, Rosario Islands hotels and eco resorts can be worth considering. Just remember that island hotel logistics are stricter: boat schedules are limited, luggage may get wet, and nightlife is minimal compared with Cartagena.
What to Bring on Your Rosario Islands Day Trip
- COP 50,000+ cash per person: for the pier fee (up to COP 40,300) and extras at the club. Get this from a city ATM the night before, not at the pier.
- Reef safe sunscreen SPF 50+: apply before leaving your hotel. Regular sunscreen is prohibited inside the national park because it damages coral reefs. Reapply every 90 minutes.
- Towel: not always provided by beach clubs. Bring one from your hotel.
- Swimwear under your clothes: plus a light change of clothes for the return crossing.
- Your own snorkel mask: if you plan to snorkel. Rental gear works but a personal mask fits better and improves visibility significantly.
- Waterproof case for your phone: the water is worth photographing. Bring protection.
- Hat and sunglasses: the boat crossing has no shade. Essential both ways.
- Motion sickness medication: if needed, take before departure, not on the boat.
- ID or passport copy: required at the pier for the national park fee.
Is There a Ferry from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands?
No. There is no public ferry service from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands in 2026. All transportation operates through licensed speedboat operators departing from Muelle La Bodeguita, Muelle Todomar or Club Náutico, depending on the club. The boats are privately operated but publicly accessible, and your beach club day pass includes the round trip speedboat crossing. There is no independent ferry option for public use.
Can I Visit the Rosario Islands by Private Boat?
Yes. Private boat charters from Cartagena can include the Rosario Islands as a stop on a custom itinerary, visiting Cholon lagoon, Agua Azul, multiple snorkeling reefs, and a beach club for lunch if desired. This is the most flexible option: your group departs at its own time, visits multiple islands, and controls the full itinerary. Popular for groups of 6 or more, honeymoons, and birthdays.
Private catamaran charters from $549 and private speedboats from $699 for a full day.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Rosario Islands are approximately 35 km (22 miles) southwest of Cartagena, inside the Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo. The speedboat crossing from Muelle La Bodeguita takes 45 to 50 minutes each way.
45 to 50 minutes by speedboat from Muelle La Bodeguita. The crossing is direct, with no intermediate stops. Sea conditions vary by season: calmer from December to April, choppier from May to November.
Boats depart from Muelle La Bodeguita between 7:50 AM and 8:30 AM. Arrive at the pier before 7:30 AM. Return boats from the islands depart between 3:00 and 4:00 PM and arrive back in Cartagena around 4:30–5:00 PM. San Bernardo boats leave earlier, around 6:00 AM, because of the longer crossing.
No. There is no public ferry service from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands. All transportation uses licensed private speedboats departing from Muelle La Bodeguita, Muelle Todomar or Club Náutico, depending on the club. The boat crossing is included in every beach club day pass.
It is paid in cash at the pier and depends on the club: COP 40,300 for most clubs leaving La Bodeguita (park fee plus insurance), COP 31,500 for a few, and COP 18,000 to COP 31,500 from Muelle Todomar. Corona Island and the Isla del Encanto Gold VIP plan include it. The full table is in Step 4.
Shared day passes cost $82 to $377 per adult and include the round-trip boat. The lowest-priced options are Isla Bela Express ($82) and the Snorkeling & Oceanarium Tour ($89). Add the cash pier fee for your club, up to COP 40,300 per person. A private island for your group (Isla Amores) starts at $1,422. Full breakdown: Rosario Islands Day Trip Cost 2026.
The best Rosario Islands snorkeling is found at Isla del Pirata (a protected reef around the island), Mangata Ocean Club (snorkeling included), Pao Pao Beach Club (reef plus a mangrove kayak), and the Snorkeling & Oceanarium Tour (guided snorkeling with gear). The morning before 11 AM offers the clearest water. Use reef safe sunscreen only. Regular sunscreen is prohibited in the national park.
The main things to do in the Rosario Islands are: snorkel protected coral reefs, swim in turquoise national park water, kayak through mangroves, paddleboard in calm lagoons, visit the Oceanarium (Acuario San Martín de Pajarales), and relax at a beach club with Caribbean lunch included. For more movement, island hopping tours cover Cholon lagoon, Agua Azul, and multiple snorkeling stops in one day.
It depends on the day you want. Cocoa Beach Club ($130) is the one our travelers book most. Isla Bela (from $82) costs least. Capri, Luxury Beach Club and the Isla Bela Open Bar plan suit groups that want drinks included. Isla del Pirata and Pao Pao suit snorkelers. Isla del Sol and Isla del Encanto suit families. Coralina, Majagua and Corona Island are the quiet picks. Full comparison: Best Beach Clubs in the Rosario Islands.
Technically possible in low season for some clubs. Not recommended. The best clubs have limited daily capacity and sell out, especially on weekends and during December–March and July–August peak season. Book at least 7 days in advance, ideally 2–3 weeks for popular clubs during high season.
Yes, it is consistently one of the most recommended day trips in Colombia. The turquoise water inside the national park marine reserve is unlike anything accessible from Cartagena itself. The quality of the experience depends heavily on which beach club you choose and how you book. Full honest review: Is Rosario Island Worth Visiting in 2026?
December to March is peak season, with the best water clarity (10–15m visibility), calmest sea conditions, most reliable boat crossings. July–August is a second peak. The rainy season (April–May, September–October) brings occasional afternoon showers and fewer crowds. Island day trips are viable year round from Cartagena.
The Rosario Islands have the best water clarity near Cartagena (inside a protected national park) and the widest selection of beach clubs, but require a 45 minute boat crossing and a mandatory pier fee. Tierra Bomba is 15–20 minutes away with no park fee and no pier fee at most clubs: less variety but faster access. Barú is accessible by land or boat with no pier fee at most clubs, and it is the best eco luxury option. Full comparison: Tierra Bomba vs Rosario Islands vs Barú.
The Rosario Islands Colombia are located in Bolívar, about 35 km southwest of Cartagena by sea. They are part of the Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo and are one of the most popular island day trips from Cartagena.
The Rosario Islands are outside the city of Cartagena, but they are reached from Cartagena by boat. Many travelers search for Rosario Islands Cartagena because Cartagena is the main departure point for Rosario Islands tours, beach clubs, and private boat charters.
The best way to travel from Cartagena to Rosario Islands is by speedboat from Muelle La Bodeguita, Muelle Todomar or Club Náutico, depending on your club. For most travelers, the easiest option is a beach club day pass because the round trip boat transportation, lunch, and island access are organized together.
Travelers use both phrases, but Rosario Islands Colombia is more accurate because it refers to the archipelago. Rosario Island Colombia or Rosario Island Cartagena usually refers generally to the same island destination near Cartagena.
Yes. A private boat tour to the Rosario Islands is one of the most flexible ways to visit, stopping at Cholon lagoon, Agua Azul, multiple snorkeling reefs, and a beach club for lunch. You can leave Cartagena on your own schedule and control the full day's itinerary. Browse private boats →
Continue Reading
- Rosario Islands Day Trip from Cartagena: Complete 2026 Guide
- Rosario Islands Boat Tour and Private Boat Rentals from Cartagena
- Best Beach Clubs in the Rosario Islands: Full 2026 Ranking
- Rosario Islands Day Trip Cost: 2026 Pricing Guide
- Tierra Bomba vs Rosario Islands vs Barú: Which to Choose?
- Is Rosario Island Worth Visiting in 2026? Honest Review
- Playa Blanca Cartagena: Complete Guide
- Tierra Bomba Beach Clubs: Best Day Passes from Cartagena 2026
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- Bora Bora Beach Club: from $139, adults only, DJ all day
- Capri Beach Club: from $142, three open bar plans
- Pa'ue Beach Lounge: $145, family zone and party zone in one pass
- San Pedro de Majagua: from $130, eco-hotel with lobster and seafood lunch plans
- Mangata Ocean Club: from $126, snorkeling, kayaks and bikes included
- Cocoa Beach Club: $130, the day pass our travelers book most
- All Rosario Islands Beach Clubs and Day Trips
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