Fast boats, big blue. This Cartagena private day trades slow ferries for a luxurious 41′ AWA speedboat and a flexible itinerary in Islas del Rosario and Barú. I especially like the onboard comfort—space to lounge, shade up front, and a real onboard setup—and the fact that the crew isn’t just driving; they’re helping shape where you swim, snorkel, and spend your beach time.

The only catch is budgeting: the COP16,000 Pegasus Pier tax isn’t included, and you’ll plan for lunch and alcohol on your own. One more thing to keep in mind: if you’re sensitive to schedule changes, confirm your timing in advance so the day stays exactly how you want it.

Key things that make this boat day worth your time

• 41-foot Bravo 410 comfort on a fast hull: big-deck feel, premium seating, and room for groups up to 20 on the water
• Real onboard convenience: a full bathroom, freshwater shower, bath in the bow, and reclining spots to chill
• Swim-and-snorkel focus with custom stops: the itinerary can include deserted beaches, crystal-clear water time, and more
• Audio and shade for long sun hours: Bluetooth music through full JL audio plus double sunshade in the bow
• Captain Pibe and a helpful crew: smooth ride and hands-on support, including strong communication via WhatsApp in practice

A luxurious 41′ Bravo AWA private boat feels like the Cartagena shortcut

If you’re looking for a day that feels more like a private retreat than a “tour boat” day, this 41-foot Bravo 410 setup is built for that mood. You’ll be on a 13-meter AWA speedboat with Yamaha power (2x 350), so you’re moving efficiently across the water while still settling in comfortably for the hours you’re at sea.

What really makes it feel luxurious is the combination of space + comfort + practical features. There’s a spacious bathroom onboard, plus a freshwater shower and a bathing ladder in the bow area. That matters more than it sounds. You’re going from saltwater and sand back into a relaxed, cleaner-feeling boat routine, without having to improvise. Even the double sunshade up front and the reclining deck chairs are there for the long, sunny hours most people come to the Rosary Islands for.

And you get that full “private day” effect: it’s not a shared group with strangers. Your group is the only group on the boat, which is a big deal if you’re traveling with family, celebrating something, or just trying to keep your day moving without waiting for other schedules.

Choosing the right 8-hour schedule: 8-4, 9-5, or 10-6

This is an 8-hour private plan with a few time windows. The timing choices aren’t random—they’re meant to match sea conditions and the kind of day you want.

Here’s how the options work:

• 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., with a return at 3:00 p.m.

Best for older people when the swell conditions matter.

• 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., classic timing, returning at 4:00 p.m.

A safe bet if you want the straightforward rhythm.

• 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., return at 5:00 p.m.

This lines up well if you’re aiming for the Bora Bora VIP beach club vibe, where the DJ runs from 3:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

One helpful detail: the last time you return from the islands is 5:00 p.m. After that, you spend the remaining time in Cartagena Bay. That tends to make the day feel less like “back on the boat and done,” and more like you still get a final stretch of water time right near the city.

If you’re choosing between them, think about two things: how much you care about sea comfort (the earlier start can help) and whether you want a beach club-style finish.

Islas del Rosario and Barú: how your day can unfold

The tour is set up around Cartagena’s famous nearby water—Islas del Rosario and Barú—with a flexible schedule that can include the stops you actually want. Instead of forcing one rigid route, the plan is designed for customization using recommended and unpublished locations.

Here are the kinds of experiences this boat day can include:

• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear water
• Relax on deserted beach islands where the quiet is the point
• Eat local seafood (this is part of the recommended options, but lunch itself is not included in the price)
• Coconut cocktails at beautiful hotels with pools and private beaches
• Beach club energy if your group wants that party atmosphere

Two practical notes about that flexibility:

1. If you’re traveling with a mixed group (some want snorkeling, others just want sand time), a custom plan is where this tour earns its keep. You can avoid the “one-size-fits-all” problem.
2. If you want a very specific style of day—quiet and swimmable vs. high-energy beach club—start by communicating your vibe early so the crew can steer your day in that direction.

Also, remember what’s included onboard: you’ll have ice, bottled water, floats, and a crew focused on keeping everyone comfortable in the water and back on the boat.

Onboard comfort details you’ll actually feel in the sun

This isn’t just a fast boat; it’s a comfortable one. The Bravo 410 model comes with premium design choices that make a big difference once you’re out there for hours.

Here are the onboard features that stand up to real day-use:

• Premium seating designed for comfort during the ride
• Two seating areas, so your group can spread out without feeling packed
• Double sunshade in the bow for people who want shade without leaving the action
• Bath in the bow plus a bathing ladder, which makes water time feel easier
• Freshwater shower to rinse off after swimming or snorkeling
• Full JL audio with Bluetooth, so you can play your own music (at normal volume) instead of relying on silence or a random playlist
• Floats onboard, which helps for non-swimmers and for casual floating

And yes, the boat includes a refrigerator setup with ice (about 20 kg of ice) plus bottled water. That’s the kind of detail that makes the day feel effortless—cold drinks ready without you asking for anything.

Crew care and communication: what makes this operator different

The crew is part of the experience here. You’re paying for a private day, but you still need the day to run smoothly—clear communication, good pacing, and help when plans shift.

One standout theme from real-life experiences is how well communication works when it’s done through WhatsApp. The setup often includes messages before, during, and after the trip, and that can be a lifesaver if there’s a language gap at the dock.

Captain Pibe comes up specifically, and the feedback around him centers on the ride itself—smooth, confident boating in good rhythm with the day’s activities.

There’s also a service-minded attitude from the owners. In one situation where a translation mix-up caused stress, the outcome was handled with care and an apology gesture. That tells you something important: if there’s confusion, they try to fix it rather than shrug it off.

Practical tip for you: when you book, confirm the exact meeting and timing window in writing. If your contacts use WhatsApp, keep the thread handy on your phone so you can respond quickly.

Price and value: $1,300 per group for up to 15

The price is $1,300 per group (up to 15 people), and you’ll be on a boat that can carry up to 20 at capacity. Since it’s private, the value depends on how well your group size matches the “spread the cost” sweet spot.

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• If you’re close to 15 people, the per-person cost comes down a lot.
• If you’re a smaller group, the trip still makes sense if you care more about privacy and comfort than about squeezing the budget.

What you get for the $1,300 isn’t just a boat. The price includes captain and helper, gasoline, water bottles, a cooler with 20 kg of ice, floats, and lifeguard. For many people, that’s the real value: you don’t have to coordinate those pieces yourself, and you get a comfortable day with safety support.

Don’t forget the add-ons:

• Pegasus Pier tax is not included (COP16,000 per person), and it’s negotiated at boarding.
• Lunch isn’t included.
• Alcoholic beverages aren’t included (water is included).

So your total day cost comes out based on group size plus pier tax, then whatever you choose for food and drinks.

What to budget for at the dock and on the beach

You should plan for a few extra items:

• Pegasus Pier tax: COP16,000 per person, discussed at boarding
• Lunch: not included
• Alcohol: not included

That doesn’t mean the day is “bare-bones.” It means you get control. You can eat seafood where it fits your style, and you don’t feel locked into a one-note lunch option.

Bring common sense basics: cash for the pier tax is a good idea, plus whatever you like for lunch and drinks. If you know your group wants alcohol, decide early so you don’t lose time later trying to solve it mid-day.

Who should book this private speedboat day

This tour fits best when you want a private day with a mix of water time and comfort.

It’s a strong match for:

• Families who want space, shade, and an easier water setup
• Groups celebrating (birthday energy, honeymoon mood, or just friends who want a real day together)
• People who don’t want a slow, crowded boat experience
• Anyone who values comfort details like the onboard shower and bathroom

If you’re planning a relaxed day with swimming and snorkeling, the flexibility around deserted islands helps. If your group is more social and wants beach club energy, the later schedule option connects well to that afternoon DJ window.

Small planning tips that make the day smoother

You’ll have floats and a freshwater shower onboard, which helps, but you’ll still want to pack like you’re going to be outside all day.

Think about:

• Swimwear and a plan for wet-to-dry comfort
• Sunscreen and a hat, especially for bow seating in the sunshade and when you’re on deck
• A light layer for the boat ride if you get chilly in wind
• Phone power and a way to stay in touch if the crew uses WhatsApp for updates
• Cash for the pier tax at boarding

Also, if your group includes older people or anyone who gets uncomfortable in swell, choose the schedule that’s explicitly recommended as smoother for them.

Should you book this Cartagena AWA boat day?

Book it if you want a private experience that mixes fast water time with real comfort, and you like the idea of a crew helping shape your best version of the Rosario and Barú day. The boat features—bathroom, freshwater shower, shade, and Bluetooth sound—aren’t just fancy extras. They make the day feel easier to enjoy.

Skip it or rethink your timing if your budget is tight once you add pier tax and you don’t want to handle lunch and drinks separately. Also, if your group thrives on very rigid plans, the flexibility could feel less “scheduled” than you’re used to—but that’s mostly a style preference, not a flaw.

FAQ

What is the price for the Cartagena private speedboat day?

It costs $1,300 per group, up to 15 people, for an approximately 8-hour private tour.

How long is the tour?

The plan lasts about 8 hours.

What are the available departure/return time options?

You can choose: 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (return at 3:00 p.m.), 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (return at 4:00 p.m.), or 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (return at 5:00 p.m.). The last return from the islands is 5:00 p.m., with remaining time spent in Cartagena Bay.

What locations does the tour focus on?

The experience is centered on Islas del Rosario and Barú, with stops chosen based on your preferences.

What is included in the price?

Included are gasoline, captain, helper, water bottles, cooler with ice (20 kg), floats, and lifeguard.

What is not included?

Lunch is not included, and alcoholic beverages are not included. There is also an extra Pegasus Pier tax that is negotiated at boarding.

How much is the Pegasus Pier tax?

The tax is COP16,000 per person.

How many people can the 41′ AWA boat accommodate?

The boat can accommodate up to 20 people.

Is the tour private?

Yes. It’s private, and only your group participates.

Is there a cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid is not refunded.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed.