Cartagena’s heat? Swap it for open water. This Rosario Islands catamaran excursion turns a long day into a simple mix of sailing, two anchored swim stops, and included lunch, with snorkeling gear ready when you are.

I especially like two parts: the boat itself feels made for a full day out, with space to sit in shade and stretch out on the nets, and the food is handled for you with lunch included (plus soft drinks so you are not tracking down beverages all day).

One thing to keep in mind: snorkeling can be hit-or-miss. Depending on conditions at each anchor point, coral and fish life may be limited, and the water can be choppy or cloudy.

Key things to know before you go

• A big catamaran ride beats the bounce you get on smaller boats during rougher stretches.
• Lunch is built in (seafood rice, chicken rice, or rice with vegetables).
• Snorkeling gear is included, but fins are not part of the package.
• Two planned stops keep the day from dragging—though the captain can shift timing for weather.
• Not a party boat vibe: music is there, but it stays family-friendly.
• External water activities aren’t managed by the crew, so skip jewelry and avoid outside “help.”

How the Bona Vida catamaran day runs from Cartagena

You start at Muelle de la Bodeguita (Puerta 1), Centro, Cartagena, with a 8:30am departure. The total time is about 7 hours 30 minutes, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point. There’s no hotel pick-up, so plan to arrive on your own using public transportation nearby.

This trip is capped at a maximum of 100 travelers, so it can feel social without turning into a cattle-call. The day also has a “real sea” rhythm. You’ll spend plenty of time on board sailing, then jump in when you reach the anchor points.

The schedule isn’t rigid. The captain can adjust stops and timing due to weather, which matters because the Rosario area can get wind and chop. If you’re even slightly prone to seasickness, a catamaran is a smart choice because it generally rides more smoothly than speedboats.

Isla Grande and the Luis Guerra reef stop: your first swim window

Your first stop is Isla Grande, anchored in front of the Luis Guerra reef. This anchorage is set for about 2 hours, but expect the captain to adapt if conditions change. That’s part of the deal with island hopping at sea—your goal is time in the water, not checking boxes.

Here’s the practical expectation: snorkeling here may not be the kind that makes you forget every beach you’ve ever seen. Many snorkelers find the coral and fish life limited at this stop, especially if the water isn’t clear or the reef isn’t in great shape. If your main goal is wildlife watching through clear, colorful coral, you might leave a little underwhelmed.

That said, the water time is the point. Even when the underwater “wow” is modest, you still get a refreshing break from Cartagena heat. The catamaran layout helps: once you’re done swimming, you can get back into shade fast and reset with drinks and snacks while the boat sails onward.

Barú near Punta Gigante: lunch happens on anchor, then you swim again

Next up is Barú, anchored in front of Punta Gigante. This stop is also about 2 hours, and again, the captain can tweak timing for meteorological reasons. After the sailing time, you’ll have a second chance to cool off.

This is also where lunch lands. Lunch is included in the price, served while the group is settled at anchor. Your options are seafood rice, rice with vegetables, or rice with chicken. It’s the kind of included lunch that feels like it was planned for a boat day—filling, practical, and easy to serve to lots of people at once.

For snorkeling, this second stop can vary more. Some people find the snorkeling only okay, while others enjoy swimming around and spotting fish. Visibility might be cloudier at times, so don’t plan your day around expecting crystal-clear underwater photos.

Also note that conditions can feel different from stop to stop. One snorkeling stop can have calmer water, while another anchorage might have more current or a less “comfortable” swim. If you’re new to snorkeling, treat this stop as your practice round—swim, breathe, adjust your fins if you brought them, then call it a win.

The catamaran ride itself: space, nets, music, and not-too-crowded comfort

If you’ve ever done island trips on small boats, the catamaran size is a real upgrade. On this one, the overall feeling is comfortable and spacious, with lots of room to move around and enough seating under shade. You’re not stuck staring at the sea from a cramped platform.

One detail I like is the way people use the boat during downtime. There are nets people spread out on, which turns the sail into a relaxed hang rather than a constant “are we there yet?” moment. The boat also has clean restrooms, which sounds minor until you’re on the water for hours.

Music is part of the atmosphere. It’s not silent sailing, but it also doesn’t turn into a loud, rowdy scene. The vibe is closer to a friendly cruise than a party boat. That matters if you want views, photos, and conversation without chaos.

One more practical note: on the return trip, seas can get choppier depending on the day. If that’s when you start to feel off-balance, you’ll be glad you’re on a stable platform. Some people also point out that the day can include a lot of time sitting on the boat—if you hate downtime, bring something to pass the hours mentally (music, a book, or just enjoy the sea air).

Food and drinks: what’s included, what’s not, and how to plan

Lunch is included, and so are non-alcoholic drinks. The tour includes soda/pop—and the day often starts with extra refreshment like watermelon juice plus simple snacks early on. This is one of those “small but helpful” inclusions that makes the morning feel less rushed.

You’ll have your choice of lunch style: seafood rice, rice with vegetables, or chicken rice. People describe it as plentiful, which is exactly what you want on a boat day when you’ll be swimming and baking in the sun.

What’s not included is important: alcoholic beverages aren’t part of the package. Some passengers felt the crew’s attitude could change when they weren’t ordering alcohol, which is a bummer on a day that’s supposed to feel relaxed. I’d still plan to enjoy what is included and treat alcohol as optional add-on, not the core experience.

Coffee and tea also aren’t listed as included. If you’re someone who needs a hot drink to function, plan on skipping it here or buying outside the tour.

Snorkeling gear reality: what you get (and where it may fall short)

Snorkeling gear is included, but it’s not a full rental kit in every sense. You should expect snorkel, mask, and life vests. Reviews also point out that fins aren’t provided, so if you like snorkeling, consider bringing your own fins if you’re able. Without fins, swimming can feel more work, especially in current.

Mask quality may vary. Some people noted that a few masks were not in perfect shape. If you’re sensitive to fit, do a quick check when you get your gear, and ask for help adjusting it before you get in the water.

Life vests are available, and there are also items like foam noodles for anyone who wants extra floatation. That’s a nice safety layer for casual swimmers who want the water fun without feeling “locked into” snorkeling technique.

One more gear rule to know: you may be asked to leave an ID as a guarantee for the snorkeling equipment. Don’t lose time worrying—just follow the staff instructions and get it back when you return.

And one safety tip that’s worth repeating: avoid wearing jewelry. An incident was described where external water services (not run by the tour crew) caused damage when someone tried to board a different activity. Whether you snorkel or not, leave the valuables on land. If it’s on you, you’re the one taking the risk.

Stops, timing, and how to get the most water time

This is a simple itinerary by design: two anchor stops, with a boat ride in between each. That simplicity is good. It means your day is not a hectic shuttle across multiple beaches.

But it also means there’s downtime. You’ll likely spend time sailing with breaks in between snorkeling. If you get restless, plan for it. If you’re the type who enjoys sea air and just being on the water, this schedule fits well.

Here’s how I’d optimize the day:

• At each stop, go in with the mindset that snorkeling quality can vary. Swim, see what you see, and then switch to easy swimming if the reef isn’t lighting up.
• Use the between-stop sailing time to recharge. The catamaran setup makes shade and resting easy.
• In choppier conditions, keep your eyes on the horizon when you’re moving around the deck. It helps.

Also remember the captain can modify schedule due to weather. That’s not failure—it’s the only smart way to run sea trips. If the sea is rough, you’re probably safer staying on a stable catamaran and doing the best water time you can get.

Who this Rosario Islands trip suits best

This tour is a strong match for people who want a scenic, peaceful, family-friendly day on the water. It’s also a good fit for couples who want a break from Cartagena’s heat without committing to a full multi-day island stay.

It’s less ideal if snorkeling is your only reason for booking. Even with gear included, the reef conditions can mean you won’t see a ton of coral or fish life. The swimming can still be excellent, but think of this as a boat-and-water day first, snorkeling day second.

I also think it works well for families because the time is structured but not complicated: lunch is handled, swimming is built around two stops, and there are flotation options.

If you want a party scene with crowded beaches and constant action, this one likely isn’t your style. The vibe stays chill even with music.

Should you book Bona Vida’s Rosario Islands excursion?

Yes—if your goal is a comfortable catamaran day out with included lunch and time in the Caribbean water. For $106 per person, you get a full day that includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, soda/pop, and all fees and taxes. That can be good value when you compare it to piecing together tickets, boat time, and gear separately.

Book it with the right expectations: snorkeling quality can be limited depending on the exact reef conditions and water clarity. Still, you’ll likely leave happy if you care more about sailing, swimming off the boat, and relaxing on a spacious vessel.

I’d skip or rethink if you’re chasing world-class snorkeling. In that case, you might be happier hunting a different kind of marine experience where the reefs are consistently healthy and visibility is reliably strong. Also skip jewelry, and treat any outside “water services” as your responsibility, not something the crew controls.

FAQ

What does the Rosario Islands excursion include?

You get use of the snorkeling equipment, lunch (seafood rice, rice with vegetables, or rice with chicken), all fees and taxes, and soda/pop non-alcoholic beverages.

Is alcohol included on the boat?

No. Alcoholic beverages are not included.

How long is the tour?

It runs about 7 hours 30 minutes.

Where is the meeting point and what time does it start?

Meet at Muelle de la Bodeguita – Puerta 1 Centro, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia at 8:30am. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Do I need pick-up from my hotel?

No. Pick-up service is not included.

How many people can be on this excursion?

There’s a maximum of 100 travelers.

What if weather is bad or I need to cancel?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time.