Cruise from Santa Marta to two of Tayrona’s finest beaches—Playa Cristal and the protected Bahía de Cinto—where clear water, coral gardens and white sand invite easy snorkeling and relaxed exploration. This full-day maritime outing balances scenic boat passages with time on protected reefs.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips away from Santa Marta as the city recedes into a spit of roofs and the Caribbean opens, bright and impatient. Salted air pushes against your face, and palms on the shoreline lean toward the water as if eager to watch the day unfold. Within an hour you reach Playa Cristal — water so clear it dares you to look deeper — then a short hop to the protected cove of Bahía de Cinto, where sand is soft and human voices soften into the hush of reef life.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to board small boats, swim/snorkel short distances and handle uneven sand and rocky entries.
Wildlife
History
Tayrona Park is on land historically used by indigenous groups; modern conservation reflects those cultural ties and respect for natural areas.
Conservation
Operators emphasize reef-safe practices and limited beach impact; avoid touching coral and use reef-friendly sunscreen to protect delicate systems.
Reserve your spot on the Maritime Adventure Bahia de Cinto and Playa Cristal, Tayrona Park today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Tayrona requires protection for corals; use biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life and reduce skin irritation in strong sun.
Wear water shoes
Both beaches have rocky entries and coral fragments—light, closed water shoes protect feet while snorkeling and walking.
Hydrate and pack snacks
Though lunch is included, bring a refillable water bottle and small snacks for before and after snorkeling to sustain energy.
Prepare for motion
Open-water crossings can be choppy; if you get seasick, take preventative medication before embarkation.
Snorkel mask and fins
A well-fitting mask helps you see reef life clearly and fins make short swims less tiring.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects both your skin and the marine ecosystem from harmful chemicals.
summer
Light dry bag
Keeps phone, ID and small valuables dry during boat transfers and beach time.
Water shoes
Protects feet from coral, shells and rocky approaches at the beach.