Set sail from Cartagena for a full-day catamaran trip to the Rosario Islands. Snorkel coral reefs, enjoy a beachside lunch, and return the same day—perfect for travelers seeking a low-effort but high-reward marine escape.
Set sail from Cartagena for a full-day catamaran trip to the Rosario Islands. Snorkel coral reefs, enjoy a beachside lunch, and return the same day—perfect for travelers seeking a low-effort but high-reward marine escape.
The catamaran cuts away from Cartagena's stone walls as the city recedes and the Caribbean widens—salt air, the thrum of the motor, and a horizon freckled with low coral islands. By mid-morning you’ll be moored over shallow reef, fins wobbling as you slide into crystalline water that dares you to look deeper: schools of parrotfish, patterned corals and the slow glide of an occasional hawksbill turtle.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Bona Vida Catamaranes · Cartagena, Bolívar
The catamaran cuts away from Cartagena's stone walls as the city recedes and the Caribbean widens—salt air, the thrum of the motor, and a horizon freckled with low coral islands. By mid-morning you’ll be moored over shallow reef, fins wobbling as you slide into crystalline water that dares you to look deeper: schools of parrotfish, patterned corals and the slow glide of an occasional hawksbill turtle.
The Rosario Islands are part of the Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, a coral-reef archipelago shaped by Caribbean currents and decades of reef growth. The islands have long supported artisanal fishing and small tourist settlements; lunch served on deck highlights that coastal culture with seafood rice, or rice and chicken for landward tastes. Geologically the reefs are fragile, built up from calcium carbonate over centuries and sensitive to temperature and human pressure.
Practical edge: boarding begins at 08:00 from La Bodeguita pier; sailing departs around 08:30. The full excursion runs roughly 7–8 hours, with two snorkel stops—first at the Luis Guerra reef by Isla Grande and a second anchorage near Punta Gigante where lunch is served. Snorkel gear is provided; basic swimming ability is recommended. Weather and sea conditions can alter the sequence; captains may change stops for safety.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light long-sleeve rash guard, ID/passport, and a dry bag for electronics. Respect the reef—no touching or standing on corals—and consider timing your trip in the island’s drier months for calmer seas.
easy.
7–8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable swimming short distances and climbing a ladder on and off a boat.
Yes—masks, snorkels and fins are included in the tour price; you can bring your own if you prefer.
Boarding begins at 08:00 and the catamaran leaves around 08:30; the excursion is about 7–8 hours total.
Lunch and non-alcoholic beverages are included; common options are seafood rice, rice with vegetables, or rice with chicken.
The tour is family-friendly and marked suitable for all fitness levels, but basic swimming ability is recommended for snorkeling; life jackets are typically available.
The Rosario archipelago lies offshore from Cartagena and is part of a protected national park created to conserve coral reef systems; the islands have long been connected to Cartagena’s maritime trade and fishing culture.
Reefs here are vulnerable to bleaching and anchor damage—use reef-safe products, avoid touching corals, and follow guides’ instructions to reduce impact.
Bona Vida Catamaranes operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The catamaran cuts away from Cartagena's stone walls as the city recedes and the Caribbean widens—salt air, the thrum of the motor, and a horizon freckled with low coral islands. By mid-morning you’ll be moored over shallow reef, fins wobbling as you slide into crystalline water that dares you to look deeper: schools of parrotfish, patterned corals and the slow glide of an occasional hawksbill turtle.
The catamaran cuts away from Cartagena's stone walls as the city recedes and the Caribbean widens—salt air, the thrum of the motor, and a horizon freckled with low coral islands. By mid-morning you’ll be moored over shallow reef, fins wobbling as you slide into crystalline water that dares you to look deeper: schools of parrotfish, patterned corals and the slow glide of an occasional hawksbill turtle.
The Rosario Islands are part of the Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, a coral-reef archipelago shaped by Caribbean currents and decades of reef growth. The islands have long supported artisanal fishing and small tourist settlements; lunch served on deck highlights that coastal culture with seafood rice, or rice and chicken for landward tastes. Geologically the reefs are fragile, built up from calcium carbonate over centuries and sensitive to temperature and human pressure.
Practical edge: boarding begins at 08:00 from La Bodeguita pier; sailing departs around 08:30. The full excursion runs roughly 7–8 hours, with two snorkel stops—first at the Luis Guerra reef by Isla Grande and a second anchorage near Punta Gigante where lunch is served. Snorkel gear is provided; basic swimming ability is recommended. Weather and sea conditions can alter the sequence; captains may change stops for safety.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light long-sleeve rash guard, ID/passport, and a dry bag for electronics. Respect the reef—no touching or standing on corals—and consider timing your trip in the island’s drier months for calmer seas.