The Rosario Islands are a protected archipelago of 27 coral islands located 45 minutes by boat from Cartagena de Indias. Crystal-clear turquoise water, white sand beaches, world-class snorkeling, and eco-luxury hotels make the Rosario Islands the most popular day trip from Cartagena and one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets. This guide covers everything: how to get there, what to do, where to stay, and how much it costs.
Visit the Rosario Islands by private yacht
Your own boat, your own route, your own crew. Full-day charters from $1,499.
The Islas del Rosario sit approximately 35 kilometers southwest of Cartagena in the Caribbean Sea, within the Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo National Natural Park. The archipelago consists of 27 islands ranging from tiny uninhabited cays to larger islands with hotels, beach clubs, and marine research stations. The islands are part of Bolivar Department and are administered as a protected marine area by Colombia’s national parks authority.
The closest island, Isla Grande, is the largest and most developed, with several eco-hotels and day-trip beach clubs. Other popular stops include Isla Baru (technically a peninsula but grouped with the Rosario Islands for tourism), Isla del Pirata, Isla del Encanto, and the Oceanario (a small marine aquarium popular with families).
A private boat from Colombia Luxury Group is the most comfortable, flexible, and exclusive way to visit the Rosario Islands. Your captain navigates directly to the best snorkeling spots, uncrowded beaches, and hidden coves that public ferries skip entirely. You set the schedule, choose your stops, and travel with your own group.
Private speedboats reach the Rosario Islands in 35-45 minutes. Catamarans and larger yachts take 60-75 minutes but offer a much smoother, more spacious ride. Full-day charters (8 hours) include captain, crew, fuel, ice, sound system, and snorkeling gear. Prices start at $1,499 for a speedboat (8-15 guests), $2,499 for a yacht (15-25 guests), and $2,999 for a catamaran (20-40 guests).
Shared lanchas (speedboats) depart from the Muelle de la Bodeguita in Cartagena starting at 8:00 AM. Round-trip tickets cost approximately $25-$40 USD per person. The ride takes 45-60 minutes. Ferries typically stop at Isla Grande or Playa Blanca on Baru. The experience is crowded (30-40 passengers per boat), has fixed schedules, and offers no flexibility on stops. You’ll wait at a designated beach club until the return ferry at 3:00-4:00 PM.
The public ferry costs $25-$40 per person but limits you to one beach with fixed timing. A private speedboat for 10 guests costs approximately $150 per person and gives you a full day with multiple stops, privacy, your own music, and the freedom to explore where the crowds aren’t. For groups of 4 or more, private charter delivers dramatically better value per dollar spent.
The Rosario Islands sit within a protected coral reef system, making them one of the best snorkeling destinations in the Colombian Caribbean. The clearest water and healthiest reefs are found around the smaller, less-visited islands south of Isla Grande. Your yacht captain knows exactly where to anchor for the best visibility — typically 15-25 feet on a calm day. Bring your own gear or use the equipment included with every Colombia Luxury Group charter.
With 27 islands, you’re not limited to one beach. Private boat guests can visit multiple islands in a single day: start at a secluded beach on Isla Grande, move to Playa Blanca on Baru for lunch, and finish at a quiet cove for sunset. Public ferry passengers are stuck at whichever beach their operator chooses.
Cholon is a shallow bay on Isla Baru where dozens of boats anchor for a massive floating party every weekend. Music blasting from every yacht, vendors paddling between boats selling fruit and drinks, and a festive atmosphere that’s become legendary among Cartagena visitors. It’s the Caribbean equivalent of a pool party — on the ocean. Bachelor and bachelorette parties often make Cholon their main stop.
A small marine aquarium on Isla de San Martin de Pajarales featuring dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and a touch pool. Popular with families traveling with children. Entrance fee is approximately $10-$15 USD. Accessible by both public ferry and private boat.
The calm, protected waters between the islands are perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Many beach clubs rent equipment, and some yacht charters include paddleboards. Early morning, before the tour boats arrive, offers the most peaceful paddling conditions.
The dry season from December through April offers the calmest seas, clearest water, and most reliable sunshine. January and February are peak months with the best snorkeling visibility. Water temperatures stay between 80-84°F year-round. The rainy season (May-November) brings short afternoon showers but also fewer crowds and lower prices. Seas can be rougher in October-November, making catamaran charters preferable for their stability.
Budget (public ferry): $40-$80 per person — round-trip ferry, beach club entry, basic lunch.
Mid-range (private speedboat): $100-$200 per person — private boat for your group, multiple island stops, drinks included, flexible schedule. Based on group of 8-15.
Premium (luxury yacht): $150-$250 per person — luxury yacht or catamaran, private chef, open bar, snorkeling gear, professional crew. Based on group of 15-30.
Ultra-luxury: $250-$400 per person — mega yacht, full VIP package with chef, DJ, photographer, drone videography, premium spirits. The ultimate island experience.
Private island day from $150/person
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Most visitors do a day trip from Cartagena, but overnight options exist for those wanting a full island escape:
Hotel San Pedro de Majagua — Boutique eco-hotel on Isla Grande. Thatched-roof bungalows, private beach, excellent restaurant. The most established overnight option. Rates from $200-$400 per night including meals.
Isla del Encanto — Eco-resort with overwater bungalows and all-inclusive packages. More rustic but stunning location. Day passes available for boat visitors.
Private island rentals — Several small islands can be rented exclusively for groups. Check our private island rental page for options.
The Rosario Islands are extremely safe for tourists. The archipelago is a regulated national park with ranger stations and designated tourism zones. Private boat travel is the safest option — you’re with a licensed captain and professional crew at all times. The main safety consideration is sun exposure: bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Read our full Cartagena safety guide for more information.
How far are the Rosario Islands from Cartagena?
Approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) southwest. By private speedboat: 35-45 minutes. By catamaran or yacht: 60-75 minutes. By public ferry: 45-60 minutes.
Can you stay overnight on the Rosario Islands?
Yes. Hotel San Pedro de Majagua on Isla Grande and Isla del Encanto both offer overnight accommodations. Private island rentals are also available for groups.
Is snorkeling good at the Rosario Islands?
Yes. The islands are within a protected coral reef national park. The best visibility is from December to April. Your yacht captain can navigate to the clearest, least-crowded snorkeling spots.
What should I bring to the Rosario Islands?
Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, swimsuit, towel, cash for beach club vendors, and a waterproof phone case. Private yacht charters include ice, drinks, snorkeling gear, and sound systems.
Are the Rosario Islands worth visiting?
Absolutely. They’re the highlight of most Cartagena trips. Crystal-clear Caribbean water, white sand beaches, excellent snorkeling, and the option to visit by private yacht makes it one of the best day trips in the Americas.
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