The crystal-clear waters around Cartagena serve up some of Colombia’s best snorkeling spots.
My favorite excursion heads to the pristine Cholon area, where private tours combine underwater exploration with a mouth-watering local lunch.
Budget travelers should check out the Tabarca Island trip from Santa Pola – it’s well organized and economical.
For a complete experience, I recommend Playa Blanca’s day tour, which smartly mixes snorkeling with an informative mangrove walk.
The 5 Islands Premium experience and Rosario Islands tours are worth splurging on, especially for a chance to see the magical bioluminescent plankton at night.
Let’s explore the standout tours that make Cartagena’s underwater world so special.
Key Points
- The private boat tour in Cartagena, with a visit to a private island reserve, provides an immersive snorkeling experience, according to 5.0 rated reviews.
- The snorkeling excursion to Tabarca Island, off the coast of Cartagena, Spain, offers personalized exploration with an average rating of 4.5 from 17 reviews.
- The Playa Blanca Daytour Experience in Cartagena includes snorkeling, but reviews indicate insufficient snorkeling equipment and suitability concerns.
- The 5 Islands Premium Tour in Cartagena offers one hour of snorkeling, with concerns about miscommunication and snorkeling experience limitations.
- The full-day Rosario Islands Excursion in Cartagena provides an immersive snorkeling experience, including the opportunity to witness bioluminescent plankton.
Private Boat + Private Island + Cholon + Snorkeling + Hotel Pick up
This private boat tour offers an immersive experience in the stunning waters around Cartagena, Colombia. Clients are picked up from their hotel and taken on a private journey to the Cholon region, including a visit to a private island reserve.
The tour includes snorkeling equipment and a delicious lunch. With 16 reviews and a 5.0 rating, this tour provides excellent value, with all fees, taxes, and tips included in the $850 per group price.
While there have been some concerns about additional costs at beach clubs, the overall feedback highlights the fantastic snorkeling experience, clean boat, and professional crew.
This tour is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable day in the Cartagena region.
Read our full review: Private Boat + Private Island + Cholon + Snorkeling + Hotel Pick up Review
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Snorkeling Excursion in Tabarca Island
Departing from Santa Pola, this snorkeling excursion transports participants to the captivating Tabarca Island, situated off the coast of Cartagena, Spain.
With an average rating of 4.5 from 17 reviews, this tour offers a memorable underwater experience. For $52.64, guests can enjoy the use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and even souvenir photos, subject to camera availability.
The tour meets at the Centro de Buceo Padi Scuba Elx Santa Pola and concludes back at the same location. Accommodating up to 10 travelers, this snorkeling adventure allows for an intimate and personalized exploration of Tabarca’s vibrant marine life and stunning coastal landscapes.
Read our full review: Snorkeling Excursion in Tabarca Island Review
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Playa Blanca: Daytour With Snorkeling and Racoon Sighting
A popular daytour option for visitors to Cartagena is the Playa Blanca: Daytour With Snorkeling and Raccoon Sighting. Priced from $43 per person, the 7-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, a scenic bus ride, snorkeling, and a mangrove walk to spot raccoons.
The tour offers a typical local lunch and photo/video recording. However, reviews indicate it may be too touristy, with insufficient snorkeling equipment and constant vendors.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, young children, or individuals over 309 lbs. The tour provides an opportunity to experience Playa Blanca’s natural beauty, though the experience may be hindered by crowds and logistical challenges.
Read our full review: Playa Blanca: Daytour With Snorkeling and Racoon Sighting Review
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Cartagena: 5 Islands Premium Tour With Lunch and Snorkeling
Priced from $77.78 per person, the 8-hour Cartagena: 5 Islands Premium Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling offers visitors an opportunity to explore the Rosario and Barú Islands archipelago.
The tour includes pickup from most hotels, speedboat rides, and visits to islands like Tierra Bomba, Cholón, and Playa Tranquila, where a complimentary lunch is provided.
Snorkeling for an hour with provided goggles is also part of the itinerary. However, some reviewers have expressed concerns about miscommunication and limitations of the snorkeling experience.
An optional visit to the Oceanarium and plankton activity are available for an additional fee.
Read our full review: Cartagena: 5 Islands Premium Tour With Lunch and Snorkeling Review
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A Whole Day to the 5 Rosario Islands With Snorkeling and Plankton
This full-day excursion to the captivating Rosario Islands archipelago off the coast of Cartagena provides visitors with an immersive snorkeling experience and the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton.
The tour includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and entrance to the oceanarium, along with a plankton activity.
While the overall experience is highly rated, there are some concerns about the high costs for food and drinks on Cholon party island.
Travelers should also note the physical fitness requirements and potential exclusions for those with certain medical conditions.
The tour departs at 8 AM and ends back at the meeting point, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: A Whole Day to the 5 Rosario Islands With Snorkeling and Plankton Review
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Cartagena: 5-Island Trip by Boat With Lunch and Snorkeling
For those seeking an immersive day of island exploration and aquatic adventures, the Cartagena: 5-Island Trip by Boat with Lunch and Snorkeling excursion presents a captivating opportunity.
Priced from $81.26 per person, this 10-hour tour takes visitors to five distinct islands, including Bocachica, Isla Grande, and Isla de Cholon. Highlights include snorkeling, water activities, and a seafood-filled lunch at a private beach club.
Though some have criticized Cholon Island as busy and dirty, the tour’s modern boat, excellent crew, and unique bioluminescence experience have earned it a solid 3.6/5 rating.
Adventurous travelers should pack their passports, comfortable clothes, and sunscreen for this well-rounded island escapade.
Read our full review: Cartagena: 5-Island Trip by Boat With Lunch and Snorkeling Review
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5 Islands Tour With Lunch Snorkeling and Plankton
What better way to experience the stunning islands around Cartagena than the “Islands Tour with Lunch, Snorkeling, and Plankton” excursion?
Priced from $149 per person, this 5-island tour includes snorkeling equipment, a typical lunch, and the chance to see plankton. Operated by Cartagena Adventures, the tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and provides pickup from select hotels or a central meeting point.
With an 08:00 AM start time, the tour returns to the meeting point at the end. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a reserve now, pay later option.
Based on 6 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.0/5.
Read our full review: 5 Islands Tour With Lunch Snorkeling and Plankton Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Equipment Provided for the Snorkeling Activities?
Many snorkeling tours in Cartagena provide the necessary equipment, including masks, snorkels, and fins. Customers don’t need to bring their own gear, making it a convenient option for those without prior snorkeling experience.
Are There Any Age or Skill Level Requirements for the Snorkeling Tours?
Most snorkeling tours in Cartagena don’t have strict age or skill level requirements. Children and beginners are typically welcome, though some tours may have minimum age or swimming ability guidelines. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear or Is It Mandatory to Rent It?
Typically, snorkeling tours in Cartagena allow you to bring your own gear or rent it from the tour provider. It’s generally not mandatory to rent gear, but rentals are often available for convenience and to ensure proper fit and function.
How Long Do the Snorkeling Excursions Typically Last?
The snorkeling excursions in Cartagena typically last between 1-2 hours. Travelers can either bring their own snorkeling gear or rent it from the tour operators, depending on their preference. The duration allows enough time to explore the vibrant underwater world.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?
Most snorkeling tours offer flexible meal options to accommodate various dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are usually available upon request. It’s best to inquire about specific dietary restrictions when booking the tour.
Recap
Cartagena offers an array of exceptional snorkeling experiences. From private boat tours to island hopping adventures, visitors can explore vibrant underwater worlds, spot wildlife, and enjoy scenic views. Whether it’s a day trip to the Rosario Islands or an excursion to Tabarca Island, these snorkeling experiences provide an unforgettable way to take in the beauty of Colombia’s coastal region.