Cartagena serves up some of Colombia’s most memorable meals, blending Spanish colonial and Caribbean flavors. The historic Getsemaní neighborhood offers the city’s best local eateries, where family-run spots dish out authentic Colombian coastal cuisine. My favorite experiences include intimate cooking classes where you’ll master regional specialties, and evening yacht dinners that combine stellar bay views with fresh seafood. For pure authenticity, I love the home-dining experiences with local chefs – they’re personal, informative, and delicious. The sunset dinner cruises particularly stand out, pairing Caribbean dishes with spectacular old-city views. Let’s explore Cartagena’s top food experiences.
Key Points
- Cartagena offers a variety of dinner cruises with 3-course and 4-course meals, ranging from $54.99 to €85.86 per person and receiving high guest ratings.
- Hands-on cooking classes and intimate private dining experiences showcase local Caribbean cuisine, with prices starting at €36.66 for classes and $59 per person for dinners.
- Unique dining locations include a chic restaurant on a private island, night tours with dining in the Getsemaní District, and a luxury yacht experience.
- Cartagena’s dining experiences often feature stunning views, vibrant settings, and engaging entertainment, such as sunset boat parties and interactive cultural activities.
- Overall, Cartagena’s dining options provide a mix of high-quality food, personalized service, and memorable atmospheres, though accessibility and service issues have been reported in some experiences.
Dinner Cruise Along Cartagenas Bay
For visitors seeking a unique dining experience in Cartagena, the Dinner Cruise along the city’s picturesque bay offers an enchanting opportunity.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 by 128 reviewers, this highly praised excursion includes a 3-course meal with vegetarian options and a bottle of wine.
With a maximum of 30 travelers per booking, the cruise provides an intimate setting to enjoy the stunning night views of Cartagena.
Travelers should arrive 30 minutes early to handle the $4 tax and secure their preferred seating.
While drinks are available for purchase, some guests have noted miscommunication on pricing.
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Cartagena: Dinner on a Boat While You Sail Through the Bay
Cartagena offers visitors a unique dining experience by setting sail along the city’s picturesque bay. Guests can enjoy a 3-hour dinner cruise, including a welcome cocktail, open bar, and a buffet dinner with various proteins, sides, and desserts.
The cruise also features a dance show, contests, and interactive activities. While the overall experience is rated 3/5 based on one review, the scenic views of Cartagena’s skyline and seascapes provide a culture.
Guests should be aware of the additional $14,000 Colombian pesos dock tax per person. Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
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Cooking Class In A Real Restaurant At Old City
Visitors can sign up for a hands-on cooking class at Orígenes Restaurante Bar, a highly-rated hotel in Cartagena’s Old City.
The 4.9-star experience allows participants to learn to prepare local dishes like coconut rice, fish, patacones, and empanadas from engaging chefs known for their dynamic teaching style.
The class features an interactive and cultural atmosphere with music and dancing. Travelers rave about the delicious food and welcoming environment.
Priced from €36.66 per person, the class accommodates up to 8 participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
This authentic Colombian cooking experience is highly recommended for solo travelers and groups seeking a fun, educational, and flavorful activity.
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Getsemaní District at Night (With Dinner Included)
Travelers seeking to enjoy Cartagena’s vibrant nightlife can embark on a captivating tour of the Getsemaní District. This 3-hour activity offers a comprehensive exploration, including dinner at a local restaurant.
Guests will discover the cultural significance of Centenario Park, the artistic flair of Trinidad Square, and the legacy of the Afro Uprising. Along the way, they’ll admire vibrant street art and savor natural juices from vendors.
The tour concludes with a delicious dinner at either San Nicolás or Cabildo Gastromar, providing a perfect ending to the evening’s festivities.
With flexible booking, free cancellation, and limited group sizes, this tour offers an immersive and memorable experience in the heart of Cartagena’s nightlife.
Read our full review: Getsemaní District at Night (With Dinner Included) Review
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Dinner Cruise on Cartagena’s Bay With Sibarita Master
While exploring Cartagena’s vibrant culinary landscape, visitors can indulge in a captivating dinner cruise along the city’s picturesque bay.
The 2-hour round trip on the Sibarita Master offers a world-class 4-course meal and half a bottle of wine per person, all while taking in stunning views. Priced from $69.99 per person, the cruise has earned a 4.5-star rating from 259 reviews, with travelers praising the romantic atmosphere and attentive staff.
However, guests should be aware of the $4 USD per person dock tax and restrictions on outside food and drinks.
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Enjoy an Unforgettable Dinner at Fénix Beach
Fénix Beach offers an unforgettable dining experience in Cartagena. Located on a private island accessible by boat, this chic restaurant serves up delectable seafood and Colombian specialties against the backdrop of stunning ocean views.
Theres some good fresh ceviche, grilled lobster, and fragrant rice dishes while sipping on refreshing cocktails. The menu showcases the diverse flavors of the region, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
After dinner, visitors can stroll along the pristine beach or relax in the lounge areas. With impeccable service and a picturesque setting, Fénix Beach is the perfect spot for an elegant and memorable meal in Cartagena.
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Cartagena:Sunset Boat Party Caribbean Restaurant and Gethsemane Tour
For those seeking an unforgettable evening in Cartagena, the Sunset Boat Party, Caribbean restaurant, and Gethsemane tour offers an unparalleled experience.
This highly-rated 5-star activity takes travelers on a tour of the bay, featuring an open bar for two hours and a delectable dinner at the San Nicolas restaurant. Guests can choose the music, enjoy live entertainment, and even access local nightclubs.
With a maximum of 20 participants, this intimate tour provides personalized attention from the exceptional staff, including tour guide Mafe and host Maria.
Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an evening of fun, this Cartagena experience isn’t to be missed.
Read our full review: Cartagena:Sunset Boat Party Caribbean Restaurant and Gethsemane Tour Review
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Private Dinner at a Local Chefs House in Cartagena
Seeking a more intimate culinary experience in Cartagena? Consider a private dinner at a local chef’s house.
This 23-review, 100% recommended activity offers guests a taste of authentic Caribbean cuisine. Enjoy the chef’s personal recipe for Esmechada meat in Creole sauce or a vegetarian version.
Learn about local flavors while dining in a private setting with your group. The experience starts at 6 pm, meeting at Nautilus Plaza, with optional pickup available.
Priced at $59 per person with free cancellation, it’s a chance to learn about Cartagena’s vibrant food scene.
Just note it’s not wheelchair-accessible and may not be suitable for those with medical conditions.
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Fenix Beach Island Dinner
Situated across Cartagena Bay, the Fenix Beach Island Dinner offers an all-inclusive culinary experience from $57.62 per person.
Departing from La Bodeguita dock at 7:00 p.m., the private boats ferry guests to the island, where they’ll enjoy sunset cruises, bonfires, and live DJ sets.
The diverse menu includes options like whiskey ribs, red snapper, and Cartagena-style black beef, with a seasonal dessert included.
Guests have full access to the facilities, including the bonfire, bar, restaurant, and beachfront swings.
While round-trip transportation is covered, the boarding tax and table decorations incur additional costs.
With an overall rating of 5/5, the Fenix Beach Island Dinner provides an unforgettable dining experience.
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Dinner in the Bay of Cartagena on a Luxury Yacht Sibarita Master
Aboard the luxurious yacht Sibarita Master, guests can indulge in a captivating dinner experience while sailing the picturesque Bay of Cartagena, Colombia.
The night tour includes a delectable a la carte menu with four courses: two starters, a main course, and a dessert. One bottle of wine per couple is provided, with the option to purchase premium drinks and snacks.
Guests will board at the La Bodeguita Tourist Dock, arriving 30 minutes before the 7:00 PM departure. This intimate experience, limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, is operated by DESTINO COLOMBIA and has received glowing 5-star reviews for its excellent service, exquisite food, and stunning views.
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Sunset Bay Party, Caribbean Restaurant & Getsemaní Tour
This immersive 5-hour tour provides travelers with a well-rounded experience of Cartagena’s vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty.
Beginning with a two-hour boat ride on the bay, guests will enjoy panoramic city views and an open bar with rum, brandy, and more.
After the cruise, they’ll savor typical Caribbean cuisine at a local restaurant.
The tour then takes guests on a magical exploration of Getsemaní, known for its vibrant colors, art, and lively nightlife.
With included tickets to local discotheques, this tour offers an unbeatable blend of sights, sounds, and flavors that capture the essence of Cartagena.
Priced from $39.98 per person, it’s a fantastic value.
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Cartagena Island Dinner (Island of Tierra Bomba)
Travelers seeking a truly immersive dining experience in Cartagena can embark on a delightful journey to the island of Tierra Bomba for the Cartagena Island Dinner.
This 4.5-hour event offers a rating of 3.1 based on 9 reviews, with prices starting at $60 per person. Guests will enjoy a main dish, dessert, a glass of sangria, live DJ entertainment, and a bonfire.
Transportation to the island is provided via boat, and the activity takes place from 7 PM to 11:30 PM, with a maximum capacity of 100 travelers.
While the setting and ambiance are praised, some guests have reported issues with limited food options, slow service, and communication problems.
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Cartagena: Cruise by the Bay With Dinner and Wine
For those seeking a captivating dining experience in Cartagena, the “Cartagena: Cruise by the Bay with Dinner and Wine” activity offers a delightful opportunity.
Priced from $54.99 per person, this 2-hour cruise explores Cartagena Bay, providing stunning views of the colonial city and upscale neighborhoods. Guests will enjoy a 3 or 4-course meal with options like seafood risotto and beef in wine sauce, accompanied by two glasses of wine per person.
The cruise features onboard amenities including Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a bar, with an attentive and professional crew. With an overall rating of 4.3/5 from 119 reviews, this experience is ideal for couples and adult families seeking a romantic outing or special occasion in Cartagena.
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Dinner by the Bay of Cartagena on a SIBARITA Boat
Visitors can embark on a captivating 2-hour cruise along the bay of Cartagena aboard the SIBARITA boat. For $87.92 per person, they’ll enjoy a 4-course dinner and a half-bottle of wine.
The experience also includes pickup service from select areas. However, a $12,000 COP dock tax and any outside food or drinks aren’t included.
The tour starts at 7:00 pm and is limited to 16 travelers. Though not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women, the experience offers free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
While some guests have provided mixed feedback, the overall experience is described as pleasant.
Read our full review: Dinner by the Bay of Cartagena on a SIBARITA Boat Review
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Dinner Cruise Tour Through the Bay of Cartagena
Embarking on the Dinner Cruise Tour through the Bay of Cartagena, guests can enjoy a captivating 4-course meal and half a bottle of wine as they sail along the picturesque coastline.
Operated by GLOBAL TOP EXPERIENCE, the cruise has a 4.3-star rating from 14 reviews. Priced at €85.86 per person, the tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, with a required 14,000 COP dock tax.
Guests should arrive by 6:10 PM for the 7:00 PM departure, and the cruise returns to the same meeting point.
While not wheelchair accessible, the experience offers stunning views, excellent food, and friendly staff, though some have reported booking and communication issues.
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Recap
Cartagena’s bay offers a range of unforgettable dining experiences. Visitors can enjoy a dinner cruise, a cooking class in the old city, or a meal on a nearby island. With stunning views and delicious local cuisine, these experiences provide an immersive way to explore Cartagena’s vibrant culture and beauty. Whether looking for a romantic evening or a lively group outing, the city’s dining options cater to diverse tastes and preferences.