Cartagena, Spain, isn’t just about ancient Roman ruins or lively tapas bars — it’s also a fantastic place for boating adventures. With its bustling port, scenic coastlines, and nearby islands, Cartagena offers a wide variety of boat experiences that suit different interests and budgets. Whether you’re after a quick thrill, a relaxing cruise, or a unique wine tasting at sea, this port city delivers. We particularly like tours that focus on exploring hidden corners like Isla de las Palomas or crossing two seas to Isla Grosa — these trips offer authentic sights and memorable moments away from the crowds. For example, the Guided boat tour to Isla de las Palomas takes you to a protected bird sanctuary in style and comfort.
If you’re considering one of these tours, you’ll find a good mix of options ranging from short, affordable trips to more elaborate experiences, including a wine and tapas cruise or a scenic coastal drive. Below is a quick overview of what’s on offer.
Quick Overview
- Guided boat tours exploring Isla de las Palomas and Cartagena’s port. Think comfortable boats, personalized service, and exclusive access.
- Coastal drive combined with boat cruising, perfect for those who want both land and sea views.
- Specialized experiences like underwater wine cellar visits with tapas or crossing two seas to reach Isla Grosa.
- Short, budget-friendly trips in calm waters, ideal for beginners or families.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail so you can pick the best match for your Cartagena trip.
1. Cartagena: Guided boat tour to Isla de las Palomas
At number one, this 75-minute guided boat tour takes you around the coast of Cartagena Bay, ending at the Isla de las Palomas, a protected bird area. The tour offers a chance to see parts of the coastline that are off limits to larger ships or typical tours. The boat itself is modern, with padded seats and plenty of comfort, making it easy to relax and soak in the scenery. The highlight is discovering the environmental richness of the island, declared a Special Protection Area for Birds, which is a win for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Reviews are strong — a 4.8/5 from over 120 travelers — with many noting the tour’s unbeatable value and the personalized attention. The tour’s focus on exclusive routes and hidden spots makes it stand out compared to larger, less intimate options. Plus, the activity satisfaction rating of 5/5 underscores how well this tour delivers on its promise.
This trip is perfect for those who want a short yet informative experience and want to see Cartagena’s coast from a different angle. The only potential downside is its limited duration, which might leave some wanting more, but it’s a good choice for a quick taste of the coast.
Bottom Line: This tour is great if you’re after a comfortable, eco-focused excursion with excellent value and intimate access to Cartagena’s lesser-known coastal areas.
2. Cartagena: Guided boat tour of Cartagena and Algamecas Port
Next on our list is a 1-hour guided trip that combines views of the main facilities of the Port of Cartagena with highlights along the nearby coast, including Cala Cortina and coastal batteries. This tour allows you to contemplate the city’s maritime activity from the water, providing insights into Cartagena’s vital port operations alongside scenic vistas.
What makes this tour special is its small group size — maximum 12 people — ensuring a direct, personal treatment and avoiding crowds. The boat is modern, with padded seats, and the relaxed pace makes it ideal for families or travelers who prefer a calm, informative journey. Notably, the activity satisfaction level is a perfect 5/5, and reviews praise the friendly, energetic skipper, Antonio, for adding humor and insight.
Guests consistently mention the value for money and the calm, relaxing environment — “The tour is very calming and relaxing,” said one happy traveler. This tour suits those wanting a combination of sightseeing and relaxation without the hustle of larger boat trips.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for visitors who want a personalized, relaxed experience with a local guide, especially if they’re interested in Cartagena’s port operations and scenic coastlines.
3. Spain: Coastal Drive and Boat Tour with Optional Cava
For those who love both land and sea, this two-hour guided tour blends a scenic drive along Spanish coast roads with a cruise through turquoise waters. This experience starts with a drive through charming villages, hidden viewpoints, and hotspots, offering a chance to see the picturesque coast from multiple angles. Then, you’ll hop onto a boat for a relaxing cruise, passing bays and cliffs that are hard to see from land.
A standout feature is the optional Cava tasting, adding a bit of sparkle to the journey. The tour provides flexibility for travelers to relax, explore, or take photos at their leisure, making it a versatile choice. It’s ideal for those who want a full sensory experience — combining scenic drives with the tranquil sea — all in a single outing.
The 4.9/5 rating reflects high satisfaction among past travelers, who appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see the coast from both land and sea. This tour is perfect for photo enthusiasts and those wanting a comprehensive coastal experience in a manageable time frame.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for travelers wanting a multi-layered tour with scenic vistas and optional wine, especially if they enjoy a mix of driving and cruising.
4. Visit the Underwater Wine Cellar by Boat with Tapas Tasting and Medieval Castle
Number four offers a luxurious and unique experience: an underwater wine cellar visit with onboard wine tastings and tapas. This five-hour experience combines a boat trip with a visit to an impressive medieval castle perched on cliffs, making it both elegant and historic.
A highlight is the underwater winery, where you can taste two underwater wines alongside two land wines, paired with delicious tapas. The boat is small, with a maximum group size of 8 people, ensuring an intimate, exclusive atmosphere. The tour includes pick-up and transfers, making logistics seamless.
What sets this apart is the specialized focus on wine and the chance to sample wines in an underwater setting, which is truly one-of-a-kind. While the reviews aren’t quantified, the price reflects its premium nature, and it’s suited for wine lovers and those wanting a luxurious escape.
This tour appeals to those seeking an elevated experience and willing to invest in something memorable. It’s not ideal for travelers on a tight budget but offers exceptional value for a unique, all-in-one day.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re a wine enthusiast or looking for a special occasion trip that combines history, wine, and sea views in an exclusive setting.
5. La Manga: Boat trip with return to Isla del Barón
This short, budget-friendly trip lasts about 50 minutes and takes you to discover the largest island in the Mar Menor, Isla del Barón. With over 50 years of experience, this company offers a calm, relaxing sail through tranquil waters, ideal for beginners or families wanting a simple introduction to the area.
The classic Mar Menor boat promises a peaceful cruise in the most authentic part of the region, with the focus on enjoying the scenery and a bit of local history. The price at just $16 per person makes it an accessible option for travelers who want a quick outing without breaking the bank.
Guests mention the quiet waters and the tour’s suitability for first-time sailors, making it a good choice for those with small children or anyone prone to seasickness. The short duration is a drawback if you’re craving a more in-depth experience, but it’s ideal for a light, relaxing, and inexpensive adventure.
Bottom Line: A smart pick for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore Isla del Barón and enjoy a calm, short cruise.
6. La Manga: Boat trip across two seas to Isla Grosa and Far
Finally, this 2 to 3-hour cruise stands out for its crossing of two seas — the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean — and its visit to Isla Grosa and Islote Farallón. With a perfect 5/5 rating from 2 reviews, this is a niche trip for travelers eager to see two distinct marine environments in one journey.
The company boasts over 50 years of experience, and this tour is a pioneer route to Isla Grosa. You’ll sail through the Estacio channel, experiencing the transition from the calm Mar Menor to the more lively Mediterranean, making it a unique experience not available on most other trips. The boat is a classic vessel, emphasizing authenticity.
This tour is especially suited for sea lovers interested in geography or anyone wanting an authentic two-sea experience. Since it’s relatively new and well-reviewed, it offers good value for those looking for something different and memorable.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to cross two seas in one trip and explore the diverse marine landscapes of Cartagena’s coast.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Cartagena
When selecting your ideal boat trip, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you want a short, eco-focused trip with stunning wildlife, the Guided boat tour to Isla de las Palomas is perfect. For a more personalized experience with a small group, the Cartagena port tour offers a relaxing, intimate outing.
If you’re after a full day of scenic variety, the Coastal Drive and Boat Tour combines land and sea with optional vino. For a luxurious, wine-focused experience, the Underwater Wine Cellar tour is unmatched.
Those on a budget or seeking a short introduction will find the La Manga cruise to Isla del Barón ideal, while adventurers interested in crossing two seas will love the trip to Isla Grosa and Farallón.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the popular tours, and consider weather conditions — some trips are best in calmer months.
Final thoughts:
With options spanning from quick, budget-friendly trips to luxurious wine tastings, Cartagena’s boat tours cater to a wide array of travelers. If you’re after an eco-friendly nature trip, the Isla de las Palomas tour is a clear winner. For history and scenic views, the port cruise hits the spot. And for something truly special, the underwater wine cellar tour offers a memorable, indulgent experience. No matter which you choose, Cartagena’s waters promise an authentic and enjoyable adventure — so book early and get ready for a memorable trip.