Full Day Tour to 4 Rosario Islands With Snorkeling and Plankton in Cartagena

Exploring the captivating Rosario Islands off the coast of Cartagena promises an unforgettable day of adventure. Travelers can enjoy the stunning turquoise waters, snorkel among vibrant marine life, and even witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton. With a delectable seafood cocktail, fruit tasting, and optional lunch, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to every sense. But the true allure lies in the chance to discover the islands’ natural wonders and create memories that will linger long after the journey.

About Your Stay

• A full-day tour exploring four Rosario Islands off the coast of Cartagena, including snorkeling and an opportunity to swim in bioluminescent waters.
• Priced from $65 per person with a maximum of 25 travelers, featuring a seafood cocktail on Cholon Island and fruit salad tasting on Isla Agua Azul.
• Tour begins at 7:30 am and includes a provided lunch of chicken, fish, or vegetarian options, as well as included snorkeling equipment.
• Meeting point at Plaza Cervantes in Cartagena, with pickup available upon request and tour returning to the same location.
• Mixed reviews regarding the tour experience, with highlights including the snorkeling and bioluminescent plankton, but some complaints about unstructured itineraries and limited vegetarian options.

Tour Overview and Details

This full-day tour offers visitors the chance to explore four of the stunning Rosario Islands off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia.

Priced from $65 per person, the tour has a maximum of 25 travelers.

Highlights include a seafood cocktail on Cholon Island, fruit salad tasting on Isla Agua Azul, and the opportunity to swim in bioluminescent waters.

A seafood cocktail on Cholon Island, a fruit salad tasting on Isla Agua Azul, and a swim in bioluminescent waters.

While reviews are mixed, many praise the snorkeling and bioluminescence experiences.

However, some common complaints include unstructured itineraries, limited vegetarian options, and communication challenges for non-Spanish speakers.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins at 7:30 am, providing an early start to the day’s activities.

Travelers will enjoy a seafood cocktail on Cholon Island and a fruit salad tasting at Isla Agua Azul.

Lunch, with three options – chicken, fish, or vegetarian – is provided.

Snorkeling equipment is included, allowing guests to explore the colorful marine life.

After snorkeling, the tour offers a unique opportunity to swim in bioluminescent plankton.

To refuel, snacks are served after the plankton experience.

Alcoholic beverages are also available throughout the day’s adventures.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The tour begins at Plaza Cervantes in Cartagena, which serves as the meeting point.

The operator will contact participants 1-2 days prior regarding reservation and pickup details. Pickup is available upon request.

The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day.

Travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.

Most travelers, however, can participate in the tour’s activities.

Participant Requirements and Restrictions

Though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate in the activities. Those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions may want to reconsider joining. Infants must sit on laps.

The tour takes place near public transportation, making it accessible for most. The operator will contact participants 1-2 days prior with reservation and pickup details.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Mixed reviews from past participants provide insight into the tour’s strengths and areas for improvement.

While some praised the snorkeling and bioluminescence experience, others complained about the unstructured nature of the tour and long wait times.

The snorkeling and bioluminescence were highlights, but the unstructured nature and long wait times disappointed some participants.

Vegetarian options were limited, and participants reported constant vendor interruptions on the overcrowded islands.

Non-Spanish speakers struggled with communication barriers.

The feedback suggests the tour could benefit from better organization, more food options, and improved crowd management.

Recommendations include opting for a private or catamaran tour for a more personalized and streamlined experience.

Exploring the Rosario Islands

As visitors step onto the Rosario Islands, they’re greeted by a vibrant tapestry of turquoise waters and white sand beaches.

These picturesque islands, just a short boat ride from Cartagena, offer a unique opportunity to explore the region’s diverse marine life. Snorkeling is a popular activity, allowing guests to enjoy the colorful underwater world, encountering a variety of tropical fish and coral formations.

The bioluminescent plankton experience is also a highlight, as the islands come alive with a mesmerizing display of glowing organisms at night.

Despite some organizational challenges, the Rosario Islands deliver natural beauty and memorable experiences.

Snorkeling and Bioluminescence Experience

Visitors who embark on the Rosario Islands tour are treated to two captivating underwater experiences.

First, they’ll don snorkeling gear and explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. Schools of tropical fish dart through the clear waters, offering a glimpse into the islands’ diverse ecosystem.

Snorkelers can explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life and schools of tropical fish in the Rosario Islands.

As the sun sets, the tour takes a mesmerizing turn, with the opportunity to witness the bioluminescent plankton. These microscopic organisms light up the waves, creating a dazzling display of natural luminescence.

It’s a truly magical way to end the day amidst the beauty of the Rosario Islands.

Dining and Refreshments

The tour also caters to travelers’ dining and refreshment needs throughout the day.

Lunch is included, with three delectable options: chicken, fish, and vegetarian. Guests can also enjoy a refreshing seafood cocktail at Cholon Island and a tasty fruit salad tasting at Isla Agua Azul.

After the plankton experience, snacks are provided. For those who wish to indulge, alcoholic beverages are available.

The tour aims to satisfy the diverse culinary preferences of its participants, ensuring that everyone’s taste buds are treated to a delightful experience.

• Lunch (3 options: chicken, fish, vegetarian)

• Seafood cocktail at Cholon Island

• Fruit salad tasting at Isla Agua Azul

• Snacks after plankton experience

• Alcoholic beverages available

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Purchase Additional Alcoholic Beverages on the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes alcoholic beverages, and additional alcoholic drinks can be purchased during the tour. However, travelers should be mindful of their alcohol consumption and plan accordingly for the day’s activities.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a private tour. The tour operator offers a private version of the tour for a higher price, which provides a more personalized and exclusive experience compared to the standard group tour.

Do Tour Guides Provide Information About the Islands’ History and Culture?

Tour guides don’t consistently provide detailed information about the islands’ history and culture. Some travelers report limited commentary, while others note the guides focus more on activities than providing context about the Rosario Islands.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment if I Prefer?

Travelers can’t bring their own snorkeling equipment on this tour. The tour operator provides snorkeling gear for participants to use during the activities. Bringing your own gear is not an option.

Are There Opportunities to Shop for Souvenirs on the Islands?

Yes, there are opportunities to shop for souvenirs on the islands. The tour includes stops at various island locations where local vendors sell handmade crafts, jewelry, and other Caribbean-themed items.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This full-day tour to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the stunning turquoise waters, snorkel amid diverse marine life, and even swim with bioluminescent plankton. With a delicious seafood cocktail, fruit tasting, and optional lunch, the tour provides a well-rounded adventure for nature enthusiasts. Despite potential challenges, the vibrant scenery and unique activities make this tour a must-do for any traveler visiting Cartagena.