Cartagena Colombia Harbour Boat Tour
Sail Cartagena's historic bay, exploring colonial forts and enjoying stunning Caribbean sunsets from the water.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Cartagena Colombia Harbour Boat Tour
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sail Cartagena's historic bay, exploring colonial forts and enjoying stunning Caribbean sunsets from the water.
"Absolutely great value for money, a must-do activity in Cartagena!"
💰 Great Value for Money
Harbor tours offer fantastic value, with many trips around €11 for an hour of informative sightseeing.
🚢 Choose Your Vessel
Options range from public tourist boats to private luxury yachts. Consider your group size and desired experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Harbor Cruise
Cartagena Bay
Sail past historic forts, naval bases, and modern marvels. A relaxing way to see Cartagena from a unique perspective.
Sunset Views from the Water
Cartagena Bay
Experience the magic of a Caribbean sunset painting the sky as you glide across the bay. Unforgettable golden hour vistas.
Fort San Fernando de Bocachica
Island off Cartagena
Optional stop on some tours. Explore this impressive colonial fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Choosing Your Boat Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Great Value for Money
Harbor tours offer fantastic value, with many trips around €11 for an hour of informative sightseeing.
🚢 Choose Your Vessel
Options range from public tourist boats to private luxury yachts. Consider your group size and desired experience.
🏰 Fort Navidad Option
Consider the extra €2 for Fort Navidad if you want a peaceful visit. Boats stop there until 2 PM.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Late afternoon tours offer breathtaking sunset views over the bay, a truly magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Great Value for Money
Harbor tours offer fantastic value, with many trips around €11 for an hour of informative sightseeing.
🚢 Choose Your Vessel
Options range from public tourist boats to private luxury yachts. Consider your group size and desired experience.
🏰 Fort Navidad Option
Consider the extra €2 for Fort Navidad if you want a peaceful visit. Boats stop there until 2 PM.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Late afternoon tours offer breathtaking sunset views over the bay, a truly magical experience.
🎧 Audio Guide Available
Many tours offer audio guides in English and Spanish, detailing Cartagena's history and port.
🍻 Free Beer Included!
Some tours include a free beer at a nearby bar for adult ticket holders. A nice bonus!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cartagena's harbor boat tours for their exceptional value and informative nature. The tours offer breathtaking views of historical forts and the bay, making them a highly recommended activity. While some tours lack live guides, the audio commentary and scenic beauty provide a memorable experience.
"Had Lovely tour of the harbour with barco Turistico. Good and interesting guide of the history and current uses. Fairly cheap as well. Definitely recommend. You have the option to get of at one of the fortress as well"
Chris Scott
"Absolutely great Value for Money.
Me and my son paid €11 for a 40 minute trip around the harbour which was fantastic and really really informative!
The views from the boat were truly breathtaking.
I shall be returning and doing this again with the rest of my family.
Well worth it this is simply a “must do” activity in Cartagena."
Conner Regan
"loved it! definitely worth the admission price. also, if you can, do the Fort Navidad visit as well. it's just a two euro extra, and it's a lovely and peaceful place to visit. they only stop at the Fort until 2pm, so if you want to stop there make sure to get on the boat before that. you can book online or go to the little counter just by the boat stop."
Madalena Oliveira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most harbor boat tours depart from the dock at La Bodeguita, specifically door number 4. Look for the ticket counters near the boat stop.
You can book online in advance or purchase tickets directly at the little counter by the boat stop. Some operators also offer WhatsApp bookings.
Yes, private boat tours and luxury yacht rentals are available for a more exclusive experience, perfect for celebrations. +1
Public tours are more budget-friendly and follow a set itinerary, while private tours offer flexibility in destinations and timing.
The departure point is centrally located and accessible. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Cartagena.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary, but public tours are very affordable, with some costing around €11 for a 40-minute trip. Private tours will be significantly more.
Many tours include informative guides (audio or live), and some offer extras like a free beer or snacks. Check your specific tour details.
While not always advertised, inquire about family packages or child discounts when booking. Catamaran tours are often recommended for families.
Yes, Fort Navidad is an optional stop on some tours for a small additional fee (around €2). Ensure you board before 2 PM if you wish to visit.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for specific tours like sunset cruises, to secure your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see historic forts like Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, naval bases, submarines, superyachts, and the bustling port activity.
Tours can range from 40 minutes to a few hours, depending on the itinerary and whether you opt for stops at attractions like forts.
Some tours have live guides, while others provide audio guides in multiple languages. Some budget tours may not have a guide. +1
The sunset views, the historic fortifications from the water, and the impressive naval vessels offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, many families find harbor tours enjoyable. Catamaran tours are particularly recommended for children due to their stability and amenities.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides the most dramatic lighting for capturing the city and harbor.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive bay and a telephoto for distant details.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of any military installations or private vessels where restrictions might apply.
Experiment with different angles from the boat, capture reflections on the water, and focus on the interplay between the historic forts and the modern city.
The approach to Fort San Fernando, the city skyline at sunset, and the diverse range of vessels in the harbor are all highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider tours that offer optional stops at attractions like the oceanarium or islands, as these can add extra excitement for children. While some tours might not have dedicated children's activities, the novelty of being on a boat and seeing the sights is usually enough to keep them entertained. Ensure you check the specific amenities and itinerary of the tour you choose to best suit your family's needs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for tours departing from La Bodeguita dock, as this is a common departure point for more affordable options. While private charters are available, sticking to the scheduled public tours will ensure you get the most bang for your buck. Many of these tours are not overly long, making them a perfect, inexpensive addition to a day of exploring the city.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a private boat charter for an even more intimate and personalized experience. This allows you to set your own pace, perhaps stopping at a secluded spot or enjoying a private dinner cruise. Even a standard harbor tour can be romantic if you choose a quieter time of day, like a weekday morning, to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the bay together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Cartagena's Historic Fortifications by Sea
Beyond the main forts, the harbor tour showcases the evolution of Cartagena's maritime presence. You might spot Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the largest Spanish fort in the Americas, though it's more commonly viewed from land. The tour also provides glimpses of the modern naval base, highlighting Cartagena's ongoing importance as a strategic port. Seeing submarines and various military vessels adds an interesting contemporary dimension to the historical narrative. This blend of old and new makes the harbor tour a comprehensive historical and visual experience.
For those interested in a deeper dive, consider tours that offer more time at the forts or provide detailed historical commentary. The optional visit to Fort Navidad is also a peaceful addition, offering a different perspective on the bay's defenses. Understanding the historical context of these structures enhances the appreciation of Cartagena's resilience and its role in Caribbean history.
Choosing the Right Boat for Your Cartagena Experience
For those seeking a more lively or celebratory atmosphere, catamaran tours are highly recommended. These larger vessels are ideal for groups and often include music, unlimited drinks, and snacks, making them perfect for parties or family outings. They are also a great option for those who might be apprehensive about faster boats, offering a more stable ride.
If you're looking for ultimate luxury and flexibility, private boat charters and luxury yachts are available. These options allow you to customize your itinerary, visit secluded spots, and enjoy a more intimate experience. They are perfect for special occasions, romantic getaways, or large groups wanting a premium experience.
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