How long does it take to get to the Rosario Islands by boat?

By private speedboat, about 45 minutes to an hour from Cartagena. Yachts and catamarans are slower and can take one and a half to two hours depending on the vessel and sea conditions.

How many people can go on a private boat in Cartagena?

It depends on the vessel's certified capacity set by Colombia's maritime authority (DIMAR). Speedboats commonly carry from around 8 up to 20 passengers, while larger yachts and catamarans can accommodate bigger groups. Your operator must not exceed the legal capacity.

Is a yacht or a catamaran better for a group?

For large groups and celebrations, a catamaran usually offers more deck space and stability. For a smaller group that values shade, cabins and a refined atmosphere, a motor yacht is often the better choice.

What should I bring on a boat day in Cartagena?

Swimwear, a light cover-up, a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof phone case, some cash for tips and your passport details for passenger registration.

Are park fees and port taxes included in a charter?

It varies. Some charters include national park fees and port taxes, while others charge them separately. Always confirm inclusions — food, drinks, fees and gratuities — before you book.

Chartering a Yacht in Cartagena: Speedboat, Yacht or Catamaran — The Complete Guide

How to choose and book a private boat in Cartagena: the differences between speedboats, yachts and catamarans, the best routes, what's included, safety, timing and tips for a flawless day at sea.

October 21, 20265 min read

By the Millan Experiences concierge team

In short

Speedboats are the fastest way to the islands and suit active groups; yachts add comfort, shade and cabins; catamarans offer the most deck space and stability for larger groups.
The most popular routes are the Rosario Islands, Barú and Cholón, Tierra Bomba's beach clubs and a sunset cruise around Cartagena Bay.
Private charters usually include captain, crew, fuel for the agreed route and safety equipment; food, drinks, park fees and port taxes vary by boat — always confirm.
Boats in Colombia must respect the maximum passenger capacity set by the maritime authority (DIMAR), so choose a vessel sized for your whole group.
Depart early, return before sunset and book well in advance for December–January, Easter and mid-year holidays.

Cartagena is a city best seen from the water. Within an hour of its colonial walls lie coral islands, sandbars and secluded beaches that are only reachable by boat. Choosing the right vessel — and the right plan — is what turns a boat ride into the most memorable day of your trip. Here is everything we tell our guests before they step on board.

Speedboat, yacht or catamaran: which one is right for you?

Speedboats (lanchas)

A private speedboat is the fastest and most flexible option. Typically between 30 and 45 feet with powerful outboard engines, a speedboat reaches the Rosario Islands in roughly 45 minutes to an hour. It's ideal for couples, friends and active groups who want to hop between beaches, sandbars and snorkelling spots. The trade-off: less shade and a bumpier ride when the wind picks up.

Yachts

A motor yacht adds comfort and a sense of occasion: shaded lounges, a sun deck, a proper bathroom and often air-conditioned cabins. Yachts are the classic choice for families, anniversaries and anyone who wants the journey to feel as luxurious as the destination. They're also the best platform for a private chef experience at sea.

Catamarans

With two hulls, catamarans are remarkably stable and spacious — wide decks, trampolines over the water and room for larger groups to spread out. They're slower than speedboats but perfect for celebrations, bachelor and bachelorette parties and corporate groups who value space and a relaxed pace.

The best routes from Cartagena

Rosario Islands: the classic day at sea — coral reefs, private islands and crystal-clear sandbars. Read our Rosario Islands guide.
Barú and Cholón: white-sand beaches and a shallow lagoon famous for its festive party-boat atmosphere.
Tierra Bomba: the closest island to the city, around 15–20 minutes by boat, with relaxed beach clubs — perfect for a half day.
Sunset in Cartagena Bay: a golden-hour cruise with views of the skyline and the Walled City, ideal before dinner.
Overnight escapes: combine your charter with a private island stay for a night away from everything.

What's included in a private charter?

Inclusions vary from boat to boat, so it pays to ask precise questions before booking. In general:

Usually included: captain and crew, fuel for the agreed itinerary, life jackets and safety equipment, ice, water and a sound system.
Sometimes included: lunch, soft drinks, snorkelling gear, paddleboards, towels and beach-club access.
Often extra: national park entry fees, port taxes, premium drinks, decorations, photographers and crew gratuities.

With Millan Experiences, we agree every detail in advance — from the champagne on ice to the lunch reservation on the island — so nothing is left to improvise on the day.

Safety and regulations

Commercial boats in Colombia operate under the oversight of the maritime authority (DIMAR), which sets the maximum number of passengers each vessel can carry. Capacity limits are checked by the authorities, so always book a boat sized for your entire group, including children. A professional operator should provide a licensed captain, life jackets for every passenger and up-to-date documentation, and will monitor the weather before departing.

Timing and tips for a perfect day at sea

Leave early: 8–9 a.m. departures enjoy calmer water and quieter beaches.
Plan to return before sunset: most day charters are back in the bay by late afternoon.
Consider the season: December to April is drier but windier, with choppier crossings; May to November usually brings calmer seas. See the best time to visit Cartagena.
Pack light: swimwear, a cover-up, hat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a waterproof phone case.
Bring ID: passport details are commonly required for passenger registration.
Book early in high season: the best boats are reserved months ahead for December–January, Easter week and June–July.

Book your charter with Millan Experiences

Our fleet of hand-picked speedboats, yachts and catamarans is matched to your group, your route and your style. Add a private chef, a photographer, an island lunch or a sunset toast — and let our concierge handle the rest.

Yachts & Catamarans Speedboats Private Chef

FAQ