The Complete Guide to Renting a Boat in Cartagena (2026)

Cartagena’s best days happen on the water. The city sits at the doorstep of three distinct island worlds — the Rosario archipelago, Barú, and the smaller cays around Tierra Bomba and Isla Grande — and the only way to see them properly is by private boat. Skip the crowded group tours and you trade a fixed schedule and a packed deck for your own route, your own music, and your own pace.

 

The mistake most first-timers make is booking the cheapest “lancha” they find on WhatsApp. What looks like a $400 deal often arrives as an older boat with a tired engine, no shade, no ice, and a captain who only knows one beach. The difference between a forgettable day and a perfect one isn’t the price tag — it’s the boat’s condition, the captain’s local knowledge, and whether someone planned the stops around the tide and the wind.

 

At Two Travel we’ve been arranging private boat days in Cartagena since 2016, and every vessel we put groups on has been inspected and crewed by people we work with directly. Here’s how to do it right.

Caribbean Getaways

Just off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia, the stunning Cartagena Islands define the ultimate Caribbean getaway. Surrounded by turquoise waters and tropical landscapes, destinations like Cholon Island Cartagena and the Rosario Islands offer the perfect balance between vibrant energy and laid-back island luxury.

Exploring the islands near Cartagena by private boat allows you to fully embrace the Caribbean lifestyle sun-soaked cruising, curated beach club stops, refreshing swims, and effortless moments at sea. Whether you’re seeking a lively island escape or a relaxed tropical retreat, the Cartagena Islands deliver a refined yet unforgettable Caribbean experience.

boat rental cartagena

What's Included in
Your Cartagena Boat Rental?

Elevate your experience with everything this place has to offer

Rental from 9am to 5pm
The Rosario Islands

Rental from 6pm to 10pm
Sunset in the Bay

Captain
and Crew

Ice and
Coolers

Fuel
Coverage

Bluetooth
System

The Rosario Islands
Tour

DJ Music
Experience

Premium
Open Bar

VIP Beach
Club

Chef on
Board

Dedicated
Concierge

Where the Boats Actually Go

The Rosario Islands

A protected national park about 45 minutes to an hour out by speedboat. Clear water, coral, and a string of beach clubs and private islands. This is the classic full-day route: cruise out mid-morning, anchor for swimming, lunch at a beach club, back before sunset. Best for groups who want the "postcard Caribbean" day.

Cholón (Barú)

A shallow cove ringed by anchored boats, floating bars, and music — Cartagena's famous on-water party scene. Energy is high, especially on weekends and holidays. Best for celebrations and younger groups who want the social, boat-to-boat atmosphere rather than a quiet beach.

Barú & Playa Blanca

The long white-sand beach reachable by boat or road. Beach clubs, calmer water, and a more relaxed daytime feel. Best for mixed groups, couples, and families who want a beach base with the option to cruise.

Tierra Bomba

The closest island to the city — often just 15 minutes across the bay. Day-club passes, sunset views back toward the old walls. Best for shorter outings, half-days, or groups short on time.

Pro Tip From Our Concierge Team:

Wind matters more than most people realize. From roughly December through March the trade winds pick up and the open crossing to the Rosarios can get choppy in the afternoon — leave early, return early. We plan every route around the day's conditions so your group isn't pounding through waves on the way home.

What a Private Boat Day
in Cartagena Actually Costs

Boat pricing in Cartagena is rarely apples-to-apples, because the sticker price often hides what’s not included. Here’s a realistic breakdown.

Speedboats (lanchas, ~30–40 ft): from around $500 for a half-day, $700–$1,200 for a full day, depending on size and capacity. Good for groups up to roughly 10–12.

Catamarans: $1,200–$2,500+ per day. More deck space, more stability, shade — ideal for larger or mixed groups who want room to move.

Yachts: $1,800–$4,000+ per day depending on length, crew, and amenities. The premium option for big celebrations or a statement day.

What's Usually Included (and What's Not)

A fair quote should state clearly whether it covers captain, crew, fuel, the national park entrance fee, and dock fees — these are the line items cheap operators “forget” until you’re at the marina. Drinks, food, and beach-club access are typically arranged separately. Every boat we book comes with a transparent, all-in quote so there are no surprises at the dock.

What Drives the Cost Up or Down

Group size and boat choice are the biggest levers — a $1,200 catamaran split among 14 people is under $90 each. High season (mid-December through mid-January, Easter week, long weekends) pushes rates up and the best boats sell out, so book 3–4 weeks ahead in normal months and earlier for holidays.

Explore Cartagena
Aboard Our Premium Yachts

Sail along the stunning coastline of Cartagena and discover the Caribbean from a whole new perspective aboard our premium yachts. From vibrant daytime cruises to unforgettable sunset experiences, each experience is designed for comfort, style, and elevated moments at sea. Full-day yacht experiences start at $1,800 USD, while sunset tours begin at $1,000 USD offering the perfect setting for celebrations, group getaways, or simply enjoying the best of Cartagena in total luxury.

Marlet
82 Feet · 22 Guests
Manhattan
64 Feet · 18 Guests
Venecia
62 Feet · 16 Guests
Free Land
55 Feet · 20 Guests
Benedetto
58 Feet · 15 Guests
Palladium
46 Feet · 15 Guests
Taimados
41 Feet · 12 Guests

See Cartagena by Sea
Aboard Luxury Catamarans

Experience the magic of Cartagena from a different angle as you glide across the Caribbean aboard our luxury catamarans. With spacious decks, smooth sailing, and panoramic ocean views, these charters are perfect for laid-back gatherings, island hopping, or vibrant celebrations under the sun. Full-day catamaran experiences start at $1,800 USD, while sunset tours begin at $800 USD offering an exclusive and effortless way to enjoy the sea in total comfort.

San Juan
86 Feet · 180 Guests
Sailing Cat
65 Feet · 80 Guests
Valhala
51 Feet · 35 Guests
Big Bucks
51 Feet · 35 Guests
Avalon One
48 Feet · 25 Guests
El Cielo
47 Feet · 25 Guests
Hope
47 Feet · 35 Guests
Baru Cruiser
43 Feet · 25 Guests
Xem 3
39 Feet · 18 Guests

Discover Private
Speedboats Experiences

Feel the rush of the Caribbean as you explore Cartagena’s crystal-clear waters aboard your own private speedboat. Perfect for island hopping, beach club stops, or spontaneous adventures with friends, these experiences combine flexibility, privacy, and pure excitement on the sea. Full-day speedboat experiences start at $500 USD, while sunset tours begin at $300 USD offering an unforgettable way to discover the coastline at your own pace.

Siamolupi
44 Feet · 20 Guests
Vicky
42 Feet · 28 Guests
Harb
42 Feet · 22 Guests
Valentina IV
38 Feet · 18 Guests
Lancha Cholon
38 Feet · 18 Guests
Avalon Two
38 Feet · 16 Guests
Todomar
38 Feet · 15 Guests
La Piscina
38 Feet · 10 Guests
La Piscina II
34 Feet · 14 Guests
The One
29 Feet · 10 Guests
Radiante
28 Feet · 10 Guests

What Clients Are Saying
About Their Boat Experience

Take the Experience Further

Unforgettable Moments on the Water

From bachelorette celebrations and birthday parties to relaxed days at sea with friends, every experience tells a story. Our blog highlights unforgettable moments created on the water, sharing inspiration, tips, and real experiences from travelers who chose yacht rental Cartagena to elevate their time in the Caribbean. Explore how the right yacht, the perfect route, and thoughtful details turn a simple day on the sea into memories worth reliving.

Frequently
Asked Questions

colombian flag in cartagena colombia

It depends on the vessel — speedboats typically take 8–12, catamarans 15–30, and larger yachts more. We match the boat to your group size and the kind of day you want.

Usually arranged separately so you can choose your level. We can stock the boat with drinks and ice, arrange catering or a beach-club lunch, and handle everything before you board.

Both are possible in one day. Cholón is the lively, social option; the Rosarios and Barú offer calmer swimming and beach time. We build the route around what your group wants.

The Rosario Islands sit inside a national park with an entrance fee. We include it in your quote up front so there’s nothing unexpected at the dock.

December through April is driest and most popular. May, June, October, and November are quieter and cheaper with occasional rain. Mornings are calmest year-round.

Luxury Boat Rental in Cartagena, Colombia

Boat rental Cartagena is effortless with Two Travel. Explore the beauty of the Cartagena Islands aboard handpicked speedboats, catamarans, and luxury yachts ideal for celebrations, private parties, or a memorable day at sea with friends and family.

We handle every detail, from crafting the perfect island route to arranging drinks, food, beach club access, and water activities, delivering a seamless and elevated experience tailored to your group.

boat rental cartagena

Caribbean Getaways

Just off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia, the stunning Cartagena Islands define the ultimate Caribbean getaway. Surrounded by turquoise waters and tropical landscapes, destinations like Cholon Island Cartagena and the Rosario Islands offer the perfect balance between vibrant energy and laid-back island luxury.

Exploring the islands near Cartagena by private boat allows you to fully embrace the Caribbean lifestyle sun-soaked cruising, curated beach club stops, refreshing swims, and effortless moments at sea. Whether you’re seeking a lively island escape or a relaxed tropical retreat, the Cartagena Islands deliver a refined yet unforgettable Caribbean experience.

What's Included in Your Cartagena Boat Rental?

Elevate your experience with everything this place has to offer

Rental from 9am to 5pm The Rosario Islands

Rental from 6pm to 10pm Sunset in the Bay

Captain
and
Crew

Ice and
Coolers

Fuel
Coverage

Bluetooth
System

The Rosario Islands Tour

DJ Music
Experience

Premium
Open Bar

VIP Beach
Club

Chef
On Board

Dedicated
Concierge

Where the Boats Actually Go

The Rosario Islands

A protected national park about 45 minutes to an hour out by speedboat. Clear water, coral, and a string of beach clubs and private islands. This is the classic full-day route: cruise out mid-morning, anchor for swimming, lunch at a beach club, back before sunset. Best for groups who want the "postcard Caribbean" day.

Cholón (Barú)

A shallow cove ringed by anchored boats, floating bars, and music — Cartagena's famous on-water party scene. Energy is high, especially on weekends and holidays. Best for celebrations and younger groups who want the social, boat-to-boat atmosphere rather than a quiet beach.

Barú & Playa Blanca

The long white-sand beach reachable by boat or road. Beach clubs, calmer water, and a more relaxed daytime feel. Best for mixed groups, couples, and families who want a beach base with the option to cruise.

Tierra Bomba

The closest island to the city — often just 15 minutes across the bay. Day-club passes, sunset views back toward the old walls. Best for shorter outings, half-days, or groups short on time.

Pro Tip From Our Concierge Team:

Wind matters more than most people realize. From roughly December through March the trade winds pick up and the open crossing to the Rosarios can get choppy in the afternoon — leave early, return early. We plan every route around the day's conditions so your group isn't pounding through waves on the way home.

What a Private Boat Day
in Cartagena Actually Costs

Boat pricing in Cartagena is rarely apples-to-apples, because the sticker price often hides what’s not included. Here’s a realistic breakdown.

Speedboats (lanchas, ~30–40 ft): from around $500 for a half-day, $700–$1,200 for a full day, depending on size and capacity. Good for groups up to roughly 10–12.

Catamarans: $1,200–$2,500+ per day. More deck space, more stability, shade — ideal for larger or mixed groups who want room to move.

Yachts: $1,800–$4,000+ per day depending on length, crew, and amenities. The premium option for big celebrations or a statement day.

What's Usually Included
(and What's Not)

A fair quote should state clearly whether it covers captain, crew, fuel, the national park entrance fee, and dock fees — these are the line items cheap operators “forget” until you’re at the marina. Drinks, food, and beach-club access are typically arranged separately. Every boat we book comes with a transparent, all-in quote so there are no surprises at the dock.

What Drives the Cost Up or Down

Group size and boat choice are the biggest levers — a $1,200 catamaran split among 14 people is under $90 each. High season (mid-December through mid-January, Easter week, long weekends) pushes rates up and the best boats sell out, so book 3–4 weeks ahead in normal months and earlier for holidays.

Premium
Yachts

Sail along the stunning coastline of Cartagena and discover the Caribbean from a whole new perspective aboard our premium yachts. From vibrant daytime cruises to unforgettable sunset experiences, each experience is designed for comfort, style, and elevated moments at sea. Full-day yacht experiences start at $1,800 USD, while sunset tours begin at $1,000 USD offering the perfect setting for celebrations, group getaways, or simply enjoying the best of Cartagena in total luxury.

marlet_yacht_01.jpg
Marlet
82 Feet · 22 Guests
manhattan_yacht_08
Manhattan
64 Feet · 18 Guests
venecia_yacht_08-scaled.jpg
Venecia
62 Feet · 16 Guests
free_land_yacht_04
Free Land
55 Feet · 20 Guests
Benedetto
Benedetto
58 Feet · 15 Guests
palladium
Palladium
46 Feet · 15 Guests
taimados
Taimados
41 Feet · 12 Guests

Luxury
Catamarans

Experience the magic of Cartagena from a different angle as you glide across the Caribbean aboard our luxury catamarans. With spacious decks, smooth sailing, and panoramic ocean views, these charters are perfect for laid-back gatherings, island hopping, or vibrant celebrations under the sun. Full-day catamaran experiences start at $1,800 USD, while sunset tours begin at $800 USD offering an exclusive and effortless way to enjoy the sea in total comfort.

Boat Day - San Juan
San Juan
86 Feet · 180 Guests
maxicat_catamaran_02
Sailing Cat
65 Feet · 80 Guests
valhala_catamaran_08.jpg
Valhala
51 Feet · 35 Guests
big_bucks_edited_08.jpg
Big Bucks
51 Feet · 35 Guests
avalon one
Avalon One
48 Feet · 25 Guests
el_cielo_yacht_08.jpg
El Cielo
47 Feet · 25 Guests
hope_catamaran_08.jpg
Hope
47 Feet · 35 Guests
oddy_sea_yacht_12.jpg
Baru Cruiser
43 Feet · 25 Guests
XEM3
Xem 3
39 Feet · 18 Guests

Epic
Speedboats

Feel the rush of the Caribbean as you explore Cartagena’s crystal-clear waters aboard your own private speedboat. Perfect for island hopping, beach club stops, or spontaneous adventures with friends, these experiences combine flexibility, privacy, and pure excitement on the sea. Full-day speedboat experiences start at $500 USD, while sunset tours begin at $300 USD offering an unforgettable way to discover the coastline at your own pace.

Siamolupi
Siamolupi
44 Feet · 20 Guests
vicky
Vicky
42 Feet · 28 Guests
harb
Harb
42 Feet · 22 Guests
speedboat_valentina.jpg
Valentina IV
38 Feet · 18 Guests
lancha cholon
Lancha Cholon
38 Feet · 18 Guests
avalon two
Avalon Two
38 Feet · 16 Guests
todomar_speedboat_18.jpg
Todomar
38 Feet · 15 Guests
la_piscina_speedboat_07.jpg
La Piscina
38 Feet · 10 Guests
piscina 2
La Piscina II
34 Feet · 14 Guests
the_one_speedboat_04.jpg
The One
29 Feet · 10 Guests
Radiante
Radiante
28 Feet · 10 Guests

What Clients Are Saying About Their Boat Experience

Take the
Experience Further

Frequently
Asked Questions

It depends on the vessel — speedboats typically take 8–12, catamarans 15–30, and larger yachts more. We match the boat to your group size and the kind of day you want.

Usually arranged separately so you can choose your level. We can stock the boat with drinks and ice, arrange catering or a beach-club lunch, and handle everything before you board.

Both are possible in one day. Cholón is the lively, social option; the Rosarios and Barú offer calmer swimming and beach time. We build the route around what your group wants.

The Rosario Islands sit inside a national park with an entrance fee. We include it in your quote up front so there’s nothing unexpected at the dock.

December through April is driest and most popular. May, June, October, and November are quieter and cheaper with occasional rain. Mornings are calmest year-round.

Build Your Boat Day

Build Your Boat Day