Explore Cartagena, The Rosario Islands, Isla Grande and Cholon

Private Boat Rental Cartagena

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 a boat rental Cartagena the right way.

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.

Yachts

Catamarans

Speedboats

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.

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.

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.

Our Cartagena Boat Rentals Reviews

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   Brittany Mi'Chelle 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We stayed at this villa for my bachelorette trip and we had an amazing time! It was 8 women in a 10 bedroom house so we all had more than enough room. Our hosts were amazing from beginning to end. The communication, the clarity , the flexibility in accommodating us was perfect. The location of this villa is amazing as well. We were walking distance from most of the places we visited. Breakfast was great every morning. There was a water issue our last night there, but it affected all of Cartagena and was at no fault of our guests.  I will say be prepared to walk flights of stairs as the villa is 3 stories. But it was all great!
  
 
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   Tania 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We used the Two Travel team for our family trip to Colombia. We visited 3 cities in 15 days and they were incredible with villa booking, services, reservations, last minute changes and everything in between! We were 15 people traveling from 4 to 74 years old so accommodating everyone’s needs wasn’t easy but having the team helping us daily was a big help! Highly recommend Ray and his team.
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was our first time using a concierge service, and Two Travel completely exceeded our expectations! Everything we asked for, they delivered. Like any trip, we had a couple of hiccups along the way, but what impressed us most was how quickly they handled everything.

A huge shoutout to Carolina Lopez in Cartagena — she was amazing! She would respond within minutes, immediately address any issue, and accommodate last-minute changes or new plans on the spot. We felt safe and taken care of throughout the entire trip, which allowed us to simply relax and enjoy Colombia.

Definitely an awesome experience, and we would absolutely use Two Travel again. Highly recommended!
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stayed in Medellin at an amazing, clean, and well managed Airbnb by Two Travel. Daniela was our host and she was the BEST! She gave us the best recommendations for restaurants and sight seeing. She also arranged everything so all we had to do was show up! Will definitely be booking again! 5 stars!!
  
 
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   Gabe Cadet 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had an amazing time in Cartagena with Two Travel.  They provided an incredible concierge service. Their team was fully attentive, considerate and adaptable to all our needs. The planning and execution was flawless. Would highly recommend!!!
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing team to work with! Ray, Daniela, and the rest of the team were amazing and made our trip planning and itinerary easy for us. Would highly recommend booking with this team.
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Two Travel helped me and a few friends plan a Medellin and Cartagena trip and it was a flawless experience. They handpicked Airbnbs, the excursions that we requested, and every small detail that we didn’t think of, they did. I would highly recommend using their services and we plan to do so for any future trips that we plan!
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Medellin was an amazing and unforgettable experience. It was a great time, but Two Travel made it even better. There was so many beautiful scenic areas, amazing food, and fun activities that I have never knew about in Colombia. As well as for housing things, Two travel we're always very quick to respond when we needed provisions like water, soda, and other possible necessities. They gave great recommendations on places from fancy dining to delicious street food. As the night went on, they wanted to reassure us on how the night was going and I enjoy that they want to make sure we are having the greatest time possible. Each member of Two Travel was very helpful in every way, I couldn't be any more thankful for it. Our guide , Sol, for the hike to El Chorro de las Campanas was very helpful. And lastly, our butler, Sebastian was very helpful too as we needed a translator many times. Thank you TwoTravel!! Viva La Colombia!
  
 
  
  
 
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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.

Discovering Cartagena: Your Guide to Its Location in Colombia

Cartagena is a historic coastal city in northern Colombia, located in the Bolívar Department along the Caribbean Sea. Set almost entirely at sea level, the city spans peninsulas, bays, lagoons, and nearby islands, with its historic center positioned at the

Frequently
Asked Questions

How many people fit on a private boat in Cartagena?

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.

Are drinks and food included?

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.

Can we go to Cholón to party, or is it better for a quiet beach day?

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.

Do we need to pay the island/park fees separately?

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.

What's the best time of year for a boat day?

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.

Explore Cartagena, The Rosario Islands, Isla Grande and Cholon

Private Boat Rental Cartagena

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

Caribbean Getaways

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