Cartagena to a Caribbean island in one morning. Isla del Encanto sits in the Corales del Rosario Natural Park, with clear water and a long stretch of sand. I like that the plan is straightforward: speedboat out, island time, then back to town the same day.

Two things I really enjoy about this day: you get time in both the sea and the pool, and there’s kayaking included so you’re not stuck only lying still. The island setup also makes it easy to go at your pace, whether you want a bit of structure or just want to roam.

One thing to think about: the day depends on water and timing. If seas get choppy, the boat ride can feel rough, and some island extras can add up—so bring essentials like towels and a little cash-ready mindset.

Key things to know before you go

• Corales del Rosario Natural Park: this is a protected-area kind of beach day, not just a random shoreline stop
• Sea + pool time: you can cool off two ways, even if the water mood changes
• Kayaking included: you get an activity slot without paying separately
• Oceanario is optional: plan for extra fees if you add the 1-hour animal show
• Short trip from Cartagena: about 60 minutes each way by speedboat
• Max group size 40: small enough to feel manageable on a full-day schedule

Isla del Encanto in the Rosario Islands: what makes the day work

This is a classic Cartagena escape: you leave the city early, trade heat and streets for salt air, and spend the core of the day on a private-feeling island property. Isla del Encanto is in the Corales del Rosario Natural Park, which matters because it helps explain the clear water and that “is this really near Cartagena?” feeling.

The island itself is built for a full-day beach routine. You’ll have access to loungers and beach beds, plus a pool. That mix is handy. Some days you’ll want to float in the Caribbean; other times you’ll be thankful for the pool right there when you’re ready to rest without trekking.

You’re also not stuck doing one thing. With kayaking included, you can switch from “sun and shade” to “move and explore” without paying for a separate activity slot.

Getting there from Cartagena: Muelle de la Bodeguita logistics

You start at Muelle de la Bodeguita (Blas de Lezo, El Centro), with a start time of 8:00 am. The tour begins at gate 3 of the pier, and then you head to the Rosario Islands in a speedboat. The ride is about 60 minutes each way.

That 8:00 am start is not random. It’s there to give you real beach hours, not just a quick photo stop. If you tend to run late, aim to arrive earlier than you think. At the pier, details like the right gate and boarding flow can make or break a smooth start.

Also, go in knowing this is a boat day. One review mentioned choppy tides that made the ride feel rough and even led to the boat hitting hard in the front. If you’re sensitive to motion or seas, pack something for that and keep your expectations realistic.

Stop 1: Islas de Rosario at Isla del Encanto, your day on the sand

Once you disembark at the Isla del Encanto hotel, you can start your island time either freely or with guidance. That choice is useful. If you like wandering, you can head straight for the water. If you prefer a clearer plan, you can follow the offered structure.

The water is a big draw here. You’re in the protected Corales del Rosario Natural Park, and the day is built around swimming time—plus time in the pool. The sand area is described as having more than 300 meters of sand, which means you’re not shoulder-to-shoulder the whole day.

Beach beds, hammocks, and shade you can actually use

The included setup is practical: sun loungers, beach beds, and access to the pool. Reviews praise the “very private” vibe of the beach area when everything is running smoothly, which is exactly what you want from an island day. You’ll also find loungers and hammocks where you can slow down.

My advice: treat shade like a resource, not an afterthought. Claim a spot early if you can, especially if you’ll be out in the sun for long stretches.

Kayaking included: a change of pace that feels worth it

Kayaking is included, and that’s one of the best value points in the whole package. A lot of island tours boil down to swim, eat, repeat. Kayaking adds a different kind of effort—and it breaks up the day so it feels less like one long lounge session.

Even if you’re not a “real outdoors” person, you’ll probably enjoy it more than you expect because it gets you moving on the water without leaving the property. It’s also a good way to burn off some of that island energy before lunch.

Lunch on the island: buffet basics and how to make it better

At lunchtime, you’ll have a typical buffet-style meal included. That’s great for convenience. You don’t need to hunt, negotiate, or pay extra just to eat.

That said, island buffets can vary in quality and selection. One person felt the food was a cheap buffet and didn’t match the price, while another described it as exceptional. Translation: the lunch is fine as included convenience, but if you’re a picky eater, don’t expect a gourmet spread.

How to handle it:

• Go back for seconds only if you truly like what’s in front of you.
• Drink water early and often; beach days sneak up on you.
• If you have dietary needs, you may want to eat before you’re fully sun-tired, since your options later might feel less appealing.

The optional Oceanario stop: add animals or keep your day simple

In the afternoon, there’s an optional visit to the Oceanario. It lasts about 1 hour.

What you’ll see (based on the information provided): dolphins, turtles, rays, cat sharks, and more. If animal life is a priority for you, this can add a structured hour between beach time and the return boat.

The cost is where you need to plan:

• Oceanario entrance: 30,000 COP per person
• Oceanario boarding fee: 20,000 COP per person

So the Oceanario isn’t bundled into the base price in the way lunch and kayaking are. You’ll want to decide based on your own priorities. If your heart is on the beach, skipping the Oceanario keeps the day calmer and keeps more time for swimming, resting, or just doing nothing.

Price and value: what $158 covers (and the fees you’ll likely pay)

The listed price is $158.00 per person for about 8 hours total. For a full-day island outing that includes speedboat transportation, lunch, kayaking, and loungers/bed access, it can be solid value.

Here’s the breakdown of what’s stated as included versus not included:

Included

• Lunch
• Speedboat transportation
• Sun loungers, beach beds, and pool access
• Kayaking

Not included

• Boarding tax: 31,500 COP per person
• Oceanario entrance: 30,000 COP per person (optional)
• Oceanario boarding fee: 20,000 COP per person (optional)

Also, the info notes admission ticket for the island is free. In practice, that still doesn’t remove the boarding tax that’s listed as separate.

My take on value: if you’ll use the beach setup and actually do the included kayaking, the day feels more like a package than just transportation. If you only want a quick dip and aren’t interested in pool/loungers/kayaking, you may feel it’s expensive—especially once you factor in separate fees.

Scheduling and pacing: how the full day actually feels

You’re on the water early, then you’re released onto the island. The day is designed so you get the bulk of island time before heading back. In the afternoon, you return directly to Cartagena to the Bodeguita pier.

That pacing is ideal for people who want a real island break but don’t want an overnight stay. It’s also good for couples and families looking for a “one day, one place” plan.

One consideration: because this is a speedboat day, weather and sea state matter. If conditions are poor, the experience may be canceled and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s good safety planning. It also means you should treat your schedule flexibly.

What to pack (so you don’t get surprised on the island)

The information provided doesn’t list a towel rental fee, but one review included a very practical tip: bring your own towels, because the island charges for things.

So I’d pack:

• A towel (or two if you prefer options)
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Motion-sickness support if you get queasy on boats
• A small amount of cash or card backup for the boarding tax and any optional add-ons

If you’re the type who hates paying for small conveniences mid-day, you’ll likely appreciate going prepared. A beach day is easy when you’re not constantly stopping for essentials.

Who should book this Isla del Encanto day trip?

This tour makes the most sense if you want:

• A beach-forward day with minimal decision-making
• Included activities that go beyond just swimming
• A stress-free way to get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena in one day

It’s a strong fit for couples and families, especially if you like the idea of a calm island rhythm: swim, rest, pool time, then eat and go back. The max group size of 40 also keeps it from feeling like a chaotic mob.

Skip or think twice if:

• You know you dislike speedboat rides in choppy water
• You want a highly curated “adventure” packed day with no downtime (the beach setup is the point here)
• You’re extremely sensitive to extra charges on-site and would rather have everything fully all-inclusive

Should you book the Full Day Isla del Encanto – Rosario Islands?

I’d book it if you’re after a straightforward Caribbean island day from Cartagena, with real time on sand, a pool, and a built-in activity (kayaking) that makes the hours feel worth it. The value holds best when you’ll actually use the included beach setup and enjoy a relaxed pace.

I would hesitate if you’re expecting a high-energy, constant-motion adventure, or if you’d feel annoyed by the fact that Oceanario costs extra and that you’ll likely pay the boarding tax. For a smooth experience, show up early at the pier, bring what you need (especially towels), and be ready for the boat ride to depend on sea conditions.

If that sounds like your kind of day, Isla del Encanto is the kind of trip that leaves you with the simple, best souvenir: a head full of sun and water, and a schedule that gets you back to Cartagena the same day.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?

It starts at 8:00 am.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is Muelle de la Bodeguita, Blas de Lezo, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia. It begins at gate 3.

How long is the full-day experience?

It runs for about 8 hours (approx.).

What is included in the price?

Lunch, speedboat transportation, sun loungers and beach beds, pool access, and kayaking are included.

What is not included?

You’ll need to pay a boarding tax of COP 31,500 per person. Oceanario entrance (COP 30,000 per person) and the Oceanario boarding fee (COP 20,000 per person) are also not included and apply only if you add the Oceanario stop.

Is the Oceanario included?

No. The Oceanario visit is optional.

How long is the Oceanario visit if I choose it?

The Oceanario visit is about 1 hour.

Is there a chance the tour gets canceled for weather?

Yes. The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How big is the group?

The maximum group size is 40 travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.