Cartagena Yacht Rental & Rosario Islands Guide

A private boat day is one of the best experiences you can add to a Cartagena trip. The Rosario Islands are close enough for a full-day charter, and going privately gives your group control over the boat, pace and stops.

The main decision is not simply "which yacht looks best?" The right choice depends on your group size, the type of day you want and how much space you need.

Why Go Private?

A private charter gives you the boat for your group instead of joining a shared tour.

That means more flexibility with your route, music, lunch plans and how long you spend at each stop. It is especially useful for couples, families, bachelor groups and larger groups that want privacy and a smoother day.

You can see our current Cartagena yacht fleet and catamarans and powercats.

Yacht, Catamaran or Powercat?

Each works better for a different type of group.

Motor yacht

A motor yacht is usually the best fit if you want a premium boat, faster cruising, sunbathing areas and comfortable indoor spaces.

They work very well for couples and small-to-medium groups. Larger yachts can also handle bigger private groups.

Sailing catamaran

A sailing catamaran has a wider layout and more open social space. The two-hull design also makes it a comfortable option for groups that prefer a relaxed day on the water.

It is a good choice for families, celebrations and groups that care more about space than speed.

Powercat

A powercat combines the wide layout of a catamaran with motor power.

This is one of the strongest options for larger groups because you normally get more usable social space and good stability without giving up too much speed.

How to Choose the Right Boat

Start with the number of guests.

Do not choose only by the maximum capacity. A boat that technically fits the group may still feel tight if everyone wants space to sit, eat, move around and enjoy the deck.

Then think about the type of day you want:

• Couples or small groups: a smaller premium yacht can be enough
• Families: prioritize shade, bathrooms, easy movement and comfortable seating
• Bachelor or birthday groups: prioritize social space, sound system and deck layout
• Large groups: catamarans and powercats are often more practical
• Premium experience: focus on overall condition, layout, crew and service, not only boat length

What Does a Rosario Islands Day Look Like?

Most private charters leave Cartagena in the morning and spend the day between the Rosario Islands, Barú and other stops selected around your plans and sea conditions.

The Rosario Islands are part of the Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo National Natural Park, a protected marine area with coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangroves.

A typical day may include a swimming stop, time near an island or beach club, lunch and another stop before returning to Cartagena.

The exact route should never be treated as guaranteed. Weather, wind, sea conditions, park rules and the captain's judgment can change the plan.

Rosario Islands, Barú or Cholón?

These names are often grouped together, but they offer different experiences.

Rosario Islands

Best if your priority is Caribbean water, island scenery, swimming and a more complete boat day.

Barú

Barú is a larger island area south of Cartagena. Some charters include stops near beach clubs or restaurants depending on the route and conditions.

Cholón

Cholón is known for a more social and party-focused atmosphere. It can work well for groups looking for music and energy, but it is not the right choice for everyone.

For families, couples or travelers who want a quieter day, we usually plan the route differently.

What Should Be Included?

Inclusions vary by vessel, so confirm them before paying.

The main points to check are:

• Captain and crew
• Fuel and route limits
• Ice and basic refreshments
• Towels
• Sound system
• Snorkeling equipment, if offered
• Marina or park fees
• Lunch or restaurant reservations
• Extra crew or service staff
• Pickup and transportation to the marina

A lower charter price is not always a better deal if several important costs are added later.

Can You Have a Private Chef on the Yacht?

Yes, on selected boats.

The setup depends on the yacht's galley, equipment, route and charter rules. Some meals can be prepared onboard, while others are prepared in advance and finished or served on the yacht.

For a more complete setup, see our private chef service in Cartagena.

What Time Should You Leave?

Earlier is better.

Leaving in the morning gives you more time in the islands and more flexibility if conditions change later in the day. Official park guidance also places boat departures in the morning, while return timing depends on maritime authority guidance and sea conditions.

For private charters, your exact meeting time and marina are confirmed with the specific vessel.

What About Sea Conditions?

Cartagena is a Caribbean destination, so conditions can change.

Wind and waves can affect comfort, route and return time. The captain always has the final call on navigation and safety.

If anyone in the group gets seasick easily, tell us before choosing the boat. Vessel type, seating, route and weather can all make a difference.

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

For normal weekdays, there can be good availability if your group is flexible.

For weekends, holidays, bachelor trips and larger premium yachts, book earlier. The best boats for specific group sizes are usually the first ones to go.

December through the first months of the year are generally drier in the Rosario Islands area, but Cartagena can be visited year-round.

Our Recommendation

Choose the boat based on your group, not only the photos.

A good charter should have the right amount of space, the right crew and a route that matches the kind of day you actually want.

If you send us your date, group size and whether you want a relaxed, family, party or premium day, we can narrow the fleet to the boats that make the most sense.