A calm island day starts with one fast ride. This full-day trip to Isla del Encanto in the Corales del Rosario Natural Park is built around clear-water beach time, plus pool loungers and hammocks in a setting that feels quiet compared to Cartagena’s hustle. Two things I like a lot: the simple rhythm of the day (you’re on the water early) and the included kayaking that gives you more than just towel-and-sun time.

I also like how the day is structured for comfort: speedboat transport, beach beds, and a typical buffet-style lunch so you don’t have to plan meals. One drawback to keep in mind is that costs can climb with add-ons and island-on-the-spot purchases, and the pier/boarding flow can be a bit messy when crowds hit.

Key takeaways before you go

• Crystal-clear beach time in Corales del Rosario Natural Park with plenty of sand hours to actually relax
• Pool plus hammocks plus loungers means you can switch up your pace without leaving the property
• Kayaking is included, so you get one active block without hunting for rentals
• Oceanario is optional and costs extra, with species like dolphins, turtles, rays, and cat sharks
• Budget for extra fees like boarding tax and Oceanario boarding fees if you add the attraction
• Arrive early because accessing the pier and boarding can be awkward at gate-level

Why Isla del Encanto is a calmer day trip from Cartagena

Cartagena is all energy—music, colors, and crowds—but this day trip is designed for the opposite mood. You head out to an island in the Corales del Rosario Natural Park, where the water is the main headline. Even with a full-day schedule, the vibe stays beach-first: you’re not rushing from sight to sight.

I like that the experience is built around “stay put and enjoy” time. Once you get to Isla del Encanto (at the hotel area), you can tour the island freely or go guided, then spend the afternoon switching between sea dips, the pool, and shaded rest spots like loungers and hammocks.

If you want a busy, adventure-packed itinerary, this is more “easy island day” than “hardcore thrill day.” One person’s word for it was that it’s not so great if you’re chasing an adventure; the schedule is more relaxation than adrenaline.

Price and what you truly get for $158

At $158 per person, you’re paying for a full-day package that covers the big ticket items you’d otherwise assemble yourself: speedboat transport, lunch, beach setup, and kayaking. You also get access to the island portion with admission ticket free for the Isla del Encanto side.

Here’s where value can shift depending on what you do. The tour price does not include the boarding-related fees and taxes you’ll see on the day, plus Oceanario if you add it.

From the provided details, these are the common extras:

• Boarding tax: COP 31,500 per person
• If you choose the Oceanario:
• Oceanarium entrance: COP 30,000 per person
• Oceanarium boarding fee: COP 20,000 per person

So if you’re planning to do the Oceanario, do the math before booking. If you skip it, the package looks more straightforward: beach, pool, lunch, loungers, and kayaking all included.

Also keep expectations realistic about the meal. The lunch is a typical buffet-style setup. In practice, that can mean “great and filling” for some days and “just okay” for others, depending on what you compare it to.

Morning start at Muelle de la Bodeguita: timing and pier setup

Your day begins at Muelle de la Bodeguita in Cartagena (Blas de Lezo, El Centro). The start time is 8:00 am, and the tour runs for about 8 hours total.

The departure point matters. The plan calls for you to enter at Gate 3 of the pier. Based on real-world experience, this is one spot where things can feel chaotic when there’s a line or confusion about which gate is correct. If you want a smoother start, show up early enough that you’re not stressed when crowds funnel toward boarding.

Once you’re on the speedboat, you’re looking at about 60 minutes out to the Corales del Rosario area. The boat isn’t just a transfer here—it’s your “you’re really leaving Cartagena” moment. Still, the return ride can be rougher depending on sea conditions, which brings me to the next practical point.

Group size is capped at 40 travelers, which helps. You won’t be swallowed by a mega-bus crowd, and it tends to make the day feel more personal once you reach the island.

Corales del Rosario: the beach, pool, hammocks, and kayaking

Isla del Encanto is described as having more than 300 meters of sand, which is a big deal for how relaxing the beach time feels. When there’s space, you’re not forced into one tight strip where everyone crowds the waterline.

After you arrive, disembarkation takes place at the Isla del Encanto hotel. From there, you can start your island time right away—either freely or with a guide. That flexibility is useful. If you’re the type who likes to wander, you can. If you prefer a clearer path, guided time can get you oriented fast.

The included beach setup is also a strong point. You get sun loungers, beach beds, and pool access, plus hammocks mentioned as part of the comfort options. This matters because you’re not just paying for scenery; you’re paying for “where do I sit and shade?” solved for you.

Then there’s kayaking, which is included. This is one of the best “value multipliers” in the package because it adds active water time without extra rental fees. If you’re the kind of traveler who feels bored after two hours of floating, kayaking gives you a reason to stay out longer.

Lunch on the island: buffet style, comfort, and towel tips

Lunch happens around midday on the island. It’s a typical buffet-style meal, and it’s included in the price. One strong theme from the experience is that the food can be genuinely good—people describe it as exceptional—while another view says it’s cheap and buffet-like.

The honest take: buffet lunch means variety, not gourmet. You should treat it as “simple fuel for a beach day.” You’re paying for island time, not a fine-dining experience.

One practical tip I’d follow is about towels. On the island, there can be attempts to charge for things people assume are free. To avoid the hassle and extra cost, bring your own towels. It’s a small thing that can save you both money and time.

Also plan your day around comfort. After lunch, you’ll usually want to move into your afternoon rhythm: sea dips, pool time, shade under a hammock, then back to sand. The whole setup is built to let you do that without leaving the property.

Optional Oceanario: what you see and when it’s worth the extra money

The tour includes a chance to visit an Oceanario, but it’s optional. The entrance costs COP 30,000 per person, and there’s also an Oceanario boarding fee listed separately at COP 20,000 per person.

What you’re likely to see is clearly stated: dolphins, turtles, rays, cat sharks, and more. If animal viewing is part of your travel “must do,” adding this can make the day feel more complete than just a beach outing.

But it’s optional for a reason. If your goal is a quiet, beach-first day, the Oceanario adds time and extra costs. You may also want to think about whether you’ll enjoy it as a standalone experience or whether you’ll regret losing more beach hours.

My rule: if you’re excited by the animals listed and you’re okay paying the extra fees, do it. If you’d rather spend every minute in the water and on loungers, skip it and use the time to enjoy the included beach-and-pool setup again.

Return boat ride: choppy water happens, so plan for it

After your island afternoon, you go back to Cartagena directly to the Bodeguita pier. The return timing depends on day conditions, but your full day clocks in around 8 hours.

One detail you should take seriously: the boat ride back can be choppy, and the boat can hit harder in the front when waves are up. That’s not a reason to panic, just a reason to be prepared. If you’re sensitive to motion or you hate the stress of bouncing rides, consider that before you book.

Practical mindset: treat the boat like a necessary ride, not a scenic cruise. Your “win” is the island time, not the wave drama.

Who this tour fits best (and who may want a different style)

This is a great fit if you want:

• A quiet island day from Cartagena with lots of sand and space
• A comfortable package where beach beds, pool time, and lunch are handled
• A mix of relaxation and one included activity (kayaking)
• Something suitable for couples or families who want easy logistics

It’s also a good choice if you’re okay with buffet lunch and you don’t need every minute to be a big “adventure story.”

It may be less satisfying if:

• You want something more thrilling or fast-moving
• You dislike any extra on-the-spot charges and want everything fully included
• You’re the kind of traveler who hates pier crowds and gate confusion
• You’re expecting a “no hassles” boarding flow from start to finish

One person said the tour was highly recommended for organization and a very private beach feel. Another person called it unorganized at the gate and pier. That tells me the experience can vary with crowd levels and day-of logistics. If you show up early and keep your expectations grounded, you’re likely to have a smoother day.

Should you book Isla del Encanto full day?

I’d book it if your top priority is real beach time with comfort built in: loungers, pool access, hammocks, and a long window to enjoy the Corales del Rosario setting. The included kayaking is also a meaningful plus for value, not just a checkbox.

I wouldn’t book it if your ideal day is tightly packed adventure, or if you’re very sensitive to choppy boat rides and you hate the idea of additional fees like boarding taxes and optional Oceanario costs.

The decision comes down to your travel style. If you want a relaxed island break that feels like a private-leaning escape from Cartagena for most of the day, this is a solid pick.

FAQ

What time does the Isla del Encanto tour start?

The tour starts at 8:00 am.

Where is the meeting point?

You meet at Muelle de la Bodeguita in Cartagena (Blas de Lezo, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia).

How long is the full-day experience?

The duration is listed as about 8 hours.

Is the Isla del Encanto admission included?

Yes. The island admission is listed as free for the experience.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are lunch, speedboat transportation, sun loungers/beach beds and pool, and kayaking.

What are the extra costs besides the tour price?

You’ll need to budget for boarding tax (COP 31,500 per person). If you add the Oceanario, the Oceanarium entrance (COP 30,000 per person) and an Oceanarium boarding fee (COP 20,000 per person) are not included.

Is the Oceanario visit included?

No, the Oceanario visit is optional. Entrance has an extra cost.

How many people are in the group?

The tour has a maximum of 40 travelers.

What happens if the weather is bad?

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