A sail to Tayrona beats the usual beach rush. This day tour gives you Bahía Concha beach time plus the big payoff of seeing the coastline from a real sailboat, not just from a bus window. You’ll also get free snorkel gear and paddle boards, so the stop isn’t just sitting on sand.

What I like most is how you float into the day slowly, with views of Taganga and other coastal landmarks from the boat. The only real drawback to plan for is that the ride can be choppy in the beginning, and if you’re sensitive to motion sickness, you’ll want to take it seriously.

Key things to know before you go

• Bahía Concha is the main event: you anchor there and spend your beach time at one of Tayrona’s standout stretches.
• You sail as much as conditions allow: the trip back can include wind-driven sailing when it’s possible.
• Snorkel and SUP are included: you don’t have to scramble for rentals once you’re on the water.
• You pass a lot, but don’t stop: the outbound route gives coast views from aboard, with no extra landing stops.
• Sun is your real enemy: it’s easy to get a lot of exposure before lunch if you don’t bring shade and protection.
• Expect a simple beach setup: beach chairs cost extra, and the beach can vary in crowding day to day.

Santa Marta’s coastline looks different from a sailboat

Santa Marta has two personalities: the city bustle on shore, and then that long, dramatic coast as soon as you hit the water. This tour is built around that second personality. Instead of rushing straight to sand, you head out by boat and let the scenery roll past—especially as you approach the Tayrona side.

The sailboat part matters. When you’re moving under sail (even partially), you feel it in your body: slower pace, quieter rhythm, and more time to scan the horizon. That’s the whole point of doing Tayrona by boat, not just by transport.

Getting to Tayrona: timing, route, and what the views add up to

You meet at the charter dock inside Marina Internacional de Santa Marta. The check-in is at the dock area, and staff will look for you near the building just past the Caribbean Team Restaurant. The boat is identified as Sonata—so once you’re in the right spot, you can find the waiting area fast.

Departure is scheduled for a 9:30am meet-up, and boats can share the same dock area so you may wait a bit for your group to board. By around 10:00am, the boat motors out and heads upwind, with arrival at Bahía Concha typically around 11:30am.

On the way there, you’ll enjoy distance views from aboard—passing Taganga Bay, Granate Bay, and Aguja Island without stopping. That’s a smart use of time: you get the “coast postcard” moments while still saving most of your day for the beach and water activities.

Bahía Concha: the beach day you came for

Once you reach Bahía Concha, the boat anchors. This is when the day turns from sightseeing to water time.

You can hang out on board first—often a nice option if you want to cool off or just enjoy the shade where it exists. When it’s time to get to shore, you can swim in, or you may be taken with the auxiliary boat (depending on how things are operating that day).

What makes this stop worth your time

Bahía Concha is known for clear water and a classic Tayrona beach look—white sand, bright turquoise tones, and that “why are we still land-locked?” feeling. I like the way the tour structures the day so you get both:

• a view from the water, then
• actual time in the water and on the beach

You’ll also have access to the included paddle boards and snorkel equipment. If you want a simple plan, do this: paddle for a bit, snorkel for a bit, then come back to the beach for lunch and downtime.

A crowd check you should assume

Even when the anchoring and setup feel calm, you’re still going to a beach that other boats also visit. In practice, that can mean the beach feels busy in some areas. The good news is that you’re not stuck on one single crowded spot for the entire day—you have time to move around, choose where to relax, and use the water as a “reset.”

Lunch on board: included, timed well, and still worth it

Lunch arrives about 90 minutes after you reach Bahía Concha. It’s included, and the standard menu is grilled fish with rice salad and plantains. There’s also a chicken option and a vegetarian option if you indicate it after booking.

This is one of the key value points of the tour. A lot of beach days in the region make you choose between overpriced lunch or “survive on snacks.” Here, you get a real meal built into the schedule, which means you can stop thinking about food and focus on beach time.

One practical note: there’s no outside food or beverage allowed into the marina. So if you’re the type who likes to carry snacks, you’ll want to adjust and rely on what’s provided or buy what you need once you’re allowed in the marina area or on board.

Outbound ride conditions: what to expect and how to stay comfortable

Here’s the thing: the outward trip can start with rougher water. Some days have big waves and a feeling of motion that can be intense right at the start—especially if you’re going against wind at certain points of the route.

So if you’re prone to seasickness, don’t treat this like a casual note. Take precautions. Motion sickness tablets can help, and it’s smart to plan for being on a boat in real sea conditions, not a calm-lake vibe.

Also, plan for sun. People often forget that the ride itself is time outside. By the time you reach the beach, you might already have a sun “head start,” especially if you’re hanging around the deck.

Return sail to Santa Marta: genoa sailing and that famous sunset

You’re back on board around 3:30pm, then the return starts. The route is set to return to the marina between 4:30pm and 5:00pm. If wind conditions cooperate, you may feel actual sailing with the genua only—meaning it can feel a bit more “sailboat” than “engine and done.”

This matters because the return can be the smoother part of the day for some people. Even when the outbound water feels rough, the ride back often improves enough that you’re more comfortable enjoying the coast again.

Then comes the payoff: Santa Marta’s sunset. You’ll be back close enough to shore to enjoy that golden-hour moment without needing a second plan for transport.

Price and value: is $64 worth it in real terms?

At $64 per person for a roughly 7.5-hour day, the headline price is clear. The value comes from what’s included and what isn’t.

What’s included

• Marina entry
• Insurance
• Lunch (with fish/chicken/vegetarian choices)
• 1 beverage
• Snorkel gear and paddle boards

That bundle is what makes the day feel like a “complete product.” You’re not paying for a boat ride and then discovering you still have to rent equipment, buy food, and figure out the rest.

What costs extra (and you should budget)

• Beach chairs (often around $2 to $3)
• Wi-Fi on board (around $4 to $5)
• Additional beverages (commonly in the $3 to $8 range)

If you’re the kind of person who wants shade and a proper chair setup, that extra cost adds up. If you don’t mind sitting on your towel or using shade that’s naturally available, you can keep the day close to the base price.

A caution on beach purchases

If you decide to buy from beach vendors, ask the price first. It’s easy to get pulled into buying on location without realizing the cost, and small miscommunications can get expensive fast.

Practical tips that make the day smoother

A great day at Tayrona is often about avoiding small hassles. Here are the ones that actually matter:

• Bring sunscreen and a hat. The sun hits early, and you’re outside during the boat ride.
• Plan for choppy water. If you get queasy, prepare before you leave shore.
• Consider basic Spanish. Staff may be Spanish or English-speaking, and some crew members may know limited English—getting a few basics can help you relax faster.
• Carry cash for beach purchases. Card machines can charge extra in some cases, so cash is safer.
• Know that chairs aren’t included. If you want a more comfortable beach base, budget for them.
• Use the water activities wisely. Snorkel gear and SUP are available, so don’t spend the beach day only walking around dry land.

One weird-but-important note: the onboard bathroom has been reported to discharge directly into the water. If you’re the type who likes to swim right beside the boat while anchored, you may want to hang back a bit from the stern area.

When Tayrona closes: what changes to protect your day

Tayrona Park doesn’t stay open year-round in the same way. During closures—listed for Feb 1–15, June 1–15, and Oct 19–Sep 3—the plan shifts so you still get nature time.

In those windows, you’ll visit nearby options: Taganga half day and Inca Inca half day instead of Tayrona access.

Also, if weather or maritime authorities restrict access and sailing is affected, the tour may visit authorized nearby bays. Refunds are only issued if all sailing is restricted, so it’s smart to understand that changes are usually “route adjustment,” not automatic cancellation.

Who this sailboat day trip suits best

This is a good match if you want:

• a beach day with time in the water, not just a drive-and-drop
• the chance to see the coast from a boat
• a schedule that includes a real meal

It’s less ideal if:

• you have mobility impairments (the tour isn’t suitable for that)
• you’re prone to seasickness (boat conditions can be rough)

Also, it’s set up as a day tour with on-water activities, so it won’t feel like the right fit if you’re looking for a gentle, fully land-based plan.

Should you book this Santa Marta sailboat day to Tayrona?

If you’re choosing between another Tayrona day trip and doing it by sailboat, I’d lean toward this one if your priorities are water time, views, and a smoother “vacation flow.” The included lunch and the included snorkel/SUP gear make the price feel more honest than many beach tours that nickel-and-dime you once you arrive.

I would book it with confidence if:

• you’re okay with boat time in open water
• you want Bahía Concha as the main beach stop
• you want a plan that covers food and equipment without extra hassle

I’d hesitate if you know you get sick on boats, or if you’re hoping for a calm, glassy ride with lots of onboard downtime in the shade.

If you’re flexible, pack for sun and motion, and you’ll likely come away thinking this was a very smart way to do Tayrona—by sea, not just by shore.

FAQ

What time do I meet, and where?

You meet at the charter dock at Marina Internacional de Santa Marta at 9:30am, and you should head to the building just past the Caribbean Team Restaurant. Ask for the Sonata Boat staff to greet you and direct you to the waiting area.

How long is the tour?

The duration is 450 minutes (about 7.5 hours).

What does the tour include?

It includes marina entry, insurance, lunch (fish with rice salad and plantains, with chicken or vegetarian options available if requested after booking), 1 beverage, and the use of paddle boards and snorkeling equipment.

Are beach chairs included?

No. Beach chairs are not included and are typically around $2 to $3.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available on board for about $4 to $5.

When does Tayrona Park close, and what happens then?

Tayrona Park closure dates listed are Feb 1–15, June 1–15, and Oct 19–Sep 3. During those dates, the tour visits Taganga half day and Inca Inca half day instead.

What if the sea is rough or maritime authorities restrict sailing?

If authorities restrict Tayrona access due to weather, the tour visits authorized nearby bays. A refund is only provided if all sailing is restricted.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

No. It’s not suitable for mobility impairments and isn’t recommended for people prone to seasickness. Smoking is also not allowed, and unaccompanied minors are not allowed.