The 10 Best Cartagena Bolivar Sailboat Rentals & Charters

Smart booking starts with a renter checklist: confirm a crewed catamaran, fuel, port fees, and a lunch option. For your group, pick a vessel with a steady captain and experienced crew; this keeps the itinerary tight, especially when weather shifts occur.

Typical half-day voyages run about 4 hours; full-day trips extend to 6–8 hours with optional add-ons such as stand-up paddleboards. Look for a flexible deal policy and a clear provisioning option, so you know who has responsibility for lunch and drinks. If your home base is cartagena, secure dates early to minimize conflicts during peak season.

Onboard lunch offerings vary, from light bites to full-service meals. Confirm whether the crew handles provisioning or you should supply provisions, and specify dietary restrictions ahead so you have choices you like. This luxury setup hinges on clear expectations and timely service.

Weather updates are shared by the captain and supported by the crew; expect flexible routing to maximize calm seas and scenery you like. For a memorable day, craft a classic plan: snorkel stop, beach visit, sail along the skyline, then return before dusk. Your home port orientation helps the captain tailor the route to your pace and interests.

Before booking, prepare a concise list of questions: vessel age, maintenance history, insurance, crew qualifications, and what is included for the day. A transparent listing helps you compare options and avoid surprises for your cartagena itinerary, especially when you weigh catamaran comfort against yachts.

When you manage details, confirm cancellation terms, rain policy, and contingency routes. Opt for a listing that clearly states port of departure, equipment quality, and a reliable captain ready to adapt to winds. With this approach, a sailboat experience on a catamaran becomes a premier way to explore the coast with your group and savor a memorable lunch.

Cartagena Bolivar Sailboat Rentals & Charters Guide

Recommendation: pick a large, private sailing yacht with capacity for 8–12 guests and a deck setup that suits snorkeling and social lounging.

Personalize experiences by partnering with a superowner crew who can tailor routes, anchorages, and activities to guest interests, ensuring a great voyage.

Key features to verify before booking

• Skilled crew led by a seasoned captain, strong safety record, and positive guest reviews
• Open cockpit or shaded lounging areas that maximize comfort during day cruises
• Power options and electrical capacity for onboard appliances, fans, and lighting
• Snorkeling gear, depth finder, and safety equipment suitable for all swimmers
• Flexible itineraries with private bays, reef stops, and island visits

Experiences to offer for guests

• Amazing snorkeling trips with coral habitats and underwater life
• Sunset cruise along coastline with panoramic views
• Private sailing lessons for beginners as part of a tour
• Guided island hopping to discover hidden beaches and local culture

Booking tips to maximize value

1. Click vessel pages to compare layouts, capacities, and calendar availability
2. Have a clear deal: specify date range, provisioning preferences, and cancellation terms
3. Better values appear when you bundle activities such as snorkeling, fishing, or guided tours
4. Agree on pickup point, docking requirements, and safety briefing before departure
5. Open slots fill quickly; secure option as soon as you find a match

Which route fits your group hinges on weather windows, snorkeling spots, and island access.

From your location, coordinate with operators who offer conveyance to marina berths and pre-booked provisioning. This helps renters arrive ready to enjoy experiences, avoid delays, and have a smooth start to your private voyage.

To keep everything managed smoothly, discuss provisioning, scheduled activities, and onboard amenities in advance so you have clarity about what’s included and what’s optional for your private sailing adventure.

Section 1: Boat Features & Capacity

Booking a captained unit ensures safer handling, more room for a group, and better weather planning for a day on water.

Capacity ranges from 6 to 12 guests, with shaded cockpit, cushioned benches, and a roomy bow set for lounging during lunch.

Snorkeling gear, life vests, and a compact cooler keep crew engaged; cookies or snacks are ready for quick breaks.

Deck length 28–32 ft, onboard galley, freshwater fridge, ice cooler, USB outlets, VHF radio, and GPS ensure smooth operation for 12 guests.

Personalize layouts to feel like home aboard, arranging cushions, shade, and a lunch service for comfort.

Opt for captained charter; professional crew handles navigation, docking, and routes to sheltered coves.

Booking options show listings with responsive hosts, also amory amenities; superowner owners often provide flexible booking terms.

Have a plan for lunch and cookies; they also offer snorkeling sessions, and group size affects rental pricing.

Section 2: Rosario Islas Itinerary

book a captained motor sailboat for Rosario islas with a skilled crew; depart from bolivar coast near cartagena and expect a 40–60 minute crossing to reach the islas, then enjoy a day of snorkeling, island hopping, and a lunch served on deck.

Most itineraries run three stops: snorkeling on coral gardens, a beach break for a swim, and a sheltered lunch spot where the crew serves fresh seafood; trips can be 4 hours (half-day) or 6–7 hours (full day).

For booking, pick options with a licensed captain and a boat open to sun and sea views; ask about gear, safety briefings, and whether lunch is included or if you should bring your own snacks; they can tailor the route to weather and tides.

From renters seeking value, the most amazing way to gain power over your experience is to choose a captained option that allows you to customize stops and pacing; you’ll get more control, and your own timetable can start when you step aboard to make memories with your crew.

Open water segments and calm bays give you chances to swim, snorkel, and simply enjoy sun; lunch can be served on the board or at a beach cove depending on mood; booking ahead guarantees availability and avoids last-minute stress.

Customizable routes and stops

Book a flexible two-stop loop that opens with islas del Rosario for snorkeling, then glides to a sheltered cove to watch sunsets from the bow.

Captain-led itineraries adjust daily to weather, currents, and wind, ensuring comfortable seating capacity up to 12 guests on most boats.

Personalize stops: cholon, islas, mangrove flats, or a quiet sandbank; tailor snorkeling zones, midday swims, and a beach landing, plus cookies and cold drinks for a relaxed vibe.

Great experiences for groups come with vessels that offer ample deck space, flexible gear for snorkeling, and options to add onboard cooking or a stop for fresh fruit, breakfast pastries, and coffee.

Weather-aware planning helps; early mornings minimize chop, afternoons offer golden light, and sunsets make a memorable finale; sailo tips ensure everything runs smoothly and safely.

Booking tip: target islas del Rosario circuits on calm days, coordinate with a captain who can personalize every moment of your trip, and confirm capacity before you depart.

Section 3: Booking & Safety

Always request a formal safety briefing and life-jacket check before departure; they will provide clear instructions for gear and procedures.

When selecting yachts, verify licensed captain, insured vessel, and current safety gear inventory; ask for copies of licenses and recent drills.

Weather policy: forecasts 24–48 hours ahead; if wind or storms appear, most operators offer reschedule or alternative dates. Operators will notify via email or SMS with itinerary updates.

Booking flow: click to start from sailo; enter party size, dates, and preferred vibe like luxury or group to personalize tours and trips.

Onboard safety: check capacity, wear PFDs, confirm life rafts and radio are functional; skipper license verified; emergency contacts posted. For propulsion, prefer power yachts with modern motor systems.

Experience options range from luxury private hire to family tours; customize routes with island stops, sunsets, and lunch service. Group discounts apply for larger parties, and great add-ons can elevate a day on deck.

Cookies: site uses cookies to personalize recommendations; you can click to adjust preferences as you build your booking and plan from scratch.

Step	Action	Safety Check	Notes
Pre-booking	Define party size, dates, vessel type; add-ons	Captain license, insurance, gear inventory	Cancellation policy clear; deposit due
Confirmation	Receive quote; secure with deposit	Crew credentials verified	Power vs wind options; route sketch
Pre-day	Weather update; final itinerary	Safety briefing; life jackets	Reschedule options if adverse forecasts
Day of trip	Check-in; safety briefing; loading	Capacity posted; equipment check	Lunch options; sunsets add-on
Post-trip	Feedback; plan next booking	Return gear; incident log	Cookies preference for personalization

Pricing, deposits, and cancellation policy

Start with a practical choice: a 4‑hour half‑day excursion fits a tight schedule, while a full‑day voyage lets you enjoy lunch aboard, swimming stops, and longer coastal tours. Typical prices sit around 900–1800 USD for four hours and 1500–3500 USD for eight hours, driven by vessel size, crew level, and season. Larger yachts with full crew bring higher rates, but deliver great value and built‑in comfort.

Booking requires a deposit to secure dates. Typical range 20–30% at signing; balance due 24–72 hours prior to boarding. Online booking portals offer secure transactions; after payment, a confirmation with vessel name, port of embarkation, crew details, and contact on board is sent. If you plan a large group, mention exact headcount early to prevent price surprises and to arrange meals and tours in advance.

Cancellation policy rewards advance notice. Full refund if canceled at least 30 days before scheduled departure; 50% refund if canceled 14–29 days ahead; less than 14 days, refunds are not available except for safety or mechanical failures. In weather or safety concerns, operators will reschedule or provide a replacement date or vessel at no extra charge. If a weather window improves, you may switch to a different itinerary within the same day.

If party size changes, pricing adjusts automatically; changes require updating booking and may incur a modification fee. A refundable security hold may be charged by payment processor until trip completion. Onboard services such as lunch or guided tours are billed as add-ons; check availability when you click booking link and confirm final total before paying. You can also arrange a sunset route aboard a large yacht to maximize experience. If you prefer sailing or power options, specify early to match wind and currents.

Crew, licenses, and safety equipment

Agree on crew credentials before any private voyage; require captain license, medical certificate, and recent safety drills, plus a pre-embark briefing to align expectations.

• Crew composition and capacity: for vessels hosting up to 12 guests, a captain and a mate typically cover operations; larger catamaran or yacht options may add an engineer and deckhand to maintain performance and safety.
• Documentation to verify: what documents to request includes captain license, radio operator certificate, proof of current first aid training, and vessel registration; obtain copies from owners or superowner prior to the cruise.
• Private tours and agenda: agree on roles during your tour, what snorkeling stops you’ll make, lunch options, and ashore excursions so you can personalize your itinerary without surprises.
• Licensing and compliance: ensure vessel insurance and liability coverage, as well as compliance with local regulations governing crew qualifications and safety equipment; this underpins a smooth, luxury experience.
• Safety equipment: check presence of life jackets in sizes for all renters, throwables, fire extinguishers, first aid kit, signaling gear (flares, whistle), VHF radio, AIS, EPIRB, and a working radio with weather channels; verify liferaft or SOLAS-compliant life raft availability on larger yachts.
• Snorkeling and water safety: request snorkeling gear with correct sizes, a safety briefing, and a plan for protected swim zones; operators should deliver a safety talk and be ready to halt activity if conditions deteriorate.
• Training and drills: confirm pre-departure safety briefing, man overboard procedures, and emergency signal protocols; ask when last drills occurred and who leads them.
• Renter responsibilities: private travelers should bring medical cards if needed, follow crew directions, and avoid altering safety gear without approval; for popular itineraries, consider scheduling a lunch stop and a calm cruise segment to maximize comfort.
• Booking tips: click a confirmed itinerary page, request a tailored plan, and agree on a total price including port fees and taxes; ensure schedule includes a tour or two in case weather shifts.
• Owner and operator relations: owners or superowners should provide current safety certifications and a clear charter agreement that outlines what is included, who manages what, and how to handle changes to tours or routes.

cholon note: some fleets maintain a separate operations base to optimize schedules; inquire if any catamaran options can deliver private experiences with lounging areas, luxury amenities, and a flexible tour plan.