Cartagena 4 Island Day Trip Review: Plankton & Lunch Included

Dreaming of turquoise waters, maybe bright, sunshine, and that relaxed island life feel? Then, a trip from Cartagena, Colombia, to the Rosario Islands, might be just what you’re looking for! Specifically, that Cartagena 4 Island Day Trip, promising an encounter with glowing plankton and a provided lunch. This, then, isn’t just another vacation review, it’s more of a closer glimpse at whether this particular experience delivers on its promises. We are, after all, going to explore what you get for the money and maybe, most importantly, whether it is indeed something you should invest your time and money in.

Setting Sail from Cartagena

Alright, so the adventure begins bright and early, that’s to say around 8 a.m., in Cartagena. The meeting spot? Usually, it is the Muelle de la Bodeguita port. It can get rather hectic, but it’s all part of the buzz. That’s to say, be ready for people trying to sell you stuff and a general sense of, well, controlled chaos. Boarding the speedboat is, too it’s almost like joining a floating fiesta. You are surrounded by fellow travelers all pumped for a day of island hopping. The boat ride itself? Quite invigorating! The salty breeze is very much in your hair and you will get splashed a fair bit. As the Cartagena skyline recedes, too it’s almost like the real relaxation begins.

Isla Grande: First Stop Bliss

That first stop, Isla Grande, could be, it might be almost the biggest of the Rosario Islands and, too it’s almost like, an introduction to paradise. We could, too it’s almost like, have a chance to stretch our legs, take that obligatory photo, and maybe dip your toes into the super clear waters. Now, the sales pitches begin almost immediately, with locals offering massages, souvenirs, and, as a matter of fact, even renting out beach chairs. It’s entirely up to you if you want to participate, but that is a gentle “no, thank you” works wonders.

Cholón: The Party Island Vibe

Ready to get the party started? That’s because Cholón is next. It’s not as tranquil, but, anyway, it is loads of fun. Picture this: shallow water, maybe loads of boats gathered, and that music pumping. You get the chance to get off the boat, maybe wade in the water with a drink in hand, and dance if you feel like it. It’s admittedly touristy, even kind of over the top, yet, you know, sometimes letting loose is the best kind of therapy. If you are after peace and quiet, or, in some respects, you will find this part of the trip more grating than gratifying. If you are the type that enjoys people-watching and soaking in an exuberant atmosphere, though, this stop could be right up your alley.

Playa Blanca, Barú: Sun, Sand, and Crowds

Ah, Playa Blanca! That’s a vision of white sand and that blue water, as they say in the brochures. So it’s arguably one of the most well-known beaches around Cartagena, so expect people. Lots of people. While it is undoubtedly beautiful, so you will be sharing the experience with countless other travelers and vendors eager to sell you everything from sunglasses to coconuts. Finding that small spot to just chill can be challenging, but, very, it’s certainly not impossible. The included lunch usually takes place here, it tends to be a typical affair. So expect fish, rice, and maybe some plantains. It’s fuel, as a matter of fact, it is to recharge you for the afternoon ahead.

The Plankton Experience: Worth the Hype?

The grand finale, the part everyone anticipates: swimming with bioluminescent plankton. This happens after sunset, clearly in a dark lagoon. Jumping into the water, too it’s almost like the stars come to life around you. Every movement causes a shimmer, and a sparkle, you know, that’s otherworldly. That being said, the experience, you know, depends so much on conditions. That, in that case, it needs to be really dark, so moonlight can diminish the effect. How many plankton there are, you know, can change depending on the season and water conditions. If the conditions are ideal, or, arguably, it is magical, truly something you won’t soon forget. But if it’s not, or, you may find yourself swimming in the dark with just a faint sparkle here and there, so temper your expectations.

Also, the trip back to Cartagena can be long and bumpy, more or less if the seas are choppy. We got back to port rather tired, as a matter of fact covered in saltwater, and feeling that mix of satisfaction and exhaustion that comes from a day well-spent. It, for example, is that trip to swim with the plankton is more than worth it!

#Cartagena #Colombia #IslandHopping #TravelReview