







Isla Grande Shuttle Boat
Take the stress out of travel with our shuttle boat service from Cartagena to Isla Grande in the Rosario Islands. Enjoy a smooth, reliable ride as you start your island adventure in the Caribbean.
Isla Grande is one of the 27 islands of the Rosario arquipelago and the only one with a native population living in the middle of the island. This shuttle is the easiest option to get there if your plan is to spend more than one day in this natural park. Around the island you can find different types of lodges from hostels or camping zones to fancy hotels.
Where does the boat to Isla Grande depart from?
The boat to Isla Grande departs from Muelle de la Bodeguita, located in front of the Walled City in Cartagena. This is the official departure point for all boats heading to the Rosario Islands, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride to Isla Grande, with previous booking our partner will be waiting for you with your reservation. Let the captain know the name of your accommodation on the island so you can be dropped off at the dock closest to your stay.
What is the departure time from Cartagena to Isla Grande?
The usual departure time from Cartagena to Isla Grande is at 09:00 a.m. This early departure ensures a smoother ride when the sea is calm and allows you to make the most of your day on the island, whether you’re checking in at your hotel or starting your beach adventures. There's only one time available, take this in account berfore booking an accommodation.
Is there only one return time from Isla Grande to Cartagena?
Yes, the typical return time from Isla Grande to Cartagena is at 2:30 p.m., arriving back at the Muelle de la Bodeguita around 3:30–4:00 p.m., depending on sea conditions. This schedule lets you enjoy your morning on Isla Grande without rushing while avoiding the stronger afternoon waves.
During windy seasons, the return time may be moved to an earlier departure to ensure a smoother and safer ride. This adjustment depends on the day’s sea conditions, so it’s important to send us a message on the day of your return to confirm the departure time.
If you are planning to go just for the day, we recommend you to visit the day trips from Cartagena, click here.
What’s included
Boat ticket
Shared boat from Cartagena to Isla Grande
One-way service
Carry-on baggage allowance is one small personal item; 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). A fee applies to bring an additional, larger item, with dimensions of 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 cm).
Not Included:
Port fee
Extra luggage (must be paid on the spot usd$10 for each extra bag)
Schedule:
Monday to Sunday
Only departs once daily, so booking your ticket in advance is highly recommended.
You must be in the meeting point at 09:00am
Return from the island start from 2:00pm however the times are authorized by the port captaincy depending on the sea conditions, the itinerary may change without previous notice.
During wind season december to march returning time from the island starts at 12:30pm
The arrival time to Cartagena is between 3:30pm to 4:00pm.
Know before you go
One handbag is allowed per person, extra luggage has a cost you must paid in cash directly in the port before boarding, usually is us10 .
You are booking a shared service, depending on the reservations for the return from the islands, the boat will make stops at different places to pick up passengers
During the windy season (December to March)due to ocean conditions last minute changes may occur without prior notice, please have the wifi to be aware of any modification.
Travel time is between 40 and 45 minutes
Departure time is according to the port authorities
Juan Ballena assumes no liability for missed flights, meetings, or other events due to transportation delays, cancellations, or interruptions. We strongly recommend planning your itinerary to allow for possible delays and booking transportation services that arrive at least 24 hours before any scheduled event.
Organized by
Ocean & Land Tours S.A.S