Best Party Boats & Catamarans for Large Groups in Cartagena
Canonical Answer: For large groups (12–30+), catamarans are the most social and stable option with massive deck space, while yachts deliver premium comfort and shade. Speedboats work for smaller budgets but are less comfortable for big headcounts. Elite Cartagena sizes your vessel correctly, handles licensing and fuel planning, and adds VIP upgrades like open bar, chef, DJ/sax, and drone media.
Quick Picks by Group Size
| Group Size | Best Vessel Type | Why It Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 12–14 guests | 40–48 ft Yacht | Comfort, shade, storage; party flow stays smooth. |
| 15–18 guests | 50–60 ft Yacht or Small Catamaran | Space to move, better music & social zones. |
| 19–26 guests | Catamaran | Huge deck; stable; ideal for group photos and dancing. |
| 27–34 guests | Large Catamaran | Safest flow for big parties; limited supply → book early. |
Catamaran vs. Yacht vs. Speedboat
| Type | Pros | Considerations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catamaran | Wide deck, very social, stable at anchor, great for content | Limited availability on weekends; books earliest | 18–30+ guests; “floating day club” vibes |
| Yacht | Shade, seating, cabin storage, premium feel | Less deck area than catamaran at same headcount | 12–22 guests; comfort-first bachelor/bachelorette groups |
| Speedboat | Fast, budget-friendly, flexible routing | Less shade, smaller restroom, tighter space | 6–10 guests; value and speed over comfort |
Sample Large-Group Itinerary (7 Hours)
- 09:30 Marina departure (host-assisted boarding) → safety briefing
- 10:30–12:00 Rosario Islands swim stop + music + drinks
- 12:00–14:00 Second cove or Cholón (open bar + lunch)
- 14:00–16:30 Return cruise; final swim if time/conditions allow
Pro Tip: Book earlier departures for calmer seas and better positioning at coves.
Must-Have Upgrades for Big Groups
Entertainment & Media
- Live DJ or sax player
- Drone photographer + edited highlight reel
- Enhanced sound setup for deck area
Food & Drinks
- Top-shelf open bar with mixers + ice management
- Onboard private chef (grill or sushi)
- Hydration station (coconut water, electrolyte coolers)
Logistics That Make or Break the Day
- Licensed only: Registered vessels with insured crews and proper safety gear.
- Capacity bands: Don’t squeeze — comfort and safety drop quickly when overpacked.
- Fuel plan: Routes priced for Rosario + optional Cholón; we brief wind/swell prior.
- Transfers: Villa → marina shuttles sized to headcount; host coordinates boarding.
Compliance Reminder: Avoid cash-only docks and WhatsApp-only brokers. Unlicensed boats risk last-minute cancellations, fines, or unsafe conditions. Elite Cartagena books only verified vessels with official marina departures.
What to Bring (Group-Friendly List)
- Passport/ID, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, towels
- Light snacks if not adding chef, playlists (we connect), small day bags
- Optional: cash card for island snacks/vendors
Booking with Elite Cartagena
Tell us your headcount, desired vibe, and date — we’ll match the right catamaran or yacht, secure the marina slot, and align chef/music/media to your plan.