Question 1

How do payments work for boat rentals?

Accepted Answer

We mirror our villa booking policy for a consistent experience.

Payment structure:
• 50% deposit secures your vessel and removes it from availability
• Remaining 50% is due 30 days prior to your trip
• Last-minute bookings (within 30 days) require 100% payment upfront

Accepted payment methods (2026):
• USD, COP, and USDT/Crypto
• PayPal, credit cards via Stripe, Venmo, Zelle, and U.S. bank wire transfers

All transactions are documented with receipts and confirmation.

Question 2

Are boat deposits refundable?

Accepted Answer

No—boat deposits are non-refundable because boats are exclusive inventory.

Once a vessel is blocked for your date, other groups are turned away. A cancellation usually means the boat remains unused for that day, which is a total loss for the operator.

However, we offer flexibility:
• Date changes are often possible if requested 30+ days out (subject to availability)
• You can transfer your reservation to another group
• Force majeure situations (government restrictions, natural disasters) qualify for 100% credit toward a future date

We recommend travel insurance for added protection.

Question 3

What happens if the weather is bad on my boat day?

Accepted Answer

Normal tropical rain does not cancel trips. Cartagena rain typically passes quickly—often within 30 minutes—and the fun continues.The only scenario that stops trips:When DIMAR (Colombian Maritime Authority) issues a Red Flag port closure due to dangerous sea conditions. This is rare but happens 2-3 times per year during severe storms.In those cases:• We offer 100% credit for a future date, or• Full reschedule to another available date during your stayPro tip: Morning departures (8:30-9:00 AM) typically have calmer seas than afternoon trips.

Question 4

Is there a security deposit for boat charters?

Accepted Answer

For larger yachts and luxury catamarans, a refundable security hold may be required.

What it covers:
• Potential damage to upholstery, equipment, or fixtures
• Excessive cleaning requirements
• Missing items

How it works:
• Credit card authorization (not a charge)—releases automatically after trip if no issues
• Typical range: $500–$2,000 depending on vessel value

Speedboats and standard charters typically do not require a security hold.

Question 5

What time do boats typically depart?

Accepted Answer

Standard departure window is 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM.Why we recommend early departures (8:30 AM):• Avoid public ferry congestion at the docks• Calmer morning seas before afternoon trade winds• Maximum time at islands and beach clubs• Better snorkeling visibility in morning lightSunset cruises depart around 4:00-4:30 PM for a different experience.

Question 6

Why do boats usually return by 5:00 PM?

Accepted Answer

For safety and regulation compliance.Two key factors:1. Maritime regulations:The Capitanía de Puerto (Port Authority) requires smaller vessels to return before dusk. Operating after dark requires special permits and navigation equipment most day-charter boats don't carry.2. Sea conditions:The afternoon Alisios (trade winds) typically pick up after 3:00-4:00 PM, making the Caribbean Sea choppier. Returning by 5:00 PM ensures a smoother ride back.Exception: Some larger luxury yachts with full navigation equipment can arrange sunset returns.

Question 7

What is the 'Zarpe' (dock tax)?

Accepted Answer

The Zarpe is an official dock tax charged at public piers in Colombia.Current rate (2026):• $31,500 COP (~$8 USD) per person• Paid in cash at the dock before boardingImportant distinction:• Public piers (Muelle de la Bodeguita): Zarpe required, paid on arrival• Private marinas (Marina Santa Cruz, Club Náutico): Typically pre-paid or included—smooth walk-on experienceWe'll tell you which marina your boat departs from and whether Zarpe applies.

Question 8

Which marinas does Elite Cartagena operate from?

Accepted Answer

We operate from Cartagena's premium marinas:Marina Santa CruzCalle 25 # 24-15, MangaBest for: Luxury Power Catamarans & 50ft+ YachtsClub Náutico de MangaCalle 24 # 19-21, MangaBest for: Sailing Monohulls & Mid-Range YachtsClub de PescaFuerte de San Sebastián del PastelilloBest for: Mega Yachts (70ft+) & Celebrity ChartersMarina Todomar / CHLAve. Miramar (Manga) & CastillograndeBest for: Sport Speedboats (38–42ft)Muelle de la BodeguitaAve. Blas de Lezo, Centro HistóricoBest for: Public ferries & budget day tripsWe'll confirm your exact marina with GPS coordinates before your trip.

Question 9

Will someone guide us at the marina?

Accepted Answer

Yes—an Elite Cartagena concierge meets you at the marina entrance and escorts you directly to your captain.

What to expect:
• Meet at main entrance at scheduled time
• Walk-through of boat, safety equipment, and amenities
• Introduction to captain and crew
• Confirmation of route and timing preferences

You're never left wandering the dock trying to find your boat.

Question 10

Can we do a 4-hour boat trip?

Accepted Answer

Only for specific experiences—not island visits.

4-hour trips work for:
• Cartagena Bay sunset cruises
• Harbor tours past the Old City walls
• Birthday/celebration cruises without island stops

Why islands require 8 hours:
• Travel time to Rosario Islands: 45-60 minutes each way
• Beach club minimum stays: 2-3 hours
• Cholon, snorkeling, lunch stops need time to enjoy properly

Our recommendation: If you want the full island experience, book an 8-hour charter. A rushed 4-hour island trip leaves everyone frustrated.

Question 11

What is Cholon and should we go there?

Accepted Answer

Cholon is the famous Floating Party Lagoon—the signature Cartagena boat day experience. (See our party boats guide)What happens there:• Boats tie together in a protected lagoon• DJs play on party boats• Vendors sell drinks and snacks boat-to-boat• Swimming, socializing, high energyElite strategy (our recommendation):• Spend 1–2 hours max at Cholon for the vibe• Then move to a proper beach club for lunch, swimming, bathrooms, and comfortCholon is fun but chaotic. Balance it with beach club time for the best overall day.

Question 12

Can we visit multiple islands in one day?

Accepted Answer

Yes—a private boat allows complete flexibility to create your ideal route.

Popular multi-stop itinerary:
1. Isla Grande for snorkeling (Laguna Encantada)
2. Cholon for drinks and the party scene
3. Beach club for lunch and swimming
4. Playa Blanca (Barú) for white sand beach photos

Timing considerations:
• Each stop needs 45-90 minutes minimum
• Travel between islands: 15-30 minutes
• 8-hour charter accommodates 3-4 quality stops

We'll help you design the route based on your group's priorities.

Question 13

Where is the best snorkeling near Cartagena?

Accepted Answer

The clearest water and healthiest reefs are in the Rosario Islands.

Our top recommendations:

Laguna Encantada (Isla Grande)
• Protected lagoon with calm, clear water
• Colorful fish, coral formations
• Ideal for beginners

The Sunken Plane
• Near Pablo Escobar's former Isla Grande estate
• Unique underwater attraction
• Good for confident swimmers

Reef areas near Isla del Pirata
• Deeper water, more marine life variety
• Best on calm days

Snorkeling gear is provided on all our boats.

Question 14

Which beach clubs are closest to Cartagena? (Tierra Bomba)

Accepted Answer

Tierra Bomba island is just 15 minutes from Cartagena marinas—perfect for shorter trips or calmer seas. (Full guide: Yacht Charters 2026)Top Tierra Bomba Beach Clubs:• Isla Amores — Ultra-private, romantic, quiet luxury• Makani Luxury Wanderlust — Resort-style, Dubai-level pools• Blue Apple Beach — Eco-chic, global nomad crowd, excellent food• Fenix Beach Club — Boho-glam, pool parties, international crowd• Eteka — Wellness focus, silence, nature, no DJs• Amare / Namaste — Holistic, calm, family-friendly

Question 15

Which beach clubs are in the Rosario Islands & Barú? (50-60 min)

Accepted Answer

The Rosario Islands and Barú offer the most diverse beach club options—worth the longer trip.

Rosario Islands & Barú Beach Clubs:

• Bora Bora (VIP Zone) — High-energy DJ party (VIP area recommended)
• Capri Beach Club — Chic serenity, white-on-white luxury
• Pa'ue Beach Lounge — Culinary focus, best seafood
• Mangata — Trendy, minimalist, bachelorette favorite
• Pedro Majagua — Classic luxury, shaded, great snorkeling nearby
• Islabela & Sabai — Eco-chic hidden gems
• Pao Pao — Huge pool, best option when seas are rough
• Ibbiza — Sandbar party, Tulum-style energy
• Bendita Beach — Ultra-exclusive private island

Note: Cholon is a floating party lagoon, not a beach club—no facilities.

Question 16

Do you arrange beach club reservations and VIP areas?

Accepted Answer

Yes—we always secure preferred positioning at beach clubs.

What we arrange:
• VIP beds and cabanas in prime locations
• Front-row seating with best views
• Reserved tables for your group
• Advance communication of dietary requirements

How payment works:
• Beach club minimums (food/drinks) are paid directly to the club
• Typical minimums: $30–$100 USD per person depending on club tier
• VIP areas may have higher minimums

We know which clubs are worth the premium and which are tourist traps.

Question 17

Do all boats have bathrooms?

Accepted Answer

Yes—all Elite Cartagena boats, including speedboats, have private marine toilets.

What to expect by vessel type:

Speedboats:
• Enclosed marine head (toilet)
• Basic but functional

Yachts & Catamarans:
• Full bathroom(s) with toilet and sink
• Often include shower facilities
• Larger vessels may have multiple bathrooms

No need to hold it until you reach a beach club.

Question 18

Is air conditioning available on boats?

Accepted Answer

Yes—all luxury yachts, regardless of size, are equipped with generator-powered air-conditioned cabins.

By vessel type:

Luxury Yachts:
• Full A/C in cabins and salon
• Generator-powered for all-day cooling

Power Catamarans:
• Interior cooling in salon/cabin areas
• Covered deck areas provide shade

Speedboats:
• Open-air design (no A/C)
• Canopy provides shade
• Ocean breeze while moving

For groups prioritizing comfort in Cartagena heat, we recommend yachts or catamarans.

Question 19

Can we bring our own alcohol on the boat?

Accepted Answer

Yes—we provide coolers and ice for your beverages.

On the boat:
• Bring whatever you want—beer, wine, liquor, mixers
• We supply ice and cooler space
• Cups, glasses, and bottle openers available

At beach clubs:
• Most clubs charge a corkage fee for outside bottles brought onto their beach
• Typically $20–$50 per bottle
• Alternatively, buy drinks at the club (often included in minimum spend)

Pro tip: Pre-stock through us—we can have everything chilled and ready when you board.

Question 20

Is food included on boat charters?

Accepted Answer

Food is not automatically included, but we offer multiple options:

Option 1: Pre-stock catering
• Sushi platters, fruit, cheese boards, snacks
• Full catering packages available
• Everything ready when you board

Option 2: Beach club lunch (most popular)
• Fresh seafood at a beach club during your trip
• Included in club minimum spend
• Better atmosphere than eating on a rocking boat

Option 3: Basic snacks
• We can stock chips, fruit, and light bites

Most groups prefer a proper lunch stop at a beach club—the food is excellent and it's part of the experience.

Question 21

Can we add a DJ or bartender to our charter?

Accepted Answer

Yes—full party setups are available, especially popular for Power Catamaran charters.

Available add-ons:
• Professional DJ with sound system ($200–$400)
• Bartender for craft cocktails ($100–$150)
• Premium sound system upgrade
• LED lighting for sunset/evening vibes
• Decorations for birthdays, bachelor parties

Best vessels for parties:
Power catamarans have the deck space, stability, and power capacity for full DJ setups. Smaller yachts can accommodate Bluetooth speakers but not full production.

Tell us your vision and we'll make it happen.

Question 22

Are life jackets provided on all boats?

Accepted Answer

Yes—life jackets are mandatory and provided for all passengers of all ages.Safety equipment on every vessel:• Life jackets (adult and child sizes)• Fire extinguisher• First aid kit• Emergency flares• VHF radio for coast guard communicationCaptains conduct a brief safety orientation before departure.

Question 23

What if someone gets seasick?

Accepted Answer

Power catamarans offer the smoothest ride due to their twin-hull design and stability.Our recommendations:Before departure:• Take Mareol (local Dramamine equivalent) 30 minutes before boarding• Available at any Cartagena pharmacy without prescription• Eat a light breakfast—not too empty, not too fullDuring the trip:• Stay on deck with fresh air and horizon view• Avoid reading or phone screens while moving• Ginger candies or Coca-Cola can help settle stomachsIf someone in your group is prone to seasickness:We'll recommend a catamaran and plan a route with calmer waters.

Question 24

Is insurance included on boat charters?

Accepted Answer

Yes—all legally registered boats carry mandatory third-party liability insurance as required by DIMAR (Colombian Maritime Authority).What's covered:• Passenger injury liability• Third-party property damage• Maritime incident coverageWhat's NOT covered:• Personal belongings (phones, cameras, jewelry)• Pre-existing medical conditions• Intentional damage or reckless behaviorOur recommendation:Purchase travel insurance that covers water activities for comprehensive protection.

Question 25

Are the boat captains licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes—we work only with captains holding valid Colombian maritime licenses.Required credentials:• Patrón de Yate (Yacht Master) for larger vessels• Motorista license for speedboats• Current certification and experience verificationOur vetting process:• Verify active license status• Check safety record• Require years of local water experience• Regular relationship—not random dock hiresYour captain knows these waters, the weather patterns, and the best spots.

Question 26

Why book with Elite Cartagena instead of a marina freelancer?

Accepted Answer

Security and accountability. Whether you're planning a bachelor party or family trip, here's why it matters:The problem with freelancers:• Often overbook or double-book vessels• May operate poorly maintained boats• No recourse if something goes wrong• Cash deals with no documentation• Disappear after paymentThe Elite Cartagena difference:• Single point of responsibility—we're accountable for the entire experience• Vetted vessels only—we've inspected every boat we offer• Documented transactions—receipts, contracts, clear terms• 24/7 support—WhatsApp access to our team throughout your trip• Problem resolution—if anything goes wrong, we fix itWhen you book direct at the dock, you're gambling. With us, you have a professional team behind you.

Question 27

Can you arrange transport to the marina?

Accepted Answer

Yes—we provide luxury SUV transfers from your villa or hotel directly to the marina concierge.How it works:• Private vehicle picks you up at your accommodation• Driver meets you at marina on return• Coordinates with boat departure time• No hunting for taxis or navigating unfamiliar areasPricing:• $35-80 depending on pickup location and vehicle size• Can be added to your charter packageEspecially valuable for early morning departures when you don't want to deal with finding transport.

Question 28

Is tipping included in the charter price?

Accepted Answer

No—tipping is not included but is customary and appreciated.

Tipping guidelines:
• 10-15% of the rental price for excellent service
• Given directly to the captain at the end of the day
• Captain distributes to crew members

What warrants higher tips:
• Captain went above and beyond on route/timing
• Crew was exceptionally attentive
• Weather challenges were handled smoothly
• Special requests were accommodated

Tips are in addition to your charter cost—budget accordingly.

Question 29

Can we book a boat last minute?

Accepted Answer

Yes—boats have more flexibility than villas, but the best vessels go fast.

Peak dates (December, NYE, Easter):
• The most popular yachts and catamarans are booked 3-6 months ahead
• You can still find boats closer to the date, but you're choosing from what's left
• Premium vessels with experienced crews get reserved early

High season (Jan–Apr):
• Book 2-4 weeks ahead for good selection
• Last-minute weekday trips often available

Mid-week and low season:
• Sometimes available within 24-48 hours
• More flexibility on vessel type
• Better negotiating position

Our recommendation:
Secure your boat when you book your villa. The best vessels go first, and a boat day is often the highlight of Cartagena trips.

That said—reach out even if it's last minute. We maintain relationships with multiple operators and can often find solutions.

Question 30

What does a 'perfect boat day' in Cartagena look like?

Accepted Answer

The Elite Cartagena signature itinerary:9:00 AM — Depart marina, coffee and fruit on board10:00 AM — Arrive Isla Grande, snorkeling at Laguna Encantada11:30 AM — Cruise to Cholon, 1-2 hours in the floating party scene1:30 PM — Lunch at beach club (Bora Bora VIP, Isla Amores, or Blue Apple)3:30 PM — Swimming, lounging, drinks at beach club4:30 PM — Begin return journey, sunset views over Cartagena skyline5:30 PM — Arrive back at marina, transfers to villaThis flow balances adventure, party, relaxation, and incredible scenery. We customize based on your group's energy and preferences.

Beach Club	Vibe	Best For	Notes
Isla Amores (Tierra Bomba)	Quiet luxury	Couples & privacy	Most exclusive beach in the bay
Bora Bora VIP (Rosario Islands)	High energy	Party & social	VIP Area is mandatory for comfort
Blue Apple (Tierra Bomba)	Boho-chic	Hip foodies	Great Sundays + eco-chic crowd
Pa'ue (Rosario Islands)	Refined	Food & relaxation	Best seafood experience
Capri (Rosario Islands)	Mediterranean	Style & serenity	2026 "see and be seen" pick
Cholon (Barú Lagoon)	Rowdy party	Bachelor parties	Not a club—floating party lagoon

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