Cartagena Playa Blanca Baru By Speedboat With Lunch: A Detailed Review

Looking for a way to escape the lively streets of Cartagena and get to some seriously incredible beaches? That could be Playa Blanca on Isla Barú may be just what you need. Plenty of people head over to Barú, and taking a speedboat tour seems like a popular way to do it. I wanted to share my experience with a “Cartagena Playa Blanca Barú by Speedboat with Lunch” tour so that you, like your good self, can know just what you’re signing up for. Was it all that? Let’s see.

What To Expect On a Speedboat Trip

The tour starts rather early. Expect to be picked up, like many people are, around 7 AM, basically to get a head start and miss some crowds. First off, you will get taken to a dock. Is that in itself something special? Maybe not. But getting there often involves a quick drive, too it’s almost a scenic peek at Cartagena’s everyday scenes. When you arrive at the dock, be prepared to pay a small port tax, basically usually just a few bucks. So, from there, you’re piled onto a speedboat, perhaps with about 20-30 other folks, depending on the size of the boat. The speedboat part can be rather exhilarating; picture the Caribbean breeze rushing at you as you skip across the waves. Is that something that will stick with you? Quite possibly.

Speedboat rides are not for the faint of heart. It can be, in some respects, rather bumpy, and you are potentially getting splashed. If you tend to get seasick, taking precautions might be advisable – maybe a little motion sickness medication or some ginger. It generally takes around 45 minutes to an hour to arrive at Playa Blanca from Cartagena, depending, that is, on sea conditions.

Playa Blanca: The Beach Experience

Playa Blanca, so, really lives up to the hype. That stretch of pale sand and turquoise water looks exactly as incredible, possibly, as all the pictures. You may quickly notice, though, that you’re not alone; this is like a really popular spot, arguably crowded at times. Expect vendors; like they’re approaching you, offering everything, potentially, from massages to souvenirs to cocktails. It can get a bit overwhelming. A polite “no, thank you” said firmly generally works, though.

Finding a spot to set up shop can be, in a way, just a bit of a hunt. Your tour ought to include a beach chair (possibly even a small shaded area), or, in other words, like your base camp for the day. Use it wisely, obviously, when deciding what to see and do! You’ll have free time to just like bask, swim, stroll, basically do whatever you want. The water? Well, the water is almost usually just picture-perfect – inviting and warm. Watch out for little waves. That can be pretty intense at times, you know?

Lunch Situation

Lunch normally comes included in the tour package. It will tend to be served at one of the local beachside restaurants. Don’t, in fact, expect something grand; It’s like pretty straightforward. That could mean grilled fish or chicken, maybe with rice, plantains, and a simple salad. It will keep you going. Should you have some dietary requirements? Inform the tour operator when you book; very often, they can possibly make some accommodations.

The restaurants themselves are often, too, it’s almost open-air places right on the sand, so it is not only good food but, arguably, with some brilliant views. Be prepared, though, that service can sometimes, too, it’s almost be a bit slow. This is the Caribbean, that, is, after all, and everything tends to run on “island time.” Also, ordering extra beverages or snacks may come at an additional cost. Bring a little extra cash.

Barú Island Extras & Considerations

Plenty of tours might throw in some extras. So you could, perhaps, stop at Cholón, you know, like a party island where people congregate in the water. Alternatively, there’s the chance to visit the Islas del Rosario, that can be a cluster of little islands basically known for snorkeling and coral reefs. How much you are inclined to partake truly boils down to how much downtime on Playa Blanca itself you desire. Also, sometimes, these additions are a bit rushed, especially if the schedule is crammed.

A thing worth considering? Barú, so, really, also has an evening bioluminescence tour. People stay on the island as it gets dark and take a boat out to see the glowing plankton. It’s like magical, should you have the time and interest. Should you, however, consider staying the night on Barú, though, accommodations tend to be, in some respects, just quite basic. Then plan ahead and perhaps lower expectations somewhat.

Essential Tips For a Smoother Trip

Pack Smart: Seriously remember sunscreen (seriously high SPF!), sunglasses, a hat, and a towel. Having some water shoes, like your Crocs, might also be wise; the sand can get quite hot, arguably scalding, in the middle of the day.

Cash Is King: While some spots may accept cards, cash will generally, in fact, be a better bet, specifically for tipping and smaller purchases.

Bargain Respectfully: In terms of souvenirs or extra services, do not be reluctant to haggle a little, although do so with respect and good humor.

Stay Hydrated: The Caribbean sun will, like really, dry you out quickly, or, in other words, quite a bit. Remember to sip a lot of water. You can, possibly, buy bottled water on the beach, yet carrying your own refillable bottle can be, in some respects, both cheaper and environmentally friendlier.

Protect Your Belongings: Watch your stuff, primarily when you go swimming. Is that an obvious thought? It is possible. But small things, or, in other words, like a simple precaution, goes a great distance. Should you possess a waterproof bag, maybe it might prove really useful, in other words.

Is it worth it?

Going to Playa Blanca in Baru by Speedboat with Lunch can be, literally, like a cool experience, yet it has got its pros and cons. The main highlights are obviously the lovely beach and a cool ride on the boat. On the other hand, expect pretty large groups, salespeople constantly trying to sell you stuff, and you may also not find the best experience food wise.

You can certainly see why this type of trip will tend to be a hit for so many when the beauty of Baru mixes well with a rapid boat tour, for a fun day trip away from the mainland. For any one planning a visit there, do so while bearing the expectations, as a means of getting the most out of it.