
Scuba diving in Rosario Islands
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Scuba diving in Rosario Islands worth booking?
Scuba diving in Rosario Islands is a 8-hour experience in Cartagena, Colombia, from $354 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 55 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (5)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $354 per person
The Outty verdict
It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cartagena, with an Outty Ranking of 55. At $354 it sits above the typical similar option ($42), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and travelers who want a full-day outing.
Prices and availability checked
Explore one of the most stunning and biodiverse marine reserves in the Caribbean! The Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo National Park is a natural wonder, offering the best water temperatures, crystal-clear visibility, and thriving marine ecosystems. Whether you're an experienced diver or taking your first plunge, this exclusive scuba diving adventure is designed to connect you with the beauty of the underwater world, guided by our expert dive instructors. No certification? No problem! We offer introductory dives for first-timers, ensuring a safe and exhilarating underwater experience. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Caribbean Sea and discover why diving in this national park is an experience you simply can’t miss!
What you get
About this experience
Explore one of the most stunning and biodiverse marine reserves in the Caribbean! The Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo National Park is a natural wonder, offering the best water temperatures, crystal-clear visibility, and thriving marine ecosystems. Whether you're an experienced diver or taking your first plunge, this exclusive scuba diving adventure is designed to connect you with the beauty of the underwater world, guided by our expert dive instructors. No certification? No problem! We offer introductory dives for first-timers, ensuring a safe and exhilarating underwater experience. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Caribbean Sea and discover why diving in this national park is an experience you simply can’t miss!
What's included
Included
- Private Round-Trip Boat Transportation to Barú & Rosario Islands
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Snacks & Refreshments
- Full Diving Equipment
- Certified Dive Instructors & Guides
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Gratuities
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- pt, en, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Cartagena Concierge
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Before You Scuba Dive
- Make sure you're fit to dive
- If you've never dived before, you should have a medical examination in your home country before you go travelling to ensure you're fit to dive. If you're generally fit and healthy, there should be no problem. You will be required to sign a medical statement before learning to dive.
- If you're already certified to dive, avoid diving if you're not feeling one hundred per cent. In particular, don't dive with a cold or a bad hangover! Save the big party night for the finale of your diving days.
- Listen to your instructor or dive guide
- Once you're on the dive boat, it's important to listen to your instructor or guide, no matter how experienced you are. Plan Your Dive, Dive Your Plan is the number one rule of dive preparation – you need to follow your instructor's brief on where you're going, the route you will follow and what you need to watch out for.
- Double check all your scuba gear
- En route to the dive site you will need to set up all your scuba gear. Take your time and double check everything is working. If you are not sure about anything, don't be embarrassed – ask your guide or instructor.
- Make sure you do your buddy check
- Doing the buddy check of each other's scuba gear is extremely important before you get in the water to make sure neither of you have missed anything. Introduce yourself to your buddy beforehand as well, so you can get to know each other a little. It's better for you both safety wise and it can also be the start of a great friendship!
- Carry your policy number, medical information and emergency contacts
- It's a good idea to carry your policy number, any medical information and emergency contacts with you while on a diving holiday if in the event you are injured or become ill.
- During the Scuba Dive Trip Never hold your breath - breathe normal
- Scuba is a strange and exhilarating experience because you're doing something technically impossible – breathing underwater. It is important to NEVER hold your breath – breathe normally on scuba at all times. Holding your breath can cause an air embolism (where an air bubble enters the blood stream), which is a serious and potentially fatal injury.
- Equalise frequently as you descend
- Just like on a plane, the change of pressure as you descend to depth while scuba diving means you need to equalize your ears. This needs to be done frequently and before feeling any pain to avoid injury to your inner ear.
- Stay aware of where your guide and buddy are located
- Don't be tempted to swim off on your own when you spot something interesting – point it out to your guide and dive buddy and head towards it together. Staying with your buddy and guide is important for safety and also your orientation. If you do lose each other underwater, look around for 1 minute, and if you still can't see them, slowly ascend to the surface where they should have done the same.
- Keep an eye on your air gauge
- You can only stay down as long as you have air in your tank, and you need to be aware of when your tank is half full and quarter full so you can plan your return to the surface accordingly. Your guide will ask you how much air you have left periodically, but you are ultimately responsible for your own air consumption.
- Don't over exert yourself
- Diving is often called an adrenaline sport, but you should actually be super relaxed when underwater. The is no gain to swimming fast over reefs – the slower you go, the more you'll see. Avoid moving at a pace which makes you out of breath. If you do feel tired, signal your buddy and find a coral-free rock on which you can hang to have a rest.
- Don't touch anything
- You should avoid touching anything (besides the aforementioned rock) as good practice to protect the coral reefs – but also to protect yourself. Many corals are sharp, many marine plants poisonous and many marine creatures will bite if they feel threatened. Keeping your hands to yourself ensures you and they stay safe and unharmed. It's also important to perfect your buoyancy so you can hover without effort over the reefs and therefore won't feel the need to touch anything.
- This is one creature you don't want to pick up. In the ocean, any colour can mean danger. Always ascend SLOWLY from every dive
- As well as not holding your breath, ascending slowly from a dive is the other Number 1 rule of diving. Coming up fast from a dive can cause "the bends" or decompression sickness, as nitrogen is forced into the bloodstream. By coming up slowly from a dive and doing the safety stop, the nitrogen in your body has a chance to dissipate and therefore cause no harm.
- Things You Should Never Do Right After Scuba Diving.
- 1. Fly
- Flying after scuba diving is one of the more widely known risks to divers. This issue comes up frequently in the diving world because divers want to take full advantage of diving trips and get the most amount of diving time in while they can. The main reason for this warning is not the flying itself but the pressure inside the airplane’s cabin. Air pressure lessens when you fly. If you rode in a plane right after diving the increase in altitude would result in a drop in pressure which is comparable to a fast ascension while diving. The longer the dive and the deeper you go the more nitrogen is absorbed into your blood. Upon returning to the surface the pressure reduces and the nitrogen reverts to gas bubbles. Decompression needs to be done slowly so the nitrogen can pass back out through your lungs. If you ascend too fast the nitrogen can form bubbles in your blood which can be painful and possibly fatal (think of opening a bottle of soda). Waiting the correct amount of time before flying will reduce the nitrogen in your blood. The general rule that seems to be widely agreed upon is that you should wait 12 hours after a single no-decompression dive, 18 hours after multiple dives or multiple days of diving and at least 24 hours after dives requiring decompression stops. As a general rule it is recommended to wait 24 hours before flying after doing any type of diving. This rule covers all types of dives and adds extra time as a safeguard for peace of mind.
- 2. Heavy Drinking
- I know this may be a controversial subject for many but It is no secret that many divers enjoy drinks after a day of diving. Drinking alcohol immediately after a dive is not recommended because alcohol may affect the way that our body eliminates that excess nitrogen. Dehydration is one of the main causes in decompression sickness, and drinking alcohol is one of the most efficient ways to dehydrate ourselves. Another important reason to avoid heavy drinking after a dive is because being heavily intoxicated can mask the true symptoms of decompression sickness and adequate medical care may be sought too late. To avoid any problems, drink plenty of water before and after diving to combat dehydration. Most of all try and wait a few hours before drinking alcohol to prevent any mishaps.
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What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Value for money
1 mentionTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
1 mentionPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Food and drink
1 mentionThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
5 verified traveler reviews for Scuba diving in Rosario Islands. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Diving is sailing
Incredible experience aboard a sailboat for two days. Great service and food, incredible diving in very preserved coral. The Dive Master was very good Thank you Cartagena Consierge and Captain Luna
Response from the operator: Merci beaucoup pour votre retour ! Nous sommes ravis que vous ayez vécu une expérience incroyable à bord du voilier Luna, entre la plongée, les coraux préservés et le service à bord, tout semblait parfait ! Un grand merci de la part de toute l’équipe de Cartagena Concierge et du capitaine. À très bientôt pour de nouvelles aventures !
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Great
Such a nice dive crew to help me have some fabulous dives! Leah did a mini refresher time with me since it had been 5 years since my last dive and she was wonderful! We saw the normal fish of the Carribean and corals.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for diving with us! We're so glad you had a fabulous experience underwater and that Leah was able to help ease you back in after a few years. She's amazing, and we’ll be sure to pass along your kind words! The Caribbean reefs always have something beautiful to share, and we’re happy you got to enjoy the corals and marine life with us. Hope to see you again soon for more underwater adventures! Warm regards, Cindy and the Cartagena Concierge Dive Team
via Tripadvisor
Diving of course
Diving was great well organised equipment was great I really enjoyed the dive experience thanks guy’s
via Viator
good material and guidance
Good information at the booking office. Dive trip according to the information we received. Friendly and helpful staff. Diving location not spectacular but definitely worth it. The boat trip to and from the dive site is an extra attraction.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your comment and for sharing your experience! We are glad to hear that the staff was friendly and helpful, and that the snorkeling trip was to your liking. The boat tour is definitely an extra attraction that many enjoy. We take your comments about the dive site into consideration and look forward to seeing you again to continue offering unique experiences! Cartagena Concierge Team
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Wonderful day on the boat!
We had such a fantastic day trip to the Rosario Islands with the Cartagena Concierge! The team was so wonderfully friendly and attentive! We could not recommend the group enough :) Thank you!!!
Response from the operator: Dear Camila, Thank you for this special review, your words motivate us to provide unforgettable experiences for our gest. It is also very nice to meet people like you and your friends who become a special guest for us after sharing a few days. We hope to see you again in Cartagena. Best regards, Cindy Buelvas City Concierge
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 55
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Scuba diving in Rosario Islands: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cartagena.
How does Scuba diving in Rosario Islands compare to similar tours in Cartagena?
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It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cartagena, with an Outty Ranking of 55. At $354 it sits above the typical similar option ($42), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and travelers who want a full-day outing.
Who is Scuba diving in Rosario Islands best for?
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It suits families and travelers who want a full-day outing best, based on its 8-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Is Scuba diving in Rosario Islands good value?
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It is a premium pick. It starts at $354, above the $42 typical for similar experiences in Cartagena.
How much does Scuba diving in Rosario Islands cost?
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Prices start at $354 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cartagena usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Scuba diving in Rosario Islands take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cartagena is not rushed.
Is Scuba diving in Rosario Islands worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cartagena, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Scuba diving in Rosario Islands?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Scuba diving in Rosario Islands suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Scuba diving in Rosario Islands?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cartagena can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cartagena and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Scuba diving in Rosario Islands start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cartagena within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Cartagena?
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On Outty we rank every Cartagena experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Historic Center & Getsemaní Shared Tour in Cartagena, Cartagena Antigua & Barrio Getsemani group with audio system, Cartagena VIP Boat Tour: Rosario Islands & Snorkel. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Cartagena?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Cartagena?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Scuba diving in Rosario Islands?
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Included: Private Round-Trip Boat Transportation to Barú & Rosario Islands; Hotel pickup and drop-off; Snacks & Refreshments; Full Diving Equipment; and Certified Dive Instructors & Guides. Not included: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase); Food and drinks, unless specified; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Scuba diving in Rosario Islands include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 204 listed pickup locations in and around Cartagena. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Scuba diving in Rosario Islands offered in?
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It is offered in Portuguese, English, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Scuba diving in Rosario Islands?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Scuba diving in Rosario Islands wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Scuba diving in Rosario Islands if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Cartagena. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Scuba diving in Rosario Islands?
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Across 5 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include value for money, organization, food and drink. Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.
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