Playa Blanca — with its sector known as Playa Tranquila — is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Colombian Caribbean coast, located on Barú Island just 30 minutes by boat from Cartagena. Crystal clear water, white sand, and a relaxed atmosphere make it one of the most visited destinations from the city.
This boat shuttle runs every day and drops you directly onto the sand at Playa Tranquila — no dock, no transfers. Return departure from the beach is at 2:45 p.m.
Only need one direction?
👉 One Way: Cartagena → Playa Blanca (Playa Tranquila)
👉 One Way (Return): Playa Blanca (Playa Tranquila) → Cartagena
⚠️ This is a transport service, not a day trip. No activities, meals, or drinks are included. If you want a full beach experience with lunch included, check our Playa Blanca Day Trip.
📍 Departure point Muelle La Bodeguita – Gate 1, Cartagena (View on Google Maps)
🕗 Check-in: 8:15 a.m.
🕘 Departure: 9:00 a.m. (no exceptions)
🕑 Return from Playa Blanca: 2:45 p.m. (no exceptions)
💸 Port fee: 31,500 COP in cash — not included in the ticket, paid directly at the dock.
The boat drops you off and picks you up directly at Playa Tranquila, sector of Playa Blanca on Barú Island.
⚠️ There is no dock — you step straight onto the sand. Your feet will get wet. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and footwear.
Maximum 12 kg per person. Baggage over 12 kg is subject to a surcharge of 40,000 COP per piece.
Can I go to Playa Blanca and come back the same day? Yes — the return boat departs from Playa Tranquila at 2:45 p.m. and arrives in Cartagena approximately 30 minutes later. Plan your day accordingly.
Is the port fee included? No. It’s 31,500 COP in cash, paid directly at the dock on the day of travel.
What happens if I arrive late to check-in? Check-in closes at 8:45 a.m. and the boat departs promptly at 9:00 a.m. If you arrive late, you forfeit your spot with no refund. We recommend arriving by 8:15 a.m.
How much luggage can I bring? Maximum 12 kg per person. Baggage over 12 kg has an additional charge of 40,000 COP per piece.
Will my feet get wet? Yes — there is no dock at Playa Tranquila. You step directly onto the sand from the boat. We recommend wearing water-friendly footwear.
Does the service operate in bad weather? We depend on sea conditions and maritime authority authorization. In case of cancellation due to weather, we offer rescheduling or a 90% refund.
Can I modify my travel date? Yes, up to 1 day before departure. Modifications are non-refundable, but the value can be applied to another date.
Cartagena Tips is a local curation of experiences in Cartagena de Indias. Our team — made up of locals and expats who know and love the city — carefully selects every operator and service we offer, prioritizing quality and sustainable tourism.
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Have questions? Message Luis directly on WhatsApp here.
