Best Snorkel and Diving Spots Near Cartagena

Cartagena is blessed to be surrounded by a healthy coral reef and a series of islands with rich marine biodiversity.

Cartagena is blessed to be surrounded by a healthy coral reef and a series of islands with rich marine biodiversity. Many visitors are eager to hop into the water and get their own glimpse of the underwater world. Luckily, there are a few different places where you can go to see marine life depending on the amount of time that you have and the distance that you want to travel.

Below is our list of top places to snorkel and dive in Cartagena.

Snorkeling – Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are an idyllic series of islands near Cartagena that serve as a magnet for beach bums and snorkelers. The nearby reef is teeming with marine life and easily accessible from the shoreline. You can either rent snorkel gear right on the beach, bring your own, or book a full package including boat transfer with one of the many tour operators in Cartagena.

The islands are accessible from Playa Blanca or via shuttle boat from Cartagena. We highly recommend staying the night in Playa Blanca or on the Rosario Islands to really enjoy the beauty of this remarkable place.

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Diving – Shipwrecks

Shipwrecks can be a diver’s paradise and often serve as artificial reefs. Luckily, there are two shipwrecks nearby where you can see a wide variety of aquatic life.

Pedro de Heredia and Salmedina shipwrecks are just minutes north of Cartagena and provide an amazing experience for experienced divers.

The Pedro de Heredia wreck is perched on a sandbank and divers can swim through the wreck itself guided by cords. Pedro de Heredia was a Spanish conquistador who founded Cartagena so a swim through the wreckage is symbolic of a walk through Cartagena’s history. Keep an eye out for the brightly colored fire coral that live on the wreck and offer a dazzling splash of color.

Salmedina is a little further out but still only takes around 20 minutes to reach. The area is actually a series of underwater plateaus and cliffs. History lovers will get a thrill out of the two sunken ships next to the base of an old lighthouse.

Our Concierge Dream Team will be happy to arrange yacht service or a Dream Experience of your preference for you and your group. Should you require any assistance finding suitable transportation to and from the islands check out our Yacht Rental Services.

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