There’s no better way to experience a tropical paradise than from the comfort and luxury of a Caribbean cruise. Not only will you be seduced by the palm-fringed serenity of some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and stroll the flower-filled streets of stunning colonial cities, you’ll be treated to a wealth of cruise activities, from casinos and water slides to cultural excursions. Learn more about Caribbean cruises that stop in Colombia.
More than 50 cruise lines operate across the world and 33 of them offer Caribbean cruises that stop in Colombia, because the country is so attractive to visitors. Pullmantur, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruises, Princess Cruises and Disney Cruises are among the most well-known.
Most cruises that stop in Colombia arrive at the port of Cartagena de Indias, recognized by the OAS as a Sustainable Tourism Destination Port in 2014, thanks to its excellent infrastructure and the environmental, cultural and economic practices it applies to receiving cruise ships.
The beauty of Colombia’s port cities and the improvements the country has made to its infrastructure have made it a much-loved tourism destination for international cruise companies, which bring more than 300,000 passengers to the Colombian Caribbean every year.
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Which coastal cities do cruise passengers see?
Visit Cartagena
Cartagena’s cruise terminal is one of the best in the world and it receives more cruise passengers than any other Colombian city. Passengers disembark into a zoological forest that’s home to some of Colombia’s best-known exotic species, including howler monkeys, parrots and flamingos. The port also has a replica of an emerald mine, with 24 of these precious green stones on display to evoke the Colombian countryside where they are mined.
Learn more about the city of Cartagena
Things to see in Santa Marta
The capital of Colombia’s Magdalena department is the country’s second city when it comes to welcoming cruise passengers to the Colombian coasts. In the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, this city is home to jaw-dropping flora and fauna as well as unique historical sites including the Lost City and Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino. Not only do visitors enjoy Santa Marta’s sun and beaches, they are also immersed in the cultural influences of the Arhuaco indigenous tribes and the history of ‘Liberator’ Simon Bolivar.
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San Andres, a much-loved island
The San Andres and Providencia archipelago is one of Colombia’s best-loved destinations for cruise line passengers. Ships arrive at the El Cove dock and begin their adventure where the sun shimmers on the soothing turquoise waters of the ‘Sea of Seven Colors’. The island is a delight for those who love swimming and snorkeling. It’s home to the underwater splendor of the Seaflower Marine Reserve, which is part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Cruise activities: Fun for everyone
Onboard entertainment is one reason why Caribbean cruises are a top choice for fun and socializing. Cruise liners resemble miniature cities with things to do at every hour of the day. There really is something for everyone, whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, in a group of friends, or with children of all ages.
Cruise activities vary between cruise lines, but you will most likely find the following:
Educational activities
Both adults and children can learn something new as they travel. Kids’ programs include wildlife workshops and educational games, while adult passengers can enjoy wine tastings, dance classes and photography workshops, with equipment provided, which is ideal if you want to capture the beauty of the sunsets on the Colombian coast.
Evening entertainment
Evenings on cruise ships are full of music and fun. The dance floor is the ideal place to show off any moves you’ve learned, seduced by the rhythm and joy of the Caribbean, and there are also onboard cinemas and live comedy shows.
Exercise and sports
Fully-equipped gyms await those who enjoy their daily exercise fix and there are swimming pools and basketball and tennis courts for those keen to practice sports. Some of the biggest cruise ships even boast their own running track, complete with ocean breeze and a panoramic view of the waves.
Casino nights
Don’t forget to try your luck with all the glamor of an onboard casino, complete with poker and Blackjack and, of course, an exotic cocktail and a bar snack or two.
What do you need to travel on a cruise?
Have all your documents ready before you board, including your passport, visa, vaccination certificates and any other paperwork you may require.
Passport
You need a valid passport to visit Colombia and passports must be valid for at least six months after the date your cruise docks in the country.
Successive cruises
If you’re planning to travel on successive cruises on different ships, which means you’re stopping in various cities, make sure you have the travel documents you need for each stop.
Visas
You can cruise from Colombia to other ports and you’ll have to take into account their entry requirements. If necessary, make sure you obtain your visa ahead of time.
Colombia has become one of the world’s top destinations for Caribbean cruises. Are you ready for adventure? Pick your cruise, pack your bags and prepare for the experience of a lifetime.
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