CARTAGENA
Big City Attractions, Sleepy Beach Town Vibes
When you combine all of the best things about the Caribbean with the luxurious conveniences of modern city living you’re left with Cartagena, a dreamy South American gem nestled amongst the white sand beaches of the Caribbean Sea on the northern coast of Colombia. Explore the litany of architectural wonders and odes to Colombia’s history from getting lost in the labyrinths of cobblestoned streets and eclectic alleyways to the walled old town, now a UNESCO-World Heritage Site.
Take a boat tour to island hop on the iconic Rosario Islands – renowned for their breathtaking surrounding coral reef formations. Indulge in a variety of expertly crafted seafood dishes (or take a class from a local to learn how to make your own), experience the exciting nightlife from five-star restaurants to breezy beach bars, and peruse the various shops and street markets hawking homemade goods. It won’t take long to realize why so many people fall in love with this unparalleled city.
Shore Excursions
Captivating Cartagena
Cartagena Cuisine, picturesque landmarks & local beaches.
Cartagena Cooking Class & Walled City Walking Tour
Travel to Cartagena’s Getsemani district for a hands-on cooking class where you'll prepare a 4-course Colombian meal, including arepas, shrimp cocktail, fish wrapped in Bijao leaves, and sweet plantain with homemade ice cream. Led by local chefs, this interactive experience introduces you to authentic Colombian flavors. After the class, enjoy a short walking tour of Cartagena’s walled city, exploring its charming streets and plazas before returning to the pier.
Sunset Cruise in the Bay of Cartagena
Settled by indigenous people as far back as 4,000 BCE, the bay has long been a critical spot for trade in the region. The scenery isn't bad either. Board your boat and catch the sun's fading rays against the city's modern skyline while you savor delicious traditional street food, along with a selection of local beer, rum punch, and soft drinks. Enjoy a musical performance on board, then head back to port sated by an evening of bay breeze.
Snorkeling Adventure at Rosario Island
A short stroll from port leads to your boat and a scenic ride past Cartagena’s skyline and the historic forts of Bocachica. Settle into the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park, where clear, blue waters reveal colorful reefs and marine life. A bilingual guide leads your snorkel, then it’s time to relax onboard with fresh fruit, sandwiches, and drinks. Soak in the views on the return sail before heading back to the ship.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
Bring your sunscreen!
Cartagena is home to over 70 different beaches, each special in its own way.
Shore Excursions
Quintessential Cartagena
Get the true flavor of Colombian culture & hospitality during a full day of sight-seeing, beginning with a visit to the massive San Felipe Fortress.
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGS
Quickly becoming a favorite destination of travel enthusiasts everywhere, Cartagena takes everything that’s so beloved about the Caribbean and combines it with the conveniences of modern city living. Filled with architectural and cultural history, five-star restaurants, museums, and more than seventy white sand beaches to soak up the sun, in Cartagena there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you spend your time here experiencing a walking tour of this city-turned-UNESCO-world heritage site, boating to the nearby Rosario Islands for a bit of scuba diving or snorkeling over the renowned coral reefs, indulging in expertly crafted fresh seafood dishes or experiencing a taste of the exciting nightlife, you’ll quickly discover why so many people fall in love with this heartwarming city.
Set Sail the Virgin Way
Set sail the Virgin way and find a new approach to cruise vacations. Select this can't-miss itinerary and let's sail.
