Sometimes, I’m a bit of sucker for the unique and weird even if it is slightly cheesy. So, when we got to Cartagena, and I saw a gigantic pirate ship with a sign advertising a sunset cruise parked at the docks, I was immediately excited. I wanted to go on a Cartagena sunset boat tour anyway. Why not on a pirate ship? The kids would love that!
I booked it the same week that my friend Jody and her daughter would be visiting. They were both as ecstatic as I was about this quirky adventure!
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Cartagena Sunset Boat Tour On A Pirate Ship
On the day of the pirate ship sunset cruise, we climbed into a couple of taxis and headed to the docks. After you purchase your tickets, they will send you instructions on where to go. As I had already seen the gigantic pirate ship, I had a pretty good idea of where to go.
We confidently walked up to the dock, and showed him my tickets. Then, he pointed to another boat. Wait. What? There’s more than one pirate ship in Cartagena?
There are in fact 2 different pirate ships that take sunset cruises in Cartagena de Indias. I had accidentally booked a different one than I had thought.
This other boat was smaller, and honestly not as impressive looking as the other ship. I was instantly disappointed, but there was nothing we could do about it. So, we decided to make the most of it.
Where To Book A Cartagena Sunset Boat Tour
While my first impression wasn’t great, La Fantástica Pirate Ship far exceeded my expectations! The crew was so friendly and entertaining. They interacted so well with all of the kids on board and made it a fun adventure for everyone!
Prices are about $43 for adults with a slight discount for kids. The price varies depending on the exchange rate. You must reserve your Cartagena sunset boat tour in advance.
If you are interested in seeing the other pirate ship, here’s a link to book their Cartagena sunset boat tour. This tour is a little less expensive, but not as kid-friendly according to the people I have spoken to from Cartagena. Also the rating isn’t great.
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Our Experience On La Fantástica Pirate Ship
Upon entering the pirate ship, the fantastic crew offered us our choice of beverage, a rum punch or a rum lemonade cocktail. These are bottomless, so you can drink as much or as little as you please.
There are also non-alcoholic options for the kids or folks who don’t want to drink rum.
We found some seats in the back of the pirate ship and waited for our Cartagena sunset boat tour to begin.
As we sipped our drinks, the kids discovered some cool pirate weapons to play with. This kept them entertained until we started the tour into the bay.
Learn A Few Facts And A Little History
As you cruise, you are taken from the marina area to the cargo port where you learn a little history and witness the cargo ships being loaded and unloaded with goods.
This was super fascinating for Levi to see and learn a little bit about cargo ships and freight shipping.
We continued sailing into the bay while listening to funny commentary and history lessons along the way as the sun was starting to set.
The trip takes you around the Boca Grande and Laguito Peninsula. These upscale neighborhoods are some of the most expensive in Cartagena and give off the appearance of looking like a South American Miami. Do think the nickname is accurate?
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Unexpected Thoughtful Details
While we were sailing, we were surprised by little unexpected touches. The crew dressed up as pirates and took pictures with the kids. This really made it special for the kids.
Oddly enough, we passed near the other pirate ship (the big one I originally thought we were going on). When we passed it, our crew shot off fireworks from the cannon towards the other ship! We had so much fun pretending we were in a great pirate ship battle.
Summing Up Our Cartagena Sunset Boat Tour Experience
I would highly recommend booking La Fantástica pirate ship for your Cartagena sunset boat tour. The music was great. The interesting stories and commentary were also a treat. The sunset was beautiful.
If we did it all over again, we would definitely choose La Fantástica again, and that’s not just the rum talking. We had such a fantastic time on this pirate ship cruise with our kids. You won’t be disappointed!
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