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The Taxis traveling from the port will pass by a modern Convention Center before stopping right in front of the Teatro Colon although some may take you a bit farther. Regardless of the exact place where taxis stop, it will be one of side of a large square with one side opening into a bay. On the right side you will see a gated garden - the Parque del Centenario.
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The city is large, so if you want to see some of the more distinctive sites, it would be best to book an excursion.
Colombia Cruise Port Guide
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Regardless of the official taxi rates, do make sure before entering the taxi that the price is absolutely clear. I’m not advocating for women to wander the streets of any foreign city alone. Even though I’m not a fan of group excursions, I will take a shore tour if I don’t feel comfortable or if I want to visit an out of the way point of interest. Cartagena began to flourish as a trading town in the 15th century when Spain used the area for international trade between the “old” and “new” worlds.
Best Time to Visit
You can easily walk to all of the different sites in the Old City. From one end to the other is about 30 minutes but half the fun is all of the sites and people along the way. From here, you are just minutes away from the bustling city center and main shopping street by foot. The stroll offers an immersion into the local scenery that’s hard to beat!
Colombian coffee and handmade hats and jewelry from Cartagena are popular gifts. The cruise terminal is a nice easy walk from the cruise ship. There was a crew shuttle that ran between the boat and the terminal area. The best time to visit Cartagena is winter and summer, when the weather is optimal for outdoor activities. Whether you want to explore the historic city center with its charming cobblestone streets or relax on the beautiful beaches, you’ll find that Cartagena offers something for everyone.
Cruise Terminal Information
On the northern side of the square, a fortified wall with a clock tower marks the entrance to Old City. The large square in between these landmarks is known as Paseo Camellon de los Martires and pays homage to those that died for the Independence of Cartagena. Right outside the gangway, the cruise traveler will find a small Tourist Information Kiosk but, be aware, it is only open for the first couple of hours after the ship docks.
For two straight days, we rocked and rolled our way to South America. On a cruise to Cartagena, Colombia, you’ll discover the essence of this coastal city just moments after you disembark. It’s not hard to fall in love with Colombia’s energy, its friendly locals, and the sheer variety of things to do here.
The port is usually included in Southern Caribbean itineraries (leaving roundtrip from Florida USA) and often in Panama Canal transition itineraries. The city has population around 920,000 (metro around 1,3 million). Overall my favorite part of this port terminal was the birds. I am such a bird nerd that I was in awe that there were Scarlet Macaws, Toucans, and other parrots within a couple of inches from me. If you want something a bit more upscale, this restaurant will fit the bill. The contemporary cuisine will have a distinct Colombian flavor.
Cartagena Cocktail Time
Navigating through Cartagena is made easy and convenient with the various transportation options at the cruise port. Shuttle bus services operate round-the-clock, providing a fast and efficient way to get you where you want. Once outside, on a large parking lot, the cruise traveler will find officially licensed Taxi drivers and some independent tour operator offering their services. Taxi fares are displayed in small blue signs (US$20 for a single ride to the Old Town; $25 for a 1-hour tour; et cetera). However, be aware that pricing is per car and, therefore, works out cheaper to share a van (up to 8 passengers) than a taxi for 4.
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I much prefer to wander around a city, stopping for lunch or a drink in-between window shopping and mindless meandering. If you’re sticking close to the city center and the port while docked on your cruise to Cartagena, Colombia, you’ll find plenty to see and do. Cartagena also has a robust bus system for travelers who are there for a longer period of time. Buses regularly take trips just beyond the city to smaller towns and other sights. Taxis here are generally affordable and can get you across the city faster than if you try to navigate the bus system. Cruise ships dock at the Cruise Ship Terminal located on Manga Island.
Colombia is currently ranked South America's 3rd-largest market - after Brazil and Argentina. The port of Cartagena de Indias (as it is officially called) is located approximately 3.5km (2 miles) from the old city, in the Manga neighborhood. We were so ready for an iced cold drink that we bought the largest size we possibly could. If you still dare to brave the system, TransCaribe is the city’s public transit network with numerous buses that service the city’s main arteries.
Stay in the main tourist areas, such as the old town, when exploring Cartagena, Colombia. These areas are well-patrolled and generally safe for visitors. To purchase a beach pass, you can visit the designated area at the cruise port or inquire directly with your cruise line. Check if any restrictions or requirements apply before purchasing your pass, such as age restrictions for certain activities. The Cartagena Cruise Port in Colombia offers a variety of activities and attractions for cruise passengers. One popular attraction is the zoological forest, where exotic species like howler monkeys can be seen.
The rooftop of the Art Lifestyle Hotel, across from San Filipe Fortress (Romancing the Stone was partly filmed inside the wall) was a welcome relief from the tropical heat. Up to the 3rd floor rooftop restaurant and terrace for a frothy lemonade and coconut milk drink, a few photos. Soon, we were on our way back to the ship, in time for a late lunch. Charleston, South Carolina and the entire east coast were getting slammed from winter storm Grayson. Our Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Serenity voyage was supposed to originate in Charleston for a Panama Canal cruise.
The Cartagena Cruise Port in Colombia offers beach passes for cruise passengers. These passes provide access to the stunning sandy beaches along the oceanfront. With a beach pass, you can enjoy sunbathing, partake in beach activities, and even try water sports like jet skiing or snorkeling. Sometimes there is also a catamaran tour offered in the port. It costs 30 dollars and it gives you a quick tour of the town. Find the catamaran right next to the flamingo garden at the cruise terminal.
If you’re interested in jewelry, diamonds, or luxury watches, check out Cruise Shop Save for expert advice on where to shop for these items in Cartagena. Our extensive guide provides all essential information, from terminal details and transport options to local attractions, ensuring your time ashore is nothing short of adventurous. The Port is around 4km (2,5 miles) from the entrance of the Old Walled Town and the taxi ride shouldn't take more than 15 minutes. Although some crew members choose to walk, it is not advisable to cross the neighborhood of the port on foot.
AmaWaterways offers pre-cruise packages in Medellin (3-night) or Cartagena (2-night), plus a 5-night combo (Medellin plus Cartagena). In 2020, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group's subsidiary company Pullmantur Cruises had ~50% market share of Colombia's ship cruising market. Pullmantur started operations here in 2014, and in 2019 Colombia was its 3rd-largest market (after Spain and Brazil) operated year-round with 1 liner (Pullmantur Monarch). The ship was homeported in Cartagena and Colon Panama for roundtrips to Southern Caribbean port destinations.
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