A Travel Guide to the Oceanarium in the Rosario Islands (2026)
The Oceanarium Islas del Rosario (also known as Oceanario Islas del Rosario – CEINER) is one of the most popular marine attractions near Cartagena. Located on Isla San Martín de Pajarales in the beautiful Rosario Islands archipelago, this fauna conservation center houses over 1,400 animals from more than 140 Caribbean marine species. It offers interactive exhibits, dolphin shows, and close-up views of sea turtles, sharks, rays, and colorful fish in natural ocean pools and tanks. It’s an educational and family-friendly stop that combines perfectly with a day of island-hopping, snorkeling, and beach time in one of Colombia’s most stunning natural areas.
Why Visit the Oceanarium?
See marine life up close in open-sea style enclosures (not traditional closed aquariums).
Watch live dolphin presentations and educational talks about conservation.
Learn about the fragile Caribbean ecosystem and ongoing research & rehabilitation efforts.
Combine it with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white-sand beaches of the Rosario Islands.
How to Get There
The Oceanarium is only accessible by boat — there is no road connection.
From Cartagena: Most visitors depart from Muelle de la Bodeguita (the main tourist pier in the Old City) or nearby private marinas. Travel time: ≈ 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes by speedboat, depending on weather and stops.
Main Options: Shared Group Tours (most common & affordable): Full-day Rosario Islands tours that include the Oceanarium + snorkeling + lunch + beach stops (Playa Blanca, Isla Grande, etc.). Price range: ≈ COP 120,000–220,000 (~USD 28–55) per person, depending on inclusions. Popular platforms: GetYourGuide, Viator, Tripadvisor Experiences, local agencies in the walled city.
Private Boat Charter: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting flexibility. Customize stops, spend more/less time at the Oceanarium, choose quieter beaches. Price: ≈ USD 300–600 for a boat (4–10 people), fuel and captain included.
Overnight Island Stay + Day Visit: Stay on Isla Grande, Isla del Encanto, or other islands → take a short local boat to the Oceanarium.
Opening Hours (as of recent information): Daily: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM; Last entry usually around 12:30–1:00 PM → plan to arrive early.
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (December–April): Calm seas, clearest water, best visibility for marine life.
Avoid peak holidays (Christmas–New Year, Easter, Colombian school vacations in June–July) if you dislike crowds.
Morning departures (8:00–9:00 AM boats) → arrive at the Oceanarium when it opens and beat the heat & bigger groups.
What to Expect at the Oceanarium
Duration: 45–90 minutes is usually enough to see the main areas.
Highlights: Dolphin show / interaction area; Shark and ray tunnel / viewing platforms; Sea turtle pools; Educational displays about coral reefs and Caribbean biodiversity.
Entrance Fee: ≈ COP 30,000–45,000 (~USD 7–11) per adult. Many group tours include this; private charters usually require separate payment.
Language: Guides usually speak Spanish; some tours offer English-speaking guides.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (reef-safe / biodegradable); Hat, sunglasses, rash guard or light cover-up; Towel, dry bag / waterproof phone pouch; Cash (Colombian pesos) for entrance fee if not included, snacks, tips; Reusable water bottle; Snorkel gear (if your tour doesn’t provide it); Motion sickness tablets (if prone — open Caribbean sea can be choppy).
Tips for a Great Experience
Choose wisely: If you only want beaches and snorkeling, skip the Oceanarium stop (some people find it commercialized or prefer wild nature). If marine education + dolphin interaction interests you, it’s worth including.
Combine activities: The best days pair the Oceanarium with: Snorkeling in coral areas; Lunch on a beach (fresh fish, coconut rice, patacones); Swimming at quieter coves.
Avoid extra fees traps: Confirm whether entrance is included in your tour price.
Respect the animals: Follow staff instructions — no touching, feeding, or flash photography where prohibited.
Eco-friendly choice: Support operators that use responsible practices and contribute to marine conservation.
Sample Full-Day Itinerary (Popular Shared Tour Style)
08:00–08:30 — Meet at pier in Cartagena
08:30–10:00 — Boat ride + possible quick stop at Bocachica Fort viewpoint
10:00–11:30/12:00 — Oceanarium visit + dolphin show
12:00–13:30 — Snorkeling in a coral spot
13:30–15:30 — Beach time + lunch on Isla Grande or Playa Blanca
15:30–17:00 — Return to Cartagena
The Oceanarium offers a fun, educational contrast to the wild beauty of the Rosario Islands. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just love marine life, it’s a memorable addition to any Cartagena Caribbean adventure. Enjoy your trip to paradise!