If you’re planning a day at sea in the Caribbean, renting a private motorboat in Santa Marta is one of those plans that never disappoints: you choose the pace, the route, the music, and who you share the experience with, and you arrive by sea at beaches that are much more enjoyable in private.
In this guide, we’ve compiled everything you need to know before booking: how much it costs, what should be included, which routes to choose, the best time of year, what to bring, and how to book with Serenity Boat Rental in just a few minutes.
Quick Links: Reservations · Plans and Prices · Routes and Destinations · Sunset Tour
Why choose a private motorboat instead of a shared tour?
- Just your group on board: no strangers, no waiting for anyone.
- You set the pace: more time for swimming and snorkeling, or a plan with music and celebration.
- Flexible itinerary: the captain tailors it to your group, as long as the weather and sea conditions permit.
- Perfect for celebrating: birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or a family outing.
- Great value for groups: the price is for the entire motorboat, so when divided among several people, the experience is very affordable.
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Santa Marta?
The price of a private motorboat rental depends on the route (the beaches in Tayrona are farther away and require more fuel), the type of tour (full day or sunset), the size of the boat, the season, and any extras you add.
Serenity Boat Rental Prices (2026)
Private motorboat charter, full-day tour from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM:
| Route | Price starting at (COP) |
|---|---|
| Bahía Concha and Granate | $2.100.000 |
| Playa Cristal | $2.250.000 |
| Cinto (Parque Tayrona) | $2.400.000 |
| Cinto + Playa Cristal + Bahía Concha | $2.550.000 |
Includes 2 captains, fuel, and safety equipment. Does not include the departure tax ($12,000 COP per person) or admission to the beaches in Parque Tayrona National Park. Prices may vary depending on the season; we’ll confirm the exact price via WhatsApp. View Serenity’s plans and prices.
Market reference price
To compare with other options in Santa Marta (general prices; they vary depending on the company, the boat, and the season):
| Type of service | Market Reference Price (COP) |
|---|---|
| Shared Tour (per person) | $80.000 – $180.000 |
| Basic Boat Tour (3 hours) | $400.000 – $600.000 |
| Medium-sized boat (half-day) | $700.000 – $1.200.000 |
| Premium Boat (Full Day) | $1.500.000 – $3.000.000 |
| Luxury Yacht (8+ hours) | Starting at $4,000,000 |
When comparing prices, always check whether the price is per person or for the entire boat, and whether it includes the captain, fuel, and safety equipment.
What a Good Private Motorboat Rental Should Include
- Certified captains (Serenity has 2 captains on board).
- Fuel included, or make it absolutely clear if it’s charged separately.
- Life jackets and safety equipment, VHF radio, and professional operation.
- Departure from a marina: more organized and safer than boarding at the beach.
- Comfort on board: shade, seating, a cooler, and a sound system.
At Serenity, we set sail from the Marina Internacional de Santa Marta on two motorboats: Serenity (up to 13 people) and Serenity II (up to 16 people).
Types of motorboats you’ll find in Santa Marta
- Small motorboat (4 to 8 people): short trips and couples.
- Medium or large motorboat (10 to 16 people): families and groups of friends who want a full day out.
- Yacht: for events and large groups, at a higher price. If you’re looking for this option, read our guide to yacht rentals in Santa Marta.
The Best Motorboat Routes from Santa Marta
- Playa Cristal: crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Cinto: a peaceful, natural bay within Parque Tayrona National Park.
- Bahía Concha and Granate: close to the city, perfect for a relaxing day.
- Inca Inca and Taganga: relaxed swimming and a great atmosphere.
- Playa Blanca and El Rodadero: classic stops, great for groups with varied interests.
- Sunset tour: from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM, ideal for couples, proposals, and celebrations.
Check out all the boat tour options in Santa Marta.
Sample itinerary for a full day
- 9:00 AM: Meet and depart from the Marina Internacional (International Marina).
- 10:00 AM: first stop for swimming (Bahía Concha or Inca Inca).
- 12:00 PM: main beach: Playa Cristal or Cinto, depending on the route.
- 2:30 PM: second, more relaxed stop.
- 5:00 PM: Return to the marina.
The captain may change the order depending on the waves and the day’s weather. Safety always comes first.
When is the best time to rent a motorboat in Santa Marta?
Santa Marta typically has a drier season between December and April, and a rainier season between May and November. You can go boating year-round, but it’s best to book in advance during peak season (December and January, Holy Week, mid-year, and long weekends) and be flexible with your route depending on sea conditions.
Be aware of Parque Tayrona: the park has scheduled and temporary closures throughout the year. If your plan includes Playa Cristal or Cinto, check the park’s status before confirming. When it’s closed, some motorboat routes remain open.
What to Bring and Tips for a Perfect Day
- Swimsuit, towel, and light clothing.
- Sunscreen (preferably reef-safe), a hat, and sunglasses with a strap.
- Water, snacks, and a waterproof case for your cell phone.
- Cash is required for departure and entry into Tayrona National Park, if your itinerary includes it.
- If you’re planning a celebration, let us know in advance so we can arrange for decorations, drinks, or music.
How to Book with Serenity Boat Rental
- Go to Reservations and tap the WhatsApp button.
- Send us the date, the number of people, the tour (full day or sunset), and the route you’re interested in, or ask us for the best route for that day.
- We’ll confirm availability, the exact price, and the meeting point.
You can also write to us via the Contact Us page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the price per person or per lancha?
For the entire motorboat. Only your group travels on board—up to 13 people on Serenity or 16 on Serenity II.
What is not included in the price?
The departure tax (12,000 COP per person) and admission to the beaches in Parque Tayrona are included. Extras such as decorations or beverages are quoted separately.
Can I make a shorter plan?
Yes. The sunset tour runs from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM and is the favorite short outing for couples and celebrations.
What happens if the weather prevents us from sailing?
The captain makes decisions based on sea conditions and instructions from the maritime authority. We will confirm the terms for date changes and cancellations in writing before you book.