Colombia Cruises

Colombia, a vibrant country brimming with culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, is a must-visit destination for cruisers looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. With everything from lush rainforests and pristine beaches to historic cities and rich biodiversity, this South American gem has something for everyone. Fun fact: Colombia is the only country in South America that has coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. A cruise to Colombia allows you to experience its unique offerings while enjoying the comfort and convenience of shipboard amenities—your floating hotel!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Excursions to Colombia

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 7 vessels that visit Colombia, including popular options like the Rotterdam and Eurodam. Both ships are renowned for their elegant onboard service, distinguished dining options, and enriching activities. Most cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, giving cruisers ample choices for embarking on their Colombian adventure.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line boasts a fleet of 20, with 8 ships that make their way to Colombia. The Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Joy provide excellent entertainment and a variety of dining options reflecting global cuisines. Departures most often occur from Miami or Los Angeles, making it convenient for cruisers to set off on their journey through Colombia’s captivating landscapes.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring 17 ships, Princess has 6 that venture to Colombia, with standout vessels like the Crown Princess and Island Princess. These ships provide a premium cruising experience with their family-friendly amenities and various dining venues. Departures often occur from international ports such as Fort Lauderdale or Dover, making it easy for cruisers to enjoy the marvels of Colombia.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a fleet of 28, Royal Caribbean has 4 ships that travel to Colombia, including the Serenade of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas. Known for their fun-filled activities and stunning onboard features, these ships create memorable experiences. Departures most frequently happen from Colón or Miami, making it easy for cruisers to discover Colombia’s treasures.
• MSC Cruises: This cruise line features 23 vessels, with 2 ships sailing to Colombia, specifically the MSC Divina and MSC Magnifica. Both ships are recognised for their elegant designs and varied entertainment options, appealing to cruisers of all ages. Most departures take place from Miami or Barcelona, providing travelers with diverse starting points.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Colombia

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has 4 that sail to Colombia, including the Insignia and Sirena. These ships are known for their fine dining and exceptional service, catering to an upscale clientele. Departures typically occur from Miami or Panama City, ensuring a luxurious beginning to your trip.
• Azamara Cruises: This line consists of 4 ships, with 3 that cruise to Colombia, including the Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey. Known for their immersive itineraries and longer stays in ports, Azamara ensures cruisers enjoy ample time to soak in local culture. Departures most commonly happen from Miami or Fuerte Amador, giving you various options for starting your cruise experience.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea has 3 ships visiting Colombia, with noteworthy options like the Silver Ray and Silver Moon. Renowned for their luxurious suites and personalised service, these ships make for a truly opulent adventure. Departures often occur from Bridgetown or Cartagena, setting the stage for your voyage through Colombia’s stunning regions.
• Seabourn: This luxury cruise line features 6 ships, with 3 offering itineraries to Colombia, including the Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn. Both vessels are praised for their lavish accommodations and refined onboard experiences. Departures most often occur from Miami or Bridgetown, allowing a sophisticated entry into Colombia’s inviting shores.

Top Harbours to Explore in Colombia

• Cartagena: Known for its colonial architecture and historic significance, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed walled city. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets, visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, and enjoy a sunset views from the city’s walls. Be sure to try some local street food, like arepas or empanadas, during your visit!
• Colón: While not in Colombia, Colón is often part of cruise itineraries that explore the region. From here, you can access the Panama Canal, which is a magnificent engineering marvel. Guided tours will give you insights into its history while allowing you to appreciate the stunning scenery.
• Fort Lauderdale: Although primarily a departure port, Fort Lauderdale offers beautiful beaches and a vibrant dining scene if your cruise stops here. Explore the waterfront promenade or take a gondola ride through the canals to soak up the laid-back Florida style before heading to Colombia.
• Puntarenas, Costa Rica: Often a stop on cruises to Colombia, Puntarenas is your gateway to stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Excursions can take you to the picturesque Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can hike and spot diverse wildlife, making it a perfect addition to your Colombian itinerary even if it’s outside the main country.
• George Town, Cayman Islands: As another potential stop, George Town is not only known for its beautiful beaches but also for fantastic snorkelling spots. While here, don’t miss out on the local rum cakes and keep your eyes peeled for the famous stingrays at Stingray City!

When to Cruise to Colombia

Colombia enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures typically ranging from **24°C to 32°C** throughout the year. When cruising from January to March, you’ll experience warm temperatures and dry days, perfect for exploring coastal cities and embarking on outdoor activities. The months of April to June see slightly warmer temperatures, averaging around **26°C to 33°C**, making it an ideal time for beach lovers. From July to September, you may encounter some rainfall, but the temperatures stay warm, creating a lush, vibrant landscape. Lastly, October to December offers a mix of sunshine and humidity, with temperatures ranging from **24°C to 30°C**, making it a pleasant time to visit before the new year festivities kick in!

The Cost of a Cruise to Colombia

When budgeting for your Colombian getaway, a typical one-week cruise usually ranges from **$1,200 to $2,500 AUD**. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, expect prices to climb between **$3,500 to $6,500 AUD** for similarly equipped itineraries.

In terms of local dining, meals at popular restaurants will typically cost around **$10 to $25 AUD**, offering a delightful taste of Colombian cuisine. For drinks, plan to spend approximately **$3 to $8 AUD** for local beers or coffee. This allows you to indulge in the local flavours without breaking the bank while enjoying the scenic beauty of Colombia!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re intrigued by travelling to Colombia, consider exploring these eye-catching alternatives:

• Panama – Home to the famous Panama Canal, Panama offers a unique blend of nature, modernity, and rich history, making it an interesting destination that complements your Colombia experience splendidly.
• Western Caribbean – Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant cultures, this region features numerous enticing islands like Jamaica and Cozumel, perfect for additional exploration.
• Costa Rica – Renowned for its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, Costa Rica promises eco-adventures and experiences that will elevate your travel game to the next level.
• South America – Explore the regional wonders, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains; this expansive continent offers a plethora of cultural experiences and breathtaking sights.
• Bahamas – With its tropical islands and relaxed atmosphere, the Bahamas and its stunning beaches provide a perfect post-Colombian cruise conclusion for more sun-soaked goodness.

So what are you waiting for? Embark on an unforgettable journey to Colombia with Cruise1st, where vibrant culture, amazing adventures, and breathtaking landscapes combine for an experience you will cherish forever!