SANTA MARTA PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
Aboard SONATA: A 7.5‑Hour Private Sail from Santa Marta to Bahía Concha
A private day aboard Tayrona Sailing’s classic Formosa sailboat — a 7.5‑hour trip from Marina Internacional Santa Marta to Bahía Concha with beach time, paddleboards, snorkeling and a grilled fish lunch.
Aboard SONATA: A 7.5‑Hour Private Sail from Santa Marta to Bahía Concha.
Adventure brief
Aboard SONATA: A 7.5‑Hour Private Sail from Santa Marta to Bahía Concha
Step off the marina and onto SONATA, a classic Formosa sailboat run by Tayrona Sailing, for a 7.5‑hour private voyage that replaces city noise with the calmer rhythm of the sea and a striking coastal perspective of Tayrona National Park.
Santa Marta, perched on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, offers more than just a gateway to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains and the storied Tayrona National Park—it’s a launchpad for remarkable sea-based adventures. Tayrona Sailing deepens the local outdoor scene with the SONATA BOAT PRIVATE experience, a 7.5-hour private day trip aboard a vintage Formosa sailboat from 1979. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a full Caribbean immersion.
The journey begins at Santa Marta’s marina, where the classic Formosa vessel welcomes up to 26 guests, though private bookings keep the atmosphere intimate and relaxed. As you set sail, the horizon melts into turquoise seas dotted with limestone cliffs and white sand beaches not easily accessed by land. The vessel’s steady glide offers a window into this rugged coastline, where warm waters cradle vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.
Mid-adventure, the grill fires up aboard the SONATA, serving perfectly cooked local fish accompanied by rice salad and sweet fried plantains—a true taste of Magdalena’s culinary offerings. After lunch, guests can paddleboard or don snorkel gear, slipping into clear waters to observe colorful marine life and the underwater formations that define this corner of the Caribbean.
What sets Tayrona Sailing apart is its blend of nostalgic sailing charm and active engagement with the sea. This trip is ideal for those wanting to combine relaxation, culture, and movement away from crowded tourist hubs. Located just minutes from Santa Marta, the company connects visitors with the unique coastal ecosystem and the cultural rhythms of Magdalena.
For travelers seeking a genuine maritime experience with ample time on the water, SONATA BOAT PRIVATE is a standout choice. It’s a chance to slow down, savor natural beauty, and enjoy a day crafted for both adventure and ease—all under the guidance of knowledgeable local hosts committed to safety and sustainability.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
A straightforward private route with set meeting and return times, direct navigation to Bahía Concha and defined beach time activities.
Charter Dock — Marina Internacional Santa Marta
Meeting at 9:30 am at the charter dock; ask for the boat SONATA. Boarding closes at 9:50 am and late arrivals cannot board or receive a refund.
Navigation to Bahía Concha
Direct navigation to Bahía Concha with an approximate transit time of 1 hour 20 minutes; during Tayrona Park closures (Feb 1–15, Jun 1–15, Sep 19–Oct 2) the trip instead visits Taganga or Inca Inca (half‑day).
Bahía Concha — Beach Time
Free time on the beach for swimming, paddleboarding and snorkeling; lunch (typically grilled fish) served between about 12:00 and 13:00 depending on weather and operations.
Return to Marina
All passengers must be back on board by 3:20 pm for the return trip, which may use motor and sail (only the Genoa is used on the way back); estimated return to the harbour is between 4:30 and 5:00 pm.
Arrive on time: the operator does not wait past 9:50 am and there is no refund for missed departures. If you are prone to dizziness, take motion‑sickness medication (MAREOL is available at the marina minimarket). Route and stops may change during Tayrona Park closures.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sail aboard a vintage Formosa
The experience centers on the SONATA, a classic sailboat whose character shapes the day — guests relax on deck, learn about sailing or simply settle into the boat’s unhurried tempo.
Direct navigation to Bahía Concha
The trip sails directly to Bahía Concha (about 1 hour 20 minutes), giving guests an unmatched water‑level view of the Tayrona coastline; during official Tayrona Park closures the itinerary shifts to Taganga or Inca Inca (half‑day visits).
Beach time, paddleboards, snorkel and grilled fish lunch
At the beach guests have free time to swim, sunbathe, use paddleboards or snorkel masks, and enjoy a grilled fish lunch typically served between 12:00 and 13:00 depending on weather and operations.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
From the moment the boat pushes off the marina the day adopts the measured cadence of sailing: a mix of quiet stretches on deck, active moments with paddleboards and snorkeling, conversation among guests and a leisurely beach lunch — a private day that emphasizes connection to the water and the coastline.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private sail is best for — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Sunscreen, a towel (optional), and a relaxed, positive attitude; basic motion‑sickness medication if you are prone to dizziness.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the SONATA private trip?
The trip is 7.5 hours in total.
Where and when do we meet for departure?
Meet at 9:30 am at the Charter Dock, Marina Internacional Santa Marta and ask for the boat SONATA; boarding closes at 9:50 am.
What is the route and travel time to Bahía Concha?
The boat sails directly to Bahía Concha with an approximate navigation time of 1 hour 20 minutes; during Tayrona Park closures the trip visits Taganga or Inca Inca instead.
Is food provided on the trip?
Lunch, usually grilled fish, is served on board or at the beach, typically between 12:00 and 13:00 depending on weather and operations.
Can I use paddleboards and snorkel gear?
Yes — paddleboards and snorkel masks are available for guests during the beach portion of the trip.
What if I am prone to seasickness?
Guests prone to dizziness are advised to take motion‑sickness medication; MAREOL is available at the minimarket inside the marina.
What happens if I miss the boarding time?
The operator does not wait after 9:50 am; if you arrive late and cannot board there is no refund.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-07T20:57:31.507Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.