Santa Marta, Colombia Cruise Port Guide
Welcome to South America's oldest surviving city, nestled where the dramatic mountain peaks meet the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Major cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line regularly visit this historic Colombian port.
Passengers are drawn to its rich colonial heritage, beautiful natural beaches, and proximity to stunning ecological reserves.
In This Guide
- Key Santa Marta Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- • Getting Around
- • Shopping
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Visiting Santa Marta Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to Santa Marta Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Other Cruise Ports in Colombia
- Monthly Pricing
Key Santa Marta Port Information
Top Attractions & Excursions
A short walk or drive brings visitors to the Santa Marta Historic Center, home to historic plazas, colonial architecture, and the fascinating Tayrona Gold Museum.
History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the tranquil 17th-century hacienda where South American liberator Simón Bolívar spent his final days, situated about 15 minutes from the dock.
For nature lovers, a day trip to Tayrona National Park offers pristine coastal rainforests and iconic spots like Crystal Beach, located roughly one hour from the cruise pier.
Last updated on October 21, 2026
Nearby Cities & Attractions
Just 15 minutes north of the port lies Taganga, a quaint fishing village set in a picturesque bay, popular for scuba diving and casual seaside dining.
Located 20 minutes south, El Rodadero is a lively beach resort neighborhood featuring high-rise hotels, lively boardwalks, and boat trips to Playa Blanca.
Coffee lovers often take a 45-minute excursion into the lush mountain foothills to visit the cooler coffee-growing village of Minca.
Last updated on October 21, 2026
Port Location
Cruise ships dock directly at the commercial Port of Santa Marta pier, meaning tender boats are rarely required.
The port entrance sits adjacent to the city, placing the Santa Marta Historic Center within a manageable 10 to 15 minute walk.
The terminal area provides basic passenger facilities including tourist information services, local craft stalls, and organized taxi dispatch areas.
Last updated on October 21, 2026
Local Currency
The official local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP).
While US dollars may be accepted by some street vendors and tour operators, change is given in pesos and exchange rates on the street can be poor.
Credit cards are widely accepted at major shops, hotels, and established restaurants, while ATMs are easily found throughout downtown and commercial centers.
Last updated on October 21, 2026
Safety Considerations
Santa Marta is generally safe for cruise travelers, particularly within the historic city center, tourist beach areas, and organized tour locations.
Visitors should exercise standard travel precautions, such as keeping valuable jewelry hidden and securing personal bags.
Exploring on foot during daylight hours in tourist zones is commonplace, but taking official taxis or booked tours is recommended for trips outside the main city core.
Last updated on October 21, 2026
Weather & Climate
Santa Marta features a warm, tropical climate year-round with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C).
The peak cruise season coincides with the region's dry season from December through April, characterized by abundant sun and moderate ocean breezes.
Travelers should pack lightweight cotton clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, swimwear, and insect repellent for jungle excursions.
Last updated on October 21, 2026
Getting Around
Yellow licensed taxis are readily available at the port gates and are an inexpensive way to get around the city and nearby coastal districts.
Many cruise guests opt for organized guided shore excursions or private vans when visiting attractions further afield like Tayrona National Park.
Local buses connect downtown to areas like El Rodadero and Taganga, though taxis offer a significantly faster and more direct option for time-conscious cruisers.
Last updated on October 21, 2026
Shopping
The streets around the Santa Marta Historic Center feature boutique shops and open-air markets offering local crafts and goods.
Top items to look for include premium Colombian coffee beans, handwoven Wayuu mochila bags, emerald jewelry, and artisan leather products.
Prices in established stores and boutiques are fixed, but respectful bargaining is customary when purchasing souvenirs from independent street vendors.
Last updated on October 21, 2026
Shore Excursions & Tours
Bike Tour Taganga - Playa Grande
Join a half-day guided tour from Santa Marta’s historic centre to the artisanal fishing village of Taganga, featuring a market visit, traditional breakfast, and fruit tasting. Afterward, climb the mountain connecting the towns and stop at several locations.
One amazing day in a private recent sailing boat in the Tayrona Park. The best sail trip from Santa Marta!
Privatize the spacious Beneteau Oceanis 41 sailboat with French hosts Tery and Amy for up to six people to explore Tayrona Park’s bays. Activities include swimming, snorkeling, jumping, paddling, relaxing, sunbathing, drinking, or dancing on the deck.
Old Town and Quinta San Pedro Santa Marta City Tour
Learn why Santa Marta is a natural and historical treasure on a private full-day tour of its emblematic places and the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino. Discover the magic of the Old City, which was once called The Pearl of America by the Spaniards.
Sunset in the bay of Santa Marta in a sailboat
Sail aboard a well-preserved 38-foot classic sailboat with a friendly, kind crew who has years of experience to enjoy views of the historic city from Santa Marta’s bay. This pleasant experience allows you to meet new people while sailing.
Food Tour in Santa Marta Old City Half-Day
Visit the public market and non-touristic food stands with a guide to taste Caribbean cuisine like bollo, patacon, carimañola, ceviche, and coconut rice. This experience allows you to taste things that are hardly relatable to common or widespread items.
Sunset Sailing Santa Marta Bay
There is no better place than on the water to witness a stunning sunset, which is a truly beautiful experience.
Private transportation service from Santa Marta to Barranquilla
Enjoy private, stress-free transportation from hotels in Santa Marta, Rodadero, Pozos Colorados, or Bello Horizonte to Barranquilla. On the road, observe the greatness of the Sierra Nevada, the Caribbean sea, and Cienaga Grande de Santa Marta.
Thursday Night Bar Crawl in Santa Marta, Colombia
Local friends host this bar crawl through three local bars and one other location to provide a unique 'locals' experience.' A strict dress code prohibits swimwear, sandals, hats, sportswear, and sunglasses, and sex tourism is not allowed.
MINCA: Eco-Walk, Coffee Farm, Waterfall & Chocolate Experience!
This authentic tour features an educational exchange with local land-protecting families and supports the circular economy through organic coffee, cacao, and local lunch. We practice 'Leave No Trace' principles for environmental consciousness and absolute protection of the land.
Historic Center Bike Tour
Join an unforgettable bike tour through Santa Marta's heart to see history and culture come alive while discovering hidden gems and local life. Explore the city’s rich gastronomy, connect with locals, and uncover the stories that have shaped the area.
Six beaches of Santa Marta by yacht
Enjoy an unforgettable yacht ride in Santa Marta's waters with a captain and two assistants for a day of fun and relaxation. This experience includes a lovingly prepared lunch along with snacks and drinks.
Tour of indigenous trails, coffee, cocoa, waterfalls - Minca
An expert guide will lead you through exclusive, ancient trails to achieve an authentic connection with Minca’s pristine nature while avoiding crowds. Discover mountain secrets and local legends that bring the landscape to life.
Santa Marta Street Food Tour: 7 Tastings with a Local Guide
Explore authentic Caribbean flavors with a local guide at seven stops in Santa Marta’s Historic Center, including zapote, avocado, and coconut sweets. Try Doña Ketty's handmade arepas, Doña Yami's famous cayeye, GNAM Café specialty coffee, and Caribbean-style dishes.
4 Hour Scuba Diving Course in Tayrona Park
This is the perfect experience for people who want to try scuba diving to see if they like it or for those with limited vacation time.
Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Santa Marta, Colombia
Local friends host this bar crawl through three local bars to give foreigners a unique 'locals' experience.' A strict dress code prohibits swimwear, sandals, hats, sportswear, and sunglasses, and sex tourism is not allowed.
Tubing Across Palomino River Including a Hiking Tour
Explore Palomino by motorbike and a forest hike to enjoy birdsong and views of the Sierra Nevada. Afterward, take tires downstream on the Palomino River to enjoy the rapids until you reach the final point.
Full-Day Hiking Tour in Minca with coffee & Cocoa Workshop
Visit Minca for its unparalleled landscapes, eco-friendly constructions, and sacred indigenous waterfall. This guided tour includes a coffee farm visit where participants learn about biodiversity and topics like coffee, cocoa, and bamboo as construction elements.
Full Day Marinka Waterfall and Sierra Minca
Enjoy a day of nature and adventure in Minca with breathtaking views of flora and fauna and photo opportunities at the giant hands and staircase to heaven. Sample 100% organic coffee from the Sierra Nevada and swim in a beautiful waterfall while overlooking Santa Marta Bay.
Minca, Waterfalls and Coffee Farm Tour from Santa Marta
This full-day tour takes you to the humble, magical village of Minca to explore less known treasures and hike to waterfalls. Connect with nature and visit a farm to try Colombia’s world-famous coffee during this cozy, memorable experience.
Magic Minca : Waterfalls, Cocoa Workshop and Coffee From Santa Marta
Explore landscapes and indigenous customs of the Sierra to find purpose and reconcile through ancestral teachings and contact with nature. This experience for ecotourism lovers includes walking, swimming in crystal clear rivers, and relaxing in nature.
Visiting Santa Marta Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to Santa Marta Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
Showing 9 ships in the area
No ships scheduled in port today.
Other Cruise Ports in Colombia
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Santa Marta
Overall cruises that visit Santa Marta are somewhat expensive compared to other itineraries. Check the illustration below for the average cost per day by month. Cruises visiting Santa Marta during the the peak season of winter are significantly more expensive than the the low season of fall.
