San Andrés Island

San Andrés Island stands apart from other Caribbean cruise ports with its remote, palm-fringed charm and its mature sense of adventure, located about 290 miles north of Colombia's mainland and boasting a compact eight-by-two-mile footprint of white-sand coves, crystal-clear turquoise water, and some of the region’s best snorkeling and diving. Unlike larger, built-up ports, this destination preserves a laid-back, offbeat vibe where English is widely spoken, a lively duty-free town invites shopper-curious guests, and the ring road delivers effortless views of coves, beaches, and palm groves. Signature experiences include the romantic powdery sands of Johnny Cay just a short boat ride from town, the geyser-like Hoyo Soplador that shoots water into the air on the right wind, and the chance to explore San Andrés Town’s waterfronts and New Point Plaza, where emeralds and local crafts await. The port’s geography also means tendering rather than a full quay, so ships anchor off El Cove and guests transfer by tender—a setup that emphasizes intimate, unhurried shore time and a true island atmosphere. For those who want a deeper escape, the surrounding archipelago offers easy access to serene beaches, water-sport rentals, and memorable drives along the island’s scenic coast. Fleet features and onboard services are framed around this tender-centric, low-facility setting: crews excel at coordinating smooth transfers, bilingual island guidance, and curated excursions that highlight the destination’s natural beauty, with practical tips on taxi fares (roughly $30 one-way, negotiable) and a reminder that Johnny Cay has no permanent tourist facilities, so the magic lies in the day’s island-hopping and in-the-moment moments.