From the publisher’s rulebook
Who goes first in Cartagena?
Next Move Games First Escape English rules

The player who most recently went to the sea starts.
Rule details
The starting player takes the first turn, and play then moves clockwise.
Source & edition
- Cartagena: First Escape English rulesNext Move Games · Setup step 7; Gameplay · Checked 2026-09-23Printed page references: 3, 4
Image: © Next Move Games and any credited cover artist · Next Move Games
If your rules call for a random choice, use the player picker.
If there’s a tie
The rulebook doesn’t say. If you need a tie-break, pick a player at random.
More starting rules
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