Afternoon Catamaran Trip in Gran Canaria

The best part of this afternoon trip is the chance to swap a beach towel for a swim in open water, then climb back aboard and let the southwest coast drift past. You’ll have two swim stops, with snorkelling gear, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards included.

I like two things in particular: the useful mix of water activities at no extra charge and the late start, which lets you enjoy the coast without setting an early alarm. The boat also has a restroom, snacks and drinks, so you can settle in rather than plan every detail yourself.

One consideration: the trip depends on the weather, and a cloudy or chilly afternoon can make the swim stops less appealing. Jet skis and parasailing are available at extra cost, so budget separately if those are on your wish list.

At a glance: coast, swims and included gear

• A 3:30 pm departure from Puerto Rico gives you a relaxed start to the day and a chance of catching the light near sunset.
• Two swim stops break up the coastal sailing with time for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Snacks and selected drinks are included, including beer, sangria, soft drinks and water.
• The southwest coast is the main event, with beaches, caves and villages visible along the route.
• The group is capped at 20 people, and pickup is offered between Mogán and Bahía Feliz.
• Jet skis and parasailing cost extra, while the snorkelling equipment, kayaks and boards are included.

Setting sail from Puerto Rico at 3:30

Puerto Rico harbour is the starting point for this afternoon outing. The boat heads along Gran Canaria’s southwest coast, a stretch where the views change between beaches, caves and villages. You’re not following a land-based sightseeing route with frequent stops and commentary; the pleasure here is seeing the shore from the water and having time to relax between activities.

The trip is listed as about three to four hours, while the sailing outing itself is described as three hours. Plan for an afternoon on the water, but check the confirmed timing for your chosen date if you have plans later in the day.

The start time is a practical advantage. You can spend the morning at your own pace, have lunch, and still get out on the sea. In the afternoon, the sun can also make the water and coastline especially appealing. The trip may reach sunset, which has been a particular draw, but don’t treat sunset as a guarantee: the exact light depends on the season and the day’s schedule.

The boat accommodates up to 20 people. That’s a small enough cap to avoid the feel of a large excursion vessel, though it is not a private charter. The actual number aboard can vary. You’ll share the deck and water stops with the rest of the group, so a little flexibility helps.

The coast between Puerto Rico and the swim stops

Once underway, the shoreline becomes the day’s moving view. You’ll see different beaches, caves and villages as the boat follows the southwest coast. This is a good way to take in several stretches of shore without arranging transport between them or walking in the heat.

The appeal is less about checking off named sights and more about the rhythm: sail, watch the coast, stop to swim, then return to the boat. The available details don’t specify the exact swimming locations, so the route and stops may vary. If you’re hoping to see one particular beach or cave, ask the operator before booking rather than assuming it is on the route.

The catamaran itself matters because you’ll spend a few hours aboard, not just use it as a ride to a single spot. People have described a clean boat with plenty of sunbed space, which is useful if you want to stretch out between stops. You can also choose a quieter stretch of the outing to enjoy the views without getting wet. The restroom on board is another modest but welcome comfort during a half-day trip.

Two swim stops, with more than a mask and snorkel

The two swim stops are the heart of the outing. At each, you’ll have a chance to get into the water and use the snorkelling equipment, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards provided. That range makes the stops work for different moods: swim and float, look underwater, or spend your time paddling.

The equipment is included in the price, which makes the trip easier to plan than an outing where every activity comes with a separate rental fee. You don’t have to bring your own snorkelling gear or arrange a kayak on shore. Still, bring any personal swim gear you prefer, and remember that the pleasure of these stops depends on the conditions. Cool, cloudy weather can change a swim from the highlight of the afternoon into a quick dip.

There are also jet skis and parasailing available for an additional charge. These are optional extras, not part of the included activity package. If you’re keen to try either one, check how the extra activity is arranged and what it costs before you board. If you’d rather keep the trip simple, the included water options already give you plenty to do.

The stops also give the group a natural pause from sailing. If you’re travelling with family or friends, you don’t all need to choose the same activity. One person can snorkel while another paddles or stays on the boat. Most people can participate, though the operator does not provide detailed age or swimming requirements in the available information. If you have a specific concern, ask ahead.

Snacks and drinks that keep the afternoon easy

Snacks are provided, along with beer, sangria, soft drinks and water. That combination is handy after a swim, and it means you don’t need to pack a full picnic for a three-hour trip. The food is described as simple rather than as a meal, so have lunch beforehand if you expect to be hungry.

Cocktails, wine and champagne are also mentioned as available, but they are not listed among the included drinks. Coffee and tea are explicitly excluded. To avoid surprises, treat the included selection as beer, sangria, soft drinks and water, and ask about the price and availability of anything else you’d like.

The onboard service has been a strong point. The crew has been described as attentive and helpful, and the owner as friendly and useful. That personal care can make a difference on a small boat, especially when you need a hand with equipment or have left something behind. One family was even reunited with a forgotten hat, a practical sign that the team pays attention after the trip as well as during it.

A small note on taste: sangria may not impress every palate. Drinks are a welcome part of the package, but I wouldn’t choose this trip for a particular cocktail or expect a restaurant-style spread. The value lies in having refreshments available while you spend the afternoon at sea.

What $84.10 buys you

At $84.10 per person, this is more than a basic sightseeing cruise. The price includes the catamaran outing, snacks, selected drinks, snorkelling equipment, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. You’re paying for a compact afternoon of sailing and water activities, with the convenience of having gear and refreshments on board.

That bundle can make the price worthwhile if you expect to swim and use the equipment. If you only want to sit on a boat and look at the coast, the included activities may matter less to you, and a simpler cruise could be better value. The optional jet skis and parasailing add another possible expense, so decide beforehand whether those are essential or just a tempting extra once you’re at sea.

Pickup is offered in the southwest of Gran Canaria, between Mogán and Bahía Feliz. If your accommodation is outside that area, contact the operator to check whether pickup is possible. A pickup can save you the trouble of arranging a separate trip to Puerto Rico, but don’t assume it is available everywhere on the island.

The experience is offered in English, and confirmation is provided at booking. It is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed. The listed group maximum is 20, though the number aboard on any given outing may be lower.

Weather, timing and who will enjoy it most

This is a weather-dependent outing. If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. That policy is useful, but it doesn’t prevent a trip from going ahead under conditions you personally find unpleasant. One especially unhappy experience came from a day that was cloudy and cold, with no option to change dates because the week was full. If sunshine and warm water are central to your plans, keep some flexibility in your schedule.

The operator also requires a minimum number of participants. If that minimum is not met and the outing is cancelled, you’ll be offered another date or experience, or a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours ahead are not refunded, and changes inside that window are not accepted.

I’d recommend this trip to you if you want a relaxed afternoon with a mix of sailing and active time in the water. It suits couples, friends and families who are happy to share the boat and want more than a passive cruise. It can also work well if you’re looking for an easy outing with transport pickup, snacks and drinks built in.

It is less suitable if you need a guaranteed sunny swim, want a private or silent boat experience, or are chiefly interested in jet skis or parasailing. Those activities cost extra, and conditions can shape how much you enjoy the water stops. You should also check the pickup area and duration against your plans for the day.

Should you book the afternoon catamaran?

I’d book this outing if the coast, two swim breaks and included paddle gear sound like a good use of an afternoon. The strongest value is the combination: a coastal sail, snorkelling equipment, kayaks, paddleboards, snacks and drinks in one outing, with a group limit of 20.

Before you commit, check pickup for your accommodation and consider the season’s weather. Keep your expectations focused on a pleasant few hours at sea rather than a guaranteed sunset or a full meal. If the forecast is kind and you want an active but unhurried way to see Gran Canaria’s southwest shore, this trip is a sensible choice.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran trip?

The experience is listed as approximately three to four hours, and the sailing outing is described as three hours.

What time does the trip leave?

The departure time is 3:30 pm from Puerto Rico harbour.

Where is pickup offered?

Pickup is offered in southwest Gran Canaria, between Mogán and Bahía Feliz. Contact the operator if you’re unsure whether your accommodation is within that area.

What drinks are included?

Beer, sangria, soft drinks and water are included. Coffee and tea are not included.

Are snorkelling equipment, kayaks and paddleboards included?

Yes. Use of snorkelling equipment, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards is included.

Do jet skis and parasailing cost extra?

Yes. Jet skis and parasailing are available at an additional cost.

How many people can join the trip?

The maximum group size is 20 people.

What happens if bad weather cancels the trip?

You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the experience is cancelled because of poor weather.