Catamaran Cruise to Papagayo beaches, lunch and water activities

A Closer Look at the Catamaran Cruise to Papagayo Beaches

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back day on the water during your Lanzarote holiday, this catamaran cruise to Papagayo beaches offers a great mix of scenic beauty, water activities, and good food. It’s a half-day adventure that promises stunning coastal views, plenty of time for swimming and kayaking, and a tasty paella meal onboard. The experience is suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, especially those who enjoy relaxed, social outings with a dash of water-based fun.

What we really like about this cruise is the combination of luxury and authenticity—a well-maintained, spacious boat with friendly guides, and the chance to explore some of the island’s most iconic beaches. The open bar, which includes soft drinks and alcohol, is another highlight, keeping guests refreshed throughout. However, one consideration is that the tour doesn’t allow you to disembark at the beaches, so if exploring the shoreline on foot is your priority, this might not be the perfect fit. This tour is best suited for those wanting a sociable, scenic, and leisurely day at sea.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery and a chance to see Lanzarote from the water.
• Water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling—although snorkel equipment isn’t included.
• All-inclusive drinks with an open bar, plus a delicious paella lunch.
• Comfortable, spacious catamaran with plenty of room to relax and socialize.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off optional, making logistics easier for most travelers.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and friendly crew.

The Itinerary Explained: From Departure to Return

This tour kicks off with a pickup from select Lanzarote hotels or a meeting at the designated point in Puerto del Carmen. The pickup service is a welcome bonus, saving you from the hassle of finding your own way to the marina. Once onboard, the crew—led by multilingual guides who speak English, Spanish, German, and French—gives a quick safety briefing alongside a welcome mojito and Spanish omelet, immediately setting a relaxed tone.

The Departure from Puerto del Carmen

Boarding is around 11 a.m., and the atmosphere on deck is cheerful. The boat itself is described as luxurious and spacious, with plenty of room for everyone to relax or participate in water sports. Guests consistently mention the smooth sailing experience and the well-organized process from check-in to departure. Several reviews highlight the attentive crew, with staff such as Maddy earning praise for their friendliness.

Cruising to Papagayo

The first leg of the journey takes about an hour, where you’ll enjoy fantastic views of Lanzarote’s rugged landscape. During this time, you can sip your welcome mojito and get a feel for the cruise’s friendly vibe. The open bar is available throughout, with reviews noting the drinks flow freely, although some mention the limited selection—mainly beer, sangria, and soft drinks.

The Beach Stop at Playa de Papagayo

The focal point of the trip is the anchor drop at Papagayo Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pristine sands. Once the boat drops anchor, there are about two hours to swim, kayak, or just soak up the sun. While snorkeling isn’t included, many guests recommend bringing your own gear if you want to explore underwater life. Kayaks are provided, and reviewers say they’re a fun way to explore the coastline in more detail.

The stop is also a perfect moment to unwind with some delicious paella, which is served onboard before the return trip. Guests consistently praise the meal, describing it as “gorgeous” and generous in size. The open bar remains available, and reviews highlight how effortlessly the crew keeps drinks flowing, making the experience feel more like a relaxed beach party than a formal tour.

Return Journey & Final Relaxation

After a couple of hours at Papagayo, the boat departs in the late afternoon, offering spectacular views of Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape as you head back. The return trip takes about an hour, with many guests remarking on the comfortable, spacious layout of the boat and the friendly, attentive crew. Some travelers mention the journey back can be choppy, which is common in open water, and a few noted that the sail was a bit rough, causing minor seasickness among the less experienced.

The cruise concludes back at Puerto del Carmen, with the option for hotel drop-off for most guests. For those staying further south like Playa Blanca, the drop-off at Playa Blanca marina is a bonus, making your trip home easier.

Water Activities & Food: What’s on Offer

Swimming and kayaking are the main water activities onboard. Guests rave about the opportunity to jump into the ocean and paddle around, with some describing it as “the best part of the trip.” Kayaks are included and are a great way to explore the shoreline more thoroughly—reviewers mention that the crew is helpful and friendly, encouraging everyone to get involved.

Snorkeling is available, but equipment isn’t provided, so bringing your own mask and fins is recommended if underwater exploration interests you. The reviews also note that the water is teeming with fish, so goggles would enhance the experience.

The lunch is universally praised, especially the paella—an authentic Spanish dish served steaming hot on deck. The meal includes bread and fruit for dessert, with some guests noting that the pasta option is available for children or those who prefer it. A few reviewers mention that the quality of food exceeds expectations for a cruise, making it great value for money.

Drinks and Refreshments

The open bar offers soft drinks, beer, and sangria, with some guests observing that the selection is somewhat limited—no extensive cocktail menu. Still, most agree that unlimited drinks help create a festive, convivial atmosphere. A tip from reviewers is to bring your own snorkeling gear or extra drinks if you have specific preferences, as the onboard options focus mainly on drinks rather than a broad cocktail selection.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a relaxed day out on the water. It suits those who enjoy water-based activities like swimming and kayaking but don’t mind being on the boat during the beach stops since disembarking isn’t allowed. Food lovers will appreciate the quality paella, and anyone seeking panoramic views and a lively atmosphere will find plenty to enjoy.

While it’s suitable for all ages, those with mobility issues might want to consider the long walk from the coach drop-off point, as it isn’t mentioned explicitly. Also, if diving into the water repeatedly or snorkeling is a priority, bringing your own equipment is recommended since it’s not included.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Arrive early at the meeting point if you’re not booked for hotel pickup—especially in peak season, as the boat can fill up quickly.
• Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—the sun is intense, and the boat’s open decks offer little shade.
• Pack waterproof gear or goggles for the best underwater experience—many reviews mention how fish and seabed views are highlights.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand—some guests mention the return trip can be choppy.
• Bring your own snorkeling equipment if you want to see underwater life more closely, as it’s not included.
• Consider a light jacket or cover-up for the journey back, especially if you’re sensitive to wind or choppy water.

Pricing and Value

At around $86 per person, this cruise offers a solid balance of price and experience. The inclusion of hotel pickup (at select locations), unlimited drinks, water activities, and a substantial paella meal makes it value-packed for a half-day outing. Several reviewers mention that the quality of the food and the friendly crew make it worth every penny, especially given the spacious boat and scenic stop.

It’s important to note that the capacity of the boat is 150, but most reviews say the group size hovers around 30-50 people, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed environment. The small group vibe, combined with the well-organized itinerary, makes this trip appealing for those who prefer a less crowded experience.

The Sum Up

This catamaran cruise to Papagayo beaches is a wonderful way to enjoy Lanzarote’s stunning coastline without the hassle of organizing multiple activities independently. Expect beautiful scenery, fun water sports, delicious food, and a lively, friendly atmosphere onboard. The guided experience, attentive crew, and well-planned itinerary make it suitable for a wide range of travelers — from families with kids to couples seeking a romantic escape.

While some might find the seas occasionally rough or the walk from the coach a bit tiring, the overall value and authentic feel of the tour make it a highly recommended choice. If you love being on the water, savoring authentic local food, and soaking up the island’s natural beauty, this cruise is likely to be a highlight of your Lanzarote trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered at select Lanzarote hotels. If your hotel isn’t on the list, you can meet at the designated meeting point in Puerto del Carmen.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including the sailing, beach stop, and return journey.

Can I get off the boat at the beaches?
No, disembarking at the beaches isn’t possible with this tour. The boat anchors, and you swim or kayak from onboard.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
No, snorkeling gear isn’t included, so bringing your own is recommended if underwater exploration interests you.

What is the menu like?
A hearty paella is served onboard, with some guests describing it as “gorgeous.” There are also options like pasta for children, plus bread and fruit.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, there is an open bar with unlimited soft drinks, beer, and sangria. The selection is basic but sufficient for most.

What should I bring?
Sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses), swimwear, towels, waterproof gear, and snorkeling goggles if desired.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult. However, be aware that the tour is mainly geared towards a relaxed, social atmosphere, and the drinking age is 18+.

This detailed review should help you decide if this cruise fits your Lanzarote holiday plans. It balances scenic beauty, water fun, and authentic cuisine, making it a memorable way to experience the island’s coast.