Gran Canaria: Fun Catamaran Cruise with Food and Drinks

If you’re visiting Gran Canaria and looking for a memorable way to enjoy the coastline, this catamaran cruise with food, drinks, and water activities offers a well-rounded experience that balances relaxation with adventure. Organized by Afrikat Gran Canaria, this 4.5-hour trip from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria promises stunning sea views, tasty onboard meals, and plenty of opportunities to splash around and explore under the sun.

What really makes this trip stand out is the friendly, professional crew and the emphasis on comfort and fun. From the moment you’re picked up from one of 46 designated locations, to the moment you’re dropped back, the experience is designed to be smooth, enjoyable, and packed with memorable moments. Just note that some water sports, like jet skiing or parasailing, are optional extras at an additional cost, so if you’re craving adrenaline, you’ll want to budget for those.

One possible consideration is that the activity isn’t available outside certain pickup zones — so if you’re staying in Las Palmas, for example, you may need to organize your own transport. But if you’re based around Puerto Rico or Maspalomas, this tour fits seamlessly into a relaxing day at sea. This cruise genuinely suits those who want a blend of sun, sea, good food, and optional water sports—ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines a scenic cruise, water activities, and a delicious onboard meal.
• Great value: For around $85, you get a 4.5-hour trip that includes unlimited drinks and a meal.
• Flexible options: Water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, or donut rides are available as extra paid upgrades.
• Excellent reviews: The crew, especially guides Potter and Nikita, receives many mentions for their professionalism and friendliness.
• Comfortable setting: Plenty of sunbathing spots, shaded areas, and a clean, well-maintained vessel.
• Authentic experience: Multiple reviewers highlight the quality of food, the helpful staff, and the relaxed vibe.

A Deep Dive into the Catamaran Experience

Setting Off from Puerto Rico

Starting your day with pickup from one of 46 convenient locations makes this tour easily accessible if you’re staying nearby. Once on board, you’ll quickly notice how the crew sets a friendly tone, making everyone feel at ease. The safety briefing lasts about 10 minutes, which is enough to cover essentials without taking away from the fun.

The initial hour on the bus/coach is a chance to take in views of Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes as you head towards the coast. You’ll then arrive at Puerto Rico, where the crew welcomes you aboard the sleek, modern catamaran. This vessel is described as spotless in reviews, and it feels spacious with plenty of shaded areas and sunbathing decks—great for catching some rays or relaxing in shade if you prefer.

Cruising Along the Coast

Once underway, the cruise feels like a breeze—literally. The crew keeps a lively yet professional atmosphere, often playing music and engaging with guests. As you cruise along the southwestern shoreline, you’ll pass beaches, cliffs, and picturesque coves. Expect to soak up stunning views that make for perfect photo moments.

Travelers rave about the informative and humorous guides, with some reviews mentioning crew members like Potter and Nikita by name for their welcoming attitude and helpful nature. The boat moves at a comfortable pace, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing and just enjoying the sea breeze.

Water Activities & Stops

The cruise includes a stop in a crystal-clear bay, where you’re encouraged to swim and snorkel. You’ll be provided with snorkeling gear and enough time to explore underwater life. Several reviewers mention how abundant the fish are, and the clear water makes for excellent visibility—an experience that both kids and adults enjoy.

Beyond snorkeling, there are options to upgrade to water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, or donut rides. While these cost extra (around $10 to $32), reviews indicate they’re well worth considering, especially if you’re after an adrenaline rush. The crew is attentive, and many mention how helpful they are with beginners or those new to water sports.

Lunch & Refreshments

One of the highlights is the onboard meal. The crew serves a delicious chicken wrap (with optional bacon bits), potato salad, and tortilla chips. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice, adding to the overall value. The reviews are full of praise for the food, often describing it as better than expected for a cruise meal.

Unlimited drinks—beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water—are included, which keeps the atmosphere lively and social. Guests also love the reusable drinking glass souvenir, a small but nice keepsake from the trip.

Relaxing and Sunbathing

The boat boasts ample space for sunbathing, with loungers and shaded areas. After swimming and water sports, guests often lounge, sip drinks, and soak up the sun in a relaxed environment. Many reviews note the crew’s attentiveness, like taking drink orders and ensuring everyone is comfortable.

The Return Journey

The journey back includes a bus/coach ride lasting about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day. The drop-off points are conveniently located near the pickup zones, making this whole experience feel seamless.

Authentic Feedback from Reviewers

Daud praised the informative guides and humor, making the trip fun and engaging. Aidan emphasized how spotless the boat was and how attentive the staff was, particularly with a sea-sick member of the party. Natalie highlighted the welcoming atmosphere and the plenty of time for water sports, describing the trip as “incredibly relaxing.”

Others praised the quality of the food and the great value for money, with many noting the included drinks and the variety of activities. One reviewer called it “hands down the best activity” they experienced during their holiday, while another mentioned how the crew made everyone feel involved and cared for, from kids to adults.

Why Travelers Keep Coming Back

Many praise the friendly, professional crew and well-organized itinerary. The fact that the boat is praised for being clean and well-maintained also adds peace of mind. The optional water sports, though paid separately, are seen as worthwhile for those craving a bit of thrill on their relaxing day.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a balanced day of chill and activity. Families, groups of friends, or couples who appreciate good food, scenic views, and the chance to snorkel will find it ideal. The inclusive drinks and comfortable setup make this a laid-back outing, perfect for those wanting to avoid overly crowded or rushed tours.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $85 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included meals, drinks, and water activities.
• Duration: 4.5 hours, with the main cruise lasting about 2 hours plus additional time for transfers and stops.
• Start Times: Check availability for specific times, as they may vary.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunglasses, camera, credit card, and cash for extras.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to inform the provider of any mobility needs when booking.
• Extra Costs: Water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, donut rides, or the speedboat with the captain are paid separately.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from a variety of designated central locations, making it easy to join without extra hassle. However, if you’re staying outside these zones, you may need to arrange your own transport.

What is the length of the trip?
The entire activity lasts about 4.5 hours, including transfers, safety briefing, cruising, water stops, and return.

Can I participate in water sports?
Yes, water sports are available as optional extras, with activities like jet skiing, parasailing, donut rides, and speedboat rides offered at additional costs.

Is the food suitable for dietary restrictions?
Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if communicated in advance, with the main meal typically consisting of chicken wraps, potato salad, and tortilla chips.

How many people typically join?
Reviews mention that the boat is often not overcrowded, providing a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of space to sunbathe and move around.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, unlimited beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water are included in the ticket price.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for use during the stop in the bay, with many guests appreciating the clarity and abundance of fish.

What if I don’t want to do water sports?
You can simply relax on the boat’s sun decks or shaded areas, enjoying the scenery, food, and drinks without participating in water activities.

Are there options for vegetarians or special diets?
While the main meal is chicken-based, vegetarians or those with other dietary needs should inform the provider in advance to ensure suitable options.

What is the refund policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran cruise from Gran Canaria offers a strong combination of scenic beauty, good food, and fun water activities. The knowledgeable guides and attentive crew make the experience feel personalized and relaxed, while the included meals and unlimited drinks add to the value. If you’re after a day of sun, sea, and a bit of adventure, this trip ticks all the boxes.

It’s an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy the island’s coastline without feeling rushed or crowded. With options to upgrade for water sports, it caters to both laid-back sunbathers and thrill-seekers alike. Plus, the positive reviews and consistent high ratings speak to the quality and enjoyment of the experience.

In short, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a fantastic day out at sea, this cruise is well worth considering for a memorable Gran Canaria adventure.