Playa Blanca: Mini Cruise to Papagayo with Swimming Stop

Taking a boat trip along Lanzarote’s coast offers a fresh perspective on this volcanic island’s natural beauty. The Mini Cruise to Papagayo from Playa Blanca promises a relaxing way to soak in stunning views, enjoy some swimming or snorkeling, and indulge in a laid-back day on the water. With a recent high rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 17 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find it a worthwhile break from the usual beach lounging.

What really caught our eye is how this cruise balances relaxation and adventure — giving you a taste of the island’s best beaches, especially Papagayo’s renowned sheltered bays. Plus, the comfort onboard, including soft seating and nets for lounging, makes it an inviting way to spend your time at sea. The possibility to enjoy snacks and drinks for purchase adds to the casual, holiday vibe.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour’s relatively short duration — around 1 to 1.5 hours — which means it’s perfect for a quick escape but not a full-day adventure. If you’re after an immersive experience with plenty of time for exploring, you might find this is more of a taster than a deep dive. Still, it’s especially suitable for those who want a relaxed, scenic outing that doesn’t take up your whole day.

This experience suits travelers looking for a gentle, scenic cruise with opportunities to swim and snorkel, all set in the beautiful setting of Lanzarote’s coastline. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate comfort, stunning vistas, and some light aquatic fun will find this cruise hits the mark.

Key Points

• Comfort and Relaxation: The catamaran has soft seating areas and comfortable nets perfect for sunbathing or relaxing.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Cruise along Lanzarote’s rugged coastline, enjoying sweeping vistas and the sea breeze.
• Swimming and Snorkeling: Drop anchor at Papagayo’s sheltered bays for refreshing swims and the chance to see marine life.
• Flexible Options: You can choose an earlier start to add free time at Marina Rubicón before setting sail.
• Snacks and Drinks: Refreshments like beer, sangria, and snacks are available for purchase, adding to the leisurely experience.
• Short but Sweet: With a duration of just 1 – 1.5 hours, this cruise offers a quick yet immersive taste of Lanzarote’s coastal beauty.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Itinerary

You can choose from two convenient meeting points in Playa Blanca: Marina Rubicón or Calle Muelle de Playa Blanca. Both locations offer easy access, and if you opt for the earlier departure, you’ll get some extra free time at Marina Rubicón beforehand, which is a lively marina full of shops and cafes. This flexibility is handy, especially if you want to combine the cruise with some shopping or lunch beforehand.

The tour’s itinerary involves several quick stops—some only lasting about 5 minutes—primarily at Papagayo’s bays. The structure is designed to maximize your time swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the scenery. A typical sequence includes leaving the marina, cruising for approximately 20 minutes, then stopping for short visits, with the main focus being the hour-long sailing segment along the coast.

What Makes It Special?

The highlight is definitely the Papagayo beaches, famous for their crystal-clear waters and rocky landscapes. The calm, sheltered bays make ideal spots for swimming, and the shallow waters are perfect for snorkeling, especially if you bring your own gear. Reviewers mention the crew’s flexibility—”They anchored up for a long time allowing us to swim in the sea and go down the slide,” notes one traveler—showing the crew’s willingness to accommodate guest preferences.

Who Guides the Tour?

While specific names are not mentioned, the reviews suggest that the crew, particularly the guides, are knowledgeable and friendly. They create a relaxed atmosphere, making sure everyone feels comfortable, whether they’re floating in the water or lounging on the nets. The crew has been praised for their warmth and attentiveness, turning what could be a simple boat ride into a memorable experience.

Onboard Experience

The catamaran itself is well-equipped with soft seating and nets that are ideal for lounging in the sun—perfect for soaking up the views without feeling cramped. The experience is quite informal, with snacks and drinks available for purchase, including beer, soft drinks, and snacks, which many travelers appreciated for keeping energized during the short trip.

Swimming and Snorkeling

The main aquatic highlight is the chance to swim in Papagayo’s calm, clear waters. Reviewers have shared how long they were able to stay in the water, with one noting anchoring for an extended period so guests could enjoy swimming and even try the onboard slide, which added a fun element to the trip. Snorkeling gear is available onboard, but travelers are encouraged to bring their own if they have specific equipment preferences.

Duration and Value

At just about an hour and a half, this cruise is ideal for those wanting a taste of Lanzarote’s coastline without committing to a full-day trip. Compared to other experiences like full-day boat trips or multi-hour excursions, this offers excellent value, especially for a relaxing escape that requires minimal planning or commitment.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Several reviewers highlight the crew’s exceptional service: “Despite the bad weather, the crew made it a wonderful experience and were all so lovely!” — emphasizing how crew attitude can make or break a short trip. Another traveler shared that the hosts are “most gracious,” making the experience not just scenic but also warm and welcoming.

The cruise also appeals because of its flexibility: “You can choose an earlier departure to enjoy free time at Marina Rubicón before setting sail,” giving more options for fitting into a busy holiday schedule. The onboard ambiance, combined with the stunning scenery and the opportunity to cool off in the sea, makes for a well-rounded, enjoyable outing.

Practical Details and Tips

• What to bring: Hat, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a light jacket for when the sea breeze picks up.
• What’s not included: Food and drinks (except for what you buy onboard), and the tour does not include beach landing.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, which is worth considering if you have mobility or health concerns.
• Booking flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later adds peace of mind.
• Duration: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, with starting times varying based on the selected option.

Final Thoughts

This mini cruise from Playa Blanca to Papagayo offers a straightforward, relaxing way to experience some of Lanzarote’s most iconic beaches. It excels in providing a calm, scenic environment with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The crew’s friendly attitude and the comfort onboard make it an ideal choice for travelers who prefer a gentle, scenic outing rather than an activity-heavy tour.

If you’re after a peaceful escape with stunning views, light aquatic fun, and a chance to unwind under the sun, this cruise hits the spot. It’s particularly well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a quick taste of Lanzarote’s coastline without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

However, if you’re seeking a longer, more comprehensive adventure or want to explore multiple beaches with dedicated beach landings, this might feel a bit too brief. Still, for a short, memorable outing that captures the essence of Papagayo’s beauty, it’s an experience worth considering.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy swimming and boat rides often find this trip enjoyable. Just keep in mind the short duration and the fact that it isn’t explicitly designed as a family-specific tour.

Can I bring my own snorkeling equipment?
Absolutely, you’re welcome to bring your own gear. Snorkeling equipment is also available onboard if you prefer to use theirs.

What happens in bad weather?
The crew will do their best to run the tour, but in extreme weather conditions, there’s a possibility of cancellation or rescheduling. Many reviews mention that the crew did their best to make the experience enjoyable even if the weather was less than perfect.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or people prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly. The short duration makes it less challenging for most, but it’s good to be prepared.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a perfect quick escape rather than a full-day adventure.

Where does the tour start and end?
You can choose to start at either Marina Rubicón or Calle Muelle de Playa Blanca. The tour ends back at the same meeting point you chose for the start.

This cruise from Playa Blanca to Papagayo promises a breezy, scenic, and relaxed experience. Whether you want to cool off in crystal waters, enjoy stunning coastal views, or simply unwind onboard, it offers excellent value with a friendly crew and a choice of departure times. If your holiday plans include a gentle boat ride with memorable sights, this tour deserves a spot on your Lanzarote itinerary.