Gran Canaria: Catamaran Cruise with Swim, Lunch & Drinks

Summary

Set sail from Puerto Rico for a laid-back morning at sea with swimming, lunch and drinks included

You’ll board a spacious catamaran in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria for a relaxed morning cruise along the coast. Swim or snorkel in clear Atlantic water, try optional watersports if you’re feeling bold, and enjoy lunch with unlimited drinks served by a friendly local crew. It’s an easygoing way to see another side of Gran Canaria—and maybe laugh more than you expected.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to finish my coffee before the Afrikat crew was waving us onto the catamaran in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria. The boat looked bigger up close — glossy white and already humming with quiet chatter. Our guide, Marta, handed me a cold drink right away (Sangria at 10 am? Why not). The sun was already warm but not harsh, and I could smell sunscreen and salt in the air. We pulled away from the dock and someone’s kid squealed when we hit a little wave — everyone laughed, even the captain.

The coast slid by slowly as we cruised east. Marta pointed out some caves in the cliffs — apparently smugglers used them once? I didn’t catch all of it because I was distracted by how blue the water looked. We anchored in this sheltered bay where you could see straight down to the rocks. Some people jumped in right away; I hesitated (cold!) but then just went for it. The water was clearer than any pool I’ve been in. A couple from Sweden tried snorkeling — they said they saw tiny silver fish everywhere. I borrowed goggles for a minute but mostly floated around, letting my mind go quiet.

Lunch came out fast — chicken wraps and potato salad, nothing fancy but honestly perfect after swimming. There were tortilla chips too, which disappeared quickly (I may have eaten more than my share). Drinks kept coming around — beer or juice if you wanted it. At one point Marta asked if anyone wanted to try the speedboat ride; I didn’t think I would but somehow ended up on it anyway, holding on tight while our captain grinned like he knew exactly how much spray would hit us.

I liked that nobody rushed us back on board or barked instructions every five minutes. People just did their own thing — some napped on deck, others tried jet-skiing or just sat talking quietly under the awning. It felt easygoing in that way you only get when locals run things themselves. On the way back, I watched sunlight flicker off the waves and thought about how different Gran Canaria looks from out here — softer maybe? Anyway, I still think about that swim sometimes when I’m stuck at my desk.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury catamaran cruise and water activities

• Board the Afrikat catamaran
• Cruise along Gran Canaria coastline
• Anchor in a calm bay
• Swim and snorkel in clear water
• Enjoy discounted water sports
• Take a fun speedboat ride
• Eat a delicious meal on board
• Drink sangria, beer, or soft drinks

Top questions

What time does the Afrikat morning cruise start?

The cruise departs at 09:30 during summer months and 10:00 during winter.

Is pickup included for this Gran Canaria catamaran cruise?

Yes, return transport is included from fixed pickup points depending on your area.

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee and water are included throughout your trip.

What food is served for lunch?

You’ll get a chicken wrap, potato salad and tortilla chips; special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.

Can children join this boat trip?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infants can ride in prams or strollers.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is available on board if you don’t bring your own.

How long does the cruise last?

The boat trip lasts approximately 4.5 hours along the Gran Canaria coastline.

Are there extra activities like jet-skiing or parasailing?

Yes, watersports such as jet-skiing and parasailing are offered at discounted rates during the stop.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible on this catamaran cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes return transport from fixed pickup points around Gran Canaria to Puerto Rico’s marina where you’ll board the Afrikat catamaran for 4.5 hours of cruising along the coast—with unlimited drinks like beer or sangria served throughout and a simple lunch of chicken wrap, potato salad and chips after your swim or snorkel stop (equipment provided). Watersports are available at special rates if you want extra adventure before heading back ashore.