Puerto de Mogan: Boat Trip & Snorkeling with Lunch

Summary

Boat adventure from Puerto de Mogan to secret coves, snorkeling and Canarian lunch

You’ll swim straight off the boat into El Perchel’s clear water for snorkeling surrounded by colorful fish, then dry off with homemade Canarian potatoes and fresh fruit under the sun. Local guides share stories as you cruise past ancient cliffs—expect laughter, salty air, and maybe a little sunburn if you forget your hat.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the cliffs to look so raw up close—leaving Puerto de Mogan by boat, you get this sudden sense of how old Gran Canaria really is. The sea was calm that morning (well, mostly), but you could still taste salt in the air and hear the gulls over the engine. Our guide, Ana, pointed out some old fishermen’s huts clinging to the rocks—she said her uncle used to fish there before tourism changed everything. I liked hearing that. Made it feel less like just another “tour”.

The main keyword here is boat trip Puerto de Mogan, but honestly it felt more like a little adventure than a tour. We passed Tasarte and then turned toward this cove—El Perchel—where you can only get in by swimming from the boat. No jetty or anything fancy; just water and volcanic stone. I hesitated for a second (the water looked colder than it was), but once I jumped in, it was all bright fish and that weird muffled sound you get underwater. Someone handed me a snorkel mask and suddenly I was chasing these blue-and-yellow fish through shafts of sunlight. I lost track of time.

Afterwards, back on deck, Ana set out plates of papas arrugadas with mojo (that spicy red sauce sticks with you), Spanish omelette, bread, fruit—the kind of stuff you want after swimming. There was an open bar too; I stuck to orange juice because I still felt a bit wobbly from the sea. People started swapping stories in three languages at once (mostly Spanish and English, plus one guy from Hamburg who kept asking about dolphins). It got warm fast under the sun so we all crowded into whatever shade we could find.

I keep thinking about how quiet it felt out there—no cars or market noise, just water slapping against the hull and people laughing when someone slipped getting back on board. Oh—and if you’re doing this on Friday? Market day in Puerto de Mogan means no car access to the port. We almost missed that detail (Ana texted us a reminder). So yeah: check ahead or you’ll be running with your towel like we did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat trip and snorkeling excursion

• Depart from Puerto de Mogan
• Navigate along Gran Canaria cliffs
• Arrive at El Perchel cove
• Swim to access the beach
• Snorkel for 1.5 hours
• Identify various fish species
• Enjoy Canarian food and drinks
• Return to Puerto de Mogan

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this boat trip?

No, hotel pickup is not included; departure is from Puerto de Mogan port.

How long does the Puerto de Mogan boat trip last?

The trip lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Do I need to know how to swim for this tour?

Yes, you must be able to swim to reach El Perchel beach from the boat.

What food is served during the tour?

You’ll get Canarian potatoes with mojo sauce, Spanish omelette, bread, and fresh fruit.

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, unlimited drinks are included (open bar) during the tour.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided for guests at no extra cost.

Can vegetarians join this excursion?

Yes, vegetarian options are available as part of lunch.

What happens if there aren’t enough people booked?

The tour requires a minimum of 10 people; if not met, it won’t operate.

Is smoking allowed on the boat?

No—this is a smokefree excursion for all guests.

What should I know about Fridays in Puerto de Mogan?

Fridays are Market Day; cars can’t access the port so plan accordingly or ask for info before arrival.

What’s included

Your day includes unlimited drinks from an open bar throughout the journey, use of all snorkeling equipment at El Perchel cove (with paddle board available), plus drone photos if weather allows it. After swimming you'll be served Canarian potatoes with mojo sauce, Spanish omelette, bread and fresh fruit—all vegetarian friendly—with plenty of time to relax before heading back along Gran Canaria’s cliffs.