Gran Canaria: Afternoon Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drink

Catamaran afternoons beat beach boredom. The Afrikat cruise along Gran Canaria’s southwest coast pairs unlimited drinks with a crew-prepared meal, and you get a real snorkel stop in clear water near dramatic coves. It is great fun, but the sun deck can feel a bit tight on busier departures, so bring patience (and sunscreen).

What makes this one worth your afternoon is the mix: easy cruising time plus a proper swim-and-snorkel break. You’ll pass the fishing village of Mogán from the water, and if you want to add excitement, there are optional rides like a donut inflatable or jet ski for extra cost. The vibe stays light and social, with the crew known for keeping things entertaining, including saxophone moments led by Ashleigh.

Key reasons this catamaran works so well on Gran Canaria

• Southwest coast cruising with Mogán views gives you a new angle on cliffs and coves without lifting a finger.
• Unlimited drinks are genuinely included (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water).
• Swim and optional snorkeling at an anchored bay turns the trip from sightseeing into time in the water.
• Add-on water sports have clear prices so you can choose thrills without mystery fees.
• Crew energy matters here, with hosts like Potter bringing big-friend humor onboard and guides keeping things moving.
• Pickup from a wide set of resort areas makes it easy to start from where you’re staying.

Why Gran Canaria’s southwest coast feels special from water

Gran Canaria has plenty of coastline, but the southwest side looks best when you are moving slowly past the cliffs. On this trip, the catamaran route focuses on views of the fishing village of Mogán as you cruise along dramatic coastal edges and smaller, hidden coves that are hard to reach by land.

You also get a real change of pace. Many half-day outings in resort areas are either mostly transport or mostly waiting. Here, you spend a good chunk of the time simply on board, enjoying the motion, the breeze, and the sea views, then you hit the payoff stop to swim.

I like the balance because it fits real travel days. If you want a relaxed afternoon, you can hang out on the sun cushions. If you want to burn off energy, the optional water activities give you that outlet without forcing it on everyone.

Getting to Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, plus pickup from major resort areas

You’ve got two ways to start: pickup from the south and west, or meet at the harbor.

If you rely on pickup

Pickup and drop-off are included from centralized points in Bahia Feliz, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Sonnenland, Arguineguin, Patalavaca, Taurito, and Playa del Cura. That matters because Gran Canaria can spread hotels out a bit, and you don’t want to spend your afternoon hunting for the meeting point.

One caution: pickup is not listed for Las Palmas, Salobre, Mogan, and Puerto Rico.

If you go directly to the harbor

If you’re making your own way to Puerto Rico, the meeting point is the Afrikat desk at Puerto Rico, Calle Puerto Base, S/N, 35130. Plan to sign in at least 20 minutes before the excursion starts.

If you have mobility needs, the key is to inform the activity provider after booking so arrangements can be made.

The 4.5-hour flow: cruise, views, then the anchored swim bay

This is an afternoon cruise designed to feel unhurried, not rushed. Expect a total duration of 4.5 hours, with starting times varying based on availability.

Cruising along the route

You’ll head along the coast in the southwest direction, with views of Mogán and the surrounding coastline. The catamaran format helps here. It’s stable enough for lounging, and you still feel like you’re on a real boat trip instead of sitting on a bus with views.

The anchor stop for swimming and snorkeling

The highlight is the moment you drop anchor in a crystal-clear bay. This is when you jump in, swim, and (if you want) snorkel with the provided equipment.

Here is the practical mindset: snorkeling works best when you treat it as a short, focused water session. Put on your gear, check your comfort in the water first, then spend your energy looking around once you’re settled. Even if you aren’t a hardcore snorkeler, this kind of stop is the best time to see marine life because you’re not dealing with long transit between sighting spots.

Also, keep a towel plan. You will want something dry to sit on right after you get back onboard.

What you eat and drink onboard, and why it’s a value win

Food and drinks are not an afterthought on this cruise. They are part of the included package, served by the crew.

Included meal

You can expect:

• Chicken wrap, with bacon and cheese topping, plus salad and sauce optional
• Pasta salad

Dietary needs are possible, but you must inform the activity provider when booking.

Unlimited drinks (what’s included)

The included drink list is wide for the price:

• beer, sangria
• soft drinks, juice
• coffee and water

What’s not included: cocktails, wine, and spirits. So if you’re a specific cocktail person, you’ll likely need to pay extra.

The real value math

At $91 per person for a 4.5-hour boat outing, the value comes from stacking benefits that would otherwise cost separately: transport to the harbor, the catamaran time, lunch food, and unlimited drinks. Add optional water sports on top only if you want them, and you can shape your spending instead of paying for a one-size-fits-all package.

There’s also a nice touch included with the experience: a reusable drinking glass souvenir. It’s the kind of small keepsake that feels more useful than a random postcard.

Snorkeling gear in the bag, and how to get the most from the bay stop

Snorkeling equipment is included as optional, meaning you can use it if you want, but you’re not forced into it.

The best approach is simple:

1. Bring your swimwear (do not rely on changing onboard if you can avoid it).
2. Use sunscreen before you go in.
3. Take a calm first look around, then decide if you want to spend more time exploring.

Even if you don’t spot something dramatic, this is still a great swim session because the water is described as crystal-clear at the anchoring point. That clarity is exactly what makes snorkeling feel worth it for beginners and families too.

One more practical note: bring your camera. If you’re hoping for photos, you’ll get the best shots around the snorkel stop when the light and water visibility are at their best.

Optional water sports, the add-on pricing, and smart budgeting

This is where you can tailor the trip. The core experience stays relaxed, but there are extra thrill options with listed prices.

Add-ons and costs listed

• Speedboat ride with the captain: €5 per person
• Donut inflatable ride: €10 per person
• Jet ski: €32 per vehicle
• Parasail: €32 per person

The info also notes that there can be discounted rates on different water sports activities, so there may be more than just the items above depending on what’s running that day.

My budget tip

If you want one or two big activities, pick based on what you’ll remember most:

• Choose the donut if you like playful chaos and quick laughs.
• Choose the jet ski if you want actual control and speed, but remember it’s per vehicle.
• Choose parasailing if you want a bird’s-eye view and can handle paying per person.

Also, bring extra money or a bank card for water sports, souvenirs, or photos. And based on guest experience, card payments can be convenient, with Apple Pay mentioned as an option.

One caution on day-to-day variation

Availability can depend on conditions and operators. If you care about a specific water sport, keep your expectations flexible and consider alternatives, like swimming and snorkeling if extras are running behind schedule or not at full capacity.

Crew, entertainment, and the names that pop up onboard

This trip tends to land well because the crew doesn’t treat it like a simple drop-and-pick routine. People highlight helpful staff, a fun tone onboard, and entertainment that adds to the feeling that this is more like a party cruise than a stiff tour.

A few names you may hear:

• Potter, the owner, has a reputation for bringing big laughs and a friendly, hands-on vibe.
• Pedro, one of the team members, is described as funny and welcoming.
• Ashleigh is noted for saxophone entertainment on the return heading back.

That matters because onboard energy can change your experience fast. If the crew is upbeat, you’re more likely to enjoy the time between the swim stop and the return, when the boat is cruising and you’re deciding whether to grab another drink or cool down out of the sun.

One small reality check: on some departures, the sun deck can feel crowded, so plan to rotate between shade, seating, and taking a short walk around the boat when you can.

Who this afternoon catamaran cruise is perfect for

This cruise is a strong fit if you want an easy Gran Canaria day that combines sea views, included food, and real time in the water.

You’ll likely enjoy it if you:

• like all-inclusive style boating days where you do not have to track every cost
• want snorkeling without booking a separate snorkeling tour
• prefer simple afternoon pacing rather than a full-day walking route
• travel with a mix of ages and fitness levels, since the main swim stop is optional

It is also suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible. If you have mobility needs, tell the provider during booking so arrangements can be made.

Who should think twice

This one may not be ideal if you:

• hate any crowding at all. The sun deck can get tight when departures are popular.
• want a long, guided snorkeling program. This is a swim-and-snorkel stop, not an all-day reef expedition.
• are strict about specific drinks like cocktails, wine, or spirits, since those are not included.

If you’re the type who wants a quiet, minimalist experience with zero noise, the onboard entertainment and party-ish energy might feel too active.

Should you book this Afrikat catamaran cruise?

If you want a simple afternoon in Gran Canaria that delivers on the basics, I think this is a good choice. You’re paying for a package that stacks the highest-value parts of a boat day: catamaran time, transport from many major areas, a crew-prepared meal, and unlimited drinks, plus a real chance to swim and snorkel in clear water.

With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 across 139 bookings, it’s clearly landing for most people. The biggest reason to hesitate is not the cruise itself, it’s how you feel about sun-deck crowding and add-on costs for the thrill rides.

Book it if you want:

• a relaxed coastal cruise with included food and drinks
• a straightforward swim-and-snorkel break
• optional fun activities where you can choose your level

Skip or compare if you:

• expect a private, uncrowded boat experience
• only want snorkeling with long guided instruction
• plan to spend heavily on extras right away

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The experience runs for 4.5 hours. Starting times vary by availability.

What’s included in the price?

Included features are the catamaran cruise, pickup and drop-off from specified central areas, unlimited drinks, the crew-served meal, and snorkeling equipment (optional). You also receive a reusable drinking glass souvenir.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

Yes. Unlimited drinks include beer and sangria, along with soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water. Cocktails, wine, and spirits are not included.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is available onboard as an optional extra included with the activity.

What water sports cost extra?

The listed add-ons include a jet ski (€32 per vehicle), parasailing (€32 per person), a donut inflatable (€10 per person), and a speedboat ride with the captain (€5 per person).

Where does pickup happen, and where is the harbor meeting point?

Pickup is available from centralized points in Bahia Feliz, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Sonnenland, Arguineguin, Patalavaca, Taurito, and Playa del Cura. Pickup is not listed for Las Palmas, Salobre, Mogan, and Puerto Rico. If you’re going directly, you can sign up at the Afrikat desk in Puerto Rico at Calle Puerto Base, S/N, 35130 at least 20 minutes early.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. A camera can also be useful.

Can the crew accommodate dietary requirements?

Special dietary requirements must be informed when booking, so the crew can prepare accordingly.

Is it wheelchair accessible, and is it suitable for all ages?

Yes. The activity is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages. If you have mobility impairments, inform the activity provider after booking so arrangements can be made.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.