Gran Canaria: Private yacht excursion with Aperitif, drinks and snorkeling

Four hours on a private yacht feels like time travel. You get a private skipper-led cruise with an open bar plus snorkeling gear, and the ride is planned for sea time, not waiting. One thing to note: you’ll get snacks and an appetizer, but a full lunch is not included.

I like how this trip mixes easy relaxation with short bursts of activity. One moment you’re cruising with music and cool sea breeze, the next you’re in the water at the cove of Perchel, which you can only reach from the sea.

Your main planning headache is motion. If you get seasick easily, the operator recommends bringing seasickness pills, and you’ll also want your own towel and sunscreen since towels are not included.

Key highlights at a glance

• Door-to-door pickup from many hotels and apartments in the south of Gran Canaria, then back again to Puerto Rico
• Open bar plus welcome cava (beer, soft drinks, sangria, water, sparkling water, juices)
• Snorkeling equipment and a paddle board included
• A sea-only cove at Perchel, with time for snorkeling and paddle boarding
• Mogán and Taurito bays for scenery, photos, and that “we’re really out here” feeling
• Optional add-ons nearby for extra cost (jetski, crazy sofa, sea scooter, parasailing)

Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: why the start location works

Starting from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria is practical. You’re in the south, so the pick-up van can hit lots of hotels across that area, then you end right back in Puerto Rico after the 4-hour cruise.

I also like the “finish and keep going” factor. After you return, you can hop on the van back to your hotel, or stay in Puerto Rico to walk the promenade and choose from local food spots.

If you’re the type who hates the long pre-tour commute, this layout is a big win. The van ride is listed as about 20 minutes, and the operator runs with a lot of pickup options.

What private really means on this yacht (and what you should expect)

This is a private group outing, not a shared catamaran vibe. The operator advertises a maximum of up to 10 passengers, while the price is listed per group up to 8, so you should confirm headcount when you book.

Either way, the point is the same: it’s your group’s schedule and your group’s space. You’ll have time together with music and a cozy on-board atmosphere, and you’ll sail with your own skipper.

The crew role matters here. A captain like Ronnie was mentioned in one recent experience, and the host role (names like Christian show up) can make the difference between a generic boat ride and one that feels guided and smooth.

Drinks and snacks: what’s included, what isn’t, and why it matters

This is one of the strongest value pieces of the day. You get a welcome glass of cava, then an open bar that includes beer, soft drinks, sangria, water, sparkling water, and juices.

You also get an assortment of snacks, plus the crew prepares a fresh and seasonal appetizer once you’re ready to eat. That appetizer timing is smart because it lines up with your swim breaks, not some random moment when you’re still trying to get settled.

Here’s the one drawback to keep in mind: cocktails, wine, and mixed drinks are not included. If you love heavier cocktails, budget extra.

Also, one review called out that for the price they expected lunch. I’d treat this as a snack-and-appetizer day, not a full-meal cruise, especially if you tend to eat big at midday.

The cruise plan: offshore sailing and a sea-only cove

After pick-up, you head to the port in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria and set out for a 4-hour yacht experience. Early on, you cruise offshore with sun, sea breeze, and time to settle in with drinks and music.

Then you shift toward the Mogán area, where the main playtime happens. The highlight is the cove of Perchel, described as an exclusive cove that can only be accessed from the sea. That matters because it usually means a calmer feel than open-water spots and fewer overland distractions.

From there, your time breaks down into:

• Snorkeling with provided equipment
• Paddle surfing (paddle board time), with fun for different skill levels
• Swim breaks while the crew handles the food prep

There’s also time cruising past and around special bays in the Mogán and Taurito area. It’s the kind of scenery change you notice instantly: big Atlantic openness, then the tighter, more “we found something special” coves.

Snorkeling and paddle boarding: how to make it fun for real

The operator includes snorkeling equipment and a paddle board, so you don’t need to pack gear or hunt for rentals. That’s a big deal because the cost and hassle of snorkeling add-ons can quietly eat into your budget on other tours.

To make the snorkeling time work smoothly, treat your gear check like a tiny job before you hop in. Bring your own sunscreen and sunglasses, keep your snorkel mask area clear, and focus on breathing and calm entry. The water time tends to be more enjoyable when you don’t rush.

For paddle board time, think of it as a balance-and-confidence session more than a performance. You can do it at your own pace, and even if you wobble, you’ll usually still have a good laugh with your group.

One practical tip: don’t count on your towel being provided. Bring yours, and you’ll avoid that “where can I dry off” scramble.

Optional thrill rides near Perchel: jetski and more

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all day. You get the core swimming and snorkeling time included, and you can add higher-adrenaline activities for extra cost.

The listed options are:

• Jetski for 35€ for 10 minutes
• Crazy sofa for 20€ per person for 10 minutes
• Sea scooter for 25€ per person for 10 minutes
• Parasailing for 35€ per person for 10 minutes

If your group includes both swimmers and thrill-seekers, this is a smart setup. You can keep the “on the water” experience for everyone, then let only the adventurous ones go for the extra rides.

If you’re budgeting, the key is that those costs are per person. So if you’re traveling with a mixed group, decide early who wants to try what.

Timing, sea conditions, and the seasickness reality check

Even if you’re having the best afternoon of your vacation, the Atlantic can still make you feel it. The operator specifically flags seasickness as a consideration and suggests bringing seasickness pills.

That’s not dramatic. It’s just real advice for a boat day, especially when you’re out offshore and moving between spots.

I’d plan your comfort like this:

• Have seasickness pills ready if you’re the sensitive type
• Skip heavy alcohol if you’re worried about nausea, since the open bar includes sangria and beer
• Stay hydrated with the water and sparkling water that are part of the open bar

Also, if you want the best photos, bring your camera (the operator actively calls out plenty of photo moments). The mix of open sea and cove views gives you options, and you’ll likely want shots during cruising and after snorkeling when everyone is calmer.

Getting picked up and dropped off in the south

Logistics can make or break an excursion. Here, the pickup system is built for the south side of the island, with a long list of hotel and address options.

The van picks you up at your door, and you need to be punctual. The waiting time is listed as 5 minutes, which is short enough that you should aim to be ready a few minutes early.

There’s also a drop-off list back across the south, plus the experience ends back at Puerto Rico so you can choose what’s most convenient.

One more note: this outing is not suitable for wheelchair users. If accessibility is a factor for your group, this one likely needs to be skipped.

Price and value: when $650 per group makes sense

The price is listed at $650 per group up to 8. The boat experience also advertises up to 10 passengers maximum, so your cost-per-person can vary depending on how full your group is when you book.

Here’s the value math idea I’d use:

• You’re paying for the private boat, captain, and insurance
• You get the open bar plus welcome cava
• You get snorkeling equipment and a paddle board
• You get snacks and a fresh seasonal appetizer prepared on board
• Taxes and fees are included

For many groups, the open bar and equipment are what make the day feel “worth it.” Without those inclusions, you’d usually pay extra for drinks and rentals, and the overall cost climbs fast.

The main reason it might not feel like a deal is if you expected a full lunch, or if your group wants multiple paid extras like jetski or parasailing. Those choices can shift the budget quickly.

Who this yacht trip fits best, and who should reconsider

This is a great fit if you want:

• A private half-day at sea with minimal hassle
• Included snorkeling and paddle boarding for active fun
• A group-friendly vibe with drinks and music
• A route that highlights both coves and views around Mogán and Taurito

It’s also a solid option for families or friend groups, because the included activities are flexible. Some people snorkel, some paddle board, and some just hang out with a drink and good sea air.

You should reconsider if:

• You get seasick easily and you’re not planning to take precautions
• You want a full lunch included in the price
• Your group needs wheelchair accessibility

Final verdict: should you book this Gran Canaria private yacht?

If your idea of a perfect vacation afternoon includes snorkeling gear included, a paddle board, and a private feel with cava and an open bar, this is an easy yes. The structure is simple, the time at sea is the point, and the logistics are designed for south Gran Canaria.

Book it if your group will actually use the included water time and you’ll enjoy the on-board snack-and-appetizer setup. Skip it if you’re chasing a meal-heavy cruise or you know your body hates boats and you’re not willing to prepare.

In short: for the right group, this is a smart way to buy sea time, not just sightseeing.

FAQ

How long is the private yacht excursion?

It lasts 4 hours.

How many people are allowed on the yacht?

The experience is a private group with a maximum of up to 10 passengers. The listed price is per group up to 8.

Where does the tour start and end?

It departs from the port in Puerto Rico and finishes at the same departure point, Puerto Rico.

Is pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off service is included from accommodations in the south of the island, with options across many hotels and areas. You also must book pickup in advance and be punctual.

What drinks are included on board?

Included drinks are beer, soft drinks, sangria, water, sparkling water, and juices, plus a welcome glass of cava. Cocktails, wine, and mixed drinks are not included.

Are snorkeling and paddle boarding equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment and a paddle board are included.

Are towels provided?

No. Towels are not included, so you should bring one.

What snacks or food are included?

An assortment of snacks is included, and the crew prepares a delicious appetizer with fresh and seasonal ingredients during the tour.

Can I pay extra for jetski or parasailing?

Yes. Jetski, crazy sofa, sea scooter, and parasailing are available for an additional fee (prices are listed per person or per activity and duration).

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?

No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.