Gran Canaria: Catamaran Day Trip with Food and Drinks

This is the kind of outing that feels like vacation, not logistics. You cruise the southwest coast on a comfortable modern catamaran, then spend your time swimming, snorkeling, and paddling with snorkeling gear and water sports included.

I especially like the unlimited beer, sangria, and soft drinks paired with a real sit-down lunch (morning option). I also like that the crew runs the day with clear instructions in multiple languages, so even first-timers can jump in confidently.

One thing to consider: the trip’s itinerary depends on sea and weather conditions, and the water can be chilly, even when Gran Canaria’s sun shows up.

Key things I’d plan around

• Unlimited drinks (beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water) keep the mood easy all day
• Two swim-and-play stops with snorkeling, plus SUP paddleboards and a kayak you can use
• Tasarte food on the morning sailing and tapas-style snacks on the afternoon sailing
• Plenty of deck space and shade, so you’re not trapped in one cramped corner
• Small-group vibe (not a party boat), with staff who stay attentive without hovering
• Optional add-ons like jet ski or parasailing if you want to go bigger

Why this Gran Canaria catamaran feels like the best kind of half-day

Gran Canaria’s south can be busy on land, but out on the water it’s calmer fast. This catamaran day trip gives you a floating base, then breaks the time into swim stops and one main food moment—so you don’t have to “figure out” the day yourself.

You’re not just watching. You’re in the water with snorkeling gear, and you can also explore from above with SUP paddleboards or from a seated position with a kayak. It’s a simple recipe: sail, play, eat, repeat.

If you’re the kind of person who wants a memorable Gran Canaria day without spending it driving from view to view, this fits.

Getting to Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: easy transfer, real time on the water

The day starts with pickup from locations south of the island. Your exact pickup time is confirmed after booking, and the operator sends details by email—so check your inbox and spam folder. Then you ride to Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria and step onto the catamaran with the trip already underway.

The whole outing is about 4.5 hours, with morning and afternoon departures. That shorter window matters: you get variety (sailing + water time + food) without feeling like you lost your whole day to transit.

When I look at value, I think about how much of the clock is actually fun. Here, most of the time is spent on water or eating aboard.

Cruising the southwest coast with shade, sun, and unlimited drinks

Once you leave Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, you head along the southwest coastline. The catamaran has a sun deck for lounging and a more shaded seating area when you want a break from the sun. That balance is great if you’re traveling with mixed preferences—some people want sunbathing, others want to shade up and chat.

And yes, the drinks are part of the experience. While you sail, you can enjoy beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water. The “unlimited” part is what most people care about, and it’s also what makes the trip feel like a floating lunch-and-swim club rather than a strict tour with a hard stop.

The practical upside: you can keep it non-alcoholic if you prefer and still have the same food-and-water rhythm. Sangria is included, but it’s not required.

Swim and snorkel time near Mogán: where the underwater show starts

One of the main attractions is the chance to swim and snorkel at stunning spots along the route. There’s a swim stop just outside of Mogán, and this is where you’ll use the provided snorkeling equipment.

You get the best results if you treat snorkel time like a slow activity, not a quick check-the-box. I’d also plan to keep your expectations realistic: the water can be clear, but you’ll still feel the ocean—hands, feet, and the occasional chilly surprise. The good news is that the catamaran ride is described as stable, and sea sickness didn’t seem to ruin the day for most people.

A tip if you’re sensitive to motion: pack sea sickness tablets as a precaution. It’s not listed as included, but it comes up as advice from past passengers.

SUP and kayak included: explore from above and from your own pace

After snorkeling, you can switch gears fast. SUP boards and kayak gear are included, and you can paddle in the same general area during your water time.

This matters because snorkeling is a passive view, while SUP and kayaking add movement and control. On a catamaran, that’s how you turn a short trip into a hands-on experience. Even if you don’t consider yourself sporty, the SUP boards are straightforward to try with crew guidance.

A few helpful signals from the way the day runs:

• The crew provides instructions for using the equipment
• People cycle through activities rather than waiting forever
• The vibe stays relaxed, not frantic

Also, keep in mind that water sports use space and time. If a lot of people want to do everything at once, you’ll likely take turns. That’s normal.

Tasarte lunch vs afternoon tapas: how the food is handled on board

Food is a highlight here, and it works in two different ways depending on your sailing time.

Morning option: full lunch with Atlantic views

For the morning excursion, the crew picks up freshly prepared lunch from a local restaurant on the beach of Tasarte. Some of the food is brought onboard in a way that’s part of the fun—people describe food delivered by kayak, which makes the meal feel extra fresh.

The lunch menu can change because it’s fresh and seasonal, but you can expect classics like:

• Filet of tuna
• Breaded chicken
• Canarian potatoes with mojo sauce (described as mild)
• Salad and bread

This is the kind of menu that makes sense for a sea day. It’s filling without being heavy.

Afternoon option: tapas-style snacks

For the afternoon sailing, you don’t get the full lunch. Instead, you receive light tapas-style snacks while you’re on board. Same idea: food is included and designed to keep the energy up during swim time.

If you’re deciding between morning and afternoon, think about your hunger level. Morning feels more like a proper meal. Afternoon feels more like a lighter “snack + sea time” flow.

Optional extras: jet ski and parasailing if you want the thrill

This trip isn’t limited to the included activities. There are paid add-ons on board, and people report options like jet skiing and parasailing.

In practice, add-ons work like this: the crew coordinates extra experiences while your core catamaran plan keeps going. If you’re traveling with kids or someone who wants a bigger adrenaline moment, this is an easy way to add it without committing to an entirely separate activity.

Do it only if you’re comfortable paying extra. Also, remember the trip is subject to sea and weather conditions, so availability can vary.

The crew approach: friendly, multilingual, and genuinely helpful

The crew is a huge part of why this feels smooth. You’ll hear instructions in multiple languages—English, Spanish, German, and French—and the staff are described as attentive and friendly rather than pushy.

Names that come up in operator chatter include Callan and Raul, and a crew member Michelle. I can’t guarantee who you’ll get on your day, but the key point is consistent: the team shows up ready to help people feel comfortable in the water and with the gear.

This is also a “small-group” style outing. One report notes a group shared by up to 17 others, and that kind of size is why you don’t feel lost or stuck waiting for someone else’s turn for ages.

Price and value: what $97 buys you in real terms

At $97 per person, the value is mostly about what’s bundled, not the sticker price.

Here’s what you’re getting for that rate:

• Catamaran ride
• Unlimited beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water
• Lunch (morning) or tapas-style snacks (afternoon)
• Snorkeling equipment
• SUP paddleboards and kayak gear
• Pickup and drop-off from south of the island

When I compare that to paying separately for a boat tour plus a paid water activity plus food plus drinks, this starts to look less like an “impulse purchase” and more like a smart package deal—especially if you plan to actually use the water gear and eat onboard.

One fair drawback: cocktails are not included. Also, if you mostly drink non-alcoholic, you might feel the alcohol-heavy value is less motivating. But you still get the drinks, food, and equipment bundle regardless.

Who this trip suits best (and who might skip it)

This catamaran trip is a strong match if you want:

• A relaxing day at sea with a clear schedule
• Real time in the water, not just a quick swim
• Included food that doesn’t feel like a sad snack plate
• Easy hotel pickup in the south

It may not be ideal if you prefer:

• A lot of walking and inland sightseeing (this is sea-time-first)
• Zero water activities (snorkeling and paddling are central)
• Days when you know you get seasick easily, unless you plan to take precautions

Should you book the Exclusive Boat catamaran day trip?

If you’re in Gran Canaria’s south and you want a memorable half-day that mixes sailing, swimming, and included food with minimal stress, I’d book it. The combination of deck space, two water moments, snorkeling + SUP + kayak, and included drinks makes the day feel complete.

My final check: think about your priorities. If your “perfect day” includes being on the water and using the gear, this is a very good use of time. If you’d rather spend your hours on land, you might feel restless here.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the catamaran day trip?

It lasts about 4.5 hours.

Where does the trip depart from?

You board the catamaran in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria.

Is pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off are included for locations south of the island. Your exact pickup time is confirmed after booking.

What drinks are included?

Soft drinks, beer, sangria, and water are included, with unlimited access during the trip.

What food is included?

For the morning option, you get a seasonal lunch. For the afternoon option, you get light tapas-style snacks. The menu can change with season.

What water activities are included?

Snorkeling equipment is included, and you can also use SUP paddleboards and kayaking gear.

Are there stops to swim?

Yes. The trip includes swim and snorkeling stops, including one just outside Mogán, with additional time to cool off later.

What extra activities cost more?

Jet ski and parasailing are offered as paid add-ons.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel.

What languages are available for the guide?

The live tour guide is available in English, Spanish, German, and French.

Is cancellation fully refundable?

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