This catamaran day makes Gran Canaria feel like a giant beach club. I like that it starts with a proper cruise along the coast, then hands you real time in the water with gear provided for snorkeling, plus optional speed and thrill add-ons. Unlimited drinks and a crew-led vibe keep it easy, even if you do nothing but relax and swim. One thing to consider is that some optional water activities can be limited by the conditions on the day.

The best part for me is how the crew brings the energy without turning it into a zoo. I also love the food, especially the onboard chicken wrap (with optional bacon bits) and pasta salad if you tell them in advance. The main drawback is that you will likely want extra activities, and those costs add up fast if you say yes to everything.

Quick Key Points to Know

• Pickup from many south-coast areas makes it simple to roll in from your hotel zone
• Snorkeling gear is available for a swim stop in clear water
• Unlimited beer, sangria, and soft drinks keep the day feeling like a party-friendly cruise
• Crew humor and hospitality are a big reason people rate this so highly
• Extra water sports cost extra, so budget for jet ski or parasailing if you want them
• Live music is limited to Friday morning only

Why This Afrikat Catamaran Feels Like More Than a Boat Ride

This isn’t a sit-and-watch kind of cruise. You’re on a catamaran, you get a scenic coastline run, and then you spend a long stretch doing actual water time in a bay that’s crystal-clear when conditions are right.

I also like that the tone is relaxed but upbeat. The crew runs things with humor and good safety habits, and names like Potter and Matt show up in the stories from people who’ve been on board before. If you want a day that mixes sunshine, laughs, and swimming, this hits that target.

Getting There: Pickup Coverage and What It Means for Your Day

Your day starts with pickup from designated centralized points, and the coverage is broad across Gran Canaria’s south. The tour lists many options like Bahía Feliz, Playa del Aguila, Maspalomas, San Agustín, and Mogán-area hotels, plus major commercial stops such as the Yumbo Shopping Centre and Europa Shopping Centre.

In practice, this matters because you don’t have to figure out parking, transfers, or timing on the fly. There is also a stated bus or coach transfer window before you reach the port, and the whole flow is built around getting everyone checked in smoothly.

One consideration: pickup is not offered from Las Palmas, Salobre, Puerto Rico, or Mogán. So if you’re staying outside the pickup web, you’ll need to plan your own way to the start point.

At the Dock: Safety Briefing and the Cruise Out to the Coast

Before you head out, you’ll get a short safety briefing. It’s quick, but it’s the kind of step you want to take seriously, especially if you’re planning to swim, snorkel, or try optional water sports later.

Once you’re underway, the catamaran ride is the calm chapter of the day. Expect a sea breeze, sun on your face, and coastline views that work as a moving photo backdrop. This cruising time is also your chance to settle in, grab a drink, and decide which water activity you want to spend your energy on later.

The Mogán Water Stop: Snorkeling Time That Actually Feels Like Vacation

The tour is designed around one big water block, located in the Mogán area. That’s where lunch and your main swim time line up, and where you’ll have the longest stretch to jump in.

This is where you’ll use the snorkeling gear that’s provided (it’s listed as optional equipment, but the stop is clearly built for people to snorkel). The key practical thing is to show up ready, meaning swimwear on under your clothes if you can, towel in hand, and sunscreen applied before you’re in the sun for too long.

What to do during the water time

You’ve got a few paths:

• Swim and snorkel with the provided gear
• Relax in the bay if you want low effort time
• Add thrill activities if you want speed, altitude, or a powered ride, usually for an extra fee

If you’re prone to seasickness, don’t panic. One of the standout details from the experience is that the crew has helped a sea-sick passenger during the day, which tells me they’re used to handling real-life bodies, not just checklists.

Lunch on Board: Chicken Wraps, Pasta Salad, and Diet Requests

Food is part of why this excursion feels like a complete half-day, not a “just get on the boat” event. Lunch is served onboard by the crew and the standard meal is a chicken wrap with optional bacon bits, plus salad and sauces. There’s also pasta salad listed for special dietary requirements.

The important detail here is communication. If you need the pasta salad version, you’re asked to communicate in advance. I’d treat that as non-negotiable if you have any dietary needs, since the crew can only prepare what they know about ahead of time.

Unlimited Drinks: Beer, Sangria, and the Little Things That Keep It Fun

Drinks are one of the biggest value signals for this tour. You get unlimited onboard options including beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water.

A fun detail I’d take advantage of is that some people point out you can tap your own beer. That turns the bar routine into a quick self-serve moment, which keeps the day flowing and saves you from waiting when the crew is running around with everyone.

Just know what’s not included: cocktails, wine, and spirits are listed as not part of the unlimited set. If you’re a strict cocktail person, you’ll likely spend extra.

Water Sports Extras: What You Can Add and What It Costs

Most people come for the included swim and snorkeling. Then, if the day feels right, you’ll see the optional extras and likely want at least one thrill.

Here are the listed add-ons and pricing:

• Jet ski: €32 per vehicle
• Parasailing: €32 per person
• Donut (towing ride): €10 per person
• Speedboat ride with the captain: €5 per person

Also, the tour messaging includes discounted options for certain activities. In the real world, that means you should expect some flexibility in what’s offered based on the day, and you might find water sports availability changes from one departure to another.

A practical heads-up from real experiences: jet ski availability can be affected by the day’s equipment or conditions. So if jet ski is your top goal, I’d keep your plan flexible and treat snorkeling and swimming as your true priority.

The Boat Experience: Space, Shade, and How to Pick Your Spot

Catamarans give you that open feel, and this one is described as clean and spacious by people who’ve been on board. That matters because a half-day cruise can feel cramped fast if the boat layout isn’t comfortable.

On board, you’ll want to choose your spot early:

• Sunbathing areas for warmth and photos
• Shaded areas for breaks from the Canarian sun
• Easy access to the side when it’s time to swim and snorkel

One more small detail that shows up in the experience is that staff keep things organized and attentive, including help for people who need a little extra care during the day. If you’re traveling with kids or anyone who doesn’t love boats, this kind of hands-on support makes a difference.

The Crew Makes the Difference, Including Names You’ll Hear

This is one of the rare tours where the human factor is repeatedly part of the story. People mention laughs, jokes, and a welcoming vibe, not just a scripted performance.

Names that come up include Potter (often described as the owner) and Matt. People also mention Nikita in positive feedback. Even when you don’t catch every name, you’ll feel the intent: they want you comfortable, safe, and having a good time.

Live music on select days

There’s also a live music detail. Live music is listed as Friday morning only, and one recurring highlight is the saxophone during the day. If live music is part of your plan, target a Friday morning departure.

Price and Value: Is $88 a Good Deal?

At $88 per person, this cruise is trying to hit a sweet spot: boat ride plus onboard food plus unlimited drinks plus snorkeling time, and then optional add-ons if you want to spend more.

Here’s why it can feel like good value:

• Unlimited beer and sangria often costs extra on other tours
• Lunch is included, and it’s not just a snack
• You get snorkeling time with gear provided, which turns the day into a real activity, not a passive cruise
• Pickup and drop-off are built in from many south-coast zones

The value can slide a bit if you stack optional activities. Jet ski and parasailing are priced per person or per vehicle, and donuts plus speedboat add up quickly. Still, you get to choose, and the included part of the day is strong even without extras.

Who This Trip Is Best For

This is a great match if you want:

• A half-day on the water that doesn’t require hours of planning
• A cruise with real time to swim and snorkel
• Unlimited drinks as a bonus, not a gimmick
• A fun crew vibe, especially if you like lighthearted entertainment

It can also work for families because the activity is described as suitable for all ages. If someone in your group is a confident swimmer, snorkeling can be the main payoff. If they are not, sunbathing and swimming in the bay still make the day worthwhile.

Should You Book This Gran Canaria Catamaran Cruise?

I’d book it if you want an easy, value-focused way to enjoy Gran Canaria’s sea without turning it into a complicated day. The core package works: cruise time along the coast, a long water stop in the Mogán area, lunch onboard, and unlimited beer and sangria.

I’d think twice if you have a very specific must-do thrill and you’re traveling on a day when extras might be limited. Also, if you avoid spending extra once you arrive, set a personal cap, because jet ski, parasailing, donuts, and speedboat rides are all clearly part of the optional menu.

If your idea of a perfect afternoon is sun, swimming, and a crew that keeps the mood light, this Afrikat catamaran day is a strong pick.

FAQ

How long is the Afrikat Gran Canaria catamaran cruise?

The duration is listed as 4.5 hours.

Where does the tour pick you up?

Pickup is offered from many centralized points across the south of Gran Canaria, depending on your area. It is not offered from Las Palmas, Salobre, Puerto Rico, or Mogán.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is served by the crew, with a chicken wrap as the standard option and pasta salad for special dietary requirements if you communicate in advance.

What drinks are included on board?

Unlimited beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water are included.

Is snorkeling included?

Snorkeling equipment is provided and the schedule includes a swim and snorkel time in the Mogán area.

Are water sports included in the price?

Some water activities are extra. Jet ski, parasailing, donuts, and speedboat rides with the captain are listed as not included and have set prices.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. Credit card and cash are also recommended for extras or photos.

Is there live music?

Live music is listed as Friday morning only, and it is not on 27 February.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserve now & pay later is also available.