Gran Canaria: Afternoon Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drink

A catamaran cruise beats a beach day. This Afrikat afternoon trip pairs a relaxed southwest-coast cruise with time to swim and snorkel, plus unlimited beer, sangria, and soft drinks onboard. I like the mix of calm sailing time and hands-on water time, and I really like that the onboard meal and drinks feel built into the price rather than treated like an afterthought.

One thing to keep in mind: the most adrenaline-heavy activities cost extra (jet ski, parasail, donut, speedboat), and the sun deck can feel a bit tight when the group is all settled in.

Quick hits before you go

• Unlimited drinks onboard include beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water
• A proper meal is included, not snacks: chicken wrap and pasta salad served by the crew
• Swim and snorkel stop in a crystal-clear bay, with snorkeling gear available
• Optional thrills add up, so decide early what you want to pay for
• Pickup is broad but not universal, so double-check your area before booking

Cruising Gran Canaria’s Southwest Coast in 4.5 Hours

This is an afternoon cruise, so it works as a one-and-done plan when you want something special without losing your whole day. You get time on the water for views of Gran Canaria’s southern coastline, plus a scheduled break to jump in and enjoy the sea. At $91 per person for a 4.5-hour experience, the value is mostly in what’s included: unlimited drinks and a crew-served meal.

Afrikat runs this trip out of Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, and the pace feels like a “good day out” rather than a race against the clock. Reviews consistently point to the crew’s energy—names like Potter (the owner), Pedro (a guide), and Ashleigh/Ashley (on saxophone) show up again and again. If you like a tour that feels like a party with sunscreen, you’ll probably enjoy this.

The route heads along the southwest coast, which is a smart choice for scenery. You’ll see dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and coastal spots you can’t really get from the road.

Puerto de Mogán Views and Those Cliffside Coves

A big part of why this cruise works is the sightseeing pacing. You cruise past the fishing village of Puerto de Mogán, then continue along sections of coastline known for jagged rock and tucked-away inlets. The boat stops are built around the idea that the views are the warm-up, and the water time is the main event.

Here’s the practical takeaway: try to be on the deck near the time you pass the most scenic stretches, because that’s when you’ll get clean sightlines. If you’re the type who hates crowding, grab space early and be ready to shift with the flow when people start moving for the swimming stop.

Also, expect a mix of relaxation and activity. People tend to settle in, then suddenly you’ll see everyone gearing up when it’s time to jump in or grab a snorkeling mask. That’s part of the fun.

The Swim and Snorkel Bay: Gear, Timing, and Realistic Expectations

The highlight on paper is the anchor stop to swim and snorkel in a crystal-clear bay. In practice, that’s the moment that changes a “nice cruise” into an actual sea adventure. You’ll be able to cool off, swim right from the boat, and use the snorkeling equipment if you want it.

If you bring your own mask/snorkel, you can use it too—but the tour does provide snorkeling equipment as an included option. You’ll want to keep it simple: put on your swimwear early, use a towel for drying, and make sure your sunscreen is fully on before you’re in and out of the water.

What I’d watch for: the ocean conditions aren’t spelled out in the info you have here, so treat snorkeling as a “great chance” rather than a guarantee of perfect visibility. Still, the bay is described as crystal clear, and that matches the overall tone of the experience.

Bring your towel and don’t plan to scramble at the last minute. This kind of stop goes fast—everyone wants in the water at once.

Onboard Food and Unlimited Drinks (That You Actually Use)

The onboard meal is not a vague snack. The crew serves chicken wrap (with optional bacon, cheese topping, salad, and sauce) and pasta salad. If you have dietary needs, you’ll need to tell the provider when booking, since the tour requires special dietary requirements to be informed in advance.

Drink-wise, this is one of the strongest points. Included beverages are beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water—and the general vibe is that you don’t have to ration your drinks. You’ll also get a reusable drinking glass souvenir, which is a small detail, but it’s nice if you like taking something home that isn’t just a photo.

Some drinks are not included: cocktails, wine, and spirits cost extra. That’s normal for this type of cruise, but it’s worth knowing so there are no surprises if you’re a strict cocktail person.

If you’re keeping value in mind: this is the part where the price makes sense. You’re paying for an afternoon on a boat plus a package of food and drinks you can actually consume, not just one or two limited refills.

Optional Speed, Jet, Parasail, Donut: Pay Smart

This is where you decide what kind of day you want. The cruise has optional water-sports and inflatable activities, and the best strategy is to pick one or two “big” items rather than try to do everything. The extras you may see listed include:

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

The info also hints that there are discounted rates on different water sports activities, so if you’re open to more than one add-on, ask what’s available that afternoon.

One review note that’s useful: some people felt surprised when certain water sports didn’t run, depending on the provider working with Afrikat on the day. That means it’s smart to go in flexible, not locked into a specific adrenaline list.

Also, plan to carry some extra money or a bank card for the add-ons, souvenirs, and photos. Reviews say payments like card and Apple Pay can work, which is handy if you don’t carry cash.

Crew Energy, Music, and the Social Side of the Trip

What turns this into a “best boat trip” for many people is the crew vibe. Multiple reviews mention humor, welcoming guides, and an overall sense that the staff is trying to keep the energy up. Names like Potter (owner), Pedro (guide), and the saxophonist Ashleigh/Ashley show up in praise, including the sax music during the return sail.

If you like group tours, this kind of soundtrack-and-humor atmosphere fits. If you want quiet solitude, you may still be able to find it—there’s a sun-cushion lounging area—but you should expect the crew to work the crowd a bit, especially around the swimming and drinks.

One practical downside mentioned in feedback: the sun deck can feel a bit cramped in the midday seating area. That’s not unusual on popular catamarans, but it’s worth factoring into your expectations. Bring patience, choose your spot early, and don’t treat it like your own private balcony.

Getting There: Pickup Areas and the Harbor Meet-Up

Logistics can make or break an afternoon tour, and this one has a straightforward setup. Pickup and drop-off is included from centralized points in areas like:

Bahía Feliz, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Sonnenland, Arguineguin, Patalavaca, Taurito, and Playa del Cura.

Pickup isn’t available from some locations (Las Palmas, Salobre, Mogan, and Puerto Rico are specifically called out), so it’s worth checking your hotel area before you rely on pickup.

If you want to come directly to the harbor, the meet-up is at Puerto Rico, Calle Puerto Base, S/N, 35130. You’ll need to sign up at the Afrikat desk at least 20 minutes before the start.

Simple tip: if you’re getting picked up, plan to be ready a few minutes early. Afternoon timing and cruise boarding windows don’t leave much room for delays.

What to Pack for a Catamaran Swim Day

You don’t need much, but you do need the essentials. The tour recommends:

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen

Add one more “real-life” item: a bag that can handle water splashes. You’ll be changing in and out quickly around the swim stop, and keeping your phone dry matters.

Also, bring your camera. The coastline views along the southwest stretch are the kind you’ll want to photograph between drink refills.

Who This Cruise Is Best For (and Who Might Skip It)

This is a strong fit if you want:

• An easy afternoon plan with minimal planning
• Unlimited drinks and a real included meal
• A fun day that includes both sailing and water time
• The option to add extra thrills if you’re in the mood

It’s also great for mixed groups—people can lounge while others snorkel, and everyone can decide how adventurous they want to be.

You might consider something else if:

• You need a super quiet experience (this has a social vibe)
• You expect all water activities to be guaranteed (some extras can be unavailable depending on the day)
• You’re not planning to use snorkeling or swim time, since that’s the main reason to be on this boat and not just on a beach

The sweet spot is the traveler who wants a good mix: relaxing cruise time plus the option to get wet and playful.

Should You Book This Afrikat Afternoon Catamaran?

Yes, if you want an afternoon that feels like a complete experience. The value comes from the included package: unlimited drinks plus a crew-served meal, then a real swim/snorkel stop. At $91 for 4.5 hours, it’s not cheap-cheap, but it’s priced like a “do this today” activity where you’ll actually use what’s included.

I’d book if you like a lively crew and you’re open to optional add-ons. If you hate crowds or you only want snorkeling with zero chance of missing other activities, you might find a different style of tour safer.

Bottom line: if your ideal day includes time on a catamaran, a clear-water swim, and no-stress eating and drinking onboard, this is a very solid choice.

FAQ

How long is the Afrikat Gran Canaria afternoon catamaran cruise?

The duration is 4.5 hours, with starting times based on availability.

What drinks are included in the price?

Included drinks are beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included as an optional add-on for you to use during the swim and snorkel stop.

What meal is served onboard?

The crew serves chicken wrap (with bacon and cheese topping optional, plus salad and sauce optional) and pasta salad. If you have dietary requirements, you must inform the provider when booking.

Are pickup and drop-off included from all areas?

Pickup and drop-off are included from specific centralized points. Pickup is not available from Las Palmas, Salobre, Mogan, and Puerto Rico, so you’ll want to check your hotel area against the listed pickup zones.

Do the water sports cost extra?

Some do. Jet ski (€32 per vehicle), parasail (€32 per person), donut (€10 per person), and a speedboat ride with the captain (€5 per person) are listed as extra costs. Cocktails, wine, and spirits are also not included.