REVIEW · GRAN CANARIA
Gran Canaria: Afternoon Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drink
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by Afrikat Gran Canaria · Bookable on GetYourGuide
Sun, sea, and a proper food stop. This Afrikat catamaran cruise turns a simple trip into a 4.5-hour mini escape, with coastline cruising past Mogán and time to swim and snorkel in clear water. I especially like the unlimited drinks onboard (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, water) and the swim/snorkel setup once you drop anchor. A fair heads-up: the sun deck can feel a bit tight when everyone is up and sun-basking.
You get the best of Gran Canaria’s afternoon rhythm: move when you want, then slow down hard when the boat anchors. The crew keeps things upbeat, and you’ll often get extra entertainment on the return trip, like live saxophone.
In This Review
- Key Points to Know Before You Go
- What This Cruise Is Really Like (Not Just a Boat Ride)
- The Value Check: Price vs What’s Included on Afrikat
- Cruise Along the Southwest Coast: Views Around Mogán
- The Swim and Snorkel Stop: When the Bay Takes Over
- Optional Thrills: Donut, Jet Ski, Parasail, and More
- Onboard Food and Drinks: What You’ll Eat Between Swims
- The Crew and the Entertainment Touch (Potter, Pedro, and Saxophone Time)
- Pickup Points and Getting to Puerto Rico Harbor Without Stress
- What to Bring (And What You’ll Be Happy You Did)
- When This Cruise Fits Best (And When You Might Want Another Option)
- Should You Book This Afrikat Afternoon Catamaran Cruise?
- FAQ
- How long is the Afrikat afternoon catamaran cruise?
- What’s included in the price?
- Where is pickup offered?
- Do I have to pay extra for water sports?
- Is snorkeling gear included?
- What should I bring?
- If I go directly to the harbor, where do I check in?
Key Points to Know Before You Go
- Unlimited drinks included (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, water) with a reusable souvenir glass
- Mogán coastline views as you cruise the southwest coast past cliffs and coves
- Swim + snorkel time with optional snorkeling equipment provided onboard
- All-inclusive onboard meal: chicken wrap plus pasta salad (dietary needs to be flagged when booking)
- Optional water sports cost extra, so decide what you want before you start spending
- Crowding can happen on the sun deck, so bring a hat and claim your spot early
What This Cruise Is Really Like (Not Just a Boat Ride)

This isn’t a quiet, sit-and-stare cruise. It’s built for active relaxation. You cruise along Gran Canaria’s southwest side, then the boat stops long enough for you to get in the water and actually use the snorkeling gear if you want it.
The vibe swings between laid-back and fun-chaotic, in a good way. You’ll have time to lounge on sun cushions, but you also have clear options if you want adrenaline later on—like donut rides, speedboat thrills, or jet ski time (all extra cost).
The biggest value here is what’s included for the money. You’re not just paying for movement on water. You’re paying for a package: pickup from key resort areas, cruise time, unlimited drinks, and a real meal served onboard.
You can also read our reviews of more food & drink experiences in Gran Canaria
The Value Check: Price vs What’s Included on Afrikat

At about $91 per person for a 4.5-hour afternoon slot, the numbers work best if you plan to eat and drink on board. Included in the ticket is a meal served by the crew and unlimited drinks like beer and sangria, plus coffee, juice, and water.
Here’s what’s covered that matters day-of:
- Catamaran cruise time along the coast
- Unlimited drinks (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water)
- Meal onboard (chicken wrap and pasta salad)
- Snorkeling equipment (optional to use)
- Pickup and drop-off from specific centralized areas
- A reusable drinking glass souvenir
What costs extra is also pretty clear. Jet ski, parasail, donut inflatable, speedboat ride with the captain all carry additional fees. Cocktails, wine, and spirits aren’t included either. If you like simple drinks and basic food, you can keep your spending under control. If you want multiple add-ons, budget for it.
Cruise Along the Southwest Coast: Views Around Mogán

The route focuses on the southwest coastline, where the coastline scenery feels more dramatic than the straight resort stretches. You’ll cruise along, pass dramatic cliffs, and go by hidden coves and the fishing village of Mogán.
Why this is worth your afternoon: the boat gives you angles you can’t easily recreate from land. You’re moving, so the cliffs and coves keep changing. Plus, you’re not stuck in traffic or hopping between viewpoints. The catamaran format also tends to feel steadier and more comfortable than smaller boats for this type of outing.
One practical note: bring sunglasses and a sun hat. Even when you’re just cruising, you can get strong sun exposure, and there’s no substitute for shade when you’re out on open water.
The Swim and Snorkel Stop: When the Bay Takes Over

The heart of the tour is the stop to swim and snorkel. The boat drops anchor in a crystal-clear bay, and you can jump in for a refreshing swim. If you want marine-life time, you’ll have snorkeling equipment available onboard.
This is where the day turns from “nice cruise” into “real memory.” A quick swim in a clear cove feels worlds away from the beach-and-back routine. If you’re curious about snorkeling, this is one of the more beginner-friendly ways to try it because the setup is provided and you’re not navigating your own route.
A couple of practical tips based on how these cruises tend to run:
- Go early in the stop window if you want calmer water and fewer people around.
- Keep your towel ready so changing out of swimwear is quick.
- If you plan to snorkel, rinse your gear when you’re done, since saltwater can get annoying later.
Optional Thrills: Donut, Jet Ski, Parasail, and More

After the cruise and the swim stop, the tour offers optional water activities for extra cost. These are the big-ticket “choose your own adventure” items.
What you might add (extra cost):
- Jet ski (€32 per vehicle)
- Parasail (€32 per person)
- Donut inflatable (€10 per person)
- Speedboat ride with the captain (€5 per person)
What I like about this setup is that it’s modular. You can stay on the catamaran, lounge, and enjoy the day, or you can pay for one or two add-ons if you want the workout and adrenaline. Just don’t assume every option is available every day. One experience included a situation where water sports weren’t offered because the partner provider didn’t run that day, so it’s smart to ask early if a specific activity is your priority.
Also bring extra money or a bank card for extras and souvenirs or photos. One big plus from recent experience: many people use card or Apple Pay for add-ons, which helps if you don’t carry much cash.
Onboard Food and Drinks: What You’ll Eat Between Swims

Food is handled onboard by the crew, and it’s more filling than you’d expect for a short trip. The meal includes a chicken wrap, with optional toppings like bacon and cheese, plus salad and sauce options. You also get pasta salad.
The food is served as part of the experience, not as a rushed afterthought. And since drinks are unlimited, you can pace yourself: water or juice early, then beer or sangria later if that’s your style.
Dietary requirements do matter here. The key detail is that special dietary needs must be informed when booking, so if you have allergies or a specific diet, plan ahead rather than hoping for a last-minute change.
The Crew and the Entertainment Touch (Potter, Pedro, and Saxophone Time)

One thing that consistently improves this type of trip is crew energy. The Afrikat crew is often described as helpful and funny, with guides like Potter bringing a lot of personality. Another guide name that comes up is Pedro, known for keeping things light and engaging.
Entertainment is also part of the mood, not just background noise. One highlight from the experience: Ashleigh/Ashley on saxophone, played during the return back while people were enjoying drinks, and there was a party feel for those who wanted to join in.
If you’re the type who enjoys interaction—songs, laughter, and a bit of showmanship—this cruise fits nicely. If you prefer quiet, you can still find calm spots, but this is clearly a social outing.
Pickup Points and Getting to Puerto Rico Harbor Without Stress

The cruise runs with pickup and drop-off from centralized points, depending on where you’re staying. Pickup is possible from areas including Bahia Feliz, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Sonnenland, Arguineguin, Patalavaca, Taurito, and Playa del Cura.
If you’re not getting pickup, you can also go directly to the harbor at Puerto Rico, Calle Puerto Base, S/N, 35130. In that case, you should sign up at the Afrikat desk at least 20 minutes before the excursion starts.
This is one of those tours where timing matters more than you think. If you’re even slightly late, you can miss the group handoff. So plan to arrive early, especially if you’re traveling from a less central location where pickup might not apply.
One more helpful detail: the cruise is wheelchair accessible, and customers with disabilities should inform the activity provider after booking so proper arrangements can be made.
What to Bring (And What You’ll Be Happy You Did)

This outing is simple, but the weather and water time can sneak up on you. Bring:
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Sunscreen
I’d also add one practical item: keep your phone or camera protected, since salt spray and wet hands are common on water days. And bring water-friendly footwear if you plan to move around when you’re boarding or stepping in and out. The tour includes snorkeling time, and that can turn “quick dip” into “I’m staying in longer than I planned.”
When This Cruise Fits Best (And When You Might Want Another Option)

This is a strong fit if you want:
- A short, afternoon Gran Canaria experience that doesn’t eat your whole day
- An all-inclusive feel without dealing with restaurants
- A mix of views, swimming, and optional add-ons
- A social atmosphere with crew-led fun (including entertainment)
It may be less ideal if:
- You hate being in a crowd on a sun deck. Some people found it can feel crowded when everyone is out in the sun.
- You want a highly structured snorkeling lesson. Snorkeling gear is included, but the core focus is on time in the water rather than formal instruction.
- You’re set on specific water sports. If the provider partner doesn’t run, you can’t count on every add-on being available that day.
Should You Book This Afrikat Afternoon Catamaran Cruise?
If you’re looking for a good-value Gran Canaria afternoon with unlimited drinks, a real onboard meal, and a swim/snorkel stop, I’d say yes—especially if you’re staying in the pickup zones and want a plan that’s easy from start to finish.
Book it if you:
- Want a view-heavy cruise past Mogán
- Like having drinks included
- Plan to snorkel or at least swim
- Might add one activity like the donut ride or speedboat time
Think twice if:
- You want guaranteed availability of every water sport option
- You prefer a quiet, no-activity boat day
- You’re sensitive to sun-deck crowding—arrive early when you get your spot and use your hat/sunscreen
Overall, this is a fun afternoon package. You get the classic Gran Canaria water day elements—coast views, clear water, and food—wrapped into one stoplight-easy schedule.
FAQ
How long is the Afrikat afternoon catamaran cruise?
The duration is 4.5 hours.
What’s included in the price?
The ticket includes the catamaran cruise, unlimited drinks (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water), an onboard meal, optional snorkeling equipment, pickup and drop-off from designated centralized areas, and a reusable drinking glass souvenir.
Where is pickup offered?
Pickup is possible from centralized points in Bahia Feliz, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Sonnenland, Arguineguin, Patalavaca, Taurito, and Playa del Cura. Pickup isn’t included outside designated areas.
Do I have to pay extra for water sports?
Yes. Jet ski (€32 per vehicle), parasail (€32 per person), donut (€10 per person), and speedboat ride with the captain (€5 per person) are listed as extra. Cocktails, wine, and spirits are not included.
Is snorkeling gear included?
Snorkeling equipment is included as an optional add-on onboard.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. You should also bring your swimming costume and consider a camera.
If I go directly to the harbor, where do I check in?
If you’re going directly to Puerto Rico harbor (Calle Puerto Base, S/N, 35130), sign up at the Afrikat desk at least 20 minutes before the excursion starts.













