A catamaran day trip can feel too touristy. This one works because you get Costa de Papagayo anchoring time, plus unlimited drinks and an onboard lunch plan that keeps the day moving without stress. You’ll start with resort pickup (if you chose it), then roll straight into a cruise from Puerto del Carmen with a welcome mojito and live commentary that sets the scene as the coastline turns dramatic.

I especially like the mix of low-effort relaxation and optional action: you can swim, snorkel, or paddle around in the kayaks during the main stop. I also like the food setup because lunch is simple but filling, with paella or pasta plus a fruit bar.

The main drawback is that the itinerary is weather-dependent and the water time is time-boxed. Also, people who get motion sick should think twice, since this is open water.

Key things to know before you go

• Costa de Papagayo anchor stop gives you a real beach-bay experience instead of a quick photo stop
• Open bar all day keeps the vibe easy, with unlimited draft beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water
• Kayaks on-site mean you don’t need to lug gear or book another activity
• No snorkelling equipment included (so plan to bring your own if you’re picky)
• No beach disembarkment means you’ll be enjoying the shore from the water rather than walking the sand for long stretches

Why the Costa de Papagayo catamaran feels like the right Lanzarote day

Lanzarote has a way of making you want less rushing and more water. This trip nails that. You cruise from Puerto del Carmen, head down toward the island’s southern coast, then spend your time anchored off the golden sands of Costa de Papagayo where the scenery is the main event.

What makes it especially good value for $75 is that you’re not just paying for a boat. You’re also getting a structured day: a welcome drink, a catered lunch onboard, and time for water activities without needing to switch plans halfway through the day. In plain terms, it’s one ticket that covers a lot of the stuff that usually adds up.

Getting to the catamaran: Puerto del Carmen Harbour timing that matters

Your experience starts with pickup from your accommodation if you selected it. The tour includes return transfers from the nearest pick-up point to hotels/areas in Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Costa Teguise. If you did not choose pickup, you meet the crew directly at the harbor.

Either way, keep your eyes on the meeting point. You must meet the team at your catamaran in Puerto del Carmen Harbour, at the last pier far end of the harbor, past the petrol station. That detail matters because harbors can be confusing when you’re trying to move fast before departure.

On the schedule, the catamaran returns to port around 3:00 pm, and your transfer is waiting for you. In real life, that means you’ll still feel like you’ve got a day’s rhythm, even if you’re not spending hours walking around town afterward.

Boarding Líneas Romero: welcome mojito, Spanish omelette, and onboard commentary

When you arrive, the crew welcomes you with a mojito and a delicious Spanish omelette tapa. After that, there’s a short intro and live commentary onboard with guides working in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German (with German and Italian only available on request).

This is a practical feature, not just entertainment. Live commentary helps you understand what you’re seeing as the boat moves along Lanzarote’s dramatic volcanic coastline. You don’t have to guess whether you’re passing cliffs that matter or just more coastline scenery. The goal is to keep you oriented while you relax.

The sail down the coast: what you’ll notice in the first hour

After boarding, you cruise for about one hour along the coast toward the southern tip of the island. The vibe here is simple: sea breeze, turquoise water views, and big rock-and-cliff shapes that make Lanzarote feel different from the calmer beach destinations.

Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but they do happen on some departures. On several occasions, people reported seeing dolphins and even a pilot whale. I’d treat wildlife as a bonus, not the plan, but it’s worth keeping your phone ready.

If you get seasick easily, this is the part where you’ll want to be honest with yourself. Motion sickness is explicitly called out as a reason the trip isn’t suitable for some people. If your stomach hates boat rides, consider skipping this one.

Costa de Papagayo anchor time: swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking without a rental headache

The heart of the day is the stop at Costa de Papagayo, where you’ll anchor and get around two hours of free time. This is when the trip turns from transportation into an actual beach-and-water experience.

Once at anchor, you can choose how active you want to be:

• Swim in the clear water
• Snorkel (bring your own kit if you prefer control over fit and quality)
• Kayak during your time in the bay
• Relax on deck and enjoy the sunshine

One important note: the plan is built around time in the water from the boat. Beach disembarkment isn’t included, so you’re not signing up for a long sandy stroll. It’s more about being able to jump in, cool off, and explore underwater life from where the boat is anchored.

Snorkelling gear: pack smart

Snorkelling equipment is listed as not included. That means if you care about having your own mask or snorkel, bring them. Some people ended up having gear sorted on the day anyway, but don’t rely on that. If your snorkeling is a priority, plan as if you’ll need to bring your own.

Also, make sure your sun protection is real. You’ll be out in full daylight, and Lanzarote sun can be sneaky even when the wind feels cool.

Kayaks and how the water toys work in practice

Kayaks are included (use of kayaks). In real use, that usually means you’ll want to head over early once you’re at anchor, especially because the time window is limited. It’s not a huge expedition, but it’s a great way to change the view without committing to a separate guided activity.

Lunch and the open bar: why this package feels like good value

Lunch onboard is part of the experience, not a separate stop. You choose between traditional Spanish paella or pasta with tomato sauce. After the main course, there’s a fresh fruit selection.

Then there’s the drink plan. The trip includes unlimited draft beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water. You’ll also get that welcome mojito right at the start. For many people, that’s the “this is worth it” factor: you’re not buying drinks on top of the ticket, and you’re not forced into a dry, boring afternoon.

A practical heads-up: intoxication isn’t allowed. So yes, people can have fun, but keep it sensible. If you’re trying to kayak or swim after a few drinks, pace yourself and you’ll have a much better time.

The tone onboard can drift toward upbeat. People describe music and a crew that helps create a lively atmosphere. If you want a totally quiet, no-fun allowed kind of day, you might find it less your style. But if you want relaxed sea time with an easy, social vibe, it fits well.

Sailing back: views, wind, and getting off the boat with a plan

After the Papagayo stop, you sail back for another one hour. This is a good moment to swap swim gear for dry clothes, grab water, and enjoy the coastline views on the way home.

Then you’re back in Puerto del Carmen, with drop-off across several hotels and locations. The tour is designed to put you back in a comfortable rhythm—transfers waiting after return, so you don’t have to figure out transport when you’re already sun-warmed and tired.

What to bring for Papagayo water time (so you don’t waste the best part)

The essentials list is straightforward, and I’d follow it closely:

• Comfortable shoes (for harbor steps and moving around)
• Sun hat
• Swimwear and a towel
• Sunscreen and a camera
• A jacket (the sea breeze can feel colder once you’re moving)
• Optional: keep your day bag packed so it’s easy to grab when you’re ready to get in the water

If you’re prone to motion sickness, take it seriously. The trip isn’t suitable for everyone with motion issues, and reviews show that the crew can be supportive if you’re feeling rough. But the best strategy is prevention: pack what helps you and don’t push through if you know you react badly to boats.

Who this Lanzarote catamaran trip is best for

This is ideal for couples, families, and groups who want a short, high-reward day with minimal logistics. It works especially well if you like the idea of water activities happening right where you’re already going to relax.

It’s also a solid choice if you want lunch and drinks handled for you. That might sound small, but it changes the whole day. Instead of planning meals, you’re free to spend time where the water is.

One more match note: some people described the day as more suited to adults than very young kids, mostly because the boat atmosphere can be social after lunch. If you’re traveling with kids, I’d still call it workable, but think about the kind of day your family enjoys.

Who should think twice or choose another option

This trip isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. It also isn’t suitable for wheelchair users in general and people with motion sickness.

Also consider that onboard facilities can be a factor. One review pointed out that toilets are located down steep stairs below deck. That’s the kind of detail that can matter more than you expect if your day includes frequent trips on and off the boat.

If your top goal is a long, walking-focused beach day on land, keep in mind beach disembarkment isn’t included. You’ll spend most of your time enjoying the coast from the water.

Price and value check: $75 for boat time, lunch, and an open bar

At $75 per person, this tour is easiest to justify if you’ll actually use the included items. Your ticket covers:

• Round-trip transfers from the nearest pick-up point in Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Costa Teguise
• The catamaran cruise
• Live onboard commentary
• Welcome mojito
• Lunch onboard (paella or pasta plus fruit)
• Unlimited draft beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water
• Use of kayaks

When you add those up, it’s a decent deal for a day that would otherwise cost extra in taxis, meals, and drinks. The value drops a bit if you’re not planning to swim/snorkel/kayak, or you prefer a quiet day without alcohol onboard. But if you’re open to the full package, it’s the kind of price that feels fair.

Also remember the time reality: it’s not a full day stuck on the boat. It’s a guided half-day structure with travel time included, then you’re back in port in the afternoon.

Should you book the Papagayo catamaran day trip?

Book it if you want a straightforward Lanzarote highlight day: volcanic coastline cruising, time anchored off Costa de Papagayo, easy lunch, and a drink setup that makes the afternoon feel effortless. It’s especially good for people who like water activities but don’t want to manage gear rentals or complex itineraries.

Skip it (or choose something else) if you need fully accessible facilities, you get motion sick on boats, or you’re looking for a long on-land beach day you can walk for hours. And if snorkelling matters to you, plan to bring your own equipment since it’s not included.

If your idea of a great trip is simple: get on a catamaran, enjoy the sea, then cool off in clear water with lunch and drinks handled, this one fits.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point if I don’t choose pickup?

You meet the catamaran directly at Puerto del Carmen Harbour, at the last pier far end of the harbour, past the petrol station.

Is pickup included, and where does it run?

Pickup is optional. The tour includes return transfers from the nearest pick-up point to your accommodation in Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Costa Teguise.

Can I get pickup from Puerto Calero or Playa Blanca on any day?

Pickup from Puerto Calero is only available on Thursdays. There is no pickup in Playa Blanca on Sundays, Mondays, or Wednesdays.

What activities are included during the stop at Costa de Papagayo?

You’ll have time for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking, plus time to relax on the boat while anchored.

Do they provide snorkelling equipment?

No snorkelling equipment is included.

What time does the catamaran return to port?

The catamaran returns to port at approximately 3:00 pm, and your transfer back to your accommodation is waiting.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring comfortable shoes, sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and a jacket.

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