Sun, snacks, and a big dose of fun. Afrikat’s afternoon catamaran cruise is a practical way to enjoy Gran Canaria’s coastline with unlimited beer and sangria onboard, plus a crew that knows how to keep things light (Potter, the owner, is known for cracking jokes). One thing to plan for: the sun deck can feel a bit crammed during the busier parts of the trip.

If you like getting in the water, this one delivers: you anchor in a clear bay for a real swim and optional snorkeling gear, and the return stretch can come with entertainment like saxophone (Ashleigh/Ashley, depending on the day). The main consideration is that the most adrenaline-heavy extras cost extra, so you’ll want to decide early what you actually want to pay for.

Quick hits to plan your afternoon

• Cruise the southwest coastline with views that swing from cliffs to coves as you head toward the Mogan area
• Unlimited drinks included: beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water
• Swim and snorkel stop with optional snorkeling equipment in a clear anchored bay
• Meal onboard (chicken wrap and pasta salad) served by the crew, with dietary needs to be flagged at booking
• Optional add-on water fun costs extra, including jet ski, parasail, donut ride, and a speedboat hop

Why this 4.5-hour cruise feels like good value

At about 4.5 hours, this is the sweet spot for a low-effort, high-reward afternoon. You’re not committing to a whole day on a bus, and you’re still getting the core payoff: sailing time, time in the water, and food with drinks included.

At roughly $91 per person, the math works best if you would normally spend on (1) lunch or snacks and (2) drinks. Here, you’re getting a set meal plus unlimited beer/sangria/soft drinks. If you also want just one extra water activity, it can still come together as a solid package compared with paying for everything separately.

Entering the ride: where you’ll board and how pickup works

You’ll either get picked up from central resort areas or meet at the harbor. Pickup is available from places including Bahia Feliz, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Sonnenland, Arguineguin, Patalavaca, Taurito, and Playa del Cura (area dependent). Pickup isn’t listed for Las Palmas, Salobre, Mogan, or Puerto Rico, so if you’re staying in those areas, plan to go straight to the port.

If you’re starting at the harbor, you’ll sign in at the Afrikat desk at Puerto Rico, Calle Puerto Base, S/N, 35130 at least 20 minutes before the excursion starts. The timing matters because you’re joining a group departure, not rolling in whenever.

Sailing the Gran Canaria coast: views that make the minutes fly

The trip runs along the southwest coastline, and that stretch is exactly why you book a catamaran instead of a standard speedboat. You get that slow, stable feeling of cruising while the coast changes around you—think dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and passes by the fishing area of Mogán.

What I like here is the pacing. There’s plenty of time to look out, take photos, and just relax without feeling rushed. And because it’s a catamaran, you tend to feel more comfortable than on smaller craft when the sea has its own ideas.

The Mogan-to-cliffs stretch: what you’re really seeing

You’re not just passing by random scenery. This route is built around the contrast of fishing village vibes and rugged coastal geology—views that pop from multiple angles as the boat moves. Even if you’re not a serious photographer, you’ll still get moments where you think, That’s a pretty spot, and want to stop scrolling on your phone.

One practical tip: bring sunglasses and keep your camera accessible early. The best light and the nicest sightlines often show up before you settle into a long sit-down routine.

The swim and snorkel anchor stop (this is the main event)

The cruise drops anchor in a crystal-clear bay where you can swim. This is the part that turns a “fun boat ride” into a real experience. When the water is calm enough to jump in comfortably, you get that instant vacation reset—the kind you can’t buy on land.

You also have optional snorkeling equipment onboard. If you’re bringing your own gear, you’ll still want the crew gear as backup, since it’s included as an option. Once you’re in the water, you’ll have a straightforward chance to get close to marine life without needing a long training session first.

Snorkeling reality check: how to get the most from the stop

Snorkeling is included as an option, and that means you should treat it like a “try it” moment, not a guided deep-sea expedition. Your best odds come from moving at an easy pace, staying calm, and letting the water do the work.

If you’re new, don’t worry about perfection. The value here is simply having time in clear water plus the convenience of snorkeling gear ready for you. If you’re experienced, you’ll likely enjoy the straightforward access to the bay rather than spending energy on travel to a far-off spot.

Food and drinks onboard: included comfort, not just a snack

The meal is served by the crew and is part of why this trip feels complete. You’ll get a chicken wrap (with bacon and a cheese topping) plus salad, with sauce optional, and a pasta salad as well. If you have special dietary requirements, you’re expected to inform the provider when booking.

The drink situation is the big win: unlimited beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water. Cocktails, wine, and spirits are not included, so if you’re a mixed-drink person, expect to pay extra if those are your thing.

Also worth mentioning: you get a reusable drinking glass souvenir. It’s a small detail, but it makes the included drinks feel a bit more special and keeps things from turning into disposable clutter.

Optional water sports: what costs extra and what to choose

This is where you steer the afternoon toward your preferred level of adrenaline. The cruise itself is already strong, so think of these as add-ons, not requirements.

Here are the specific extras listed:

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

The trip also mentions discounted rates for different water sports, which can be handy if you want to stack experiences. That said, don’t wait until the last minute to decide. If you’re even slightly unsure, ask early so you’re not trying to negotiate choices while everyone’s queueing for the water.

Deck time, sun, and comfort: what you should pack

This cruise is built around sun and water, so come prepared for both. The basics you’re told to bring are:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Camera (if you’re photo-minded)

The real-life comfort angle: the sun deck can get crowded at peak times, and you’ll probably be there during some of the brightest hours. Plan to arrive with a strategy—hat on, water handy, and a quick place in your mind where you can move to shade when you need it.

Crew energy and onboard entertainment

A good cruise crew can turn a routine stop into a story you remember. The Afrikat team is consistently described as welcoming and upbeat, and you may get the feeling that the owner (Potter) and the crew work hard to keep the vibe fun rather than stiff.

Entertainment can include live saxophone during the ride. Reviews mention Ashleigh and also an Ashley, so the core idea is the same: on certain departures, you’ll have an extra bit of atmosphere while you head back.

And yes, the general mood leans social. If you want quiet and solitude all afternoon, this might feel a bit more lively than you’d prefer. If you’re happy talking with fellow passengers between swim laps, you’ll likely have a great time.

Accessibility and who this trip suits best

This activity is wheelchair accessible, and the provider notes that you should inform them about mobility impairments after booking so arrangements can be made. If you’re traveling with someone who needs extra support, it’s worth flagging details early so you’re not guessing day-of.

As for who it fits best:

• Great for families who want a clear structure: cruise, swim, food, optional extras
• Perfect for couples doing an easy activity between beach time blocks
• Ideal for active travelers who want a swim stop plus one or two paid thrill add-ons

If you’re the type who hates crowds, you might prefer a smaller-group boat. The upside is that the included swim stop gives you a natural escape from deck congestion.

Value check: where your money goes on this trip

Here’s what you’re paying for, in a straightforward way:

• A catamaran cruise along Gran Canaria’s southwest coast
• Unlimited beer/sangria plus soft drinks/coffee/water
• A full onboard meal served by the crew
• A swim and snorkeling stop with optional snorkeling gear
• Transportation from many central resort areas

Then there’s the optional layer:

• Jet ski, parasail, donut, and speedboat with the captain cost extra
• Cocktails/wine/spirits are not included

So the trip is best value when you’ll actually drink the included drinks, eat the included meal, and use the swim stop. If you plan to skip drinks, skip snorkeling, and only take the boat ride part, the price can feel less like a bargain. But if you treat it like an all-in afternoon, it comes together well.

Should you book Afrikat’s afternoon cruise?

I’d book this if you want an afternoon that’s easy to execute and hard to mess up: sailing views, an actual swim stop, a decent included meal, and drinks flowing without you calculating every purchase. It’s also a good bet if you’re traveling with kids or want a mix of relaxation and options for adrenaline.

Skip it or at least lower expectations for the “optional thrill” side if you know you’ll want a long list of water sports. The big-ticket add-ons have set prices, and the most intense experiences cost more.

If you’re aiming for one solid afternoon activity in Gran Canaria that feels both social and practical, this one is a strong choice. Just pack for sun, decide early on extras, and you’ll get the best version of the day.

FAQ

How long is the Afrikat Gran Canaria afternoon catamaran cruise?

The activity runs for 4.5 hours. Starting times depend on availability.

What’s included in the price?

The price includes the catamaran cruise, pickup and drop-off from designated central points (area dependent), unlimited drinks (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water), a crew-served meal, optional snorkeling equipment, and a reusable souvenir glass.

Can I go on the boat without joining pickup?

Yes. If you want to come directly to the harbor, you can meet at Puerto Rico, Calle Puerto Base, S/N, 35130 and check in at the Afrikat desk at least 20 minutes before the start.

What water activities cost extra?

The listed add-ons with extra cost are jet ski (€32 per vehicle), parasail (€32 per person), donut (€10 per person), and a speedboat ride with the captain (€5 per person). Cocktails, wine, and spirits are also not included.

Do you provide snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling equipment is optional and included as part of the activity, so you can choose whether you want to use it.

What should I bring for the cruise?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. You’ll also want a camera since there are coastline views from the boat.