Catamaran Cruise to Papagayo beaches, lunch and water activities

Introduction

If you’re considering a catamaran cruise to Papagayo beaches while in Lanzarote, you’ll want to know what this experience really offers. From what we’ve seen, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking to combine scenic views, water fun, and good food—all in a laid-back setting. The 4-hour cruise stands out because of its luxurious catamaran, well-organized itinerary, and the chance to swim, kayak, and relax on some of Lanzarote’s most beautiful beaches.

What we really like about this tour is the inclusive nature—a comfortable ride, an open bar with alcohol and soft drinks, and a delicious paella lunch. Plus, it’s a nice way to see the coastline without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. One thing to keep in mind is that water activities are included but snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so bringing your own could improve the experience. This trip seems well-suited for those who want a relaxed day with plenty of scenic and water entertainment.

If you’re after a family-friendly adventure or just a chill boat day with friends, this cruise ticks many boxes. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy good food, social atmosphere, and scenic views, but might not be ideal if you’re looking for a more active or longer excursion. Now, let’s dig into what makes this cruise a good pick and what to expect along the way.

Key Points

• Comfortable, spacious catamaran with room for water activities and relaxing.
• All-you-can-drink open bar with alcohol and soft drinks, perfect for unwinding.
• Beautiful stop at Papagayo beaches for swimming, kayaking, and soaking up the sun.
• Tasty paella lunch included, with options and extra drinks available.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off available at select Lanzarote hotels for convenience.
• Ideal for those wanting a scenic, laid-back day at sea with water fun and good food.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Lounge Area

Your day kicks off in Puerto del Carmen harbor, where the luxury catamaran awaits. The experience begins around 11:00 a.m., with a welcome mojito and Spanish omelet. We love the way this sets a relaxed tone—informal, friendly, and focused on comfort. The boat itself is described as large and spacious, with plenty of room to move around, and some reviews mention the comfortable seating and good facilities, including toilet access, which is always a bonus.

Setting Sail towards Papagayo

Once everyone is onboard, the crew offers a brief safety talk, and then you’re set to cruise towards the southern tip of Lanzarote. The scenery along the way is part of the charm—rolling hills and coastlines that make for some great photo moments. During the crossing, you’ll enjoy the unlimited open bar, which includes alcoholic drinks like beer and sangria, as well as soft drinks. A reviewer noted that the drinks are “well stocked” and appreciated the “free-flowing drinks”, making the trip more leisurely.

The Papagayo Beach Stop

The highlight of the day is dropping anchor in front of Papagayo beaches, known for their white sands and clear waters. This is the time to swim, kayak, snorkel, or simply relax on the deck. The reviews paint a vivid picture—“beautiful spot,” “crystal clear waters,” and plenty of space to enjoy the sunshine. One reviewer mentioned, “the place is jaw-dropping,” and recommended bringing goggles for a better fish view.

The water activities are included in the price, with kayaks available to rent. Some reviews highlight that the kayaks and swimming are favorite parts of the trip; others mention that snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so bringing your own is advisable if you want to explore underwater.

Lunch and Final Relaxation

Before returning, the crew serves a generous portion of paella, which most reviews agree was delicious and satisfying. The lunch is a good value for the price—a hearty meal with bread and fruit for dessert—and the fact that it’s included makes the overall cost attractive. The “food was great,” and the “portion sizes generous” comments show that it’s more than just a token snack.

After lunch, there’s still time to soak up the sun or take part in water activities. Many reviews mention enjoying the relaxing atmosphere and friendly crew. The music, social vibe, and scenic views make this part of the cruise feel like a perfect escape from daily life.

Return Journey

The cruise wraps up with a smooth sail back to Puerto del Carmen. The views of Lanzarote’s landscape during the return are often described as spectacular, and many appreciate the sailing experience itself—some even mention dolphin sightings, which can add a memorable touch to the day.

The return trip lasts about an hour, and the drop-off is at the same meeting point or your hotel if you booked the hotel transfer. Some reviews note that the transfer service is a real convenience, saving the hassle of self-arranged transport.

What to Expect: The Pros and Cons

The positive aspects of this tour are clear. The spacious catamaran means you won’t feel cramped, and the all-day open bar helps create a relaxed, festive vibe. The stop at Papagayo beaches is a major highlight, with some reviews describing it as “jaw-dropping” and “pristine.” The lunch, featuring tasty paella, adds great value and turns this into a satisfying full experience.

Water activities like kayaking and swimming are included, allowing you to stretch out and enjoy the natural beauty. Plus, the friendly guides and crew keep the atmosphere inviting, and many reviewers appreciated the informative guides and smooth organization.

However, there are some considerations. The water sports are limited to kayaking and swimming; snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so if underwater exploration is your thing, bring your own. A few reviews mention that the sail back can be a bit choppy, which might cause discomfort if you’re prone to seasickness. Also, the long walk from the coach drop-off point to the boat was a bit of an unexpected inconvenience for some, so if mobility is an issue, this might be worth noting.

Pricing at around $85.92 per person seems reasonable given what’s included—food, drinks, water activities, and transportation—but it’s worth comparing with other options if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a longer trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic day at sea with plenty of water activities and good food. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy social atmospheres, sunshine, and a little adventure. If you appreciate comfortable, spacious boats and a lively but laid-back vibe, you’ll feel right at home.

It’s probably less suited for travelers seeking a more active or lengthy tour, or for those who want to snorkel extensively—since gear isn’t included. Also, if seasickness is a concern, check the weather forecast or consider taking precautions, as the sailing can sometimes be choppy.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available at select Lanzarote hotels, making the experience more convenient. If your hotel isn’t on the list, you can make your way to the meeting point in Puerto del Carmen.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, starting at 11:00 a.m. and returning around 3:00 p.m. It includes water activities, lunch, and time at Papagayo beaches.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, goggles if you want to see fish underwater, and possibly snorkeling gear (not provided). A hat and sunglasses are also helpful for sun protection.

Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, the tour features an open bar with alcohol and soft drinks, so you can enjoy beverages freely throughout the trip.

Is the food suitable for all dietary needs?
The included lunch is paella, with options and extra drinks available. If you have specific dietary requirements, it’s best to advise the organizers at the time of booking.

Can children join?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18. The trip seems suited for all ages, especially if you enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran cruise to Papagayo beaches offers a blend of scenic sailing, water-based fun, and tasty food—all packed into a well-organized 4-hour package. The spacious boat, unlimited drinks, and stunning stops make it a solid pick for anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging day at sea in Lanzarote. The included water activities and lunch provide excellent value, especially considering the scenic beauty on offer.

While it may not be the best choice for those seeking an extremely active or snorkel-intensive experience, it hits the right notes for most travelers looking to enjoy the coastline comfortably. The friendly crew, good organization, and relaxed vibe help ensure a memorable day.

If you love sunshine, sea, and socializing, and are okay with some choppy sailing, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a great way to see Lanzarote from a different perspective while enjoying some well-earned rest and fun in the sun.

Want to Know More?

Feel free to ask about specific details like transfer options or water activities. And remember, booking in advance—about 24 days ahead—can help secure your spot on this popular cruise. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to add a splash of adventure to your Lanzarote holiday.