South Gran Canaria: Luxury Small-Group Yacht Cruise

Traveling to Gran Canaria and looking for a way to see its stunning southern coastline from a different vantage point? This luxury small-group yacht cruise offers just that. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a picture of a relaxing, scenic, and enjoyable outing that many travelers seem to love. What really stands out? The chance to spot dolphins, the intimacy of a small group, and the chance to unwind on a well-equipped yacht.

Of course, nothing’s perfect. One thing to keep in mind is that children under 6 aren’t suited for this experience, so it’s better suited for older kids or adults. Also, if you’re not a fan of potentially shared experiences, the private options, though pricier, could be more appealing. This tour is a solid pick for those wanting to combine wildlife sightings, scenic views, and some serious relaxation — especially if you value small groups and a more personalized vibe.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing along Gran Canaria’s south coast with a luxury yacht
• Dolphin sightings and possibly other wildlife like turtles
• Flexible durations: 2.5 hours or 4 hours, with private options available
• Includes free drinks, light snacks, and hotel pickup for convenience
• Small-group experience for a more relaxed and personalized atmosphere
• Not suitable for children under 6, but great for older kids and adults looking for a relaxing day

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Might Love This Yacht Cruise

This experience offers a chance to escape the busy beaches and explore Gran Canaria from the water, a perspective that’s hard to beat. We loved the way the cruise combines luxurious comfort with a laid-back vibe—you’re on a well-equipped yacht, but with the space to relax, sunbathe, and watch the ocean go by. The small-group setting means you’re not squished with dozens of other travelers, making the experience more personal and less rushed.

Another highlight is the opportunity for wildlife spotting. Multiple reviews mention sightings of dolphins and turtles, which is a pretty magical addition to any boat trip. One traveler even said, “Have seen several dolphins and turtles,” which hints that this cruise can deliver some memorable animal encounters. Plus, the chance to swim and sunbathe in the calm Atlantic waters really adds to the appeal, especially in the afternoon tour when the sea tends to be more tranquil.

However, a quick caveat: This isn’t a tour for families with very young kids or anyone seeking a full-day adventure. The tour durations are limited to 2.5 or 4 hours, and children under 6 are not recommended. Also, if you’re not a fan of shared experiences, the private yacht options, which can go up to 5 hours, might be better suited. But for most travelers, the combination of scenic views, wildlife, and the luxury of a yacht makes this a worthwhile outing.

Starting Point and Transport

The adventure kicks off in Maspalomas, with convenient hotel pickup options from either Maspalomas or Mogán. The shuttle service is included, which takes about 30 minutes to Pasito Blanco, where the yacht is docked. This transfer is a nice touch, eliminating the hassle of finding your way to the marina and building anticipation before setting sail.

The Yacht and Crew

The yacht itself is described as luxurious, offering a comfortable environment for cruising along the coast. The reviews mention a responsible and attentive skipper—Walter, in particular—who makes guests feel safe and well looked after. Given the positive comments about safety and professionalism, you can relax and focus on the scenery and wildlife.

The Itinerary

• Morning 2.5-hour trip: Perfect for those wanting a calm sea and dolphin spotting. These trips typically start in the morning, offering a peaceful experience with plenty of time to see wildlife in the quieter hours.

• Afternoon 4-hour cruise: More suitable if you want time to swim, sunbathe, and relax on deck. Bring your own towel if you plan to swim; the tour supplies drinks and snacks, so you don’t need to worry about bringing a picnic.

• Private options: For groups, you can upgrade to a 3- or 5-hour charter. These are ideal if you prefer exclusivity or want a more tailored experience, perhaps with additional stops or customization.

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Onboard Experience

Once underway, the atmosphere tends to be laid-back. Guests enjoy free drinks and light snacks—a simple but appreciated touch. During the trip, you’ll get ample time to spot dolphins, which are a highlight for many travelers. One reviewer said, “We saw several dolphins and sea turtles,” confirming that wildlife sightings are frequent enough to make the trip memorable.

Swimmers will appreciate the opportunity to jump into the Atlantic during the afternoon cruises. Just remember to bring your own towel if you plan to swim or sunbathe. The calm sea conditions, especially in the afternoon, make for a relaxing swim. Sunbathers will love the deck space and the sunshine, with plenty of room to stretch out.

Wildlife and Landscape

The coast of Gran Canaria is visually stunning, with rugged cliffs, sandy coves, and clear waters. The small-group setting allows for better viewing and photography opportunities. Several reviews praise the breathtaking vistas and the chance to see the coast from a different perspective. The calm sea and good weather conditions make for ideal sightseeing.

Overall Experience

Guests consistently note the professionalism of the crew, especially the skipper Walter, who is praised for safety and attentiveness. Many reviews mention just how enjoyable and relaxing the trip is, with some describing it as “one of the best tours they’ve ever done.” The combination of wildlife, scenery, and comfort makes this a highlight for many travelers seeking a laid-back day at sea.

Considering the luxury yacht setting, included drinks and snacks, and the small-group size, the tour offers good value. The fact that you can choose between a shorter and longer trip or opt for a private charter gives flexibility for different budgets and preferences. The free pickup and drop-off add convenience, especially if you’re staying in busy Maspalomas or Mogán.

While it’s not the cheapest way to explore Gran Canaria, the experience’s quality, professionalism, and intimacy justify the price for most travelers. Plus, the chance to see dolphins and turtles makes it a memorable, photo-worthy adventure—something you’ll likely cherish long after the trip.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water without the hassle of large tour groups. It’s perfect if you’re interested in wildlife—especially dolphins—and enjoy a more intimate setting. If you’re traveling with older children or adults who appreciate comfort, scenery, and wildlife, you’ll likely get a lot out of this experience.

It’s less suitable for families with very young children or those seeking a full-day adventure. If you’re looking for a more active or family-friendly activity, other options might be better. But if your idea of relaxation includes sailing, sunshine, wildlife, and good company, this cruise ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free hotel pickup from either Maspalomas or Mogán, simplifying your day and reducing logistical stress.

How long is the cruise?
You can choose between a 2.5-hour morning trip or a 4-hour afternoon cruise. Private charters can extend up to 5 hours.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, especially during the afternoon cruise. You should bring your own towel to enjoy swimming and sunbathing on deck.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 6 years old are not suitable for this tour, so it’s better suited for older kids and adults.

What’s included?
The trip includes free drinks, light snacks, and a welcome drink. Transfers to and from the marina are also provided.

Is wildlife guaranteed?
While sightings depend on the day’s conditions, reviews frequently mention dolphin and turtle sightings, making it a highlight of the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel if you plan to swim or sunbathe, and maybe some sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

Can I book privately?
Yes, private yacht options are available for 3- or 5-hour trips, offering a more exclusive experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a chilled day on the water with chances to see dolphins and enjoy beautiful coastlines, this luxury small-group yacht cruise is a solid choice. The combination of professional crew, tranquil waters, scenic vistas, and wildlife sightings makes it a memorable outing. While it may not be suited to the youngest travelers or those wanting a full-day adventure, it’s perfect for couples, friends, or mature families looking for a relaxed and elegant way to experience Gran Canaria’s southern coast.

The small-group setting, along with the inclusion of drinks, snacks, and transfers, adds to the overall value. It’s a chance to unwind, take in spectacular views, and maybe even snap some photos of dolphins frolicking in the Atlantic. For those who love the idea of sailing in style and comfort, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Note: Always check the current availability and specific details when booking, as the tour durations and offerings might fluctuate based on season or provider updates.

You can check availability for your dates here: