Lanzarote: Day Trip to the Papagayo Beaches by Catamaran

Imagine sailing along Lanzarote’s rugged southern coast on a spacious, brightly-colored catamaran, with the sun warming your skin and the Atlantic breeze cooling you down. This trip, priced at around $84 per person, offers a full day of sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and feasting at some of the island’s most pristine beaches, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the scenery. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a well-rounded experience that combines the thrill of water sports with the comfort of on-board amenities and a delicious Spanish meal.

We love how this tour carefully balances adventure and relaxation. The live commentary from the crew keeps everyone informed and entertained, while the onboard open bar means you can sip sangria or beer as you enjoy the views. Plus, the lunch of authentic paella and fresh fruit offers a taste of local flavors that makes the trip feel complete. One thing to keep in mind: snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so if you’re eager to explore below the surface, you might want to bring your own or rent locally.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic cruising and water activities without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy good food, lively atmospheres, and the chance to see some of Lanzarote’s best natural spots in a single day. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a memorable, all-in-one outing, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Sail to the untouched, golden beaches of Papagayo, renowned for their natural beauty.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Enjoy unlimited drinks, a traditional Spanish meal, water sports, and lively crew service.
• Flexible Activities: Swim, snorkel, kayak, or just relax on deck and take in the views.
• Easy Transportation: Included pickup and drop-off from your hotel or nearby location.
• Good Value: Balances entertainment, food, and water activities at a reasonable price.
• Suitable for Various Travelers: Great for families, couples, or groups looking for a fun day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail from Lanzarote’s Coast

The trip begins with your pickup from one of 22 convenient locations in Lanzarote, including popular spots like Playa Roca, Hotel Salinas, and Puerto del Carmen. This is a big plus—no need to worry about complicated transportation logistics. The transfer service ensures a smooth start to your day, leaving you time to relax and anticipate the fun ahead.

Once at the port in Puerto del Carmen, you’ll board the Lineas Romero catamaran, a vessel praised for its spaciousness and stability. We found that the crew’s friendly and professional attitude really set the tone for the day. After a short safety briefing and a warm welcome with a mojito and tapa, you’ll quickly feel at ease, ready to enjoy the adventure.

The Cruise Itself: Scenic Sailing and Water Fun

The sail to the Costa de Papagayo takes about an hour, during which you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Lanzarote’s volcanic coastline and rugged cliffs. Many reviews mention how peaceful and scenic the journey is, with some passengers noting the dramatic evening views as the boat heads back to port.

Once you reach the beaches, the boat drops anchor, and the fun begins. With plenty of free time (about two hours), you can choose from a variety of activities. The water sports are a highlight—kayaks are available for use, and the crew is attentive to helping guests get comfortable. Reviewers frequently mention the abundance of fish swimming around when snorkeling, which makes the underwater experience even more enjoyable.

What makes the stop at Papagayo special?

The beaches here are known for their golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Unlike some crowded tourist spots, these beaches remain relatively untouched, offering a more authentic and peaceful setting for swimming and relaxing.

Lunch and Drinks: A Flavorful Pause

One of the standout features of this tour is the lunch onboard—a generous serving of traditional Spanish paella, along with pasta, a tomato sauce, and a fresh fruit bar. The reviews are unanimous: the food is delicious and plentiful, with many praising the authentic flavors and generous portions.

In addition, the open bar keeps the drinks flowing—draft beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water are available unlimited. Many travelers comment on how this adds to the lively, celebratory atmosphere. A review from a guest who was seasick appreciated the crew’s help—they even provided sickness bags and ice for the neck, showing their attentiveness and care.

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The Return Journey: Scenic and Relaxing

As the boat begins its return to port, you’ll enjoy more scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere. Some reviews mention the music and dancing, with the crew encouraging guests to join in, making it feel like a party at sea. The entire experience is designed to be fun and stress-free, whether you’re lounging on deck or taking part in water activities.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about five hours in total, with roughly two hours at the beaches and an hour each for sailing to and from. The price of $84 provides good value when you consider the all-inclusive drinks, meals, transportation, and water sports. It’s important to note that snorkeling gear isn’t included, so bring your own if you want to explore underwater.

The pickup and drop-off service is a significant perk, but note that Puerto Calero pickups are only on Wednesdays and not available from Playa Blanca on Sundays or Mondays. Travelers should plan accordingly and arrive at the designated meeting points a few minutes early.

What Travelers Love Most

Based on the reviews, many guests rave about the friendly crew, who are described as helpful, lively, and engaging. The quality of the food, especially the paella, gets frequent praise, as does the abundant drinks that keep spirits high. Guests also mention how beautiful the scenery is—distant cliffs, turquoise waters, and the chance to see fish, dolphins, and even seabirds.

Some travelers, however, do point out that water activities can be first-come, first-served, so arriving early can help. Also, seasickness can be an issue for some, but many reviews mention that crew members are prepared with ice packs and sickness bags—a thoughtful touch.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy water sports and scenic sailing, as well as those who simply want to relax and soak up the sun. Families with older children or teenagers tend to love it, especially since the crew encourages dancing and fun. It’s also an excellent choice for couples or groups seeking a full day of entertainment with authentic local food and scenic views.

This Lanzarote catamaran trip to the Papagayo beaches offers an excellent balance of relaxation, adventure, and good value. It’s a well-organized, lively experience that makes the most of the island’s natural beauty while providing plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy local cuisine. The friendly crew and authentic food make it stand out, while the scenic sailing and water sports keep the day engaging.

If you’re looking for a fun, all-in-one day trip that combines scenic views, water activities, and delicious food, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for those who want a lively yet relaxed atmosphere and don’t mind a bit of wind or crowds at the popular beaches. For travelers craving an authentic, hassle-free experience with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Lanzarote’s natural beauty, this cruise is worth considering.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers return transfers from various nearby locations in Lanzarote, including Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Costa Teguise. You’ll receive an exact pickup time and location after booking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and a jacket. Don’t forget to bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater, as it’s not provided.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, with roughly two hours at the beaches and time for sailing to and from the coast.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children and adults. The tour may not be ideal for wheelchair users, and some water activities are first-come, first-served, so children should be supervised.

Are vegetarian and celiac diets available?
Yes, special dietary needs can be catered for with prior notice.

Will I see dolphins or other wildlife?
Many reviews mention dolphins playing around the boat and lots of fish when snorkeling, adding to the excitement of the trip.

What’s included in the price?
The package includes return transfers, the catamaran cruise, live commentary, welcome cocktail, water sports gear, lunch, and unlimited drinks.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, everything listed—food, drinks, water sports—is included. Snorkeling equipment is not, so plan accordingly.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled due to weather conditions. In such cases, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This trip offers a lively, scenic, and delicious way to experience Lanzarote’s coastline. Whether you’re after relaxed sunbathing, water adventures, or a lively day with new friends, it’s a trip that combines all those elements seamlessly.

You can check availability for your dates here: