Gran Canaria: Snorkel tour with boat on the west coast

Imagine cruising along gran Canaria’s breathtaking southwest coastline, where towering cliffs meet crystal-clear waters, caves whisper secrets of the sea, and vivid marine life swims beneath your fins. For those seeking a taste of adventure combined with authentic natural beauty, the Snorkel Tour with Boat on the West Coast offers just that—an accessible, enjoyable way to see the island’s marine and coastal treasures. At around $78 per person, this roughly three-hour trip balances affordability with memorable experiences, making it an appealing option for travelers wanting to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

What we love about this tour? First, the quality of the guides shines through—they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to ensure everyone feels safe and included. Second, the stunning scenery—the cliffs, caves, and clear waters—are simply spectacular, offering countless photo opportunities and a real sense of connection with nature. While the overall experience is well-organized and fun, keep in mind that the timing and group size may vary depending on availability, and the tour is best suited for those comfortable in the water and not seeking a very long or physically demanding outing.

If you’re traveling with young children or have mobility issues, this may not be the best fit, as it involves boat transfers and snorkeling in open water. However, for anyone eager to see marine life up close, enjoy scenic boat rides, and discover the biosphere reserve from a new perspective, this tour hits many sweet spots.

Key Points

• Stunning coastline with cliffs, caves, and clear waters.
• Guided snorkeling with professional instructors ensuring safety.
• Authentic experience of Gran Canaria’s biosphere reserve.
• Informative guides who share local knowledge and marine facts.
• Flexible options for morning or afternoon trips.
• Great value at around $78, including transport and refreshments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and How It Works

Starting with a pickup from your hotel in the south of Gran Canaria, the tour takes you to Puerto de Mogán—often called the “Venice of the Canaries”—a charming spot to begin your adventure. The journey typically lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours, including transfers, snorkeling, and sightseeing. Expect a friendly team to introduce themselves and go over safety procedures before boarding a rigid inflatable boat (RIB)—a fast, stable vessel perfect for skimming along the coast and accessing the best snorkeling spots.

Once on board, you’ll love the spectacular views of the cliffs and caves along the coast, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or just enjoy the scenery. The boat trip itself is engaging, providing a different perspective of the coastline you might not see from land. The highlight, of course, is the snorkeling in a protected bay, where a guide stays with you in the water, helping you spot marine life like fish, octopus, and even the occasional angel shark, as a reviewer happily noted.

After snorkeling, you can relax with water and cookies, enjoying the gentle ride back to Puerto de Mogán. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed and enjoyable, with plenty of time to soak in the views and connect with nature. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose morning or afternoon departures, making it easier to fit into most itineraries.

The Itinerary: What To Expect

Pickup and Transfer: The adventure begins with a pickup from several popular locations—Taurito, Puerto Rico, Maspalomas, Bahia Feliz, or Puerto de Mogán—offering convenience and reducing the hassle of organizing transport. The ride to Puerto de Mogán takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get comfortable.

Guided Tour of Puerto de Mogán: Once at the port, you’ll spend about an hour exploring this picturesque fishing village, with its colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and lively marina. Some guides may give a brief history or share tips on local spots to visit afterward.

Boat Ride and Scenic Views: The boat departs for the southwest coast, with a 30-minute cruise along cliffs and hidden caves. We loved the way the boat skimmed over the water, with wind in our hair and stunning vistas on every side. Depending on conditions, the guide might point out notable formations or local wildlife.

Snorkeling Stop: The key part of the tour. In a designated bay, you’ll slip into the calm waters, with the instructor close by for safety. Marine life is abundant, and the water temperature is comfortable for most. The reviews highlight that people, even first-timers, find this experience rewarding, with sightings of fish, octopus, and more.

Visit to Mogan Harbor & Return: After about an hour of underwater exploration, you’ll head back to Puerto de Mogán, stopping briefly in Mogan harbor for about 15 minutes—ideal for a quick look or a photo stroll—before the van takes you back to your accommodation.

Authentic Marine Encounters and Scenic Beauty

What makes this tour stand out? It’s the combination of professional guidance, stunning scenery, and the chance to see marine creatures in their natural habitat. We loved the way guides shared insights about Gran Canaria’s biosphere reserve, emphasizing the importance of protecting this unique environment.

The marine life sightings, as one reviewer mentioned, are impressive: “we saw many different fish, octopus, and a cuttlefish,” with the real highlight being a close encounter with an Angel Shark—a reminder of how close you can get without even diving deep.

The scenery is equally compelling. The cliffs rise dramatically from the sea, and caves open unexpectedly along the coastline. With the sun shining, the water sparkles, making it an excellent setting for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty.

Value for Money

At $78 per person, this tour offers significant value, especially considering it includes all boat transfers, snorkeling gear, water, and cookies. The presence of a knowledgeable guide adds to the experience, transforming a simple boat trip into an educational and memorable outing.

Compared to similar experiences that might charge extra for equipment or excursions, this package keeps things straightforward and transparent. Many reviews mention that the quality of guides and the diversity of marine life make it a fair deal—”incredible value for money,” as one said.

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Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic, and informative adventure. It appeals especially to those who enjoy mild water activities and are comfortable snorkeling. The inclusion of professional guidance makes it suitable for beginners, but it’s best for those over 6 years old and not with mobility or wheelchair issues.

Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate nature and wildlife will find this trip a delightful highlight. It’s less suitable for those who prefer high-adrenaline activities or have limited mobility, but for most others, it’s a great way to experience the coast and marine life in a short, enjoyable outing.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In short, this snorkel and boat tour on Gran Canaria’s west coast offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, marine encounters, and local charm. The guides’ expertise, combined with the stunning landscape and marine life sightings, makes it worth considering for anyone wanting a taste of authentic Canary Islands nature without overdoing it.

If you’re craving a relaxed adventure with friendly guides, breathtaking views, and the chance to see sea creatures up close, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially appealing if you want to combine a scenic boat ride with some guided snorkeling and time to explore a charming fishing village.

For those who value good organization, authentic experiences, and excellent value, this tour offers a memorable way to spend part of your Gran Canaria holiday.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from several southern locations, including Taurito, Puerto Rico, Maspalomas, Bahia Feliz, and Puerto de Mogán, is included in the tour.

How long does the trip last?
The total duration is around 3 to 3.5 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and snorkeling.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. The guide goes into detail about safety and provides support in the water, making it suitable for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable clothes for the trip. Note that high-heeled shoes, smoking, and alcohol are not permitted.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 or for those with mobility or wheelchair issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Gran Canaria’s underwater and coastal wonders, perfect for travelers eager to combine scenic beauty with marine discovery. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned explorer, it’s a delightful way to spend part of your island holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: