Playa Blanca: Mini Cruise to Papagayo with Swimming Stop

If you’re looking for a laid-back yet visually stunning way to explore Lanzarote’s coast, this Mini Cruise to Papagayo from Playa Blanca is a solid choice. Starting either from Marina Rubicón or Calle Muelle de Playa Blanca, this 1 to 1.5-hour catamaran trip offers a chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches that make Lanzarote famous. The tour’s highlights include swimming in sheltered bays, relaxing on the nets of the catamaran, and catching some sun while soaking in the gorgeous scenery. It’s especially appealing if you’re craving a mix of light adventure and relaxing downtime on the water.

Two specific things we love about this cruise are the comfortable, well-designed seating areas—including those fun, bouncy nets perfect for lounging—and the opportunity for snorkeling in clear waters teeming with marine life. Plus, the flexibility to start early and enjoy free time at Marina Rubicón beforehand makes it easier to fit into your day. A possible consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, so it’s best to plan accordingly if that applies to you. Overall, if you prefer a short, scenic escape with plenty of chances to swim and relax, this cruise will suit you well—especially if you love beautiful coastlines and friendly guides.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: 1 to 1.5 hours long, perfect for a quick scenic escape.
• Comfortable experience: Relax on nets or soft seats, with snorkeling gear included.
• Beautiful scenery: Sail along Lanzarote’s coast with stunning views of Papagayo beaches.
• Flexible options: Early departure available, with free time at Marina Rubicón beforehand.
• Authentic fun: Opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the sea in a sheltered bay.
• Pricing and value: Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, with free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins either at Marina Rubicón or Calle Muelle de Playa Blanca, depending on your booking choice. Both locations are easily accessible in Playa Blanca, a town known for its charming harbor and lively atmosphere. The cruise lasts between one and one-and-a-half hours, which strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the scenery and activities without feeling rushed.

What to Expect on the Boat

Once aboard, you’ll quickly notice how the catamaran is set up for maximum comfort and fun. The nets stretched between the hulls are a highlight—perfect for lounging, catching some rays, or just bouncing gently on the water. Soft seating areas also provide a relaxing spot for those who prefer not to be out on the nets.

The crew is generally described as friendly and accommodating, often making the experience more enjoyable than you’d expect for a short cruise. They manage the boat smoothly, allowing plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling, which are the main highlights of this trip.

Itinerary Breakdown

The itinerary involves a series of stops and sailing segments. After departing, you’ll spend about 20 minutes cruising, then visit a designated spot, which lasts about 5 minutes, giving you a quick peek at a specific area. Then back on the boat for another 25-minute sail, followed by a longer hour-long stretch of cruising along the coast, during which you can relax or take in the views.

Additional stops include brief visits around scenic points or bays, each lasting only a few minutes, which helps keep the overall experience lively yet relaxed. The final sailing segment typically lasts 15 minutes before returning to Playa Blanca or Marina Rubicón.

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Swimming and Snorkeling Opportunities

One of the main reasons to choose this tour is the chance to swim in the sheltered bay of Papagayo. The water is described as crystal-clear, ideal for cooling off after some time in the sun. Snorkeling gear is provided, and reviewers have enjoyed seeing marine life beneath the surface. Be prepared, though: if snorkeling is your main goal, you might find the 5 to 10-minute stops somewhat brief, but enough to get a quick taste of the underwater world.

Snacks, Drinks, and Onboard Comfort

While food isn’t included, there’s a selection of snacks and drinks available for purchase. Expect a variety of beverages like beer, sangria, water, and soft drinks, alongside some snacks to nibble on during the cruise. Many reviewers mention that prices are reasonable, especially considering the convenience and experience.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour is best for travelers who want a short, scenic escape with opportunities to swim and relax. It’s ideal if you’re not interested in long or strenuous activities but want to see the coast from the water. Family groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a gentle boat ride with the bonus of swimming and snorkeling will find this very appealing. However, if you’re seeking a full-day adventure or have mobility issues, other options might suit you better.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this cruise special is the combination of ease and beauty. The comfortable seating and relaxed pace mean you’ll feel at ease whether you’re lounging on the nets or dipping in the water. The sailing along the coastline of Lanzarote reveals impressive views of the volcanic landscape and rugged cliffs, giving you a fresh perspective on the island.

The friendly crew seems to go out of their way to ensure everyone has a good time, often anchoring longer for swimmers and allowing plenty of time to enjoy the water. We particularly liked the authentic atmosphere—a true taste of local maritime hospitality without the over-the-top commercial vibe.

Authentic Moments and Small Details

One of the standout reviews notes how the crew made it a wonderful experience despite bad weather, showing their dedication and flexibility. Another mentions the delicious food and tapas available for purchase, adding to the relaxed, friendly vibe of the trip. These small touches elevate a simple boat ride into a memorable part of your Lanzarote holiday.

Pricing and Value

Compared to longer or more elaborate cruises, this mini cruise offers excellent value. It’s not a full-day tour with included meals, but the price reflects the short duration and the intimate experience. The opportunity to swim, snorkel, and enjoy scenic views in a relaxed setting makes it worthwhile for many travelers, especially those with limited time or who prefer a light, fun activity rather than a packed tour.

Booking in advance and choosing the flexible “reserve & pay later” option helps secure your spot without financial risk, which is smart given the popularity of the tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers seeking a short, scenic water experience with relaxed activities like swimming and sunbathing. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy Lanzarote’s coastline without committing to a lengthy or physically demanding tour. Families with children who enjoy water and sunshine will find it a manageable and fun outing. Couples looking for a romantic yet informal outing will also appreciate the calm, inviting atmosphere.

However, if you have mobility issues, are prone to seasickness, or want a comprehensive tour of the entire island, this might not be the best fit. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Papagayo’s beauty in a nutshell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s appropriate for families, especially since the cruise is short and offers swimming opportunities. However, check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
You are welcome to bring your own equipment, but snorkeling gear is available onboard, making it convenient for those who prefer to use theirs.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and possibly a light jacket for wind protection. Avoid glass objects and smoking on the boat.

Can I buy food and drinks onboard?
Yes, snacks and beverages like beer, sangria, water, and soft drinks are available for purchase, at reasonable prices.

How long is each stop?
Most stops are brief—around 5 to 20 minutes—enough for a quick swim or to enjoy the scenery.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The crew reportedly makes efforts to ensure a positive experience even in less-than-perfect weather, but be aware that weather can impact the trip.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I’m prone to seasickness?
This trip isn’t recommended for those easily affected by seasickness, as it involves some sailing on open waters.

Where does the tour end?
The cruise concludes back at your starting point, either Marina Rubicón or Calle Muelle de Playa Blanca.

Final Thoughts

The Playa Blanca Mini Cruise to Papagayo offers a wonderfully straightforward way to enjoy Lanzarote’s coast in a relaxed, friendly setting. The comfortable boat design, beautiful scenery, and opportunities to swim and snorkel make it a perfect choice for travelers seeking a light adventure during their holiday. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to combine stunning views with some fun in the water, without the fuss of full-day excursions or complex schedules.

While it’s not aimed at travelers with mobility constraints or those craving extensive exploration, it hits the sweet spot for many visitors: a short, scenic cruise with plenty of chances to unwind and soak up the sun. The friendly atmosphere, combined with reasonable prices and flexible booking options, truly adds to its appeal.

If you’re in Playa Blanca and want a quick yet memorable taste of Lanzarote’s coastline, this cruise is a dependable choice that promises relaxation, fun, and beautiful sights—perfect for creating some holiday memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: