Sun, sea, and a solid food stop in Lanzarote. This catamaran cruise to Papagayo mixes an easy coastal ride, an open bar on board, and a big block of time to swim and kayak from the water—no rush, just ocean time.

What I like most is the mix of choices: top-deck sun or cool off inside on a proper air-conditioned boat. And I also really value the included lunch stop—fresh paella (and pasta as an option), plus plenty of cold drinks while you’re anchored off the Papagayo coast. One drawback to flag: you do not actually step onto the beach from the boat, so this is more about swimming from the water than walking around on sand.

If your cruise day is windy or choppy, you’ll still go, but the ride can feel more physical, especially for kids or anyone who gets motion sick. The good news is you’re not stuck with a tiny boat either—this one is spacious, with room to lounge and move around.

Key things to know before you go

• Open bar plus a welcome mojito: you start with a drink, then keep it going all day
• Papagayo time is water time: swim from the anchored boat and use the included kayaks
• Lunch is part of the stop: paella is served before you head back
• You stay on board for the beach area: no direct beach landing
• Hotel pickup is selective: some hotels get it, others need to meet you at the harbor
• You get a guide: English is standard; other languages depend on the day

From pick-up to sailing: what the first hour feels like

Most days, the day starts with a smooth handoff between land and sea. If your hotel is in the pickup list, you’ll board an air-conditioned coach and head to Puerto del Carmen harbor. If you’re not on the pickup list (or you’re outside those specific pickup rules), you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point near Lineas Romero Watertaxi and excursions at Av. del Varadero, 30, Tías.

Once you’re at the harbor, it’s a pretty simple sequence: you find your group, get on the catamaran, and settle in. There’s a short safety briefing, then the mood shifts fast—a welcome mojito arrives and you get a small Spanish omelet bite. This is the moment I think sets the tone for the whole trip. You’re not waiting around; you’re already in holiday mode.

Then you sail south along Lanzarote’s coast. The cruise portion isn’t about landmarks or narration—it’s about the ride itself: sea views, open deck time, and the chance to grab drinks without queueing.

Your two-deck setup: sun lovers and shade seekers

One of the best parts of this kind of cruise is letting the boat match your mood. You’ll see people working their way up top for sun, while others stay inside to cool down. If you want the wind in your face, you’ll find it on deck. If you want A/C and steadier seating, the interior is there for you.

This matters because Papagayo is usually a bright, beach-day kind of vibe, and Lanzarote sun can be intense even when the breeze feels nice. I’d plan your day like this: alternate. Get sun in short bursts, then cool off. That way, you don’t burn through your energy before lunch.

The Papagayo anchoring stop: what you actually do offshore

The main event is the time anchored in front of the white sands of Playa de Papagayo. You drop anchor, then it’s water-based from start to finish. You can swim near the boat, sunbathe on deck, and use the included kayaks to explore the area a bit more closely.

Important reality check: you don’t land on the beach. There’s no beach stroll break. The experience is designed around getting in the water from the catamaran—stairs or steps into the sea, then swim, float, kayak, and return when you’re ready.

Swimming from the boat: easy but be smart

This is a great setup if you’re comfortable with open water. The boat gives you an easy platform, and it’s usually simple to get in and out. But if conditions are choppy, plan to go slower. One thing I’d do is avoid rushing the swim right at the start. Give yourself a few minutes to get used to the water before you go further.

Also, if you’re bringing kids, keep a close eye. Even when the crew is friendly, the sea doesn’t care about schedules.

Kayaking: closer to the coastline

The kayak time is one of the reasons this cruise rates so well. It’s not just a token activity—you can actually move around enough to feel like you’re part of the coastline instead of just watching it.

If you’re an average paddler, it still feels doable. If you’re confident, you’ll probably enjoy pushing a little farther—within whatever safety guidance the crew gives you that day.

Snorkeling: possible, but gear isn’t included

Snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so if snorkeling is on your must-do list, plan to bring your own mask and snorkel (or at least goggles). That way, you aren’t stuck if you want to see fish close to the boat.

Even when the water is clear, what you see can vary a lot day to day. Clear water helps, but wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Lunch on the return-to-harbor rhythm

At Papagayo, lunch comes as part of the anchored stop: fresh paella is served, and there’s a pasta option for people who don’t want seafood. After lunch you’ll likely have a little more time to swim or kayak, depending on how the schedule fits your day.

A pattern I’ve learned from cruises like this: lunch is when people either feel fully satisfied or slightly annoyed. Here, the paella tends to land well for most people. If you’re sensitive to spice or have dietary needs, message your requirements during booking so the kitchen can plan ahead.

Dessert usually isn’t a big show-stopper here, but fruit shows up as a nice reset after the meal. Drinks continue flowing too, which helps keep the vibe relaxed.

The open bar: great perks, with one common catch

The cruise runs with an open bar for alcoholic and soft drinks, and it’s laid-back: you can keep getting drinks without having to think too hard about timing. The welcome mojito and the later beer or sangria add up to a fun party atmosphere on the boat for many people.

That said, one thing you should know is that the selection might feel limited compared to a full-on nightlife bar. Some drinks show up reliably, while the variety may be more family-friendly than you’d expect if you’re imagining a wild party boat. So if you’re very picky about cocktails, go in with flexible expectations.

Also, the minimum drinking age is 18, so this isn’t just a booze cruise. It’s a mixed crowd trip.

Getting back: views on the way home

On the way back toward Puerto del Carmen, you keep the sea views going. The return crossing can feel smoother—or it can feel bouncier—depending on the day’s conditions.

At about 16:00, the bus wait time kicks in for the trip back to your resort if you have pickup/drop-off arranged for your area. If you’re not on hotel pickup, you’ll return to the meeting point.

One practical upside: some departures end at a marina drop where you can avoid extra transfers later. It depends on your end arrangements, but it’s worth checking what your booking message says.

Price and value: why $77-ish can still feel fair

At roughly $77.24 per person for about 4 hours, value comes from combining multiple things you’d otherwise pay for separately: the boat ride, the open bar, lunch (paella or pasta), and at least one real water activity (kayak). You’re not buying a ticket just for views—you’re paying for a package day.

If you love water time and you’ll use the kayaks, this adds up quickly. If you’re mainly there for walking around on a beach, the value may feel lower because you don’t actually step onto land.

Also, the vibe is more “easy half-day adventure” than “deep, strenuous excursion.” That’s a good deal for people who want something active but not exhausting.

Weather and sea conditions: the one thing you can’t control

This experience requires good weather. If conditions are rough enough for safety, the operator can cancel and offer a different date or a refund.

Even on days that are officially okay to sail, Lanzarote can be windy. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring a simple remedy. And pack sun protection anyway: even when the ride feels cool, you can still burn.

One more tip: bring a hat. It sounds basic, but it’s one of the easiest ways to stay comfortable on a deck day.

Who this tour is best for

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A relaxed half-day at sea with included food and drinks
• Real use of kayaks rather than a quick photo stop
• A boat that works for different comfort levels (sun deck and shaded/AC area)

It’s also usually friendly for solo travelers—space helps you mingle without feeling crowded, and the guided experience keeps you from feeling lost.

If you’re traveling with kids, it can work well, but choose your expectations carefully. The activity is still open-water based, and the swim portion needs adult supervision.

Practical tips to make your day easier

A few small moves make a big difference:

• Bring sunscreen and a hat (the deck time adds up fast)
• If snorkeling matters to you, plan for your own mask/snorkel since gear isn’t included
• Bring an extra layer for shade periods on the water
• If you’re motion-sensitive, consider seasickness prep
• Confirm what pickup you actually have. Pickup depends on the day and your area.

Should you book the catamaran to Papagayo?

I’d book this if you want a straightforward Lanzarote “half-day wow” that combines swimming, kayaking, and lunch without complicated planning. The best version of this day is simple: mojito on board, paella at the anchored stop, then kayak and swim while the sun does its thing.

Skip it (or at least think twice) if your dream day is walking on sand and exploring a beach on foot. This is not that kind of tour. You’re offshore, and the focus stays on what you can do from the water.

If you’re flexible, water-comfortable, and excited by open bar plus paella, this is one of the more satisfying ways to spend a few hours on Lanzarote’s coast.

FAQ

What is the duration of the catamaran cruise to Papagayo?

It runs for about 4 hours (approximately).

How much does this tour cost?

The price is listed at $77.24 per person.

Is pickup available from Lanzarote hotels?

Pickup is offered at selected hotels. If your hotel is not included, you’ll meet at the meeting point in Puerto del Carmen area.

Where do you meet if you don’t have hotel pickup?

The meeting point is Lineas Romero Watertaxi and excursions, Av. del Varadero, 30, 35510 Tías.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 11:00 am.

What food is included?

Lunch is included, with a paella meal served during the Papagayo stop. There is also a pasta option.

Are drinks included?

Yes. An open bar is included, along with a welcome mojito on arrival.

Is kayaking included?

Yes, a kayak is included as part of the water activities.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

No. Snorkeling equipment is not included.

Is the tour suitable for families?

Most travelers can participate. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18.

Can I get a refund if plans change?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.