Fast boats, cliff views, and playtime on the water. This catamaran trip runs along Lanzarote’s coast toward Barranco del Quiquere, with enough time to swim, snorkel, and paddle without feeling rushed. I really like the mix of slow, scenic cruising and then turning the day up for the donut behind a speedboat moment.

I also like that the fun isn’t limited to one activity. You can jump in for a swim, then use a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, and snorkel with the provided gear once you’re anchored offshore.

One thing to consider: the tour happens rain or shine, and it can be cancelled if sea conditions aren’t good. So if you’re planning around a tight schedule, keep a little flexibility.

Key highlights you’ll feel right away

• Donut and banana rides behind a follow boat for a proper adrenaline spike
• Scenic sailing along Puerto Calero and toward Playa Papagayo from the comfort of a catamaran
• Swim, snorkel, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard included with provided equipment
• Snacks and drinks on board including beer, sangria, soft drinks, water, plus seasonal fruit and cheese
• A lively crew with humor and attention (I’ve heard names like Santos and Nicolas, plus Joan and Imanol)
• Shared or private/small-group options so you can match the vibe to your group

Sailing the Lanzarote coast from Puerto Calero to Barranco del Quiquere

This is a catamaran day built for two moods: cruise and play. You set off from the Puerto Calero area and head toward el Barranco del Quiquere, a striking cliffy stretch along the coast between Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen. From the water, Lanzarote’s shoreline looks dramatic in a way you don’t get from land.

The pacing matters. Early on, you’re mostly relaxing and taking in views, with snacks and drinks part of the rhythm, not a separate plan. When you’re ready, the crew shifts the day into activity mode once the boat is moored.

If you want a day that feels like a “vacation” rather than a checklist, this works. You get movement, you get scenery, and you’re not stuck choosing between relaxing or doing stuff—you usually get both in the same trip window.

The water sports: what’s included and what feels the most worth it

At the core, the base package includes the things you’ll use in the water. That includes stand-up paddleboard and kayak, plus snorkeling equipment and a dedicated swim slot once you’re anchored.

Then comes the high-energy portion. A fast boat follows behind so that thrill-seekers can do the banana boat or donut rides. If you like laughing while holding on and getting splashed (a lot), that’s the moment most people remember.

Here’s the practical way to think about it:

• If you want calm fun: paddleboarding and kayaking are the best fit, especially if you’re comfortable balancing and moving under your own power.
• If you want to see what’s under the surface: snorkeling equipment is included, and the water conditions tend to be good for a swim-and-look session.
• If you want adrenaline: donut is the headline, and banana rides deliver the same chaos with a slightly different feel.

In at least one case I’ve seen described, the crew also offered upgrades like jet skis or other add-ons for extra cost. That’s not part of the standard inclusions, but it can be an option on some departures.

Swimming and snorkeling in warm, clear water

The cruise gives you time to get in and enjoy the water where it’s warm and clear. You can keep it simple—jump in, swim, and float—or use your included snorkel gear to look around.

This is the kind of stop where your choices are easy. You can take a swim and call it a win, or you can paddle a bit, anchor yourself with the snorkel gear, and check out what’s below. No special training needed, but it does help to feel comfortable in open water.

Bring your own towel and swimwear, and plan for the fact that you’ll likely stay in and out a few times. A catamaran day like this moves at sea-life speed—short waves of activity, then recovery time in the sun.

How the on-board food and drinks change the vibe

The onboard break is part of why this trip feels good value. You’ll get snacks plus a spread that can include seasonal fruits and cheese, along with drinks served onboard.

You’re looking at a real set of options: beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water. And in the practical sense, it sounds designed to keep things moving—self-service drinks mean less waiting around, which matters when you’re switching between swimming and snacks.

Also, you’re not doing a formal lunch on shore. Eating and drinking is built into the boat time, so you don’t lose time to commuting or searching for food after a swim.

The scenic sailing segment: Puerto Calero, Playa Quemada, and Playa Papagayo

Even if you’re in it for the water sports, the sailing portion is more than a buffer. Along the way, you pass through Puerto Calero and Playa Quemada, then you make your way toward the scenic area of Playa Papagayo.

From the deck, you’ll see the coastline glide by while the catamaran keeps things comfortable. The value here is not just the scenery itself—it’s the fact that you can recover between water activities. After a paddle session or donut ride, the calm cruising time helps your body reset.

If you’re traveling with someone who prefers views over speed, this is a workable compromise. The boat time is relaxing enough to enjoy without feeling like you’re missing the main event.

Crew energy: small details that make the difference

The best catamaran days aren’t only about the activities. They’re about how the crew runs the flow—getting you suited up, explaining what’s next, and keeping the mood friendly.

I’ve heard strong praise for the way guides and captains interact. Names like Santos and Nicolas have come up in descriptions of attentive, funny crew energy. Others mention hosts such as Joan and Imanol, with a friendly approach and a focus on making sure people actually get the chance to do what they signed up for.

You’ll also have an English-language tour guide available, plus French, German, and Spanish. That matters if you want clear instructions before getting on the water or joining the higher-energy rides.

Duration and timing: planning your day in Puerto del Carmen

The trip runs about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the starting time and conditions. That shorter window is a big deal on Lanzarote, because it keeps you from burning an entire day just to fit in one boat activity.

Since starting times vary, check availability for your exact slot. And since sea conditions can lead to cancellation, have a Plan B for the same day if you’re scheduling around a single departure.

Transport is an easy piece to get wrong, so read it twice. Hotel pickup/drop-off isn’t listed as included, but pickup instructions say the car leaves about 5 minutes after your scheduled pickup time and you should wait outside the reception around 10 minutes before pickup. In other words: show up early, and don’t assume the timing is flexible on the day.

What to bring (and what to skip)

For a smooth day on the water, pack only the basics, but pack them well.

Bring:

• Swimwear
• A towel

If you get cold easily, consider bringing a light layer for after you’ve been in the water. The provided info doesn’t mention extra gear, so plan as if you’ll be in and out with wind and sun doing their thing.

Skip overpacking. This is a short catamaran run with a clear purpose, so you’ll mostly want hands-free comfort for paddling and quick access to swim essentials.

Who this catamaran trip is best for

This works especially well for people who want a mix: scenery plus water time plus a dose of adrenaline. It’s also a strong choice for families or mixed-age groups if everyone is comfortable with swimming and short bursts of activity, because there’s options beyond the loudest rides.

It can be less suitable for people with mobility impairments. The activity involves getting on and off water equipment and moving around on a boat, so plan on choosing an option designed for accessibility if that’s a requirement for you.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to get value out of a single booking, the included gear and drinks help the math. At $118 per person for a 2–4 hour experience, you’re not just paying for a boat ride—you’re paying for multiple activities, snorkeling equipment, and onboard refreshments.

Should you book this Puerto del Carmen catamaran with water sports?

Yes, if you want one trip that covers both relaxation and action in a short time. The donut/banana element is a real crowd-pleaser, and the included kayak, stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling gear, and swim time mean you’re not stuck watching from the sidelines.

Book it with a small caution: sea conditions can force cancellation, and it runs rain or shine. If you’re traveling in a season where winds and chop are a regular thing, give yourself some flexibility on your schedule.

If you hate unpredictable weather, keep a Plan B day ready. But if you’re happy to ride with the ocean and you want a fun, well-fed, water-focused Lanzarote outing, this one fits the bill.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran trip?

It runs about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the starting time you choose and conditions that day.

What activities are included?

You’ll have stand-up paddleboard, kayak, banana boat, donut boat, and snorkeling equipment. The day also includes time for swimming.

Are snacks and drinks included?

Yes. Snacks are included, along with soft drinks, water, sangria, and beer.

Where does the trip depart from?

The catamaran is boarded in the Puerto Calero area.

Is pickup included?

Pickup is listed as included with specific instructions to wait outside reception 10 minutes before pickup. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also listed as not included, so follow the provided meeting instructions carefully.

Is there a private option?

Yes. You can choose between a shared experience and a private or small-group option.

Does it run in bad weather?

It runs rain or shine, but it might be cancelled if sea conditions are not good.

What languages are available for the guide?

English, French, German, and Spanish are listed.

Is this trip suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it is listed as not suitable for people with mobility impairments.