A catamaran day on Lanzarote beats another beach afternoon. This 4-hour cruise mixes a relaxing sail down the coast with a real stop at Papagayo for swimming and kayaking, plus lunch on board and an unlimited open bar. You also get choices: catch sun from the top deck or hang inside in the air-conditioned comfort during the crossing.

What I like most is how easy it feels from start to finish—hotel pickup at select spots, a welcome mojito and Spanish omelet, then you’re off to the water. I also like that the Papagayo time is built for doing, not just watching. One thing to keep in mind: there’s no beach landing, so you swim from the boat or explore by kayak, not by strolling on sand.

Key highlights

• Mojito welcome + unlimited open bar during the cruise
• Papagayo stop for swimming and kayaking close to the coastline rocks
• Paella lunch included (with a pasta option mentioned on board)
• Air-conditioned comfort inside plus sun deck seating for downtime
• Small-feeling setup on a boat that’s built for space and moving around
• Limited beach access: you stay with the boat at anchor

Getting To The Catamaran: Pickup, Meeting Point, And First Impressions

Your day starts with a coach ride if your hotel is on the pickup list. If it isn’t, you’ll either make your own way to the meeting point or head to Puerto del Carmen, where the catamaran is waiting. The scheduled start is 11:00 am, so plan to arrive early enough to avoid stress.

One practical note: even when pickup works smoothly, you may still have a bit of walking once you reach the harbor area. That doesn’t ruin the day, but it’s smart to wear comfy shoes, especially if you’re carrying a towel and small bag.

Once you’re on board, you get a short safety briefing and then the fun starts right away. Expect a welcome mojito and a snack of Spanish omelet, and you’ll be reminded early that drinks are part of the experience. The catamaran setup makes it easy to choose your vibe—sit in the sun on deck, or cool down inside if the heat gets intense.

The Sail Down: What That First Leg Feels Like

The cruise heads toward Lanzarote’s southern coast right after boarding, leaving Puerto del Carmen harbor as the base. During this stretch, you’re not stuck in one place. You can bounce between decks, grab a drink, and settle into conversations with other people onboard.

This is also when you’ll notice the boat’s comfort: there are toilets on board, and the layout is built for relaxing rather than cramming. If the sea is calm, this leg feels like a scenic cruise. If it’s choppy (it happens), you’ll still be fine, just be ready for some wave motion.

Music and a more social atmosphere show up too. On the return leg especially, some people describe it as having a lively party energy, with music and dancing moving through the boat.

Papagayo Beach Time: Swimming From The Boat (Not The Sand)

The anchor stop is the heart of this outing. The catamaran pulls up in front of the white sands of Playa de Papagayo, and the schedule gives you about 2 hours right there. This is where you’ll swim, kayak, and soak up views from the waterline.

Here’s the key point to understand before you go: the experience is designed so you do not get off at the beach. You’re close to the shoreline, but your “beach time” happens from the boat—swimming near the hull, using the steps/platform areas, or staying aboard and enjoying the breeze.

For swimming, the boat makes access fairly straightforward, with entry via steps down and pontoon areas. If you’re traveling with kids, keep an extra eye on them. One caution from a less-great experience: conditions can feel less safe when the water is choppy, and people sometimes want more guidance before heading in.

Kayaking Near The Rock Formations: The Most Active Moment

Kayaks are included, and this is where your stop becomes more than just a float. The plan is to get closer to the coastline rock formations than most anchored boats can manage. You’ll feel that difference right away once you’re in the water and moving along the shapes of the coast.

This is also a great activity if you want something that feels “hands on” without being overly intense. You’ll paddle, enjoy the scenery from a low angle, and still have plenty of time to go back for a swim or just relax.

If you’re thinking about snorkeling: snorkeling equipment is not included, and while you might see fish on some days, don’t count on it. If you care a lot about seeing underwater life, bring your own snorkel gear or even just goggles so you can enjoy what’s there.

Lunch On Board: Paella, Pasta Option, And How The Meal Works

Food is one of the strongest parts of this trip. At Papagayo, you’ll be served lunch with fresh Spanish paella, and there’s mention of a pasta alternative for those who don’t eat seafood. You’ll also get some fruit afterward in some versions of the onboard meal flow.

Two things to manage expectations:

• The “welcome omelet” is a snack, while lunch is the main meal.
• Like most group tours, the meal is designed to work quickly and keep the day moving, not to linger like a long sit-down restaurant.

When the food is a win, it’s a big win—people call the paella delicious and the portions generous. When it’s a miss, it’s usually about small items like cold components rather than the paella itself. Bottom line: it’s good value because it’s included, but it’s still a group lunch.

Unlimited Drinks: Great Perk, But Know What You’re Getting

An open bar is part of the deal, and you’ll see drinks served throughout the day. The experience includes a welcome mojito, and then the bar stays open with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

One reality check from mixed feedback: the “unlimited drinks” label can feel a bit different depending on what you expect. Some people feel the selection is broad and drinks stay flowing. Others felt the choices were more limited, with the crew emphasizing a family-friendly vibe.

Also note the rules: the minimum drinking age is 18, so teens and younger kids won’t be in the drink lane. If you’re traveling as a group, you can plan on soda and water being available too, but the open bar emphasis is still aimed at adults.

Staying Comfortable: Sun Gear, Seasickness, And Safety Basics

This is a sun-and-water day, so pack like you actually plan to be outside. Reviews repeatedly suggest sun cream and a hat, and I agree. You’ll be on a boat with deck time, plus you’ll likely be swimming or kayaking, so reapplying matters.

If you’re sensitive to motion, remember the sea can be choppy on the way back. Some people get sick when the water turns rough, and the crew may adjust speed to keep things safer and calmer. If seasickness is a thing for you, consider bringing your own remedy and take it early.

For snorkel lovers, bring goggles at minimum. Since snorkeling equipment isn’t included, it’s not a surprise when you can’t just borrow gear last-minute. That’s also where your own mask/snorkel can make the difference between trying and giving up.

Finally, ask the crew how they recommend entering the water and where safety gear is located before you get too excited. One negative experience raised concerns about safety with children and current conditions; you’ll feel better if you confirm what to do in choppy water.

Returning To Puerto del Carmen: Timing And The Vibe Shift

Once your Papagayo time wraps, the catamaran heads back to Puerto del Carmen for the harbor stop. The timing is tight enough to feel like a complete half-day: you’re usually back around the mid-to-late afternoon, with the return bus waiting at 16:00.

This return leg is when the mood can get more upbeat. Some people describe music, dancing, and a party-like atmosphere while the boat heads back. If you prefer quiet, there are still shade and indoor spaces—just pick your corner and keep your own pace.

At the end, you either get dropped at your hotel (if you’re in the pickup set) or returned to the meeting point. One practical perk mentioned in feedback: some people were bused back to a marina nearer to Playa Blanca, avoiding extra transfers after the cruise.

Value For Money: Is It Worth $77.24?

At around $77.24 per person for roughly 4 hours, this tour packs in several paid components you’d normally assemble yourself: boat transport, lunch, an open bar, and kayak use. That’s the core value equation.

You’re paying for:

• A scenic cruise with a scheduled departure from Puerto del Carmen
• A structured Papagayo stop where the boat anchors and you’re active in the water
• Included food and drinks rather than buying everything on site

Where it may feel less like value is if your top priority is beach lounging on sand. Since there’s no beach landing, you’re not getting that “walk onto the sand, find a beach chair” experience. If you want shore time, you’ll need to pair this with a separate beach day plan.

Also consider the potential downtime. A couple of reviews mention waiting or less nonstop activity than hoped. Even so, many people feel the swimming and kayaking time balances it out.

Who Should Book This Catamaran To Papagayo?

Book it if you want an easy, structured Lanzarote day that includes:

• Swimming and kayaking from a boat at Playa de Papagayo
• Paella lunch (with a pasta option)
• A drinks-included cruise with both sun deck and shaded indoor space

It’s especially good for couples, solo travelers, and families who don’t mind a shared group day. The boat has room to spread out, and the atmosphere tends to be friendly rather than strict.

Don’t book if:

• You’re expecting to step onto the beach and hang on sand
• You want snorkeling equipment provided
• You’re extremely sensitive to motion (because choppy conditions can happen)

Should You Book This Catamaran Trip?

If you’re planning one “water + food + drinks” experience in Lanzarote, I think this is a strong choice. The combination of Papagayo anchoring, included paella, and included kayaks is hard to beat for the time you spend.

Before you commit, check your pickup situation and timing. If you’re relying on pickup, understand that it may vary by day and location, and if you’re within 24 hours of departure, pickup might not be guaranteed. Also remember the most important expectation: your Papagayo time is from the water, not from the beach.

If you want, tell me where you’re staying (or the nearest area like Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, etc.), and I’ll help you judge whether pickup is likely and how to plan the day around the 11:00 start.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise to Papagayo?

It’s about 4 hours total.

What time does the tour start?

The scheduled start time is 11:00 am.

Does the price include hotel pickup and drop-off?

Pickup and drop-off are included for selected hotels only. If your hotel isn’t on the pickup list, you’ll need to go to the meeting point (or Puerto del Carmen).

Where is the meeting point?

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

What’s included for food and drinks?

You’ll get a welcome mojito, a snack of Spanish omelet, unlimited drinks on the open bar, and lunch at Papagayo (fresh Spanish paella, with a pasta alternative mentioned).

Are kayaks included?

Yes, kayak use is included.

Is snorkeling included, and do they provide equipment?

Snorkeling equipment is not included. You can snorkel if you bring your own gear.

Can I get off onto the beach at Papagayo?

No. There is no possibility to get off at the beach. You swim from the boat and use the water activities from the stop.

Is there an age limit for drinking alcohol?

Yes. The minimum drinking age is 18.

What happens if weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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