Afrikat Afternoon Cruise

This is the kind of trip you can feel immediately.

The Afrikat Afternoon Cruise turns Gran Canaria’s coast into the main event: an afternoon catamaran ride, a calm anchoring bay for swimming, and snorkeling when you feel like it, all with hotel pickup from the south.

I really like how practical this is. You get a plated meal on-board (chicken wrap with pasta salad) plus drinks included like beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water, so you’re not hunting for food once you’re out at sea.

The main thing to think about is that the fun extras are not all included. Water sports like jet ski, parasailing, and the donut ride cost extra, and some people also mention motion sickness or nausea, so bring a plan if you’re sensitive to choppy water.

Key highlights worth planning around

• South Gran Canaria hotel pickup to Puerto Base, with only certain areas covered
• Catamaran views from the water along Gran Canaria’s coastline
• Swimming and snorkeling time in a calm, clear bay, with equipment provided
• Meal and drinks included (chicken wrap + pasta salad; beer and sangria)
• Optional thrill activities priced separately if you want more action
• Smallish group on a big-ish boat (max 66 travelers, up to 12 per booking)

Afrikat Afternoon Cruise: a simple, scenic 4.5-hour break at sea

If you want a holiday activity that feels like you escaped for a few hours, this is it. You start in the early afternoon, cruise along the coast, then spend anchor time in a calmer area where you can slip into the water and see what’s swimming nearby.

The vibe is relaxed but not sleepy. You’re sailing for views, then you’re given a real chunk of time to enjoy the water, and you can add optional activities if you feel energetic. That mix is why this works well for couples, friend groups, and solo travelers who still want a bit of structure.

Also, the boat runs like a day you can actually follow. With set pickup info, a clear meeting point at Afrikat Catamaran Gran Canaria in Puerto Base, and an end back at the same place, there’s less stress than on tours where you’re constantly figuring out the next move.

Getting to Puerto Base: pickup timing, where it works, and what to watch

Pickup is one of the biggest value points here, but it’s not everywhere. Collection is only available from centralised pickup points in the south of the island, and it’s explicitly not available from Salobre, Puerto Rico, or Mogan.

After you book, you’ll get instructions by email about your exact pickup time and place, and you should check your junk folder. They ask you to confirm your transport details 24 hours before departure, which matters because afternoon schedules can shift with driver routes.

If you’re meeting the boat yourself at Puerto Base, plan to arrive about 30 minutes before the 2:30 pm departure. That buffer helps when you’re finding the exact dock and getting settled before the cruise starts.

The cruise itself: coastal scenery that changes every few minutes

What you’re really paying for is the change of perspective. From the catamaran, Gran Canaria looks different fast—cliffs, shoreline curves, and the color of the water all evolve as the boat moves. It’s not just a pretty backdrop; it’s part of the experience because you’re constantly glancing out from the deck.

This is also a good length. At roughly 4 hours on the water (with total trip time around 4.5 hours), you get enough time for a proper sail plus anchoring. You won’t feel rushed like you do on short “one-and-done” coastal cruises.

One practical tip: afternoon sun and sea breeze can make you feel cooler than you expect until you’re back in shade. If you’re sensitive to sun or wind, bring a light layer for the deck and something to protect your shoulders.

Anchor time for swimming and snorkeling: where the cruise becomes active

The heart of the afternoon is the stop in a calm, crystal-clear bay. The boat anchors, and that’s when you can swim and try snorkeling—equipment is provided, so you don’t need to bring gear or worry about renting last-minute.

This is the part that turns the cruise from sightseeing into a water experience. Even if you don’t go far, swimming in a sheltered bay feels more comfortable than open-water jumps, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.

For snorkeling, keep it simple: expect a chance to see fish rather than a formal coral-reef tour. If you’re new to snorkeling, this is a friendly way to test it because you’re not expected to do anything technical.

One small consideration: some people get nausea on the water, and afternoon sea conditions can vary. If you’re prone to motion sickness, I’d plan ahead with your usual remedy and avoid eating super heavy right before departure.

Optional water sports: how to decide without overpaying

Here’s where the cruise lets you add excitement. At the anchored bay, there are optional water sports available at special discounted rates, but each activity is priced separately.

The extras you can choose include:

• Jet ski: €32 per vehicle
• Parasailing: €32 per person
• Donut ride: €10 per person
• Speedboat ride with the Captain: €5 per person (optional)

You don’t need to buy everything. If you’re the type who gets bored after 10 minutes, then one paid activity can be a good boost. If you love swimming and photos, you might skip the extras and be perfectly happy with the included water time.

Also note the rules around non-obligatory activities. The cruise treats water sports as optional, and participation is at your own risk. That’s normal for adventure add-ons, so if you’re doing jet ski or parasailing, make sure you’re comfortable with that and have travel insurance that covers activities like these.

Lunch and drinks on-board: what’s included (and what you should expect)

Food is one of those “depends on your taste” areas, so I like to ground expectations in what’s actually provided. The included meal is chicken wrap with pasta salad. If you have dietary requirements, you should advise them at booking.

Drinks included are not just water. You get beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water throughout the cruise. The key detail is that cocktails, champagne, wine, and spirits are not included—so if you’re imagining full bar service, budget for upgrades.

I saw mixed feedback on taste and drink style. Some people call the crew and service excellent and describe the food as delicious, while a different review complains the lunch and drinks were not great. Translation: the meal is convenient and included, but it’s not a gourmet restaurant buffet.

That also explains a common frustration: if you’re expecting a big Spanish buffet spread, you may feel like you’re missing that. If you go in knowing you’re here for the sea day and the meal is a solid included fuel-up, you’ll likely be happier.

Crew, atmosphere, and the little touches that make afternoons work

Service matters more on a boat than it does on land, and this one generally lands well. You’re dealing with a moving environment, and the crew’s job is keeping the day organized: serving food, coordinating water time, and helping with activities.

Some reviews highlight how well the team handled people who felt sick, including extra attention and even a supportive detour with a small boat ride. That’s the kind of care you notice most when something goes slightly wrong, and it points to a crew that’s used to managing real-life conditions at sea.

A fun extra shows up in at least one report: live saxophone during the return to harbour on a Friday. Even if you don’t get that exact moment, it signals that they aim to keep the mood playful, not just functional.

One more practical point: the boat has a layout that people describe as roomy and well arranged. That matters when you want to move around, grab drinks, and still have space for photos.

Price and value: what you’re really paying for at $93.16

Let’s talk value like adults. At about $93.16 per person, the price is not just for a ride; it bundles several things that add up if you had to buy them separately.

You’re getting:

• A boat trip of about 4 hours
• Swimming and snorkeling time with equipment provided
• A meal (chicken wrap + pasta salad)
• Drinks included (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, water)
• Return transport from your south hotel area (from centralised pickup points)

The optional extras cost extra, which is fair because not everyone wants adrenaline. If you skip jet ski, parasailing, and donut rides, you’re still getting a full sea day with food and drink.

One caution from review feedback: people suggested booking direct can be cheaper than buying through some platforms. I can’t guarantee pricing differences for every date, but it’s a smart habit here: compare total price for the same inclusions, and check whether the discount actually matches what’s offered.

Also, consider your priorities. If you want guaranteed water time, views, and included drinks, this price can feel reasonable. If you want a wide food spread and cocktails included, you may feel the “extras” add up.

Who should book this cruise, and who should think twice

This tour fits best if you want a relaxing afternoon at sea with real swimming time and the option to turn it into a more active day.

I’d especially recommend it if:

• You’re visiting Gran Canaria and want an easy coastal highlight without heavy planning
• You like sailing scenery and don’t want an all-day excursion
• You’ll actually use snorkeling or the swim portion
• You want pickup from the south (when it’s available for your area)

You might think twice if:

• You’re expecting a full buffet style lunch with lots of hot Spanish dishes
• You want cocktails, champagne, wine, or spirits included in the base price
• You’re extremely sensitive to motion and don’t take precautions

The age rule for drinking also matters: minimum drinking age is 18, so if you’re traveling with teens, alcohol won’t be part of their experience but the cruise itself still works for families (with an adult for children).

Should you book Afrikat Afternoon Cruise?

If your ideal afternoon includes sea views, a calm bay swim, and included lunch and drinks, I think this is an easy yes. The structure is simple: you’re on a catamaran, you get time in the water, and you’re back with less hassle than many activities in Gran Canaria.

Before you book, do two quick checks:

• Confirm your pickup coverage for your exact south location, and email them to confirm the pickup time 24 hours before departure.
• Decide in advance whether you’ll spend extra on jet ski or parasailing. If not, treat the included swim/snorkel time as the main event.

For about $93.16, you’re buying comfort, views, and a half-day sea break. Just don’t expect a luxury full-bar party on the base price, and you’ll probably leave happy.

FAQ

What time does the Afrikat Afternoon Cruise start?

The departure time is 2:30 pm.

How long is the cruise?

The tour is about 4 hours 30 minutes total, and the boat trip portion is listed as 4 hours with admission included.

Where does the cruise depart from?

It departs from Afrikat Catamaran Gran Canaria at C. Puerto Base, S/N, 35130 Mogán, Las Palmas, Spain.

Does the tour include pickup from my hotel?

Yes, return transport from your hotel is offered depending on your area, using centralised pickup points in the south of the island.

Are all south areas eligible for pickup?

No. Pickup is not available from Salobre, Puerto Rico, or Mogan.

What’s included in the meal and drinks?

The included meal is a chicken wrap with pasta salad. Included drinks are beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water.

Is swimming or snorkeling included?

Yes. There is a chance for swimming and snorkeling (equipment provided), and it’s included as part of the cruise.

What water sports cost extra?

Jet ski costs €32 per vehicle, parasailing costs €32 per person, and the donut ride costs €10 per person. There is also an optional speedboat ride with the Captain for €5 per person.

What are the age rules?

The minimum drinking age is 18. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s the group size limit?

The activity can have a maximum of 66 travelers, and individual booking is limited to a maximum of 12 people.