Afrikat Afternoon Cruise

Explore the Stunning Southwest Coast from Afrikat Catamaran

The Afrikat Afternoon Cruise offers a relaxed yet adventurous way to experience Gran Canaria’s southwest coast. For $87.22 per person, this approximately 4.5-hour journey departs from Puerto Base in Puerto Rico, making it an accessible choice for visitors looking to enjoy beautiful sea views, water activities, and a delicious Canarian buffet. The tour benefits from pickup and drop-off services, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 174 reviews, travelers consistently praise the crew, scenery, and varied activities, although some note that the food and drinks could be improved.

This cruise suits those seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty, with the opportunity to swim, snorkel, or try water sports like parasailing and jet skiing. Keep in mind, additional water sports activities such as jet skiing and parasailing are extra charges, and the maximum group size per booking is 12 people. The tour is particularly popular, often booked 10 days in advance, reflecting its appeal for travelers wanting a reliable, enjoyable water-based activity in Gran Canaria.

Key Points

• Luxury catamaran experience on the Afrikat vessel with scenic views of Gran Canaria’s coast
• Approximately 4.5 hours including swimming, snorkeling, and optional water sports
• Delicious buffet lunch featuring Canarian cuisine served onboard
• Pickup and drop-off from hotels in south Gran Canaria included
• Additional water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides are extra costs
• Rated 4.5/5 from 174 reviews, praised for scenery and crew friendliness

Departure and Meeting Point at Puerto Base

The tour begins at 2:30 pm from the Afrikat Catamaran dock located at C. Puerto Base, S/N, Mogán. The meeting point is close to public transportation, simplifying access for most travelers. The return coincides with the cruise’s end at the same location. The pickup service depends on your hotel’s area, adding convenience after a day of sightseeing.

A Relaxing but Active Afternoon on the Water

The cruise departs from Puerto Rico, cruising along the coast of Gran Canaria to a calm, crystal-clear bay. Once anchored, the main highlight is swimming and snorkeling, with equipment provided to explore the Atlantic waters. The refreshing water and marine life make this a favorite activity, with many appreciating the opportunity to cool off in the sea.

For those seeking more excitement, optional water sports are available. Parasailing offers panoramic views of the island, while jet skiing and banana boat rides add a dose of adrenaline. These extras are not included in the basic price but are available for an additional fee, allowing guests to tailor their experience.

The Scenic Views of Gran Canaria from the Sea

One of the most praised features of this cruise is the magnificent scenery. From the deck of the Afrikat catamaran, you watch Mogan port, the quaint Little Venice, and El Perchel bay pass by. The sea breeze and sunshine enhance the views, making it an ideal setting for photography or simply savoring the natural beauty of the island’s coastline.

The smooth sailing and calm waters create a relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding while taking in breathtaking vistas. The crew is known for their friendly attitude and helpful explanations, making the experience engaging and enjoyable.

The Onboard Canarian Buffet Lunch

A notable highlight is the delicious buffet lunch served onboard. It features Canarian cuisine, with a chicken wrap and potato salad as the main offerings. The meals are designed to accommodate most dietary needs if specified in advance. Review mentions are mixed regarding the food, with some praising its taste, while others suggest improvements like a more extensive buffet or Spanish-specific dishes.

The buffet is complemented by a selection of drinks, including beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, and water. However, spirits and wine are not included in the package, and additional drinks can be purchased separately.

Enjoy Water Activities: Swimming and Snorkeling

After anchoring in a calm bay, guests have the chance to swim and snorkel in clear Atlantic waters. The snorkeling equipment is provided, and the marine environment is often described as vibrant and inviting. This stop is a favorite part of the tour, offering a refreshing break and a closer look at ocean life.

The water temperature and clarity are praised, making this activity accessible for most participants. The sea breeze combined with the warm sun creates a perfect setting for both relaxing in the water and exploring underwater.

Optional Water Sports for Extra Fun

For those wanting more thrill, the tour offers additional water sports activities for an extra fee. Parasailing at €32 per person provides stunning aerial views of Gran Canaria’s coastline. The jet ski ride, costing €32 per vehicle, allows guests to experience speed and agility on the water. The banana boat ride costs €10 per person and adds a fun, bumpy experience.

There is also an option for a speedboat ride with the captain at €5 per person. These activities are not included in the core package but are well worth considering for thrill-seekers. Reviewers highlight that the extra sports were well worth the cost and added a layer of excitement to the cruise.

The Crew and Service Experience

The crew on the Afrikat is frequently praised for their friendly, attentive service. Many reviews mention their helpfulness and professionalism, making the cruise feel welcoming and well-organized. The saxophonist featured on certain days adds a musical touch, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere.

Some reviews also highlight great communication, with staff responding well to specific dietary requests. The hotel pickup service is appreciated for its convenience, especially for those staying in the southern part of the island.

The Price and Booking Considerations

The cost of $87.22 per person offers a competitive price for a scenic, activity-filled cruise. The tour is typically booked around 10 days in advance, indicating high demand. Booking directly with Afrikat may result in better pricing, as some reviews discourage booking through third-party vendors like Viator, due to issues with discounts and price honors.

Additional expenses include water sports, which require extra payment. The maximum group size per booking is 12 people, providing an intimate experience, though the total tour capacity can reach 66 travelers across all bookings.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The tour features a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. This offers peace of mind for spontaneous plans or uncertain weather conditions. Since the activity is dependent on weather, check conditions before confirming.

Travelers should be aware that most participants can enjoy the cruise, but children must be accompanied by adults and minimum drinking age is 18. Dietary requirements should be specified at the time of booking to ensure proper accommodations.

Final Thoughts on the Afrikat Afternoon Cruise

The Afrikat Afternoon Cruise provides a balanced mix of scenic sailing, water activities, and onboard dining at a reasonable price. Its stunning views, friendly crew, and variety of water sports make it an appealing choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in Gran Canaria.

The main limitations are the extra costs for water sports and the mixed reviews on food quality. Nonetheless, most participants enjoy the overall value, especially given the delightful scenery and personalized service.

Travelers who enjoy being on the water, snorkeling, or trying water sports will likely find this cruise worth their time. It’s a safe bet for anyone wanting to explore Gran Canaria’s coast from a luxurious, comfortable catamaran with plenty of opportunities for enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the Afrikat Afternoon Cruise?
The price includes a 4.5-hour boat trip, a buffet lunch with chicken wrap and potato salad, drinks (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, coffee, water), and return transport from your hotel (if in south Gran Canaria). Swimming and snorkeling equipment are also provided.

Are water sports activities part of the basic package?
No, activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides are additional costs. They are available for purchase during the tour.

What is the best time to book the Afrikat cruise?
Bookings are typically made around 10 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability due to high demand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18 years. The tour is generally accessible for most ages, but check with the operator for specific restrictions.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility for changing plans.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel for swimming and snorkeling. The tour provides equipment, but personal items like cameras or waterproof cases are also recommended.