Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria: boat trip, drinks, food, paddle surfing, snorkeling.

Exploring Gran Canaria by Boat: An In-Depth Review of the Puerto Rico Coastal Experience

Taking a boat trip along the southern coast of Gran Canaria offers a wonderful blend of relaxation, adventure, and stunning scenery. This particular tour, operated by Willyboat, promises a 4-hour journey filled with snorkeling, paddle surfing, drinks, and tasty local tapas — all aboard a classic boat with over 30 years of experience. From the lively reviews, it’s clear this trip is a popular choice, especially for families, couples, and groups seeking a balanced mix of fun and comfort.

What we love about this experience is how it combines picturesque scenery with engaging activities, all at an affordable price point of around $45 per person. Plus, the friendly crew and well-organized itinerary make it a hassle-free way to explore parts of Gran Canaria’s coast you might not see otherwise. Our only consideration? The trip’s choppiness can be a concern for those prone to seasickness, so packing some motion sickness remedies could be a smart move. If you’re after a leisurely, activity-packed outing that offers good value and immersive coastal views, this trip ticks many boxes.

This boat adventure is ideal for travelers looking for a balanced day at sea—whether you’re eager to snorkel in clear waters, try paddle surfing, relax with drinks and tapas, or enjoy scenic cruising. Families with children will also find it suitable, given the multiple activities and the relaxed atmosphere. Read on for a detailed look at what this tour offers, what makes it special, and some practical tips to get the most out of your time on the water.

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Good To Know

• Experienced Crew: Over 30 years of boat operation ensures a smooth and knowledgeable service.
• Variety of Activities: Snorkeling, paddle surfing, and optional jet skiing or parasailing provide plenty of options for adventure.
• Inclusive Drinks & Food: Free-flowing wine, beer, water, and soft drinks, plus tasty tapas, keep everyone refreshed.
• Beautiful Scenery: Scenic views of cliffs and landscapes along the southern coast of Gran Canaria.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children, with activities and a relaxed environment.
• Affordable Value: At $45, it offers a comprehensive experience for both relaxation and fun.

Setting Sail from Puerto Escala

The tour begins at Calle Puerto Escala, in Puerto Rico, which is easy to find and convenient for most visitors staying in the south of Gran Canaria. The boat itself is described as a “classic,” with a history spanning over three decades, giving a sense of reliability and experience.

Once you step aboard, the first 45-minute sail along the coast sets the tone. As the boat glides past towering cliffs and rugged landscapes, you’ll get to admire some of Gran Canaria’s dramatic scenery. Several reviewers mention the scenic views as a major highlight—particularly the chance to see the coastline from a different perspective. The trip’s casual pace during this leg makes it perfect for taking photos or simply soaking in the coast.

The First Stop: Cueva del Agua

After the scenic cruise, the boat anchors at Cueva del Agua—a popular spot for snorkeling. The reviews highlight that the crew is helpful in setting up snorkeling gear and explaining safety tips, making it accessible even for beginners. The waters here are reputedly teeming with fish and rock formations, offering a lively underwater environment for those who enjoy exploring beneath the surface.

Based on reviewer comments, the snorkeling experience is a real highlight, with many noting over an hour of underwater exploration. The boat’s crew, praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, often assists newcomers, making this activity feel achievable even if you’re new to snorkeling.

Playa del Perchel: Swimming, Paddling, and Tasting

The next leg of the journey takes you to Playa del Perchel, where most of the activity unfolds. Here, guests can sample the local tapas, which reviewers describe as tasty and well-presented, adding to the feeling of enjoying authentic Canary Islands flavors.

Along With snacking, you can jump into the water for a swim or try paddle surfing—a favorite among reviewers who enjoyed the chance to balance on the boards and paddle around the calm waters. It’s worth noting that some reviews mention the boat being a little rocky during the paddleboarding, which could be a consideration for those sensitive to motion. However, the staff is attentive, and the paddleboards are described as good quality.

For those seeking a bit of extra thrill, optional activities like jetskiing and parasailing are available for an additional fee. While not included in the standard package, some reviewers got to enjoy these, describing them as fun and reasonably priced.

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Return Journey with Coastal Views

The final 45-minute sail back along the coast provides another opportunity to appreciate the landscape. As the boat heads back to Calle Puerto Escala, guests often comment on how relaxing and scenic this part of the trip is. Many reviews mention that the boat isn’t crowded—around 30 people on board—creating a comfortable environment that’s neither too busy nor too quiet.

Throughout the trip, unlimited beer, wine, water, and soft drinks keep everyone hydrated and happy, while the crew ensures that glasses are constantly topped up. Several reviewers mention how friendly and accommodating the staff are, making the experience feel personable and relaxed.

Practicalities and Tips

• Booking & Cancellation: The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.
• Meeting Point: Be sure to call the port entry and look for the first ship encountered to find your boat.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen (biodegradable preferred), beachwear, and a towel are essential. Some reviewers suggest bringing your own snorkeling gear if you prefer, but gear is usually provided.
• Group Size: Limited to about 30 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience that fosters camaraderie without feeling crowded.
• Price & Value: At $45, this tour offers a well-rounded package with activities, food, drinks, and scenic cruising—good value for a half-day adventure.
• Age Suitability: Very family-friendly, with activities that cater to children and adults alike.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

A wide range of travelers express satisfaction with the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. Pacha from the UK mentions the helpful staff and quality food, while Nicolas highlights that it’s “not a party boat,” making it appealing for those looking for a relaxed outing. Several reviews praise the well-organized snorkeling and paddleboarding, with many noting they’d happily do it again.

One reviewer, Nick from the UK, described the snorkeling spot at Playa del Perchel as “teeming with fish” and appreciated the “plenty of inflatable options like floating beds and paddleboards,” which added to the fun. Others, like Andy and Megan, commented on how the unlimited drinks and good food made the trip feel like excellent value.

The Real Deal: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This boat trip hits a sweet spot by combining scenic cruising, engaging water activities, and a relaxed atmosphere all at a reasonable price. The experienced crew and well-chosen stops make it feel trustworthy and enjoyable, especially for those looking to relax without feeling rushed.

While some mention the boat can be a little rocky—particularly during paddle surfing—most agree that the overall experience outweighs this minor inconvenience. The opportunity to snorkel in clear waters and paddle around calm bays is a major plus, especially for families or beginners.

Plus, the inclusion of local tapas and unlimited beverages enhances the overall value, making it feel like a true taste of Gran Canaria’s coastal lifestyle. The scenic backdrop of cliffs and ocean views is a bonus, likely to leave lasting memories.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxing yet active day at sea, this trip is a great choice. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or friends who want a mix of gentle adventure and scenic downtime. Those who enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply sunbathing with drinks will find plenty to love. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to explore the coast without the crowds or high prices of larger excursions.

People sensitive to choppy waters might want to prepare accordingly, but overall, the trip’s moderate pace and friendly crew aim to make everyone comfortable. For anyone wanting to combine scenic views, water fun, and good food—all at a friendly price point—this boat trip offers real value.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as family-friendly, with activities like snorkeling and paddle surfing that children can enjoy with supervision.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, a towel, and optional snorkeling gear if preferred. The tour provides equipment, but bringing your own can be more comfortable.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, including cruising, stops, and activities.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour includes tasty local tapas and snacks, which many reviewers praise for their flavor and presentation.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, unlimited beer, wine, water, and soft drinks are offered throughout the trip, kept topped up by friendly crew members.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if needed.

What’s the start point?
Meet at Calle Puerto Escala, calling ahead to find the first ship encountered in the port.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip in Gran Canaria offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water, combining scenic views, water activities, and tasty local food at a reasonable price. From the friendly crew to the variety of activities, it’s genuinely designed to give travelers a taste of coastal life with comfort and fun. Whether you’re into snorkeling, paddle surfing, or simply relaxing with drinks and snacks, this experience suits those looking for a casual yet engaging adventure. Perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting a memorable, value-packed day out.

For anyone seeking scenic beauty, authentic coastal experiences, and a friendly atmosphere, this trip stands out as a smart choice—just pack your sun protection and get ready for a day filled with sunshine, sea, and smiles.

You can check if your dates are available here: