Lanzarote: Luxury Sailing Excursions to Papagayo

Papagayo looks best from the water. This four-hour Catlanza sailing trip combines a comfortable catamaran ride with swimming, snorkeling, lunch, drinks, paddleboarding, kayaking, and a chance to see dolphins. I especially like the generous two-hour stop in a sheltered bay and the warm, attentive crew, including Captain Alejandro, Vicky, Noah, Carl, and chef.

I also like the value: at $88 per person, the price covers lunch, drinks, water equipment, parking, and selected pickup help. The main consideration is that this is a shared boat, and the catamaran can fill quickly. The sea may also feel chilly, and the return ride can be breezy or choppy.

Key details worth knowing

• Two hours at Papagayo: Plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, lunch, or simply stretching out on deck.
• Lunch is more than a snack: You get hot pasta with vegetarian sauce, salad, cheese, bread, and Canarian potatoes.
• Drinks are included: Beer, wine, cava, mimosas, juices, and soft drinks are available.
• The boat has room to spread out: There is a net for sunbathing, plus a slide and water equipment for active passengers.
• The crew makes the trip: Safety instructions are clear, and the staff help with activities, families, transport questions, and special needs.
• Bring a warm layer: Lanzarote can be sunny at the marina but cool on the return trip.

Setting Sail from Puerto Calero

The trip begins at Catlanza’s office in Puerto Calero, a marina on Lanzarote’s southern coast. If you need pickup, you can arrange it through Catlanza when booking. Otherwise, arrive at the office 30 minutes before departure to collect your boarding cards.

The published boarding times are 09:45 and 14:15, depending on the sailing you choose. That early arrival matters. The boat can become busy before boarding, and one useful tip is to queue near the kiosk after collecting your cards if you want first choice of seating.

Once aboard, you receive a safety briefing before the catamaran leaves the marina. The crew keeps the tone friendly rather than stiff, but the briefing is still treated seriously. That is helpful if you are traveling with children, are new to boating, or simply want to know how the water equipment works.

The first hour is spent sailing toward Papagayo. This is not just transport between two points. You get time to watch Lanzarote’s rugged southern coastline from offshore, feel the wind, and settle into the rhythm of the boat.

You can take part in a little yoga during the crossing, or simply sit with a drink and enjoy the view. The crew may also point out dolphins, whales, or flying fish. Dolphin sightings are possible, not guaranteed, so treat them as a lucky bonus rather than part of the promise.

The Catamaran: Room for Sun and Sea

The catamaran is large enough to offer several ways to spend the afternoon. You can sit in the main area, stretch out on the forward net, chat with other passengers, or move around when the boat is underway.

The net is one of the most appealing spots for photographs and sunbathing, though it can get wet from spray. If you prefer a dry and steady place, choose a seat farther back or inside the main sheltered area.

The boat is described as being in excellent condition, and the equipment includes masks, snorkels, life jackets, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. There is also a slide into the sea. That combination gives the trip a broad appeal. You can be as active as you like, then return to the deck for music, conversation, or a cold drink.

The boat is not a private charter. On busy departures, you will share the space with a lively group, and the best seating may go early. Still, the catamaran’s size means there is generally room for different moods. Families can enjoy the water toys while adults who want a quieter break can sit back with lunch or music.

Two Hours in the Papagayo Bay

The main stop is a sheltered bay near the golden beaches of Playa del Papagayo. From the water, you see the famous beach area from a different angle, with the volcanic coast rising behind it and clear water around the boat.

The two-hour stop is the heart of the trip. It is long enough to do more than one activity, which is important because the water sports are not rushed into a short photo stop.

You can borrow snorkeling gear and swim below the catamaran. Fish often gather beneath the boat, making this a particularly easy place to see marine life without needing to swim far. The water is described as clear, and several passengers have found the snorkeling to be one of the best parts of the outing.

You can also try the kayaks and paddleboards. Beginners are welcome to give them a go, though you should listen carefully to the crew and remain within the area they indicate. One passenger described getting carried away from the boat in a kayak before the crew helped, a useful reminder that even calm-looking water requires attention.

The slide adds a playful touch, especially for children and anyone who enjoys a splash. Take care on the steps and around the slide, since wet surfaces can be slippery. A steady handrail and unhurried movement are sensible precautions.

If you do not want to swim, you will not feel left out. The deck is a fine place to sunbathe, take photographs, read, or talk with the crew. The views from the water are the reason to come, and you can enjoy them without putting on a mask or stepping onto a paddleboard.

Lunch Served Hot on Board

The meal is one of the strongest parts of the experience. After swimming and water sports, you return to the boat to the smell of hot pasta prepared in the galley.

Lunch includes pasta with a vegetarian sauce, salad, cheese, bread, and Canarian potatoes. It is simple food, but it suits a half-day sailing trip well. You get something hot and filling rather than a cold sandwich or a small box of snacks.

The meal also works for people who do not drink alcohol. Vegetarian choices are available, and the food has been praised for being tasty and plentiful. If you have a strict allergy or special dietary need, the supplied information does not confirm specific alternatives, so contact Catlanza before booking rather than relying on what is served.

Drinks are included throughout the trip. Choices cited by the operator and passengers include beer, wine, cava, mimosas, juices, and soft drinks. One minor limitation is that the alcoholic selection may not be especially broad, so anyone looking for a particular spirit or cocktail should not assume it is available.

The drinks are a useful part of the price, but pace yourself. A sunny boat, salt water, and alcohol can catch up with you quickly. Water and soft drinks make it easy to enjoy the day without drinking alcohol at all.

Sailing Back with Music and a Few Extras

After lunch and the water activities, the catamaran heads back to Puerto Calero. This is a good time to slow down. You can listen to music, chat with fellow passengers, or sit with a drink while the coastline slides past.

The crew may show you how to tie sailing knots, and you might be invited to take the helm. These small touches give the outing more character than a simple boat ride. You get a glimpse of how sailing works without needing any previous experience.

The return crossing can feel different from the outward journey. Some departures have a calm, gentle ride. Others may encounter choppy water, with spray and a faster, more adventurous feel on deck. Bring the jacket requested by the operator, even on a bright day. The wind can pick up, especially later in the trip.

Dolphins have appeared on the journey back for some departures, and flying fish are another possible sight. Again, wildlife is never certain. The reliable reward is the open-water ride and the changing view of Lanzarote’s coast.

You arrive back at Catlanza’s office in Puerto Calero after about four hours in total. Free parking is available at the marina, and pickup or drop-off can be arranged from bus stops if booked through the company’s website.

Is $88 a Fair Price?

At $88 per person, this is a strong value if you plan to use several of the inclusions. A basic boat ride might cost less, but it would not necessarily include a hot lunch, an open drinks service, snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, yoga, and four hours on the water.

The value improves for families and mixed-interest groups. One person can snorkel, another can paddleboard, and someone else can remain on deck with a soft drink. You are not paying for a single activity that ends after 20 minutes.

The trip also removes several small expenses. Parking is free, selected bus-stop pickup is available, and water equipment is supplied. The food is included, which matters in a marina setting where a meal and drinks could otherwise add up.

The price is less compelling if you want a quiet private sail or a full-day cruise. This is a shared excursion lasting four hours, with only about two hours anchored at Papagayo. If your main goal is extended sailing time, beach access, or a secluded boat experience, you may prefer a longer or private charter.

There is also a practical difference between a quiet departure and a full one. When only a few people are aboard, the catamaran can feel almost private. On a busy sailing, you will need to share the seating, equipment, and slide. The boat has space, but it is still a popular group outing.

Who Will Enjoy This Sailing Trip Most?

I would recommend this excursion to families, couples, groups of friends, and first-time visitors who want several Lanzarote experiences in one outing.

It is especially good for you if:

• You want to see Papagayo without spending a full day on a beach.
• You like having both active and relaxed options.
• You enjoy swimming but do not want to arrange your own snorkeling equipment.
• You value included food and drinks.
• You are visiting with children who need variety.
• You want a social boat trip with music and a friendly crew.

The trip also suits people who do not drink. You can enjoy the lunch, views, yoga, swimming, snorkeling, and soft drinks without making alcohol part of the day.

It may be less suitable if you get seasick, dislike group excursions, or need a very quiet setting. The operator notes that the return trip can be breezy, and the boat may be busy. If you are prone to motion sickness, prepare accordingly, although the supplied information does not specify any onboard medication or medical service.

The crew has assisted passengers with mobility needs, including help getting up the boat ramp and on and off the catamaran. That is encouraging, but the activity information does not provide a full accessibility specification. Contact Catlanza in advance if you use a wheelchair or need particular assistance.

What to Pack for Four Hours at Sea

Keep your packing simple. You need swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a jacket. The jacket is not just a formality. Even in warm Lanzarote weather, the return sail can feel cool once you are wet.

A few practical choices will improve the day:

• Wear secure footwear for the marina, steps, and wet deck.
• Apply sunscreen before boarding and reapply after swimming.
• Bring a waterproof phone case if you want photographs near the water.
• Use the handrails around the slide and steps.
• Arrive 30 minutes early for boarding cards.
• If seating matters to you, collect your cards and queue near the kiosk.

The operator provides snorkeling equipment, life jackets, kayaks, and paddleboards. You do not need to pack your own gear unless you strongly prefer it.

Languages, Booking, and Timing

The live guide service is offered in English, French, German, and Spanish. That makes the safety briefing and activity instructions easier for a mixed-language group.

You can choose a morning or afternoon departure if availability allows. The activity lasts four hours, including roughly one hour sailing to Papagayo, two hours anchored in the bay, and one hour returning to Puerto Calero.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, which is useful if your Lanzarote plans are still shifting. Pickup must be arranged through Catlanza’s website, while passengers making their own way should go directly to the Catlanza office in Puerto Calero.

Should You Book Catlanza to Papagayo?

I would book this if you want a well-rounded half-day on the water rather than a formal sightseeing cruise. The strongest reasons are the two-hour Papagayo stop, the generous food and drink package, the range of water activities, and a crew that takes its hosting role seriously.

Captain Alejandro and crew members such as Vicky, Noah, Carl, Nico, Jose, and Sandra have been praised for being friendly, helpful, and attentive. That human touch matters on a boat. Clear instructions and quick help can turn a nervous first swim or paddleboard attempt into a good memory.

Book early if you want a particular departure or the best chance of choosing your preferred spot. Bring a jacket, arrive on time, and accept that dolphins are a lucky extra rather than a guarantee.

For $88, Catlanza gives you a full, easygoing day in miniature: sailing, Papagayo scenery, a hot lunch, open drinks, snorkeling, and a little adventure. If that mix sounds right, this is one of Lanzarote’s better-value sea excursions.

FAQ

Where does the Papagayo sailing trip begin?

The excursion begins at Catlanza SL in Puerto Calero. If you are not using arranged pickup, go to the Catlanza Puerto Calero office 30 minutes before departure to collect your boarding cards.

How long does the excursion last?

The sailing trip lasts four hours. The route includes about one hour to Papagayo, two hours anchored in the bay, and about one hour returning to Puerto Calero.

What is included in the price?

The price includes lunch, drinks, snorkeling equipment, kayaks, paddleboards, yoga, free parking in Puerto Calero, and pickup or drop-off from bus stops if arranged as required.

What food is served for lunch?

Lunch includes hot pasta with a vegetarian sauce, salad, cheese, bread, and Canarian potatoes.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Included choices listed for the trip include beer, wine, cava, mimosas, juices, and soft drinks.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a jacket. Arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to collect your boarding cards.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the excursion for a full refund. Reserve-now, pay-later booking is also available.