Sun, snacks, and sea time in one go. This Puerto Rico (Gran Canaria) boat outing mixes a scenic cruise past dramatic coastline with real water play at Cueva del Agua and Playa del Perchel. I especially love the combo of tapas plus drinks served onboard, and the fact that the crew keeps the day moving with swim stops and gear ready for snorkeling and paddle surfing. One thing to keep in mind: the sea can get choppy, so expect a bit more rocking if the wind picks up.

The boat setup helps a lot. You get hammocks up top, a shaded seating area below, and an on-board bathroom—plus life jackets for all ages, which makes it feel easier for families.

If you want a party boat, this is not that. It leans relaxed, with optional thrills like jet ski and parasailing for those who want extra speed.

Key highlights you’ll care about

• Classic boat comfort: hammocks, shade, comfy seating, and a bathroom onboard
• Real swim time: snorkeling and paddle surfing in clear water off the coast
• Included food and drinks: Spanish tapas with beer, wine, soft drinks, and water
• Family-friendly safety: life jackets available, and a crew that helps kids
• Optional add-ons: jet ski and parasailing are extra, not part of the base price

From Puerto Rico marina to cliffs and Cueva del Agua

Your day starts in Puerto Rico at Calle Puerto Escala. The meeting point is simple but a little “port-world”: you go to the port entry and call the first ship you see. If you’re early, that’s perfect. You’ll have time to find the right boat and get your towel and sunscreen set while everyone else gathers.

Once you’re onboard, the first thing you notice is the layout. This is a classic boat with an upper deck where hammocks hang within easy reach, and a shaded lower area with comfortable seating. There’s also an on-board bathroom, which sounds minor until you’re out on the water for a few hours with kids, sea-spray, and a whole day’s worth of snacks and drinks.

The cruise itself is part of the value. You sail along Gran Canaria’s southern coastline with photo stops and big cliff views. This is the kind of sightseeing that doesn’t feel like a chore because it’s happening while you’re relaxed and not stuck inside.

Then you head toward Cueva del Agua, a key moment of the route. You’ll feel the change as the boat approaches this coast feature, and the day’s water activities make more sense right after. You’re not just looking at the scenery—you’re moving into it.

The Playa del Perchel stop: tapas, snorkeling, and paddle surfing

The main “doing stuff” portion happens at Playa del Perchel. This is where the excursion turns from cruise to playground. The rhythm is usually: you get settled, you eat, you gear up, and you rotate between time in the water and time out of it.

On the food side, you’re not stuck with dry snacks. Spanish tapas are included, and the crew serves local snacks alongside the main tapas spread. It’s the right kind of meal for boat days: satisfying enough to refuel, but not so heavy that you’ll feel miserable after jumping in.

The drink flow is also a big part of why this trip feels like a bargain. You get beer, wine, soft drinks, water, and juices during the excursion. In practical terms, that means you can sip something cold while you set up your snorkel and still have energy for paddle surfing.

Snorkeling: gear is provided, and you’ll actually use it

Snorkeling gear is included, and the whole stop is designed for you to get in the water more than once. The snorkeling area has rocks and fish life you can see clearly when conditions cooperate. If you’ve never snorkeled before, this is a good low-pressure way to try, because the crew is right there helping you.

Paddle surfing: a fun skill level mix

Stand up paddleboarding is included too. You can expect a real demo vibe from the crew—hands-on help if you need it—rather than a just-handing-you-a-board situation. Paddle time is the kind of activity that suits both adults and kids with a little coordination.

One practical tip: paddleboards can also attract people who want a place to hang out on the water. If you get to the board and someone is using it as a sun platform, you might wait a moment. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth knowing so you’re not surprised by a short pause.

Swim and jump: the boat makes it easy

You’re not limited to “one swim then back.” The boat is set up for jumping in and out, and plenty of people hop straight from the waterline back onboard. Between hammocks, seats, and the open sun time, you can do the full loop: dry off, snack, drink, swim again.

Optional jet ski and parasailing: only if you want extra speed

Jet ski and parasailing are not included in the base price, but they’re available as add-ons during your water time. If you’re traveling with teens who want a thrill, this is often the moment that makes the day feel like a real adventure rather than just a boat-and-snorkel.

You’ll see jet skis referenced as a popular option, and prices can vary by how they bundle rides or what extras are running that day. In the info you have here, you can take that as a heads-up: treat jet ski and parasailing as extras, budget for them if they matter to your group.

There are also other fun add-ons that may pop up depending on what’s running and how the crew organizes things. For example, you might find inflatable options towed by a jet ski and other water attractions tied to the jet ski system. If that’s your style, ask on the boat when it’s available and what it costs.

Drinks onboard: unlimited doesn’t mean no common sense

The drinks are one of the biggest “yes” reasons to book. Beer, wine, soft drinks, juices, and water are part of the included package, and the crew keeps serving throughout the day.

A small reality check: the sea can rock. If the water gets rough, you might find it a bit harder to move around the boat and grab drinks. That doesn’t mean the service stops—it just means you’ll want to choose a spot, drink there, and plan your water time when it’s easier to step down and back up.

The good news is the boat’s layout helps. You’re not wandering through chaos. You can settle into a hammock or shaded seat, then do water activities in a calm rhythm.

Crew energy: family help, clear instruction, and little touches

This is where the experience earns its high rating. The crew is friendly, helpful, and practical. You see that in how they get kids fitted with life jackets, and in how they set up equipment without making you feel rushed.

There’s also a pattern of small, human touches. One highlight from the info you have here: the crew can go out of their way for children on special days. You even have an example of them dressing up for Christmas Day. That kind of effort doesn’t change the water—it changes the mood.

Instruction matters too. Paddle surfing and snorkeling only feel easy when someone tells you how to do it before you’re in the water. You’ll get that kind of guidance. One name that shows up clearly is Alberto, mentioned for being especially friendly and making the day feel special.

In general, the day runs with a relaxed pace, not a frantic schedule. That’s good for families, and it’s also good for adults who just want a cool, easy plan on a sunny coast day.

Weather and route changes: why timing still works

Boat trips on Gran Canaria can be weather-dependent. Wind and sea conditions can change quickly, and if they do, the crew may adjust where you swim.

That’s actually part of the value. Instead of forcing everyone into rough water, they can redirect you to a calmer bay so you can still enjoy the main activities. You’ll lose nothing on the overall experience, because the goal is consistent: safe water time, clear views, and fun on board.

So if the forecast looks breezy, don’t automatically assume it’s a wash. It can still be a great day—you’ll just want to dress for cooler spray and expect a bit of movement.

What you’re really paying for (and why it feels good at $56)

At $56 per person for about 4 hours, you’re not just paying for boat transport. You’re paying for a package:

• Tapa-style food included
• Drinks included (beer, wine, soft drinks, water, juices)
• Snorkeling gear included
• Paddle surfing included
• A boat with hammocks, shade, and bathroom
• Life jackets available for ages

When you break it down, that’s why people call it strong value. If you were to piece these things together yourself—snorkel gear rental, a guide, and multiple activities—costs add up fast. Here, the boat day is the “container” that holds everything.

Also, this isn’t an all-day grind. Four hours is long enough for real water time, short enough to still feel like you have energy left for dinner later.

Who should book this boat trip, and who might not

This fits best if you want a mix of scenery and water time without planning a thing. It’s ideal for:

• Families with kids who need life jackets and easy supervision
• Adults who want snorkeling and paddle surfing without hunting for equipment
• Groups who want included drinks and don’t mind optional extras like jet ski

It may be less ideal if you’re looking for a long, remote day at sea with minimal stops. This is structured around the main swim window and a couple cruise segments, so if you want hours of nonstop sailing, you might feel it’s more “active cove day” than “cruising all afternoon.”

Also, if you’re very sensitive to motion, be aware that rougher conditions can make movement around the boat less comfortable. The activities still happen, but you’ll feel the sea more.

Should you book it? My practical take

If your goal is snorkeling + paddle surfing + included tapas and drinks in a comfortable boat setting, I’d book it. The best part is the combination: you get time to actually do things in the water, and the onboard setup makes the rest of the day easy.

If you’re planning to spend extra on jet ski or parasailing, decide that before you go so it doesn’t feel like a surprise budget hit once you’re out there. Otherwise, you can enjoy the core experience without paying more.

Bring your towel, sunscreen, and beachwear, and plan to use the included gear. This trip works because it’s simple: cruise, eat, drink, swim, and repeat.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?

It starts at Calle Puerto Escala in Puerto Rico. For the port entrance, you call the first ship you encounter.

How long is the boat trip?

The duration is 4 hours.

What activities are included?

Snorkeling and paddle surfing are included, along with swimming time in the sea.

Are jet skis included in the price?

No. Jetskiing is not included, and it’s listed as an extra option.

Is parasailing included?

No. Parasailing is not included.

What food and drinks are included?

You get tapas and drinks including beer, wine, water, juices, and soda.

Do they provide snorkeling gear?

Yes. Snorkeling is included, and snorkeling equipment is provided for the activity.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes. Life jackets for all ages are available onboard.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages do the guide crew speak?

The live guide is available in English and Spanish.

You Might Also Enjoy

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour in Kailua-Kona, Big IslandCabo de Gata: Kayak and Snorkel Tour in the Natural ParkPunta Cana: Catamaran Tour with Reef Snorkeling and Open BarFull-Day Great Barrier Reef Pontoon with Snorkeling & Activities