4-hour Private Sailing Tour in the South of Gran Canaria

Exploring Gran Canaria from the Water: A Genuine Sailing Experience

When it comes to discovering Gran Canaria, many travelers focus on beaches or mountain vistas, but a private sailing tour offers an entirely different perspective. The 4-hour Private Sailing Tour in the South of Gran Canaria promises a relaxed, authentic escape aboard a comfortable sailboat, with up to 8 guests. This tour is notable for its personalized service, scenic coastal views, and opportunities to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, all while enjoying quality local food and drinks.

What I particularly like about this experience is how intimate and flexible it is—it’s tailored to your group, making it ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking a quiet, scenic day at sea. The second thing that stands out is the combination of sailing, snorkeling, and scenic stops—a perfect mix of activity and relaxation. On the downside, the price might seem steep at nearly $1,000 for the group, but considering the exclusivity, personalized attention, and multi-faceted experience, it’s often seen as good value.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather — since this is a sea-based activity, poor weather can mean cancellations or rescheduling. Fortunately, the tour provider offers full refunds if the weather isn’t cooperating, which adds peace of mind when planning your day. Overall, it’s a memorable way to see the lesser-visited coastal corners of Gran Canaria in style and comfort.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private, personalized experience ensures your group’s needs are front and center.
• Unspoiled coves and natural landscapes provide stunning scenery away from crowded beaches.
• Snorkeling in fish-filled waters offers a chance to see Gran Canaria’s marine life up close.
• Authentic local insights about the valleys and their tropical fruits make the sea tour educational as well.
• Delicious food and drinks—including tapas and the best Mojito—are highlights, especially as praised in reviews.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, reducing planning stress.

Discovering Gran Canaria’s Coastline from the Sea

The main draw of this private sailing tour is the chance to see Gran Canaria’s southwest coast from a perspective few visitors experience. With no buildings or urban sprawl in sight, you’ll cruise past dramatic cliffs, untouched beaches, and lush valleys like Tasarte and Tasartico. These valleys are still largely rural, with local farms growing tropical fruits and offering traditional dishes that you might glimpse from afar.

Unlike larger, group tours, this private experience allows for a more relaxed, unhurried pace. The captain, Juan Vicente Cardet Borillo, is praised for his humor and knowledge — you’ll be sailing with a host who feels more like a friend than a guide. His insights about the valleys’ authenticity and local cuisine add depth to the journey, making it more than just a boat ride.

The first stop takes you in front of the tranquil beaches of Playa de Tasarte, offering a stunning view of the valleys’ lush landscape. Here, you can learn about local life, see tropical fruit farms, and appreciate how Canarians live with minimal modern distractions like mobile or internet — a charming glimpse into rural island life.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

The core of this experience is the four-hour sail along the southwest coast, starting at 10:00 a.m., with pickup offered, making logistics straightforward. The itinerary is flexible but well-structured: you’ll first get a panoramic view of the coast from the sea, then approach closer to the cliffs and beaches, which makes for incredible photo opportunities.

The highlight is the stop in a natural cove full of fish — perfect for snorkeling or just floating in the clear waters. As one reviewer noted, “We had a great day sailing yesterday. Our captain was funny and made our trip a great one. He was full of knowledge of the area and it felt like we were sailing with a friend.” Expect a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of time to sunbathe, swim, or just relax on deck.

The tour also emphasizes local cuisine, with delicious tapas and drinks served aboard. One guest raved about the “bester Mojito ever”, and both reviews highlight the scrumptious food and friendly service. This is an experience where the journey and the food are equally memorable.

The Scenic Stops and What You’ll See

Playa de Tasarte and Tasartico Valleys

The first visual treat is the view of the valleys from the sea, where you can see the abundance of tropical fruits and farmhouses. The guide will explain how these valleys maintain their rural charm, often without modern amenities like mobile coverage. This provides a stark contrast to the tourist-heavy areas and offers insight into the island’s agricultural heritage.

Close-up Coastline and Cliffs

As the boat approaches the cliffs and beaches, you’ll get a different view of the coastline—more rugged and dramatic. The experience of sailing this stretch allows you to appreciate the scale and natural beauty of Gran Canaria’s coast, which is often hidden from land-based tours.

Snorkeling Spot in a Fish-Filled Cove

The star of the tour for many is the snorkeling. The waters here are noted for their clarity and abundance of marine life. If you enjoy snorkeling or swimming in tranquil waters, this stop will be a highlight. You can sunbathe or simply float in the water, soaking up the scenery in peace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate intimate, personalized adventures rather than crowded group excursions. It suits couples, families with kids as young as six, or friends seeking a relaxed day at sea. The private nature allows you to customize the experience—perhaps spend more time snorkeling or enjoying the local snacks.

You’ll especially love this if you enjoy authentic local insights, as the guide offers stories about the valleys and their produce, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Food lovers will appreciate the included tapas and drinks, especially if you’re a fan of good Mojitos.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

If you’re prone to seasickness, be aware that the boat ride may be bumpy at times, although the sea tends to be calm in this region. Also, if budget is a concern, this tour’s price point might be high for some, but the exclusivity and tailored experience are reflected in the cost.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour starts at 10:00 a.m., with pickup offered, making it convenient to plan your morning. The boat accommodates up to 8 guests, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible. Booking a few days in advance is recommended—the tour is quite popular, with an average booking window of 5 days.

The price is approximately $983.96 per group, which, when divided among your party, provides good value considering the private setting, personalized service, and included food and drinks. Remember, the tour is weather-dependent, and a full refund is available if the weather cancels your trip.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

While the price might seem steep, consider what you’re getting: a private, tailored experience with knowledgeable hosts, a scenic sail along unspoiled coastlines, snorkeling opportunities, and delicious local cuisine. It’s a chance to escape the crowds and see a side of Gran Canaria that most visitors miss, making it perfect for those seeking a more authentic, relaxed day at sea.

The reviews highlight how memorable and enjoyable the trip is, thanks to the friendly captain Juan and the quality of the food. It’s an experience that combines adventure with comfort, ideal for travelers wanting a special day on the water.

The Sum Up

This private sailing tour in Gran Canaria’s south delivers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed luxury. Its intimate setting makes it especially appealing for small groups or families, and the inclusion of snorkeling and local food adds real flavor to the trip. It’s a chance to see the island’s rugged coastline from a different angle while enjoying personalized service and great company.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, authentic day at sea with the added bonus of tasty tapas and a friendly guide, this tour will fit the bill perfectly. Just remember to book in advance, keep an eye on the weather, and prepare for a memorable journey across Gran Canaria’s stunning waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group only, with a maximum of 8 guests, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 4 hours long, starting at 10:00 a.m., including various scenic stops and snorkeling.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat, guide, and the food and drinks served onboard, including tapas and the renowned Mojito.

Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as 6 are welcome, making it a family-friendly outing.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if poor weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, simplifying logistics for your convenience.

What are the key sights I’ll see?
You’ll explore the unspoiled beaches, cliffs, and valleys like Tasarte and Tasartico, viewed from the sea, with opportunities to snorkel in fish-rich waters.

How physically active is the tour?
Mostly relaxed—sailing, swimming, and snorkeling are the main activities, with plenty of time to sunbathe and enjoy the scenery.

What makes this experience stand out?
The intimacy, local insights, delicious food, and the chance to see the island from a unique perspective.

Who should book this tour?
Ideal for those seeking a personalized, scenic, and relaxed day on the water with authentic local touches.

This sailing adventure offers a genuine taste of Gran Canaria’s coast—perfect for travelers who want more than just a snapshot from the land. It’s a memorable way to connect with nature, enjoy good company, and discover a quieter side of the island.