La Graciosa: Island Cruise with Lunch and Water Activities

Discovering La Graciosa from the Water: A Full-Day Catamaran Cruise Review

La Graciosa, an unspoiled island off the coast of Lanzarote, offers a quiet escape from the tourist crowds, and this cruise experience promises a relaxed yet active day on its pristine waters. The adventure is centered around a luxury catamaran, which sails along the island’s coast, with plenty of water activities, delicious food, and sightseeing. I’ve looked into what makes this trip stand out, and I can say that it’s a well-thought-out mix of relaxation, fun, and regional charm.

What I especially like about this experience is how flexible it is — whether you want to lounge on deck, snorkel among vibrant fish, or explore the charming village of Caleta del Sebo, there’s something for all. The all-inclusive lunch of Spanish favorites like paella and unlimited drinks adds to the value. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that snorkeling equipment isn’t provided, so bringing your own might be worth considering if snorkeling is a priority.

The reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery as real highlights. Many travelers mention the cheerful crew and good organization, making the trip smooth from pickup to return. A minor consideration is the weather-dependent nature of the trip — if high winds or rough seas cause cancellations, your plans might change. But overall, the trip offers a memorable slice of Canary Islands life.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Excellent value for money, with unlimited drinks, a delicious meal, and water activities included.
• The guides and crew are consistently praised for their friendliness, humor, and local knowledge.
• Water activities such as kayaking and swimming at French Beach make this trip more than just sightseeing.
• Fast, reliable transportation with pickup from various Lanzarote resorts helps make planning easier.
• A relaxed pace, with plenty of free time to explore Caleta del Sebo and enjoy the island’s peaceful beaches.
• Weather considerations can impact the day, so flexibility or alternative dates are worth keeping in mind.

Setting Sail on La Graciosa: An Honest, Practical Look

If you’re dreaming of escaping Lanzarote’s more crowded spots to a quieter corner of the Canary Islands, this cruise to La Graciosa offers a chance to see a different side of island life. The journey starts early with pickup from a range of resorts—Playa Blanca, Puerto Calero, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, and Costa Teguise—making it accessible whether you’re staying near the beaches or closer to the city.

Going to the Island: From Land to Sea

The first leg involves a 30-minute ferry ride across the channel, which might be a little bumpy if the sea’s rough, but most reviews describe it as an enjoyable part of the adventure. Once you arrive in Caleta del Sebo, you get about 45 minutes of free time to explore the small village, snap photos, or grab a coffee. It’s a relaxing pause before setting sail on the catamaran, which becomes your main base for the day.

The Catamaran Experience: Comfort and Connectivity

The catamaran itself is described as impressive and well-maintained, with room for plenty of guests. What makes this trip stand out is the friendly atmosphere onboard, often accompanied by lively music and a cheerful crew that makes everyone feel at home. Many reviews laud the cheerful staff and expert guides who share interesting insights about La Graciosa and its surrounding waters, adding a layer of authenticity to the trip.

The boat offers Wi-Fi service, which is a bonus if you want to update friends or check your social feeds during quieter moments. During the cruise, you’ll enjoy live commentary—some reviews mention guides speaking multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, and German, making it accessible for international travelers.

French Beach: Water-based Fun and Water Activities

The anchor at French Beach is one of the trip’s highlights. Here, you can swim in crystal-clear waters, try snorkeling (remember to bring your own gear if you want to see the vibrant fish, as equipment isn’t supplied), or kayak along the coast. Several reviews highlight the quality of the water activities, describing French Beach as a beautiful snorkeling spot with excellent visibility.

If you’re traveling with children or just love active fun, the kayaks and the chance to jump off the boat into the sea make this a memorable experience. The crew is often praised for being helpful and enthusiastic, creating a lively and safe environment for water-based adventures.

The Lunch: A Taste of Spain on the Water

A delicious traditional Spanish paella is served onboard, accompanied by fresh fruit. Unlimited drinks—beers, sangria, soft drinks, and water—are available throughout the day, keeping everyone refreshed between dips in the sea or lounging on deck. Several reviews rave about the quality of the food, with one mentioning that the paella was “incredible,” and the staff makes a point of quick, hot service.

For vegetarians or those with gluten restrictions, advanced notice can ensure a suitable meal, making this experience inclusive.

Exploring Caleta del Sebo and the Surroundings

After a good chunk of water fun, the boat returns to the island for additional free time. The village of Caleta del Sebo is charming, with small shops and laid-back cafes. Many reviewers mention taking a walk around, enjoying the quiet streets, and appreciating the absence of large hotels or crowds.

The Return Journey: Relax and Reflect

The trip wraps up with a 30-minute ferry ride back to Lanzarote, during which many travelers just relax and chat about the day. The crew often sings or dances on the way back, adding to the festive vibe. The entire day lasts around 6 hours, making it a substantial experience without feeling rushed.

Who Is This Trip Perfect For?

This cruise is ideal for families, water lovers, and those wanting a relaxed but engaging day exploring La Graciosa. If you enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, or simply soaking up sunshine, you’ll find plenty to love here. The good value—considering the included meals, drinks, and activities—means it’s a strong choice for travelers seeking a memorable day without spending a fortune.

However, if you’re a serious snorkeler or want to spend hours underwater, remember that snorkel gear isn’t included, so bringing your own might be wise. Also, travelers with mobility issues should note that beach access is not permitted, and the trip involves some walking and boarding boats.

Best for

• Families with children who enjoy water activities and relaxed sightseeing.
• Travelers looking for a well-organized, friendly cruise with good options for food and drinks.
• Those wanting a balancing mix of adventure and downtime in a natural setting.

Less suited for

• Anyone seeking a party atmosphere, as the trip tends to be laid-back and family-friendly.
• Travelers with mobility challenges or those who prefer beaches with direct access.
• Snorkelers who want to rent equipment on-site—bring your own if necessary.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Bring your own snorkeling gear if underwater viewing is a priority—it’s not provided.
• Pack sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel—the sun can be intense, and you’ll be in and out of the water.
• Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning views and colorful fish.
• If you’re vegetarian or gluten-free, notify the tour operator in advance to ensure your meal needs are met.
• Arrive early for pickup to avoid missing the bus, especially since pickup from Playa Blanca isn’t available on Sundays or Mondays.
• Remember your passport or ID card, as it’s required when traveling between islands.
• The trip can be weather-dependent; if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

FAQs About the La Graciosa Island Cruise

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from designated locations in Lanzarote are included, with specific times based on your resort. Note that pickup from Playa Blanca isn’t available on Mondays.

How long is the entire trip?
The full experience lasts about 6 hours, including ferry rides, free time on the island, water activities, and the cruise itself.

Are water activities suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children enjoyed kayaking, jumping into the sea, and swimming at French Beach. The crew is friendly and attentive to safety.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, a traditional Spanish paella and fresh fruit are served, with unlimited beer, sangria, soft drinks, and water. Vegetarian options are available with prior notification.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
You can snorkel, but snorkel equipment isn’t provided, so bring your own if you want to explore underwater.

What if the weather is bad?
The operator may cancel due to weather conditions, offering an alternative date or a full refund. It’s wise to check the forecast beforehand.

Is beach access allowed on La Graciosa?
No, beach access isn’t permitted, but you can enjoy the water activities and explore the village during free time.

Final Thoughts: A Day Well Spent

This La Graciosa cruise offers a fantastic balance of water fun, scenic beauty, and authentic local charm. The reviews consistently praise the friendly crew, delicious food, and stunning scenery—all at a reasonable price given the many inclusions. It’s a day that suits families, couples, and solo travelers who love a mix of relaxation and activity.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, fun-packed day exploring one of the Canary Islands’ most tranquil spots, this cruise is hard to beat. Just remember to bring your snorkel gear if underwater viewing is your priority, and keep an eye on the weather forecast to ensure your day goes smoothly.

Whether you want to soak up sun, explore a charming village, or just enjoy good food and drinks aboard a comfortable boat, this experience offers a genuine taste of island life — with plenty of opportunity for memorable photos and stories to take home.