Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: Premium Dolphin Catamaran Tour

This review takes a close look at the Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: Premium Dolphin Catamaran Tour, a 4-hour sea adventure offered in the sunny south of Gran Canaria. With a focus on dolphin sightings, stunning coastal scenery, and onboard comfort, this experience seems to blend relaxation with the thrill of wildlife watching. I’ve gathered plenty of details from travelers’ reviews, itinerary descriptions, and the tour’s features to help you decide whether this trip is worth your time and money.

Two things I really like about this tour are the opportunity to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat—which is genuinely exciting—and the relaxed, comfortable atmosphere onboard, thanks to the well-designed catamaran with plenty of space to lounge. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and water sports activities at discounted rates makes it a well-rounded outing for those who like to mix relaxation with a bit of adventure.

On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour only departs from the south of Gran Canaria, meaning if you’re staying elsewhere, you’ll need to arrange transport. Also, there’s a mention of minor mishaps, such as a reviewer noting that a mattress flew away during the trip, so preparedness for small surprises is wise. Overall, it’s a pleasant experience, especially if you’re eager to spend part of your day on the water with a good chance of seeing some marine life.

Key points / Takeaways

• Wildlife Viewing: The main highlight is the chance to spot dolphins, turtles, flying fish, and even whales, making this a memorable nature experience.
• Comfort and Convenience: The catamaran offers maximum comfort with ample space and onboard amenities like a bar and a delicious lunch.
• Onboard Water Activities: Snorkeling gear and water sports, including banana boat rides, are included or available at discounts—perfect for those seeking more than just sightseeing.
• Flexible Booking Options: You can reserve with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and “reserve now, pay later” makes planning flexible.
• Local Guides: Expect knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights about marine life and the coastline.
• Limited Area Pickup: The tour offers pickup and drop-off only from the south of Gran Canaria, which is handy but might not suit every traveler.

Starting Point: Puerto Rico Base and Logistical Details

This tour begins at the Puerto Rico Base, a popular hub in the south of Gran Canaria. The departure times vary, so it’s best to check the available slots when booking. The tour’s length is 4 hours, which strikes a good balance—long enough to see plenty of marine life and coastal sights but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring.

If you’re staying in the southern part of the island—like Bahia Feliz, Mogan, or nearby—you’ll appreciate the included pickup service, which simplifies logistics. Just remember to inform your hotel during booking so they can coordinate your pickup time. If you’re outside the designated area, you’ll need to consider alternative transportation.

The Catamaran: Comfortable, Well-Equipped, and Fun

The vessel used for this trip is a premium catamaran designed for maximum passenger comfort. It’s spacious, stable, and equipped to handle the scenic cruise along the coast. As one traveler noted, the atmosphere on board was “great,” with a lively yet relaxed vibe. The onboard bar serves drinks freely, and a lunch is provided, adding to the enjoyable experience.

The boat’s design lends itself to excellent wildlife viewing. Large windows and open decks mean you can watch for dolphins, whales, and seabirds from almost any spot. Plus, the anchoring spot at the end of the cruise offers an opportunity to swim or snorkel in clear waters—if you’re prepared and comfortable with water activities.

Marine Wildlife: What You Can Expect to See

The primary draw of this tour is dolphin watching. The waters around Gran Canaria are known for their dolphin populations, and if luck is on your side, you’ll see pods of playful dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The chance to see whales is also mentioned, adding a majestic element to the voyage.

Travelers report that guides are knowledgeable and eager to point out marine life. One reviewer shared that “the atmosphere was great,” and despite a minor mishap where a mattress flew away, everything else went smoothly. The chance to see flying fish and turtles further enriches the experience, making it more than just a boat ride—it becomes a real chance to encounter nature.

The Coastal Sights: Sea Caves, Cliffs, and Beaches

As the boat cruises along the coast, you’ll pass by impressive sea caves, towering cliffs, and untouched beaches. These sights are perfect for photographs and give a sense of the rugged beauty of Gran Canaria’s southern coast. The captain and guides often share interesting facts, helping you understand the geology and history of the area.

The Onboard Experience: Food, Drinks, and Water Sports

A highlight of the trip is the excellent onboard amenities. The bar offers a range of drinks, and the included lunch is a tasty addition to sustain you through the trip. You can also snorkel with provided gear—an activity many travelers find fun and refreshing.

Water sports activities like banana boat rides are available at discounted rates, making this tour a good choice if you want to add some adrenaline to your day. Some reviews mention that discounts on jet skis and parasailing make it more accessible for those looking to try different water adventures.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, families, and groups of friends who enjoy relaxing on the water while looking for marine life. If you’re someone who appreciates comfortable cruising and a laid-back atmosphere, you’ll likely enjoy this tour. It’s also suitable if you’d like an easy, all-in-one outing that includes snorkeling, water sports, and good food.

However, if you’re prone to sea-sickness, be sure to take medication beforehand, as the open sea can be unpredictable. The fact that the tour only departs from the south means you should plan your logistics accordingly.

Price and Overall Value

At $73 per person, this tour presents solid value considering the inclusions of snorkel gear, water sports discounts, lunch, and drinks. The opportunity to see dolphins and whales in natural surroundings is priceless for wildlife enthusiasts. The comfort and convenience of the vessel and the flexible booking options—like free cancellation and pay later—add to its appeal.

While it’s not the cheapest in the region, the combination of features and the chance to enjoy a memorable marine adventure make it worthwhile for many travelers.

Final Thoughts

This premium dolphin catamaran tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to explore Gran Canaria’s southern waters. The chance to spot dolphins and other marine creatures in their natural habitat makes it stand out. The onboard amenities and scenic coastal sights add to its appeal, especially if you value good service and relaxed cruising.

Who should consider this tour? If you’re looking for a family-friendly, wildlife-focused adventure with the comfort of a spacious boat and tasty onboard food, this is a solid choice. It’s also a good option for those wanting to combine sightseeing, water activities, and wildlife watching into one enjoyable afternoon.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more active or adrenaline-fueled outing, you might want to explore some of the other water sports available at discounted prices or consider different tours that include different regions or longer durations.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 4 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy wildlife viewing, coastal scenery, and water activities without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Puerto Rico Base in southern Gran Canaria. Pickup and drop-off are included from Bahia Feliz to Mogan, but not outside this area.

Can I see dolphins and whales?
Yes, the main highlight is the opportunity to spot dolphins, and there’s also a chance to see whales, depending on the day’s marine activity.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is provided onboard, along with an open bar offering drinks. This makes the trip more enjoyable and less about spending extra money during the cruise.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear (goggles) is included, and you can snorkel at the anchoring spot after the cruise. Water sports like banana boat rides are also available at discounts.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change unexpectedly.

To sum it up, the Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: Premium Dolphin Catamaran Tour offers a practical mix of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and onboard comfort. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, family-friendly experience with the chance to see dolphins and whales in the wild, complemented by water sports and tasty food. Just be prepared for the possibility of minor surprises and plan your transport accordingly. For many, it’s a memorable way to spend a few hours exploring Gran Canaria’s stunning southern coast.