4 Hour Boat Tour with Snorkeling from Puerto Rico and Mogan

This 4-hour boat trip along the south coast of Gran Canaria offers a relaxed way to enjoy the island’s stunning coastal scenery, with opportunities for snorkeling, paddle surfing, and a delicious included lunch. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly outing or a peaceful escape on the water, this tour appeals to those who value personalized service and authentic experiences.

What we love about this trip is its small-group atmosphere—never more than 12 people—making for a more intimate and attentive experience. The inclusion of drinks, lunch, and activities like inflatable platforms and paddle surfing adds a fun, laid-back vibe. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the itinerary might be less action-packed than expected, with a slower pace and limited stops.

Designed for travelers who enjoy a combination of relaxation, scenic views, and light adventure, this tour is perfect if you want to explore Canary Island waters without feeling rushed. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate good service, authentic local spots, and the chance to snorkel in clear waters.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• All-inclusive with drinks, lunch, and water sports equipment for added value
• Scenic coastal stops like Playa Taurito and Puerto de Mogan showcase local beauty
• Snorkeling at Veneguera provides a memorable underwater experience
• Flexible scheduling with pickup and mobile tickets offers ease of planning
• Mixed reviews highlight great crew and beautiful views but note some may find it slow or less active

Detailed Review of the 4 Hour Boat Tour

The Experience at a Glance

This tour, operated by Panda Boats, promises an introduction to Gran Canaria’s south coast with a personalized departure. The max group size of 12 travelers means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the small boat makes for a cozy, friendly environment. The booking window suggests that most travelers plan ahead—on average, trips are booked about 24 days in advance, which indicates good demand and planning.

The price of approximately $86.89 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions: snorkeling gear, drinks, lunch, and the boat ride itself. For many, the value lies in the combination of scenic beauty, light activity, and personalized service.

Transportation & Meeting Points

The pick-up service is a helpful convenience, especially considering the often tricky logistics of getting to a boat dock. The tour starts at Panda Boat Amarre EC 04, near Puerto Rico, and ends right back at the meeting point, simplifying your day. Travelers should note that the transportation is a shared shuttle, and some reviews mention that the ride can be a bit bumpy—so if motion sickness is a concern, take precautions.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Playa Taurito

Your trip begins by passing this local beach, known for its calm waters. The stop here lasts about an hour, giving you a chance to snap photos, enjoy the scenery, or perhaps do a quick swim. Since the admission is free and no activities are included here, it’s more about the view and a gentle introduction to the coastline. Some reviews mention that this stop is more of a passing highlight rather than a focus—you won’t spend long here, but it sets the tone for the day’s relaxed pace.

Stop 2: Puerto de Mogan

Next, you’ll cruise to Puerto de Mogan, often called “Little Venice” for its colorful canarian buildings and picturesque harbor. This charming fishing village is a favorite—perfect for a brief stroll, taking in the vibrant sights, or grabbing a quick photo. The one-hour stop allows you to breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy the scenic views of the coast.

Stop 3: Playa de Veneguera

The highlight for many is this remote coastal town and the snorkeling spot. The tour spends roughly two hours here, giving enough time for swimming, exploring underwater life, and soaking up the tranquil ambiance. The included snorkeling equipment helps you get into the water easily, and the reviews highlight how much travelers appreciate this feature. One traveler called it “a magnificent snorkeling spot and views,” which is a good description—crystal-clear waters and a peaceful setting make for a memorable aquatic experience.

Activities and Inclusions

This trip doesn’t just stop at sightseeing. It’s designed to be fun and engaging with paddle surfing, inflatable platforms, and the chance to snorkel. The floating platforms are particularly popular among families and groups who want to relax on the water.

The lunch is a generous spread—salad, potato with mojo, chicken, Spanish tortilla—accompanied by drinks including water, beer, soft drinks, and Sangria. Several reviews mention the quality of the food and drinks, emphasizing that they are plentiful and well-cared-for, contributing greatly to the laid-back vibe.

Snorkel gear is provided, which means you can explore the underwater life of Veneguera without extra hassle. Many reviews recall the clarity of the waters and the joy of swimming in such a pristine environment.

Crew, Service, and Atmosphere

The crew receives high praise for their attentiveness and friendly approach. Multiple reviewers mention how helpful and accommodating the staff are, with comments like “really attentive from start to finish” and “the crew Alberto and Quenez looked after us superbly.” That personal touch makes a big difference on such a small-group trip, making you feel well looked-after and comfortable.

Some travelers describe the boat as “luxurious,” especially the Sea Ray Sundancer, and mention the crew’s good humor and professionalism. The boat itself is well-maintained, and the small size means you don’t feel lost at sea.

The Downside: Pace & Stops

A few reviews note that the trip can feel slow or somewhat uneventful. One stated, “nothing special about this excursion,” citing that it mainly involves sailing to a spot, anchoring, and then sailing back. Others found the limited stops and duration to be a bit restrained, especially if you’re expecting more activities or multiple swimming opportunities.

Plus, transportation to and from the dock isn’t perfect—one reviewer mentioned a bumpy ride that caused motion sickness. It’s worth considering if you’re sensitive to rough rides or nausea.

The Value for Money

At around $86.89, this tour isn’t budget-basement cheap but offers good value considering the inclusions—snorkeling gear, drinks, a hearty lunch, and the small-group environment. The reviews confirm that many feel it’s worth the price, especially when you factor in the personal service and the chance to explore different coastal spots.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with light adventure, this trip hits the mark. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a more intimate experience. The focus on snorkeling and water activities makes it appealing to those who enjoy a splash of aquatic fun without the chaos of larger, crowded tours.

Travelers who appreciate good cuisine, friendly guides, and beautiful views will find this tour quite satisfying. However, if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline adventure or multiple stops, you might find it a little too tame.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This small-group boat tour offers a peaceful way to see the coast of Gran Canaria and enjoy some underwater exploration. Its charm lies in its personalized attention, scenic stops, and inclusive amenities. The trip suits travelers who value quality over quantity, and who want a relaxed day on the water with the chance to snorkel and unwind.

It’s particularly well-suited for families, couples, or small groups looking for a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The included lunch, drinks, and water sports add a lot of value, making it a convenient, all-in-one outdoor experience.

If you’re someone who enjoys a scenic cruise with manageable activities and authentic touches, this tour will likely leave you with good memories—and maybe some great photos of the coast. Just remember, if you’re expecting a high-energy or action-packed outing, this might be more mellow than some other options.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, this tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, especially since it includes water activities like snorkeling and paddle surfing, which are generally safe and fun for children.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
The tour provides snorkeling equipment, so you only need to bring your swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a towel. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended for sun protection.

Can I join if I don’t swim?
While swimming isn’t mandatory, you should be comfortable in the water or with floating devices. The crew is friendly and helpful, and snorkeling is at a designated spot where you can stay close to the surface.

How long are the stops at each location?
Playa Taurito and Puerto de Mogan each get about an hour, while Playa de Veneguera, with the snorkeling, lasts around two hours. This gives enough time to explore, swim, or relax.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes a hearty lunch with salads, chicken, Spanish tortilla, and drinks like water, beer, and soft drinks. Many reviews praise the food and the plentiful drinks service.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 12, which allows for a personal, intimate experience. This small size is often highlighted as a positive aspect.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring you don’t lose out.

This boat tour combines scenic coastal views, light water fun, and good company—making it a memorable part of your Gran Canaria trip. Whether you’re in it for the snorkeling, the scenery, or just a relaxing day at sea, it offers a genuine taste of island life.