Gran Canaria’s coastline is a playground for anyone who loves the water. With its calm, warm seas and scenic beaches, it’s no surprise that sailing is one of the top ways to explore this island. We’ve tested and chosen the best options, including shared excursions, private yacht charters, and unique catamaran trips. Whether you’re after a lively group adventure or a peaceful private cruise, Gran Canaria has a sailing experience for you. Our favorites include the shared yacht excursion with snorkeling and lunch, which offers excellent value and lively atmosphere, and the private yacht rental, perfect for celebrating a special day with friends or family.
One stand-out is the Gran Canaria: Shared yacht excursion with beverages, lunch and snorkeling, rated 4.8/5 from hundreds of travelers. It’s praised for its friendly crew, flexible itinerary, and the chance to snorkel, paddle surf, and simply relax with drinks and snacks onboard. Alternatively, the Best Private Yacht in Gran Canaria offers a high-end, customizable experience for those seeking privacy and exclusivity. The variety of tours ensures there’s something for every type of traveler, whether you’re after a quick half-day trip or a luxurious multi-hour cruise. Check out the options below to find your ideal sailing adventure.
At number 1, this shared yacht trip offers a lively, all-inclusive experience that’s hard to beat for value. Over 379 reviews, it averages 4.8/5, with guests praising the crew’s friendliness, the quality of the snacks, and the chance to snorkel in vibrant waters. The 3.5 to 4-hour itinerary includes stops for snorkeling, paddle surfing, and enjoying unlimited drinks and snacks in a cozy, music-filled atmosphere. The boat departs from a location with over 62 pickup points, making it convenient no matter where you’re staying.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of relaxed fun and variety — you can snorkel, paddleboard, or simply lounge while soaking up the sun. The crew is attentive and knowledgeable, and reviews mention how welcoming and accommodating they are. The trip is perfect for travelers who want a social, energetic outing but still enjoy comfort and good food. It’s particularly good for first-timers or families. The only catch might be the sea temperature — some reviewers find it a bit chilly, but it didn’t stop the fun.
Bottom Line: Great for social travelers, families, and those wanting a balanced mix of activities and relaxation at a reasonable price.
2. Sailing Trip and Snorkeling at Puerto de Mogan
Holding a perfect 5.0/5 from 162 reviews, this sailing and snorkeling experience focuses on exploring the waters near Puerto de Mogan. It’s a 4-hour trip that emphasizes swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding, with a stop at a secluded bay featuring a deserted beach for a relaxing lunch and more swimming.
What makes this tour stand out is the intimate, friendly atmosphere fostered by the knowledgeable crew, who share insights about the local marine environment and history. Guests rave about the quality of the lunch and the attentiveness of the hosts, who make everyone feel comfortable. The trip’s focus on smaller groups and personalized attention makes it ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, scenic day on the sea. Because it includes lunch, beer, wine, and soft drinks, it offers excellent value for a full day of fun and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who value personal service, great food, and a peaceful snorkeling adventure.
3. Gran Canaria: Sailboat Trip with Food, Drinks (max 8 people)
Number 3 on our list is an intimate sailboat trip that takes up to 8 guests for a 4-hour cruise from Puerto de Mogan. It’s a great way to experience the feeling of being part of the crew while enjoying included food and drinks — soft drinks, beer, and wine. The itinerary includes sailing along southern Gran Canaria, with stops for snorkeling and sightseeing, giving you a personalized experience without the crowds.
Guests appreciate the chance to be close to the water and see the coastline from a different perspective. Since it’s a smaller group, you’ll have more space to relax or socialize. The thrill of watching the sails fill with wind is a highlight, and reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. The tour’s balanced mix of sailing, swimming, and dining makes it an excellent choice for couples or small groups wanting a luxurious yet personal adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a private, relaxed day on the water with gourmet touches and personalized service.
4. Gran Canaria: Catamaran tour with lunch along unspoiled beaches
Rated 4.8/5 from 83 reviews, this catamaran tour highlights the coast of Mogan, showcasing its pristine beaches and caves. The 4.5-hour trip offers snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, swimming, and a gourmet paella lunch aboard a small group vessel. The itinerary includes exploring caves and cliffs along the coast, making it more than a simple boat ride.
Guests praise the tour for its exclusivity and natural beauty. The small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, and the scenery is breathtaking — perfect for photography and relaxing. The included lunch and drinks are well-reviewed, and the optional on-board activities like snorkeling make it engaging. It’s best suited for travelers who want a scenic, luxury experience in a quiet environment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, gourmet food, and a tranquil sea adventure.
5. Best Private Yacht in Gran Canaria
The Private Yacht offers a customizable experience for up to 8-10 people, with durations from 3 hours up to a full day. It’s the top choice if you’re celebrating something special or want an exclusive experience. You get a captain and crew, your own playlist, snorkeling gear, and stand-up paddleboards — all tailored to your preferences.
Guests love the feeling of being a VIP, with the freedom to choose your route and activities. Reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, as well as the flexibility to include food, drinks, and water sports. The longer trips, up to 8 hours, are perfect for a full-day adventure along the coast or even a sunset cruise. The main advantage is privacy and personalized service, making it a premium experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups celebrating a special occasion, or those wanting a completely customized sea day.
6. Gran Canaria: Private 3-5-hour all-inclusive Catamaran Cruise
Rated 5/5 from 9 reviews, this private catamaran cruise provides a cozy, all-inclusive day with a skipper and host. It’s perfect for small groups looking for a taste of luxury, complete with lunch, drinks, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and scenic views.
Guests mention the spacious interior and exterior of the Lagoon 421, making it suitable for relaxing or socializing. The itinerary includes swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a delicious lunch with local tapas. Its private setting allows for a more intimate experience with personalized attention. It’s a good fit for couples, families, or small groups seeking a flexible, luxury outing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a private, all-inclusive day with a relaxed pace and personalized service.
7. Maspalomas Sunset Sailing Experience
This sunset sailing is a short 2.5 to 3-hour trip rated 5/5, designed for romance and atmosphere. It’s perfect for celebrating a special moment, with excellent service, music, and the chance to watch the sun dip below the horizon while tasting local products.
Guests rave about the beautiful scenery and the relaxing vibe onboard, making it a memorable way to end a day. The tour is limited to groups of up to 6, providing an intimate setting to enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand. It’s best for couples or small groups looking for an atmospheric, low-key experience.
Bottom Line: Best for romantic couples and anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic evening on the water.
8. Pasito Blanco: Private sailing tour with food & drinks
Rated 5/5 from 7 reviews, this luxury private tour combines snorkeling, scenic sailing, and gourmet food for 3 to 7 hours. It includes a route tailored to weather conditions, with crew speaking four languages, and a focus on comfort and quality.
Guests love the high standard of service and the delicious food, which makes it ideal for celebrating or just indulging. The tour’s flexibility allows you to choose your preferred stop and activities, making it a personalized experience. Its longer duration suits those wanting a full day of water fun and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a high-end, customizable day on the water with excellent cuisine.
9. Puerto de Mogan: Private yacht up to 10 persons
With a 4.7/5 rating from 3 reviews, this private yacht offers a 3-hour cruise starting from Puerto de Mogan. It features multiple stops, including Playa Perchel, Veneguera, and Güigüí, with water activities, snacks, and drinks.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the ability to customize the route. The captain and crew are friendly and attentive, ensuring a smooth, fun trip. It’s suited for small groups or families wanting a quick but enriching escape on the sea with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Recommended for those who want a private, flexible short cruise with water sports and snacks.
10. Puerto de Mogan: PRIVATE Yacht for up to 10 persons
This full-day private yacht offers 6 hours of sea adventure, perfect for celebrating a milestone or enjoying a leisurely day. It includes water activities, food, drinks, and the chance to sail along the coast at your own pace.
Guests rave about the captain’s professionalism and the yacht’s spacious layout, which offers plenty of room to relax or dance. The customizable itinerary and onboard amenities make it a premier choice for groups seeking privacy and luxury. Booking early is recommended since these experiences tend to fill up quickly.
Bottom Line: Best for special occasions, families, or groups wanting a personalized, luxurious day at sea.
11. Gran Canaria: Catamaran Tour with Lunch and Drinks
Finally, this catamaran tour offers a 4-hour journey along the south coast, with potential dolphin sightings. It includes a beach stop, sunbathing, and the option for parasailing or jet skis on-site.
Rated 4.3/5, it combines fun and relaxation with a chance to see marine life and enjoy a tasty onboard lunch. It’s suitable for families and groups wanting a balanced experience of activity and leisure, with the added thrill of optional water sports. Its friendly crew and scenic route make it a popular choice for those with a bit of everything in mind.
Bottom Line: Best for families and mixed groups looking for a lively, scenic day with optional water sports.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience
When selecting a sailing tour, consider your budget, group size, and what you most want to experience. For a lively social vibe and excellent value, the shared yacht excursion is ideal. If privacy and customization are your priorities, the private yacht or full-day private options will suit you best. For scenic beauty, natural scenery, and gourmet dining, the catamaran trips and catamaran with unspoiled beaches are perfect.
Think about how much time you have — a 2.5-hour sunset cruise is great for a romantic evening, while full-day private charters are perfect for celebrating special occasions. Booking early is smart, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and boat.
Gran Canaria’s waters offer a diverse array of sailing experiences, from social outings to luxurious private charters. Whether you want to snorkel in clear waters, watch the sunset in peace, or celebrate with friends, there’s a trip that fits your style. For a memorable adventure, we recommend booking well in advance — these tours fill up faster than a sunbather on a busy beach. Now, all that’s left is to pick your perfect sea day and enjoy everything this beautiful island’s coast has to offer.