The 7 Best Snorkeling Experiences in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria isn’t just about sandy beaches and sunbathing; it’s a fantastic place for snorkeling. The island’s crystal-clear waters, varied marine life, and accessible coastal spots make it a top destination for underwater explorers. Whether you’re after a relaxing yacht trip, a more intimate sailing adventure, or a guided snorkeling tour with equipment included, Gran Canaria has options for every type of traveler. We particularly like the shared yacht excursion, thanks to its lively atmosphere, great reviews, and all-inclusive vibe—plus paddle surfing and local guides that make the experience stand out. If you’re curious about the sea, one of these tours will definitely connect you with the island’s underwater world. For a family-friendly option, the Snorkeling in Gran Canaria with Hotel Pick-up offers a low-key, informative adventure suitable for all ages.
Quick Overview
This list covers yacht excursions, sailing trips, guided snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboard tours—each offering a different way to experience Gran Canaria’s coast. From the luxurious shared yacht trip with drinks and lunch to small-group outings that focus on personalized attention, there’s something for every budget and interest. Check out the options below to find your perfect match.
At number one is this highly-rated shared yacht excursion, with a 4.8/5 rating from nearly 400 reviews. For around 3.5 to 4 hours, you’ll experience an enjoyable ride on a comfortable boat, with unlimited drinks, tasty snacks, and a delicious lunch included. The trip stands out for its relaxed atmosphere, great music, and local guides who help you explore the marine life of Gran Canaria. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can easily dive into the water and see vibrant fish and underwater scenery. The boat also offers paddle surfing—perfect whether you’re a beginner or have some experience. Reviewers love the crew’s friendliness and the value, describing it as “stunning” and “well-organized.” The pickup is available from numerous hotels, making this a hassle-free choice. The bottom line — if you want a fun, social day on the water with excellent service, this trip is hard to beat.
2. Sailing Trip and Snorkeling at Puerto de Mogan
On our second spot, a 5.0/5 rated sailing adventure takes you near Puerto de Mogan. This 4-hour trip is perfect for those who want a more intimate, sailing-focused experience. The tour includes stops for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding, with the boat anchoring in a secluded bay and a deserted beach for lunch. The crew, described as full of knowledge about marine life and local history, creates a relaxed, educational environment. The food and drinks—beer, wine, and soft drinks—are included, making it a full package. Reviewers praise the personalized attention and the chance to explore in peace. The tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or families looking for a quieter but equally engaging day at sea. The focus on sailing and the peaceful bay setting make this a top choice for tranquil waters.
3. Snorkeling in Gran Canaria with Hotel Pick-up
If convenience and a guided experience are your priorities, this family-friendly snorkeling tour scores a perfect 5.0/5. It includes hotel pickup, so you can skip the logistics of finding the meeting point, and all the equipment you need. Led by a PADI instructor, this tour is suitable for first-timers and families, with tips for safe snorkeling and plenty of info about marine life. The spots chosen are known for their abundance of colorful fish and underwater sights, making it a memorable experience for all ages. Guests appreciate the professional guidance and the relaxed atmosphere. The wetsuits provided help you stay warm in cooler waters, and the whole trip is designed to be simple and enjoyable. The bottom line — for a hassle-free, educational snorkel adventure with expert guidance, this tour delivers excellent value.
4. Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria: boat trip, drinks, food, paddle surfing, snorkeling
Number four is a classic boat trip with 30 years of experience, offering an active day on the water. The boat departs from Puerto Rico and offers snorkeling and paddle surfing as well as scenic views and a chance to relax. The itinerary includes a scenic pass-by, local snacks, and scuba and parasailing options. It’s perfect for families or travelers who want a mix of water activities in a lively environment. The boat’s reputation for being fun and friendly is clear from reviews praising the family atmosphere and the variety of activities. The trip is about four hours long, providing a good taste of Gran Canaria’s coastal waters with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. This experience balances adventure with social fun and is ideal for those wanting a full day on the water with variety.
5. 4 Hour Boat Tour with Snorkeling from Puerto Rico and Mogan
This small-group tour, with a maximum of 12 people, ranks high for its personalized approach. For about 4 to 5 hours, you’ll visit three key spots: Playa Taurito, Puerto de Mogan, and Playa de Veneguera. The tour includes lunch, drinks, and activities like paddle surfing and visiting inflatables. Reviewers highlight the attention to client needs and the delicious food and drinks. The trip’s intimate size makes it perfect for those who prefer a more tailored experience, away from big crowds. It’s a flexible, well-organized choice for families or couples who want to explore different beaches and snorkel spots comfortably. The highlight is the chance to see remote coastal towns and beautiful snorkeling.
6. Gran Canaria: Stand-Up Paddle Lesson & Snorkeling Tour
Coming in at number six, this stand-up paddle (SUP) and snorkeling tour combines two popular water activities. The tour starts at PRO SURFING COMPANY, with a focus on mastering paddleboarding while exploring Gran Canaria’s coast. Led by an experienced instructor, even beginners find it accessible and fun. The tour includes a two-hour paddle session, with opportunities to see fish and even a turtle, making it perfect for those who want to try something active but not overly demanding. Guests praise the friendly guidance and the chance to learn a new skill in a beautiful setting. This experience appeals to travelers who want to mix adventure and learning with underwater exploration. The bottom line — if you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy the water and improve your paddle skills, this tour offers great value.
7. Stand Up Paddle and Snorkeling Tour of Gran Canaria with Transfers south area
Finally, the most exclusive experience is a personalized, family-friendly paddle and snorkeling tour, with a maximum of 13 participants. For about 3 hours and 45 minutes, you learn to paddleboard with a skilled instructor before enjoying a guided snorkel session. The trip includes all equipment and round-trip transfer from your hotel—a real convenience. This tour is ideal for families or groups wanting a tailored, relaxed outing with expert guidance. Guests mention that the focus on ease of learning and comfortable pace makes it suitable for all ages and skill levels. The bottom line — if you prefer a private, stress-free experience with all logistics handled, this tour delivers.
How to Choose Your Perfect Snorkeling Experience
When selecting a snorkeling tour in Gran Canaria, think about your budget, time constraints, and what kind of experience you want. If you’re after a lively social day with drinks and lunch, the Shared yacht excursion offers great value. For a quieter, more tailored adventure, the small-group Snorkeling with hotel pickup or the snorkel and paddleboard combination might suit you better.
Consider your fitness level and interests—if you want to learn paddleboarding, the SUP lesson is a fun option. Families or those seeking a hassle-free experience should look at the tours that include hotel pick-up or all equipment provided. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, and always check the weather forecast, as calm seas make for better snorkeling.
Final Thoughts
Gran Canaria offers a diverse selection of snorkeling experiences, from social yacht trips with unlimited drinks to small-group guided tours. For those seeking a lively, all-day adventure, the shared yacht excursion is hard to beat. If you prefer a quiet, intimate setting, the sailing trips or personalized paddle and snorkel tours will suit you best. Families and beginners will appreciate the hotel pickup snorkeling and the guided instruction it provides.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance ensures a spot for your preferred date. These tours highlight the best that Gran Canaria’s waters have to offer, making it a must-do part of your island trip. Dive in early and enjoy your underwater adventure!