The Atlantic Awaits
Gran Canaria offers exceptional maritime excursions. From catamaran rides with whale watching to romantic sunset sails, the Atlantic Ocean is the protagonist of unforgettable experiences.
Canarian waters are home to over 30 cetacean species, making the island one of Europe's best destinations for spotting them.
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Types of Excursions
Whale Watching ⭐
The most popular experience. Dolphins and whales in the wild.
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2.5-4 hours |
| Price | €35-60/person |
| Departure | Puerto Rico, Mogán |
| Success rate | 95%+ |
| Distance from Las Canteras | 55-65 km |
#### What to See
| Species | Probability | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Bottlenose dolphin | Very high | Year-round |
| Atlantic spotted dolphin | High | Year-round |
| Short-finned pilot whale | High | Year-round |
| Pilot whale | Medium | Year-round |
| Sperm whale | Low | Spring |
| Bryde's whale | Rare | Winter |
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Catamaran Cruise
Relaxed sailing with swimming and snorkeling.
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3-5 hours |
| Price | €45-80/person |
| Includes | Drinks, food, snorkel |
| Departure | Puerto Rico, Arguineguín |
#### Catamaran Types
| Type | Capacity | Price | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared | 50-100 pax | €45-60 | Lively |
| Small groups | 12-20 pax | €60-80 | Intimate |
| Private | 10-15 pax | €400-800 | Exclusive |
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Sunset Sailing
Romantic evening experience.
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2-3 hours |
| Price | €50-90/person |
| Includes | Champagne, snacks |
| Atmosphere | Romantic, peaceful |
| Departure | Mogán, Puerto Rico |
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Boat Party
Music, dancing and fun at sea.
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3-4 hours |
| Price | €40-70/person |
| Includes | Drinks, DJ |
| Age | Adults (18+) |
| Days | Fridays, Saturdays |
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Yellow Submarine
Underwater views without getting wet.
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 45-60 min |
| Price | €35-45/person |
| Depth | Up to 25 meters |
| Ideal for | Families, children |
| Departure | Puerto de Mogán |
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Departure Ports
Puerto Rico
The most popular for excursions.
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Southwest |
| Options | Very wide |
| Distance from Las Canteras | 55 km (45 min) |
Puerto de Mogán
More peaceful and exclusive atmosphere.
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Southwest |
| Options | Medium-high |
| Distance from Las Canteras | 65 km (50 min) |
Arguineguín
Fishing port with authentic options.
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | South |
| Options | Limited but good |
| Distance from Las Canteras | 50 km (40 min) |
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2026 Prices
By Excursion Type
| Excursion | Duration | Adult Price | Child Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dolphin watching | 2.5h | €40-50 | €25-30 |
| Shared catamaran | 4h | €55-70 | €30-40 |
| Premium catamaran | 4h | €70-90 | €45-55 |
| Sunset sailing | 2.5h | €60-80 | €40-50 |
| Boat party | 3h | €50-70 | - |
| Submarine | 1h | €40 | €30 |
What's Usually Included
| Service | Basic | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Drinks | Water, soft drinks | Open bar |
| Food | Snacks | Lunch |
| Snorkel | Sometimes | Yes |
| Towels | No | Yes |
| Photos | No | Yes |
| Hotel transfer | Optional | Sometimes |
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Best Companies
Recommended
| Company | Specialty | Port |
|---|---|---|
| Spirit of the Sea | Catamaran, dolphins | Puerto Rico |
| Africacat | Large catamaran | Puerto Rico |
| Dolphin Safari | Whale watching | Mogán |
| Blue Bird | Sailing boat | Arguineguín |
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Practical Tips
Before Booking
| Tip | Reason |
|---|---|
| Book 1-2 days ahead | Limited spots |
| Check weather | Cancelled in rough seas |
| Ask what's included | Avoid surprises |
| Bring cash | Tips, extras |
During the Excursion
| Tip | Reason |
|---|---|
| Motion sickness pills | If you get seasick |
| Sunscreen | Very important |
| Swimsuit under clothes | For swimming |
| Waterproof camera | For wet photos |
| Hat | Intense sun |
Best Season
| Month | Conditions | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Apr-Oct | Optimal | Calm sea |
| Nov-Mar | Variable | Possible cancellations |
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FAQ
Where do boats depart from?
Mainly from Puerto Rico and Mogán, in the southwest. They're 45-50 minutes from Las Canteras by car.
Do you always see dolphins?
The probability is over 95% on specialized excursions. Bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales are permanent residents. Free repeat trip if none are spotted.
Do excursions include hotel transport?
Some yes, some no. Ask when booking. Extra transport usually costs €10-20/person.
Can I go with children?
Yes, most accept children. Whale watching and catamaran excursions are ideal for families. Boat parties are adults only.
What if the weather is bad?
It's cancelled or rescheduled with full refund. The sea in Gran Canaria is usually calm, but the southwest is the most protected area.
What's the best time to see dolphins?
Early morning (9:00-11:00) they tend to be more active. But they're seen throughout the day.Can I rent a private boat?
Yes, private charters from €400-800 for groups of 8-15 people. Ideal for celebrations or exclusive experiences.
Looking for a vacation rental apartment?
Casita Palmera is a licensed vacation rental apartment 50 metres from Las Canteras Beach.
View Apartment