Boat Trip with Tapas, Snorkelling and Paddleboarding Gran Canaria

Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria and Puerto Escala

Puerto Rico is one of the sunniest resorts in Gran Canaria, set in a ravine on the south-west coast with a sheltered golden beach and a busy harbour. Its boat port, Puerto Escala, is the departure point for many of the island's boat trips, and the calm, warm water off this coast makes it ideal for days at sea in every season.

Your Puerto Rico Gran Canaria boat trip starts at the entrance to the boat port, where the crew welcomes you aboard a classic boat designed for comfort. On the upper deck adjustable loungers face the sun, while the lower deck offers a shaded area with comfortable seating, so everyone can find their favourite spot. The boat has a toilet and life jackets in every size, from small children to adults.

The cliffs of the south-west coast

Leaving the harbour, the boat heads along one of the most dramatic stretches of Gran Canaria's coastline. Here volcanic cliffs rise straight out of the sea in layers of red, brown and ochre, cut by deep ravines that end in small beaches. Few roads reach this coast, so the best way to see it is from the water.

For about 45 minutes the crew cruises slowly past the scenery with photo stops along the way. Look out for seabirds nesting in the rock, the changing colours of the water and, on lucky days, dolphins that sometimes swim in these waters. Have your camera ready, because the views of the cliffs from the sea are some of the most memorable images of a holiday in the south of the island.

Cueva del Agua, the Water Cave

The Cueva del Agua, or Water Cave, is a sea cave carved into the cliffs by thousands of years of waves. Its dark entrance contrasts with the bright blue water outside, and inside the light reflects off the water onto the rock. It is one of the scenic highlights of the route and a favourite photo spot.

The boat approaches the cave so you can see it closely and hear the sound of the waves echoing in the rock, always depending on the state of the sea. The crew shares stories about the coast and its formations, and then continues towards the beach where the main stop of the day takes place.

Playa del Perchel: swimming, snorkelling and paddleboarding

Playa del Perchel is a small beach at the foot of steep cliffs on the south-west coast, with clear water ideal for swimming. The boat anchors here for about two and a half hours, the longest part of the trip, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sea at your own pace.

Snorkelling equipment is provided to explore the rocky seabed and its fish, and stand-up paddleboards are available for everyone who wants to try. Children can wear life jackets in the water, and the crew helps beginners. If you want more adrenaline, jet skis and other water sports can be booked at the beach for an extra payment. Or simply stretch out on a lounger and enjoy the sun.

Tapas on board and practical tips

During the stop the crew serves a selection of Spanish tapas, small plates to share that are typical of Spanish dining, together with water, juices and soft drinks throughout the trip. It is a relaxed way to have lunch or an afternoon snack without leaving the beach.

Bring a towel, sunscreen and beachwear; towels are not provided. Morning trips leave at 10:30 and afternoon trips at 15:00, each lasting about four hours, so the afternoon trip returns as the light turns golden. Children up to 12 travel with their families and the calm beach makes this an excellent family boat trip in Gran Canaria. Trips run all year, with the warmest water from late summer to autumn.