Lanzarote looks extraordinary from the shore. The black lava cliffs, the pale volcanic craters and the rust-coloured headlands are the sights that most visitors come for. But the view from the water is something else entirely. From the deck of a catamaran, the island’s coastline reveals a different character: hidden coves, sea caves, lava arches and stretches of wild cliff face that are simply inaccessible any other way.
Boat trips in Lanzarote are one of the most consistently enjoyable ways to spend a day, whether you are chasing dolphins off the west coast, snorkelling in the sheltered waters around the Papagayo beaches, or making the short crossing to La Graciosa for a taste of life without paved roads. There is no shortage of options, and they suit all kinds of travellers — families with young children, couples after a sunset cruise, divers wanting access to the Museo Atlántico, and anyone who just wants to spend a few hours afloat with a cold drink in hand.
This Boat Trips Lanzarote guide covers every type of boat trip available on the island, where they leave from, what to expect, and how to make the best choice for your trip. For a broader look at getting the most from your time here, take a look at the full guide to planning your Lanzarote holiday which covers everything from resorts to timing and getting around.
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Boat Trips Lanzarote Contents
Types of Boat Trips Available in Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s three main departure points — Marina Rubicón in Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen harbour, and Puerto Calero marina — between them offer a broad range of water-based experiences. Here is what is on the table:
- Catamaran trips — the most popular choice; typically half or full day with snorkelling stops and food and drink included
- Whale and dolphin watching excursions — dedicated wildlife trips with a focus on responsible observation
- Glass-bottom boat and semi-submarine tours — ideal for families and non-swimmers who want to see what is below the surface
- Speedboat and RIB adventures — faster, more exhilarating trips along the coastline
- Fishing trips — deep sea and inshore options, some with catch-and-cook experiences
- Diving and snorkelling boat trips — including access to the Museo Atlántico underwater sculpture park
- Water taxis to Papagayo — short transfers to beaches that are harder to reach by road
- Ferry crossings — to La Graciosa and Fuerteventura
- Sunset and cocktail cruises — relaxed evening options, popular with couples
- Kayak and SUP tours — guided paddle trips along sheltered stretches of coastline
The range is wide enough that even a two-week visit could include a different type of boat trip on each outing.
Catamaran Trips — The Most Popular Choice
Catamaran excursions are the bread and butter of Lanzarote’s boat trip scene, and they earn their popularity. A typical half-day catamaran trip lasts around three to four hours and includes one or two snorkelling stops in clear, sheltered water, a buffet lunch or snacks, and an open bar — though what is included varies between operators, so check before you book.
Most catamarans depart from Puerto del Carmen or Puerto Calero and follow the island’s southern coastline, dropping anchor in sheltered coves near the Papagayo area. The water here is calm enough for confident swimmers and careful beginners alike, and visibility tends to be good. Snorkelling equipment is almost always provided.
Sunset catamaran trips leave later in the afternoon — typically around 16:00 — and run for around two hours. These are shorter and more relaxed, focused on the views and the atmosphere rather than snorkelling. Drinks are usually included, and they are a popular choice for couples.
Full-day catamaran trips sometimes extend as far as the waters off La Graciosa or along the dramatic western coastline. These longer trips give you more time in the water and more variety in the scenery.
A few practical points: catamarans are broad and relatively stable, which makes them a good option if you are prone to motion sickness. The covered deck area provides shade, which matters more than you might think in the Lanzarote sun. Bring sunscreen, a towel, and cash for tips.
Whale and Dolphin Watching in Lanzarote
The waters around Lanzarote and the channel between it and Fuerteventura are home to a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, along with regular sightings of pilot whales, common dolphins, and occasionally sperm whales and loggerhead turtles. Dedicated whale and dolphin watching trips run year-round from Puerto Calero, usually lasting around two to three hours.
The best sightings tend to occur in calmer sea conditions, which are most reliable between April and October. That said, the channel is productive throughout the year, and operators with good onboard naturalists will give you context about what you are seeing rather than just pointing at fins.
Look for operators who follow responsible whale watching guidelines — this means limiting how long they stay with any group of animals and not approaching at speed. Most reputable Lanzarote operators take this seriously, and some participate in citizen science programmes, recording sightings for marine research.
Children generally love these trips, and the trips themselves tend to be calm enough that seasickness is not usually a significant issue. Bring a light jacket even in summer, as it can be cooler on the water than you expect.
Glass-Bottom Boat and Semi-Submarine Tours
For families with younger children, non-swimmers, or anyone who does not fancy getting in the water, glass-bottom boat tours offer an accessible way to see Lanzarote’s marine life. These trips operate from Puerto del Carmen and Puerto Calero and typically last around one to two hours.
Semi-submarine tours go a step further, allowing passengers to sit below the waterline in a viewing section while the vessel moves slowly over reefs and rocky seabeds. You are not underwater yourself — the vessel remains at the surface — but the view through the windows is genuinely impressive, particularly around rocky outcrops where fish gather in numbers.
What you are likely to see includes moray eels, parrotfish, sea bass, rays, and occasional octopus. Visibility in Lanzarote’s inshore waters is generally very good.
These trips are short and affordable, and work well as a half-morning activity before the beach. They also tend to be gentle on the sea legs, which matters if you have children who are uncertain about boat travel.
Boat Trips to Papagayo Beaches
The Papagayo beaches at the southern tip of Lanzarote are among the finest on the island — sheltered, golden-sanded and backed by low ochre cliffs. You can drive to them along a bumpy dirt road from Playa Blanca, but arriving by boat is a genuinely better experience.
Water taxis run from Playa Blanca marina to the main Papagayo cove during the summer months, taking around 15 to 20 minutes. The service is informal and runs on demand rather than a fixed timetable, so it is worth checking locally for current departure times and prices. Some catamaran excursions also drop anchor at Papagayo as part of a longer route, which means you get the beach stop built into a wider day on the water.
Arriving by boat means you skip the parking scramble and the dusty road entirely. You step off directly onto the sand, with the cliffs rising around you and the water an inviting deep blue. It is one of those small logistical choices that genuinely improves the experience.
If you plan to spend a full day at Papagayo, bring everything you need — food, water, sun protection — as facilities on the beach itself are limited. The water taxi back runs until late afternoon, but confirm the last departure before you commit to a long afternoon swim.
Ferry and Day Trip to La Graciosa by Boat
La Graciosa is the small island that sits just off Lanzarote’s northern tip, separated from it by the narrow El Río strait. It is officially the smallest inhabited island in Spain, and it has no paved roads, no cars apart from a handful of official vehicles, and a population of around 700 people. Getting there is an experience in itself.
Ferries to La Graciosa depart from Órzola, a small fishing village at Lanzarote’s northern end. The crossing takes around 25 minutes and runs several times daily in both directions, with services operated by Líneas Romero and Biosfera Express. Tickets can be bought at the harbour on the day, though in high season it is sensible to arrive early or book ahead online. Líneas Romero is the main operator and provides a reliable, frequent service with good information on timings.
Once on La Graciosa, the main settlement is Caleta del Sebo, where you arrive. From here you can hire a bicycle, join a guided tour by open-air vehicle, or simply walk. The island’s beaches — particularly Playa de las Conchas on the far northern coast — are extraordinary: wide, remote and almost always quiet even in peak season.
A day trip is very manageable. Take an early ferry, spend the day exploring, and return on a late afternoon crossing. There are a handful of restaurants in Caleta del Sebo serving fresh fish, and the pace of life is unhurried in a way that contrasts sharply with the busier resort areas of Lanzarote.
La Graciosa makes a compelling case for being included in any Lanzarote itinerary, and the ferry crossing is a small adventure in its own right.
Ferry to Fuerteventura from Playa Blanca
The short crossing between Playa Blanca and Corralejo on Fuerteventura is one of the most useful ferry routes in the Canary Islands. The two operators serving the route are Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas, both running multiple crossings per day. The journey takes around 35 to 45 minutes depending on the vessel, and the fare is reasonable — typically between €20 and €30 return per adult, though prices vary by season and how far in advance you book.
Both Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas carry foot passengers and vehicles. If you are taking a hire car across, check with your rental company first — not all Lanzarote car hire agreements permit taking the vehicle to another island, and insurance arrangements can vary.
Corralejo on the Fuerteventura side is a pleasant, low-key resort town with excellent beaches, a good selection of restaurants, and a very different landscape to Lanzarote — flatter, sandier, and in places almost Saharan in character. The famous Corralejo dunes are a short drive from the ferry terminal.
A day trip to Fuerteventura makes a good change of scene, particularly for visitors spending a week or more in Lanzarote. The ferry crossing itself is enjoyable — the channel between the islands is often busy with birdlife, and on a clear day both coastlines are visible simultaneously.
Fishing Trips in Lanzarote
Fishing trips in Lanzarote cater to a range of interests and abilities. At the casual end, inshore fishing trips last a few hours and are accessible for complete beginners, including children. These trips focus on reef fishing in relatively shallow water and are more about the experience than the catch.
Deep sea fishing trips venture further offshore and target species including tuna, marlin, wahoo and dorado. These typically last a full day and depart early in the morning from Puerto Calero or Puerto del Carmen. The waters around Lanzarote are productive, and the island sits close enough to the African continental shelf that big game species are a realistic prospect rather than a distant hope.
Some operators offer a catch-and-cook arrangement, either preparing the fish on board or directing you to a local restaurant willing to cook your catch. This is not universal, so if it matters to you, confirm the arrangement when booking.
Deep sea fishing trips are not ideal for those prone to seasickness — the vessels are smaller than catamarans and the open ocean swells can be significant. Come prepared with medication if this is a concern.
Diving and Snorkelling Boat Trips
Lanzarote has some of the most compelling diving in the Atlantic, and much of the best of it is only accessible by boat. The headline attraction is the Museo Atlántico, an underwater sculpture park created by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, located in the waters off Playa Blanca at a depth of between 12 and 15 metres. It is the first underwater museum in the Atlantic Ocean, and the combination of art, marine biology and eerie atmosphere makes it unlike any other dive site.
Access to the Museo Atlántico is restricted to licensed dive operators, and you will need at least an Open Water certification to dive there. Snorkelling over the site is possible in the shallower sections. Several dive schools operate boat trips to the museum alongside other notable sites including the lava arches and tunnels along the southern coast and the wreck of the Arrecife.
For snorkellers who do not want to dive, many catamaran excursions stop at sites with interesting underwater topography — boulder fields, sandy channels and rocky outcrops where wrasse, damselfish, barracuda and parrotfish are common.
If you are considering a diving trip for the first time, Lanzarote is a genuinely good place to start. The water temperature is mild, visibility is typically excellent, and the dive schools are experienced with beginners.
Sunset and Evening Boat Trips
Lanzarote sunsets are a serious business. The combination of Atlantic sky, volcanic silhouette and low-angled light produces the kind of colours that stop conversations. Watching one from the deck of a boat, with the island’s coastline in the background and a drink in hand, is one of the more memorable ways to spend an evening on the island.
Sunset cruises depart from Puerto del Carmen and Marina Rubicón typically between 16:00 and 17:00, running for around two hours. Most include drinks — wine, beer, soft drinks and sometimes cocktails — and some offer a light tapas spread. Music is often part of the experience, ranging from background chill-out to live guitar depending on the operator.
These trips are popular with couples and work well as a special occasion option. They tend to book up quickly in peak season, so reserving ahead is advisable. Evening temperatures on the water can drop more than you expect, particularly in spring and autumn — a light layer is worth packing even if the day has been warm.
Where Boat Trips Depart From in Lanzarote
Knowing which harbour to head to saves time and confusion on the morning of your trip. Here is a quick breakdown:
Puerto del Carmen — The busiest departure point on the island. Catamaran trips, glass-bottom boats, dolphin watching, fishing trips and sunset cruises all operate from the small harbour near the resort centre. Easily walkable from most Puerto del Carmen accommodation.
Puerto Calero — A purpose-built marina a few kilometres south of Puerto del Carmen. Cleaner and quieter than the main harbour, with a good selection of restaurants on the waterfront. Many whale and dolphin watching trips, diving excursions, and private charters depart from here.
Marina Rubicón, Playa Blanca — The main departure point for southern Lanzarote. Ferry crossings to Fuerteventura, catamaran trips, and water taxis to Papagayo all leave from here. Well organised, with ticket booths and operator stands along the waterfront.
Órzola — The small fishing village in the north from which all ferries to La Graciosa depart. No other boat trip operators of note. Parking is available nearby, and there are a couple of good fish restaurants in the village itself.
Costa Teguise — Some catamaran and glass-bottom boat operators work from the small harbour here, catering mainly to guests staying in the Costa Teguise resort area.
Practical Tips for Booking Boat Trips in Lanzarote
Book ahead for popular trips. Catamaran excursions, sunset cruises and whale watching trips in July and August can fill up several days in advance. Booking online ahead of your trip — or at least on your first day in resort — avoids disappointment.
Compare what is included. One catamaran trip that appears cheaper than another may not include snorkelling equipment, lunch, or an open bar. Read the details before you commit.
What to bring. Sunscreen (reef-safe where possible), a towel, a change of clothes if snorkelling, cash for tips, and a light layer for the return journey. Leave valuables at the hotel.
Motion sickness. The calmer waters around Lanzarote’s southern coast make most inshore trips manageable, but if you know you are susceptible, take medication the night before or at least an hour in advance. Catamarans are generally the most stable option; RIBs and smaller fishing vessels are the least so.
Best time of year. Boat trips run year-round in Lanzarote. Summer (June to September) offers the calmest seas and warmest water temperatures. Winter trips are still very possible but sea conditions can be more variable — check forecasts and be prepared for a rougher ride.
Children. Most boat trips in Lanzarote welcome children. Some have minimum age restrictions, particularly diving excursions and longer offshore fishing trips. Check age policies when booking.
For a complete overview of the island’s attractions beyond the water, the guide to top experiences on the island is a good companion resource, covering everything from volcanic landscapes to food, culture and beaches.
FAQ: Boat Trips in Lanzarote
What is the best boat trip in Lanzarote for families?
Glass-bottom boat tours and catamaran excursions are both excellent choices for families. Glass-bottom boats are great for younger children and non-swimmers, offering underwater views without the need to get in the water. Catamarans work well for older children who enjoy snorkelling, and most include food and drink, making the logistics easier. Whale and dolphin watching trips are also reliably popular with kids of all ages.
Where do most boat trips depart from in Lanzarote?
The majority of boat trips leave from Puerto del Carmen harbour, Puerto Calero marina, and Marina Rubicón in Playa Blanca. Puerto del Carmen has the widest range of day trips and excursions. Playa Blanca is the departure point for Fuerteventura ferries and Papagayo water taxis. Ferries to La Graciosa leave exclusively from Órzola in the north.
Can you see dolphins and whales on a boat trip in Lanzarote?
Yes — the waters around Lanzarote and the channel between it and Fuerteventura support a resident population of bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales, with regular appearances from common dolphins, sperm whales and loggerhead turtles. Dedicated whale and dolphin watching trips run from Puerto Calero year-round. Sightings are not guaranteed on any individual trip, but the area is one of the most reliably productive in the Canary Islands.
How do I get to La Graciosa by ferry?
Ferries to La Graciosa depart from Órzola on Lanzarote’s northern coast. The two main operators are Líneas Romero and Biosfera Express, with multiple crossings daily. The journey takes around 25 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the harbour, though booking ahead is recommended in high season. The last ferry back from La Graciosa is usually in the early evening — check the timetable on arrival to avoid missing it.
What is the boat trip to Fuerteventura like?
The ferry crossing from Playa Blanca to Corralejo on Fuerteventura takes around 35 to 45 minutes and is a straightforward, enjoyable journey. The vessels used by Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas are large, modern and comfortable, with indoor and outdoor seating. The channel between the two islands offers good views of both coastlines and is often busy with seabirds. The crossing is generally calm, though in winter months or periods of strong wind the swell can make it a livelier ride. On arrival in Corralejo, the town, beaches and famous sand dunes are all easily accessible on foot or by taxi.
Are boat trips in Lanzarote worth it?
For most visitors, yes — genuinely. The island’s coastline looks completely different from the water, and several of the best beaches and dive sites are either difficult or impossible to reach by land. Beyond the scenery, spending a few hours on the water is simply a very enjoyable way to pass a day in the sun. Catamaran trips in particular tend to generate strong reviews from families, couples and solo travellers alike, and the combination of snorkelling, food, drink and coastal scenery makes them good value for money. If your time on the island is limited, a catamaran excursion or a day trip to La Graciosa would be near the top of any shortlist.
Do I need to book boat trips in advance?
It depends on the time of year and the type of trip. In peak summer months — particularly July and August — popular catamaran excursions, sunset cruises and whale watching trips can sell out several days ahead. Outside of these months, walk-up booking at the harbour is often possible, particularly on weekdays. That said, booking at least a day or two ahead is always the safer option. Most operators have online booking systems, and many trips can also be reserved through hotel concierge desks or the excursion kiosks found in most resort areas.
Final Thoughts
Lanzarote’s appeal has always been tied to its landscape — the volcanic parks, the white villages, the peculiar beauty of a place shaped by fire. But the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean that surrounds it are just as much a part of what makes the island special, and the best way to appreciate them fully is from the water.
Whether you spend a few hours on a catamaran with a snorkel and a cold beer, make the ferry crossing to the car-free calm of La Graciosa, or drop below the surface to explore the Museo Atlántico, boat trips in Lanzarote deliver experiences that stay with you long after you get home. The options are varied enough to suit any type of traveller, the logistics are straightforward, and the island’s waters are, for the most part, forgiving and welcoming.
Get on the water. It is worth it.
