Best Boat Trips in Lanzarote: Dolphins, Catamarans, Sunsets and Coastal Cruises

1. Dolphin-watching boat tours

For many visitors, a dolphin tour is the most exciting boat trip in Lanzarote. These excursions head into open water to look for dolphins, whales and other marine animals living in or passing through the waters around the Canary Islands.

Many dedicated wildlife tours use a fast, manoeuvrable boat rather than a large sightseeing catamaran, which lets the crew cover more water in a relatively short excursion. The dolphin-watching speedboat from Puerto del Carmen works this way. A typical trip may last around 90 minutes to several hours, depending on the operator and whether it includes a swimming stop. At the slower, quieter end, the electric eco-catamaran from Puerto Calero spends four hours on the search.

The atmosphere is usually more adventurous than luxurious. You may feel the movement of the sea, and there may be spray as the boat gathers speed. In return, you get an active wildlife-searching experience and panoramic views of Lanzarote from the water.

Wild dolphins are never guaranteed, and their freedom is what makes a sighting special. Choose an operator that sets realistic expectations and approaches marine life responsibly instead of advertising close contact or guaranteed encounters. Licensed boats in the Canary Islands fly the Barco Azul flag and keep at least 60 metres from the animals; our guide to what a Lanzarote dolphin trip is like explains the rules.

Choose this type of tour if: seeing dolphins is your main priority and you are comfortable travelling on a smaller or faster boat.

Consider another option if: you mainly want to sunbathe, enjoy a long meal or spend several hours swimming at anchor.

Compare Lanzarote’s dolphin tours side by side →

2. Catamaran cruises to the Papagayo coast

If your ideal day involves sunshine, coastal scenery and a swim, a Papagayo catamaran cruise is likely to be a better match than a dedicated dolphin safari.

The Papagayo coast lies in the south of Lanzarote and is known for its pale beaches, sheltered coves and clear water. Catamaran trips commonly cruise along this part of the island before stopping so passengers can swim, snorkel, relax on deck or use any water equipment included by the operator.

Some trips depart from Playa Blanca or Marina Rubicón, such as the Papagayo mini cruise with a swimming stop. Others begin farther east and sail towards Papagayo: the Papagayo beaches catamaran boards in Puerto del Carmen harbour, and Catlanza’s Papagayo catamaran sails from Puerto Calero. Depending on the product, the price may include lunch, snacks, soft drinks or an open bar. Shorter mini-cruises may provide fewer inclusions, so compare the details carefully.

A catamaran generally offers more deck space and freedom to move around than a small wildlife boat. It is often a comfortable choice for families, couples and groups who want a sociable half-day experience.

However, a general Papagayo cruise should not be mistaken for a dolphin-watching tour. You might see marine life by chance, but the route and crew are not necessarily focused on finding dolphins.

Choose this type of tour if: swimming, scenery and relaxing onboard matter more than dedicated wildlife watching.

Check before booking: the departure port, trip length, swimming stop, food and drinks, water activities and whether hotel pickup is available.

Our Lanzarote catamaran tours guide compares the Papagayo sailings in more detail.

3. Lanzarote sunset cruises

A sunset cruise shows the island at its softest. The volcanic coastline changes colour as the light fades, and the temperature is often more comfortable than during the middle of the day.

Options range from sailing boats and small-group yachts to catamarans and faster dolphin-and-sunset combinations. Some focus almost entirely on the scenery and atmosphere, while others first search for dolphins and then remain at sea for sunset. The 2.5-hour sunset and dolphins cruise uses a speedboat from Puerto del Carmen, while the electric catamaran’s sunset trip leaves Puerto Calero for a quieter evening.

This distinction matters. If wildlife is important to you, look specifically for a sunset dolphin tour; do not assume that every sunset cruise actively searches for animals. If your priority is a calm, romantic evening, a slower sailing or catamaran experience may be more suitable than a speedboat.

Sunset times change throughout the year, so departure times are seasonal. Confirm the meeting time shortly before the excursion and bring a light layer: even after a hot day, it can feel cool and breezy once the sun goes down.

Choose this type of tour if: you want coastal views, photographs and a relaxed end to the day.

Check before booking: whether the trip includes dolphin watching, drinks, food, return transfers and an indoor or sheltered seating area.

For the full comparison, see our Lanzarote sunset cruises guide and the sunset dolphin cruise guide.

4. Boat trips to La Graciosa

La Graciosa is the small inhabited island just north of Lanzarote. Regular ferries cross from Órzola, but visitors can also book organised cruises that combine the crossing with sailing, lunch, swimming or time to explore.

This is usually a longer outing than a dolphin tour or sunset cruise. It works well if you want to make the boat journey part of a broader island day rather than spend the entire excursion searching for wildlife.

Read the itinerary closely, because products advertised as La Graciosa boat trips can be very different. One may be largely a ferry transfer with independent free time; another may include a catamaran cruise, lunch and activities in the water. Both the La Graciosa sailing day trip and the La Graciosa island cruise with lunch take the ferry from Órzola and then switch to a catamaran for swimming, snorkelling and lunch, with free time in Caleta de Sebo.

Choose this type of tour if: you want to visit another island and are happy to devote most of the day to the experience.

Check before booking: hotel pickup, ferry or catamaran format, time ashore, meals, return time and what happens if sea conditions affect the sailing.

5. Fuerteventura trips from Playa Blanca

Fuerteventura lies across the Bocaina Strait from southern Lanzarote. Ferries and organised day trips leave from Playa Blanca, making it possible to visit the neighbouring island without changing accommodation.

This is primarily an inter-island trip, not a scenic cruise. It makes sense for travellers who want to see more of the Canary Islands, but it is not the best choice if the objective is dolphin watching or a leisurely day onboard.

An organised tour may combine the ferry crossing with transport and sightseeing on Fuerteventura, as the guided Fuerteventura day trip does (it had 29 reviews when checked, so its track record is still thin). The Lobos Island and Fuerteventura day cruise pairs the ferry to Corralejo with a catamaran to Isla de Lobos. Independent Playa Blanca–Corralejo ferry tickets offer more flexibility but require you to arrange your own plans after arrival.

Choose this option if: visiting Fuerteventura is the main goal.

Choose a different Lanzarote boat trip if: you mainly want swimming, dolphin spotting or an onboard leisure experience.

6. Private boat trips and yacht charters

A private charter gives your family or group exclusive use of the boat. It can be particularly appealing for a celebration, a quieter experience, a couple seeking privacy or a family that does not want to join a busy excursion.

Private trips may offer a degree of flexibility over the route, swimming stops and time spent at sea. However, the itinerary will still depend on weather, safety rules, port regulations and the captain’s judgement. A private charter cannot guarantee dolphin sightings any more than a shared wildlife tour can.

Prices are higher than shared tours, but the difference can become more reasonable when divided among a larger group. Compare the maximum passenger number and total charter price rather than looking only at a per-person figure. The private sunset catamaran from Puerto del Carmen, for example, is priced per group of up to 12, and the private 2.5-hour Papagayo speedboat per group of up to six.

Choose this type of tour if: privacy, personal service and space are worth paying more for.

Check before booking: maximum group size, fuel, skipper, food, drinks, equipment, route flexibility and cancellation conditions.

Where do Lanzarote boat tours depart from?

The departure point can significantly affect your choice, especially if hotel transfers are not included.

Puerto del Carmen

Puerto del Carmen is one of the most useful bases for dolphin-watching trips, speedboat excursions and sunset tours. Its location makes it convenient for visitors staying in Puerto del Carmen, Matagorda and nearby resorts.

Check whether the listing says Puerto del Carmen harbour, Old Town harbour or marina, and follow the precise meeting instructions provided after booking. Our Puerto del Carmen boat trips guide covers each option.

Puerto Calero

Puerto Calero is a modern marina west of Puerto del Carmen. It is a departure point for selected sailing trips, catamarans, dolphin excursions and private charters. It can be reached independently by taxi, bus, car or the waterbus from Puerto del Carmen, and some tours offer resort pickup. See our Puerto Calero boat trips guide.

Playa Blanca and Marina Rubicón

Playa Blanca is especially convenient for Papagayo cruises, private charters and crossings to Fuerteventura. Some excursions leave from the town’s ferry port, while others use Marina Rubicón, so do not assume they are the same meeting point. Our Playa Blanca boat trips guide explains the difference.

Órzola

Órzola, at Lanzarote’s northern tip, is the principal departure point for ferries to La Graciosa. Travelling there can take time if you are staying in the southern resorts, so include the land journey when planning your day.

How to choose the best Lanzarote boat trip

Start with your main priority, not with whichever tour has the most impressive photographs.

If seeing dolphins matters most

Book a dedicated dolphin-watching or marine-safari tour. Look for a description that clearly states the crew will search for wild cetaceans. A generic coastal cruise may offer a chance sighting but should not be treated as a wildlife excursion. Dolphins are seen all year; our guide to the best time to see dolphins in Lanzarote covers the seasons.

If you want swimming and relaxation

Choose a Papagayo catamaran or coastal cruise with time at anchor. Confirm how long the swimming stop lasts and whether snorkelling equipment, kayaks or paddleboards are actually included.

If you have limited time

A short dolphin speedboat tour or mini coastal cruise can fit into a half-day itinerary. Remember to allow extra time for check-in and travel to the port.

If you are travelling with young children

A larger catamaran may provide more space and an easier pace than a fast RIB-style boat. Check minimum ages, life-jacket availability, shade, toilets and pushchair rules directly with the operator.

If anyone is prone to seasickness

No boat can promise a completely smooth ride. Larger catamarans may feel more stable, although conditions vary daily. Sit where the crew recommends, look towards the horizon, avoid a heavy meal immediately before departure and ask a pharmacist about appropriate motion-sickness medication in advance. Our catamaran vs speedboat comparison explains how the two boats feel at sea.

If accessibility is important

Do not rely on a general description saying that a tour is suitable for everyone. Boarding may involve steps, narrow pontoons or transferring into a smaller vessel. Contact the operator before booking and explain the traveller’s exact mobility requirements.

What is usually included?

Inclusions vary more than many visitors expect. Depending on the tour, your booking may cover:

• The boat journey and crew
• Life jackets and standard safety equipment
• Commentary about the coast or marine life
• A swimming stop
• Snorkelling equipment or other water activities
• Snacks, lunch or drinks
• Hotel pickup and return transport

Never assume that all-inclusive means the same thing on every tour. Check whether alcoholic drinks, equipment, photographs, towels and transfers are included or available at an additional cost.

What should you bring?

For most Lanzarote boat trips, it is sensible to bring:

• Swimwear and a towel if swimming is possible
• High-factor sunscreen
• Sunglasses and a secure sun hat
• Water, unless the tour clearly includes enough drinks
• A light jacket or extra layer
• Suitable motion-sickness medication if needed
• A waterproof pouch for your phone and valuables
• Your booking confirmation and any requested identification

Use reef-conscious sun protection where possible, and avoid bringing unnecessary single-use plastic onboard.

When should you book?

Popular dolphin tours, small-group cruises and sunset sailings have limited capacity. Booking ahead is particularly sensible during school holidays, around Easter, in summer and over the Christmas and New Year period.

Before paying, review:

• The exact departure port and meeting point
• Check-in and departure times
• Hotel pickup areas and whether transport costs extra
• The boat type and maximum passenger number
• Minimum age, health and mobility restrictions
• Food, drink and activity inclusions
• Cancellation and weather policies
• The operator’s approach to wild dolphin encounters

Boat excursions can be changed or cancelled when conditions are unsafe. Keep your contact details up to date and avoid scheduling the tour immediately before a flight or another inflexible booking.

Are Lanzarote boat trips worth it?

Yes, provided you choose the experience that matches your expectations. Choose a dedicated dolphin tour for wildlife and excitement. A Papagayo catamaran is better for swimming and a leisurely afternoon. A sunset cruise is about atmosphere, while La Graciosa and Fuerteventura trips are designed for travellers who want to explore beyond Lanzarote.

The most common disappointment comes from booking the wrong category of trip, for example expecting a general catamaran cruise to behave like a wildlife safari, or choosing a fast boat when you really wanted a calm day in the sun.

Compare the route, boat, duration and inclusions before choosing. Once those details fit your plans, a Lanzarote boat tour can become one of the highlights of the holiday.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best boat trip in Lanzarote?

There is no single best option for everyone. Choose a dedicated dolphin tour for wildlife, a Papagayo catamaran for swimming and relaxation, a sunset cruise for evening scenery, or a La Graciosa excursion for a longer island day.

Can you see dolphins on boat trips in Lanzarote?

Yes, wild dolphins are seen in the waters around Lanzarote, and dedicated tours actively search for them. Sightings cannot be guaranteed because the animals move freely and sea conditions change.

Is Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca better for boat trips?

Puerto del Carmen is particularly convenient for dedicated dolphin speedboat trips and some sunset cruises. Playa Blanca offers strong access to Papagayo cruises, private charters and Fuerteventura crossings. The better departure point depends on the experience you want and where you are staying.

How long do Lanzarote boat trips take?

Short dolphin or mini-cruise experiences may last around 90 minutes to two hours. Catamaran cruises commonly occupy several hours, while La Graciosa and Fuerteventura excursions can take most of the day. Use the duration stated on the individual booking page.

Do Lanzarote boat trips include hotel pickup?

Some do, but many require passengers to reach the port independently. Pickup may also be limited to selected resorts or cost extra. Confirm the transport details before booking.

Should I book a Lanzarote boat tour in advance?

Advance booking is advisable for small boats, popular wildlife trips and sunset departures because capacity is limited. A flexible cancellation option is useful if your plans may change.

More planning guides

• Best dolphin-watching tours in Lanzarote
• Boat trips from Playa Blanca
• Boat trips from Puerto del Carmen
• Puerto Calero boat trips
• Best catamaran tours in Lanzarote
• Best time to see dolphins and whales in Lanzarote
• Lanzarote sunset cruises
• How to avoid seasickness on a Lanzarote dolphin tour