La Graciosa by catamaran is pure wow. This is a straight-shot island day from Lanzarote with a catamaran cruise, multiple stops on the north coast, and traditional paella served onboard. It’s the kind of plan where the logistics are handled for you, so you can spend your energy on sea air and sandy time.

I love two things most: the free-flow sangria and beer that keeps the mood light, and the fact that lunch is real paella plus you still get time for swimming and included water gear. You’re not just riding along—you’re actually in the water for part of the day.

One consideration: conditions on the north side can mean wind and choppy water, so if you’re even a little motion-sensitive, plan for that.

Key highlights you’ll feel right away

• Free-flow sangria and beer to kick off the cruise vibe
• Traditional paella lunch served onboard
• Snorkeling and kayak included (snorkel gear with a deposit)
• Multiple island stops with time to walk Caleta de Sebo
• Playa de la Francesa swim time at the volcano-side beach area

From Orzola to La Graciosa: how the day really flows

This tour runs about 5 hours, and it’s built around one big idea: get you from Lanzarote to the quieter, wilder La Graciosa side with minimal hassle. The day starts with departure from Orzola at 11:00 am, and you’ll spend the time hopping between short scenic points and longer “do stuff” stops.

Transfers are part of the deal. Most people get a return bus transfer from their Lanzarote resort, but pickup isn’t available from Playa Blanca on Sundays, Mondays, or Wednesdays. If your hotel isn’t one of the listed ones, you’ll likely use the nearest bus stop, so I’d check your exact pickup instructions soon after booking.

Also note the pace: the itinerary adds up to a lot of little windows. That’s good for variety. It can also feel fast if you want a slow, wandering day with zero boat time. Think “island buffet, not a long stay.”

Catamaran cruise with sangria and paella that feels like a proper lunch

The headline onboard experience is simple: a paella lunch plus plenty of drinks. The lunch is described as traditional paella, and it’s served while you’re at the main swim stretch. From the way the day is timed, it’s not one of those tours where lunch shows up at the end like an apology.

On top of that, you get free-flow sangria and beer. That matters more than it sounds. When the sky is overcast (it happens), a steady onboard party mood helps you keep enjoying the day instead of counting minutes.

A small practical heads-up: paella portions are often generous on boat tours. One review specifically complained they couldn’t eat theirs, so I’d treat this as a full lunch, not a snack. If you know you’re not a big rice-and-seafood person, ask about any alternative option mentioned for guests who can’t eat paella (a pasta option is referenced in feedback).

Orzola stop at 11:00: quick start before the island magic

Your first listed stop is Orzola, and it’s mostly a launchpad. The boat leaves at 11:00 am, and you’ll have about 30 minutes there. You’re not booking this for Orzola itself. You’re booking it to get moving and reach La Graciosa while your day still has energy.

What’s useful here is timing. Orzola is the staging point to connect you with the island ferry flow, and it keeps the overall day from stretching too long. If you show up early, you’ll likely have time to get your bearings and not stress about the boarding rhythm.

If you’re aiming to avoid chaos, this is where it helps to arrive a little ahead. With boat tours, the last 10 minutes before departure can feel like herding cats.

Caleta de Sebo: the best “walk around” slot on La Graciosa

Next you’ll reach Caleta de Sebo, the main village on La Graciosa. This is your one-hour window on foot, and it’s the stop that turns the cruise from “scenic” into “local.”

In that hour, you can wander sandy streets, check out the church, and still have time for the beach atmosphere. There are also bars and shops, so it’s a nice place to grab a cold drink or a small snack if the onboard schedule isn’t hitting your exact hunger moment.

One drawback to keep in mind: one hour is short. If you want a museum-style look or a slow café crawl, this isn’t that tour. But if your goal is to feel the island’s pace and take a few photos without rushing yourself too hard, Caleta de Sebo is a solid use of time.

Playa de la Francesa: swim, snorkel, kayak, and that volcano-side setting

This is the big water stop: Playa de la Francesa with about 2 hours. Here’s where your included gear matters. You can swim, sunbathe, and use snorkeling equipment or a kayak. Snorkel gear is included, but there’s a deposit required for the equipment, so plan on that small extra step.

The setting is a big part of why people remember this day. Feedback highlights the dramatic feel of pulling up to the area at the foot of the volcano. Even if you’re not a geology person, you’ll feel how different the coastline looks compared to Lanzarote’s busier resort strips.

A practical note from real-world experience: winds and waves can make kayaking trickier on certain days. That doesn’t remove the value of the stop—you can still snorkel and swim—but if you’re counting on kayak time as your main activity, I’d bring a calm, flexible mindset. One review mentioned windy conditions made kayak use harder, but the spot was still beautiful.

Isla de Graciosa stretch: lunch and then more swim time offshore

After the Playa de la Francesa swim slot, the itinerary includes a return offshore segment by the Isla de Graciosa area. The plan gives you about 1 hour here, and the schedule notes lunch and then bathing and swimming until it’s time to head back.

Why this section works for most people: it gives you a second chance to enjoy the water without needing to switch plans or chase transport. If you start the swim window underwhelmed—maybe you didn’t get your perfect snorkel view—you may get another shot here.

One important caution: beach access isn’t permitted as part of the tour terms. In plain language, that means you should expect water-time from the boat rather than guaranteed walk-on beach time. A recent note in the provided info also says beach disembarkation has sometimes been restricted due to circumstances beyond the operator’s control. So, don’t plan your day around stepping onto the sand at Playa de la Francesa every time.

The vibe onboard: crew energy, music, and safety with kids in mind

The onboard atmosphere is one of the most praised parts. Multiple reviews talk about friendly, fun staff, plus a laid-back party mood. People also mention dancing and singing, which tells you this isn’t a silent, “observe from the rail” kind of cruise.

Safety shows up too. Feedback specifically mentions extra attention for children in the water, and that’s a good sign when water activities are part of the schedule. You’ll also find that life jackets are available, which helps you feel more confident when you’re moving between boat deck and water.

What I’d watch for: if the sea gets rough, some people retreat to the indoor deck. That’s not a problem with the tour—just a reality of sailing in real conditions. If you want maximum sea-air enjoyment, dress for weather changes so you’re comfortable outside even when the sky turns.

Price and value: what $77 buys you (and what to compare it to)

At about $77.23 per person for roughly 5 hours, the value comes from stacking three things: transport, food, and water activities.

You’re getting:

• Return bus transfer from many Lanzarote resorts (with some pickup exceptions)
• Paella lunch onboard
• Free-flow sangria and beer
• Snorkeling equipment and kayak use (snorkel gear with a deposit)
• A professional guide

When you compare this to separate tours—like paying for a boat ride, then separately paying for water gear and a meal—this package usually makes sense. The cap of up to 150 travelers is also meaningful. It’s large enough to keep it affordable, but not so huge that you’re floating in a stadium crowd.

If you’re the kind of traveler who only wants scenery and no activities, you might feel like you’re paying for “stuff you don’t use.” But if you want to swim, snorkel, or kayak, this price is easier to justify.

What to pack for a Lanzarote to La Graciosa catamaran day

The north side can feel cooler, especially when skies are gray or the wind is up. Pack for that, even if Lanzarote looks sunny from your hotel window.

I’d bring:

• A light jacket or wind layer (more important than you think)
• Sunscreen, because the deck time adds up fast
• Swimwear you can rinse easily
• Passport or ID card for travel between Canary Islands
• A plan for drying off (a towel isn’t included)

If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions ahead of time. Several comments point out the water can be choppy and not gentle. This is a catamaran day—fun, but not always smooth.

Who this tour suits best (and who should think twice)

This works well for:

• Families who want a structured day with activities and staff support
• Couples and friends who like the mix of sightseeing plus water time
• Anyone who wants a classic “escape” day from Lanzarote without planning every step

It may not be ideal for:

• Anyone who demands guaranteed beach landings at Playa de la Francesa (access isn’t permitted and disembarkation has sometimes been restricted)
• Motion-sensitive people when wind and waves roll in
• Travelers who want a long, slow island exploration (the village time is about one hour)

The tour says most travelers can participate, children must be with an adult, and service animals are allowed. There’s also a vegan and vegetarian option if you request it when booking, which is great to see.

Should you book this La Graciosa catamaran tour?

If you want a fun island day with included snorkeling/kayak gear, a proper paella lunch, and an onboard atmosphere that doesn’t feel stiff, I think you’ll be happy with this choice. It’s good value because the package bundles the key costs that add up fast on your own.

I’d only hesitate if you’re worried about choppy water or you’re specifically chasing a guaranteed walk-on beach experience. If your must-do is standing on the sand for photos, read the access rules carefully and keep your expectations flexible.

For most people, though, this is the kind of day that turns a “we’ll see” vacation into a real memory: sea air, village streets, and time to actually get wet.

FAQ

What time does the boat leave Orzola?

The boat leaves Orzola at 11:00 am.

How long do we spend in Caleta de Sebo?

You get about 1 hour to visit Caleta de Sebo, plus a 30-minute stop later before the boat leaves at 16:00.

What water activities are included?

You can use kayak and snorkeling equipment during the swim time. Snorkeling equipment use includes the gear, but there is a deposit.

Is lunch included, and what is it?

Yes. Traditional paella is included, served onboard.

Are drinks included?

Yes. The tour includes free-flow sangria and beer onboard.

Do they offer hotel pickup on Lanzarote?

Pickup is offered from many resorts, but there’s no pickup from Playa Blanca on Sundays, Mondays, or Wednesdays. If your hotel isn’t listed, you’ll go to the nearest bus stop.

Do I need an ID to travel between the islands?

Yes. You should bring your passport or identity card when traveling between the Canary Islands.

Is a vegan or vegetarian option available?

Yes. Vegan and vegetarian options are available if you request them at booking.

Is beach access permitted?

Beach access is listed as not permitted. You should plan on water activities rather than guaranteed walk-on beach time.

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