From Puerto de Mogán: Private Sailing Trip & Snorkeling

A private sailing trip out of Puerto de Mogán is interesting because you trade the usual beach plan for real Atlantic time, then add a quiet stop for snorkeling and sun. I especially like that you can hoist the sails and even take the helm. That turns the trip from just watching into doing.

I also like the relaxed food-and-drink rhythm on board. One possible consideration: the sea can feel chilly, and the snorkeling stretch is about 75 minutes, so plan for cooler water than you might expect.

Key highlights at a glance

• Hoist the sails and take the helm with the crew during the outing
• Private boat experience for up to 8 people per group
• Snorkeling in a secluded bay with included snorkeling equipment
• Taps-style food and drinks on board, plus time back in Mogan harbor
• Stand up paddle board included if you want an extra activity
• Hotel pickup and drop-off only in the south (tourist areas around Gran Canaria)

Why Puerto de Mogán sailing feels special in southern Gran Canaria

Puerto de Mogán has a way of making you feel like you’re starting from the right place. Instead of rushing straight to a beach, you begin at the harbor and step onto a real sailing boat for a private outing along the south of Gran Canaria.

What I like about this kind of trip is how it blends movement with downtime. You get enough sailing to feel like you’re out in the Atlantic, but the pace stays relaxed, so you’re not constantly hustling for the next “thing.”

And because the group is private, the experience tends to feel more like you’re joining a crew for the day. That matters with activities like snorkeling, where a calm, guided approach keeps things simple.

Getting aboard: pickup options and what the “private” part really means

You’ll typically be picked up from the tourist area in the south of Gran Canaria and transferred to Puerto de Mogán. Pickup options include Arugineguín, Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, Taurito, Bahia Feliz, Maspalomas, and Puerto de Mogán.

In one family day, the pickup worked smoothly via a hotel taxi rank approach to get to Mogán, which is exactly what you want when you’re traveling with time pressure or multiple bags. The key point is that pickup is only available in the south tourist zones, so you should plan around that if you’re staying farther north.

Once you meet the boat in Puerto de Mogán, the private-group format is the real difference. Up to 8 people per group means you’re not sharing the boat with strangers from five different hotels. You also have more space and a more personal vibe when the crew walks you through what to do, like handling the sails.

Language support is English and Polish, so you’re not stuck translating your way through safety rules.

Short sail start, longer time on the Atlantic, and a hands-on helm moment

The trip is built with a smooth progression. You’ll start with a quick sail out of Puerto de Mogán, then move into a longer sailing stretch around southern Gran Canaria.

The best part is that it’s not just scenic time. You have the opportunity to get involved when conditions allow. The crew will invite you to help hoist the sails, and if you’re curious, you may also get a turn at the helm. Even if you’ve never touched sailing gear before, the tone is practical: learn what you need to do, then enjoy the view while you’re underway.

For me, that hands-on segment is the value unlock. A lot of boat tours say you can “feel like a sailor,” but this one actually gives you a real role, not just a photo spot. And because it’s private, you’re more likely to get the time and attention you need.

If you’re the kind of person who likes doing one small thing that makes the day feel personal, this is a great fit. If you want zero responsibility, you can still relax on board while the crew handles the work.

The snorkel stop: secluded bay time, included gear, and smart rules

You’ll stop at a secluded bay with time for snorkeling. The snorkeling window is about 75 minutes, and the setting is described as wild and deserted, which usually means calmer, less crowded water than popular beach access points.

Snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t need to chase gear down before you go. That alone is worth something, especially if you’re trying to travel light.

There’s also an important rule: touching marine life is not allowed. I like that the rules are clear. It helps protect the local ecosystem, and it also keeps the experience more respectful and enjoyable for everyone watching.

Practical note: the Canaries can feel warm while the water can still be cool. One person pointed out that the sea felt cold, but everyone left happy sailors anyway. If cold water affects you, consider bringing a thin layer like a rash guard, or plan for brief comfort rather than a long, lingering snorkel swim.

The goal here is to enjoy what you see and keep your distance, not to wrestle the water or chase everything at once.

Board comfort: what the food and drinks add to the day

This is one of those tours where the onboard breaks are part of the appeal. You’re served tapas style food along with soft drinks, wine, and beer, and you can relax between sailing and water time without going hungry.

I like how this keeps the day from feeling like a sequence of chores. Instead of grabbing lunch later when you’re tired and thirsty, you eat while you’re still in holiday mode. It makes the whole trip feel smoother and more “vacation shaped.”

And because it’s private, the snack-and-sip setup feels less chaotic. It’s not a rushed buffet moment, and you can focus on the sea sounds and the changing coastline instead of waiting your turn.

Lunch back at Mogan Harbor: how the day closes out

After the snorkeling and sun time, you return to Mogan Harbor. Lunch is included and you’ll have around an hour for it as the day winds down.

This matters more than it sounds. A good outing ends with a real meal, not just a drop-off and a souvenir run. By the time you’re back, you’re usually dry enough, hungry enough, and ready to switch from “water time” to “harbor time.”

If you plan to keep exploring afterward, Mogán is a friendly place to do it. You’ll finish the tour in the same area where you started, which cuts down on the stress of coordinating transport.

Stand up paddle board: included extra fun at the right pace

A stand up paddle board is included. That’s not just a throw-in, because it gives you an option if you want something more active than relaxing, without adding complexity.

How much you use it will depend on conditions and what the crew recommends that day, but having it available means you’re not limited to one activity only. It can be a fun way to enjoy the water between sailing segments, or just to play around near the stop.

If you’re traveling with people who don’t feel like snorkeling (or you simply want a break), the paddle board helps keep everyone engaged.

Value check: why $577 per group can make sense up to 8

The price is $577 per group, up to 8 people. That sounds high if you compare it to a single ticket. But compare it to what you’re actually buying: a private sailing boat experience, hotel pickup and drop-off within the south tourist zone, tapas, soft drinks, beer, wine, and snorkeling equipment.

For couples, the cost can feel more “boutique” than budget. For small groups, it often becomes reasonable because you’re splitting the boat and crew time across the whole group.

I also think the value is in the included parts that usually cost extra. If you had to separately pay for boat access, a guide, snorkeling gear, and lunch, the total climbs fast. Here, it’s bundled into one smooth half-day style outing.

If you’re deciding whether to book, do the simple math for your group size. If you can fill most of the 8 spots with friends or family, it starts to look like good deal travel, not a splurge.

Who should book this sailing and snorkeling trip, and who should skip it

This trip is a strong match if you want:

• A private sailing experience with a real chance to help with sailing tasks
• Snorkeling with equipment included in a quieter bay setting
• A day with food and drinks on board, plus lunch back in Mogán harbor
• A small-group format that keeps things comfortable and easy

It’s not suitable for children under 6, and the rules also note that party groups aren’t allowed. That last point is actually a plus for many people. It signals a calmer vibe, which helps when you’re sharing water time with others.

If your idea of a perfect day is quiet swimming, hands-on sailing, and not having to coordinate gear and transport, this is worth serious consideration.

Packing tips that make snorkeling and sailing easier

You won’t need to bring snorkeling gear, but you can still prepare so the day feels comfortable. Bring swimwear, and think about something that helps you handle cool water during snorkeling.

I also recommend sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light layer for after the water stop. Even in warm months, boat time and sea breeze can cool you down, and you’ll appreciate being able to get comfortable right after you’re done snorkeling.

If you get motion sick on boats, consider bringing what usually works for you. This tour is private and calm, but you are still on open water.

Should you book the From Puerto de Mogán: Private Sailing Trip & Snorkeling?

Book it if you want a true private sailing day, with snorkeling equipment included, a hands-on sail moment, and a food-and-drinks rhythm that keeps you relaxed. It’s especially worth it for groups up to 8, because the per-person value improves when you share the boat and crew time.

Skip it if you’re traveling with someone who needs a kid-friendly option under age 6, or if cold water would ruin your day. Also skip if you’re hoping for a party-style atmosphere, because the trip is set up for a calm, respectful experience.

If you’re planning your first trip to Gran Canaria’s south and you want one outing that feels like it belongs on a postcard but still runs on a practical schedule, this one is a smart choice.

FAQ

How long is the private sailing and snorkeling trip?

It lasts 3 hours.

What is the group size and is it private?

It’s a private group, up to 8 people per group.

Where do you get picked up?

Pickup is available in the tourist area in the south of Gran Canaria. Options include Arguineguín, Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, Taurito, Bahia Feliz, Maspalomas, and Puerto de Mogán.

Where does the boat trip start?

The boat is in Puerto de Mogán, and you meet there as part of the experience.

What food and drinks are included?

Tapas are included, along with soft drinks, beer, and wine.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included.

How long is the snorkeling stop?

The snorkeling time is about 75 minutes.

Is a stand up paddle board included?

Yes, a stand up paddle board is included.

Are there rules about marine life during snorkeling?

Yes. Touching marine life is not allowed.

Do they offer pickup and drop-off?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included from selected areas in the south of Gran Canaria.