A catamaran trip with Catacanarias Sailing follows the south-west coast of Tenerife from Playa San Juan to the Los Gigantes Cliffs, with a stop for swimming in front of the volcanic wall and, depending on the plan and sea conditions, continuing to the Muralla del Infierno. As the trip is private, the group decides how long to stay anchored at each point.
The route, step by step
The trip begins at Playa San Juan, in the south of Tenerife, where the catamaran sets off with the group on board. From there, the route follows the coast northwards, passing the area’s lower cliffs before reaching the Los Gigantes Cliffs: a volcanic wall that rises more than 600 metres in some places and can only be fully appreciated from the water, never from land.
In front of the cliffs, the catamaran usually anchors. This is the time to swim, take photos or simply enjoy the view of the rock face up close. How long the group stays there depends on the plan booked and what they decide on board, rather than a fixed timetable.
If the plan and sea conditions allow, the route continues to the Muralla del Infierno, another stretch of coastline with its own volcanic formations. The return to Playa San Juan completes the circuit, usually with the food already served and the group feeling more relaxed than on the way out.
How the experience changes depending on your departure time
The same route can feel quite different depending on the time of day. In the morning, the trade winds — as in much of the Canary Islands — are usually gentler, making for calmer seas during the swimming stop in front of the cliffs. In the afternoon, there is more direct light on the volcanic wall, which makes it a good time for taking photos along the route. If the trip extends into the evening, the return to Playa San Juan takes place with the sunset in the background, something many groups celebrating a special occasion specifically request.
Frequently asked questions
Does the route always reach the Muralla del Infierno? It depends on the plan booked and the sea conditions on the day. The section to the Los Gigantes Cliffs is included in all three plans.
How long does the catamaran stay in front of the cliffs? There is no fixed time. As the trip is private, the group decides how long to remain anchored for swimming or taking photos, within the duration of the selected plan.
Can you choose the departure time when booking? Yes, it is arranged directly with Catacanarias Sailing when making your booking, subject to availability on the day.
How long is the shortest trip and which is the most complete? The shortest trip lasts 3 hours (€390), while the most complete lasts 5 hours (€650 and includes paella and wine), with a 4-hour option (€520) in between.