Private Shore Excursions Gran Canaria
Explore Gran Canaria beyond the cruise crowds. Private local driver, your group only, customised itinerary — and a guarantee that you will be back at the port before your ship departs.
Private Excursion vs Ship Tour
| Raquel Private | Ship Tour | |
|---|---|---|
| Group size | Just your group | 30–50 people |
| Itinerary | Customised | Fixed script |
| Price (4 pax) | €55–€160 total | €80–€150 per person |
| Language | ✅ English | ⚠️ Varies |
| Flexibility | ✅ Stop anywhere | ❌ Fixed stops |
| Back to ship | ✅ Guaranteed | ✅ Guaranteed |
| Local knowledge | ✅ Expert tips | ⚠️ Basic commentary |
What's Included in Every Excursion
Private Renault Arkana SUV
English-speaking local driver
Pickup at cruise terminal
Customised itinerary
All fuel and tolls
Return 45 min before sailing
Photo stops at best viewpoints
Local tips and recommendations
Why a Private Shore Excursion is the Best Way to See Gran Canaria
A cruise stop in Las Palmas gives you a window into one of the most diverse islands in Europe. Gran Canaria is not just a beach destination — it has a UNESCO-listed old town, volcanic mountain reserves, traditional villages and the famous Maspalomas sand dunes. The challenge is knowing how to make the most of your limited time.
With a private shore excursion, you avoid the compromises of group tours. No waiting for 40 other passengers to re-board the coach. No rushed 10-minute photo stops. No fixed menu lunch at a tourist restaurant. Instead, you have a private vehicle, a local who knows the island inside out, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Raquel has guided hundreds of cruise passengers through Gran Canaria since 2021. She knows which viewpoints are genuinely spectacular, which village cafés serve authentic local food, and how to time each destination to maximise what you see in the hours available.
Every private excursion is priced per vehicle, not per person — which means a couple pays the same as a family of four. For groups of 2–4 people, the cost per head is often lower than a ship tour, with dramatically better service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a private shore excursion?+
Private vehicle, English-speaking driver, customised itinerary, pickup at cruise terminal, all fuel and tolls, photo stops at best viewpoints, and guaranteed return to port 45 minutes before sailing.
How do I know I will be back before the ship leaves?+
Raquel tracks your ship's departure time and plans every excursion with a 45-minute return buffer. She monitors traffic throughout the day and adjusts the route if necessary. In 3+ years she has never had a passenger miss their ship.
Can I choose what I want to see?+
Absolutely. Tell Raquel what interests you most — mountains, beaches, history, local food, photography — and she will design the best itinerary for your available time and preferences.
When is the best time to book?+
As early as possible — ideally weeks or months before your cruise. Gran Canaria is busiest from October to April and availability fills up. You can book via WhatsApp from anywhere in the world.