When we visited Fuerteventura, we wanted to do more than just lounge by the pool. We love a bit of adventure, and since we were travelling with two young children, we wanted something fun, family-friendly and memorable. That’s how we ended up booking the Pirate Tour aboard the Pedra Sartaña in Morro Jable, in the south of the island.

I’d read a little about it beforehand and it sounded ideal for kids, but honestly, it exceeded expectations. From start to finish, it was one of the most enjoyable excursions of our holiday.

Booking the Pirate Tour

We arranged the trip through our TUI holiday rep during the welcome meeting. We’d received several emails about excursions in the weeks before our trip, but with a five-year-old and a three-year-old, I wanted to double-check what was suitable before committing.

Our guide highly recommended the Pirate Tour as one of the best family options, and she was right. It turned out to be just the right mix of adventure, laughter and relaxation.

Setting sail from Morro Jable

The tour started in Morro Jable, a lovely harbour town close to Jandía where we were staying at the Club Jandia Princess Hotel. The ship itself — the Pedra Sartaña — is a proper wooden pirate ship, complete with rigging, ropes and huge sails. It looks like something straight out of a storybook.

As we boarded, the crew greeted everyone in full pirate character, which immediately set the tone for a day of fun. The children’s eyes widened as they took it all in, and even the adults couldn’t help smiling. There’s something about standing on a traditional sailing pirate ship that makes you feel like a kid again!

The trip lasted around five hours, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., which was the perfect amount of time for a family outing.

Out at sea

Once we set off, the sails were raised with the help of volunteers from the passengers. A few adults joined in, pulling on the ropes while the rest of us cheered them on. It made everything feel wonderfully authentic.

The main entertainer on board was fantastic. He spoke English, French and German, making sure everyone understood what was happening. Between jokes, pirate songs and playful games, he kept the energy high. The children were completely captivated — and at one point the adults got roped into the games too, which had everyone laughing.

As we left the coastline behind, I couldn’t stop admiring the view. There’s something special about looking back at Fuerteventura’s rugged landscape from the open water. The island’s volcanic hills and golden beaches look even more striking from that distance.

Spotting dolphins

One of the highlights of the trip was the chance to see dolphins. The waters around Fuerteventura are home to many species of dolphins and whales, and we were lucky enough to spot some during our cruise.

At first, we saw them in the distance, and each time the captain would steer towards them so everyone had a good view. Then, suddenly, one dolphin swam right up to the side of the ship and popped its head above the surface. Bella and I were standing there at just the right moment — it was amazing! Sadly, Ben and Reuben were below deck and missed it, but we were all thrilled that it happened.

Moments like that stay with you. Seeing dolphins in their natural habitat, swimming freely in the sea, was a real pinch-me experience.

Lunch and relaxation

After the excitement of the morning, the crew prepared lunch while we sailed further along the coast. Food was included in the price — a simple meal but just what you need after all that sea air.

There were delicious Canarian-style potatoes and fresh salad for us vegans, and a barbecue of chicken for the meat-eaters. Soft drinks and water were included, and alcoholic drinks were available to buy. The food was tasty, and it felt lovely to eat outdoors on deck with the sea breeze and sunshine all around us.

After lunch, the ship anchored in a calm bay for some free time. Anyone who fancied a swim could jump straight into the crystal-clear water.

Swimming and sea fun

The crew set up a rope swing on the side of the boat, and the adults who braved it had an absolute blast. One after another, they swung out over the water and splashed in. It looked like such fun that I almost joined them, but we hadn’t planned for swimming that day and didn’t have our swimsuits with us.

Those who didn’t swim could sunbathe on deck or even try a bit of fishing from the front of the ship. There was plenty to do, but honestly, I was more than happy just sitting back, soaking up the sun and watching the blue horizon stretch endlessly ahead.

There’s something wonderfully calming about being out at sea — the sound of waves, the gentle movement of the boat, the feeling of total freedom. It’s moments like these that make holidays so special.

A family-friendly adventure

What really stood out about the Pirate Tour in Morro Jable was how well it suited all ages. The pirate theme made it exciting for children, while the boat trip, swimming stop and coastal views kept adults entertained too.

It’s rare to find an excursion that genuinely works for everyone, but this one did. The atmosphere was relaxed, the crew were friendly and funny, and the whole experience felt welcoming from start to finish.

Even without kids, I’d have loved it. There’s something joyful about being on a sailing ship under the sun, with good company and stunning views.

Practical details

The trip lasted around five hours, including the sailing, lunch and swimming stop. We booked through TUI, but you can also book directly in Morro Jable or through local excursion companies across southern Fuerteventura.

It’s worth bringing:

• Swimsuits and towels if you plan to swim.
• Sunhats and sunglasses — there’s not much shade onboard.
• A light jumper for the breeze, especially if you go outside high season.
• Seasickness tablets if you’re sensitive to motion, just in case.

Children are well looked after on board, but keep an eye on little ones as the decks can get slippery when wet.

Why it’s worth it

We booked this trip partly because it looked like something different and partly because we wanted to make the most of our week away. But it turned into one of the highlights of our Fuerteventura holiday.

It gave the children a taste of adventure, offered us all the chance to see dolphins, and reminded us just how magical the ocean can be.

For families staying near Jandía or Morro Jable, I’d highly recommend the Pirate Tour aboard the Pedra Sartaña. It’s fun, interactive and perfectly suited to children — yet enjoyable enough for adults to feel they’ve had an adventure too.

If you love boat trips, sunshine and a touch of pirate-themed fun, this is one to add to your Fuerteventura itinerary.

Final thoughts

The Pirate Tour Fuerteventura was everything we hoped for and more. It was entertaining, well-organised and packed with little moments that made the day unforgettable. The dolphin sightings were the icing on the cake.

We left with big smiles, tired children and a camera full of photos — exactly how a family holiday day out should end.

Next time we visit Fuerteventura, we’ll definitely be tempted to climb aboard again.