Fuerteventura is one of best islands in the Canary Islands archipelago to visit as a family because it has a wide variety of things to do that will be enjoyed by both children and their parents. Whether you’re travelling with your nearest and dearest or love doing water sports with friends, make sure your holiday itinerary includes a trip to Oceanarium Explorer, an aquatic leisure centre in Puerto del Castillo, Caleta de Fuste’s port.
What will you find when you visit this aquatic centre in Fuerteventura? A wide range of sea-based activities suitable for every member of the family. Some are fun and active, like swimming with sea lions or going snorkelling, while others are more relaxing, such as whale and dolphin watching or a catamaran excursion. You’ll find options for all ages and experience levels, and you’ll always be accompanied by professionals who guide you step by step through each activity so that you enjoy it to the full in safety.
An aquatic centre or ‘aquarium’ in Fuerteventura
Oceanarium Explorer has recently been refurbished to give it more up-to-date facilities and new water-based activities have been added to match its fresh, modern look. Anyone who visited the centre a few years ago will be pleasantly surprised.
The first activity launched by Oceanarium Explorer was its underwater boat trip. Dive under the waves in a small ‘submarine’ to discover the wonders of the ocean and spot species native to the area. This underwater adventure set the ball rolling at the centre and remains one of its best-loved activities, but the list now includes lots more. Below are some of the most popular activities that you can enjoy as a family and with friends:
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Kayaking
If you’re in fairly good shape and fancy rowing across the ocean in a kayak (similar to a dugout canoe) then this is the activity for you. One or two-seater kayaks are available for hire and you’ll row with a double-ended paddle across the waters of Caleta de Fuste, which are generally calm and therefore ideal for doing this sport.
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Jet skiing
However, if physical sports aren’t for you and you prefer the excitement of speeding over the sea, you’ll love jet skiing. Never driven one before? No problem: Oceanarium runs classes for beginners.
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Sailing in a catamaran
If you’d rather enjoy a more peaceful day out, why not choose a catamaran trip? This 4-hour excursion sets off from the port and takes you to Pozo Negro. One of the main attractions of this experience is having the chance to photograph one of the most impressive sunsets on the island. Boats can hold up to a hundred passengers and have a catering service on board.
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Snorkelling
Put your mask and fins on and get ready to enjoy the beauty of the Canary Islands’ ocean floor.
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Fishing
Whether you go fishing regularly or are just curious to try it for the first time, Caleta de Fuste is a great destination for anglers. If you’re a beginner, professionals at the centre can provide guidance to increase the chances of fish nibbling at your bait.
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Boat ride and whale watching
Who isn’t thrilled to spot a dolphin fin while they’re swimming? It’s no surprise to learn that this activity is one of the most popular at Fuerteventura’s aquarium. Your chances of spotting dolphins or pilot whales (also in the dolphin family) are pretty high and with a little bit of luck you might also see orcas and whales. The journey lasts two hours.
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Swimming with sea lions
One of the activities that children love the most is the opportunity to swim in a large pool with these unusual animals and the good news is that you can join them! You have to put on a wetsuit and follow a few brief safety guidelines before getting into the pool and then all that’s left to do is enjoy interacting with the sea lions. An activity that is both educational and fun.
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Flyboarding
This activity is only suitable for total thrill-seekers but if you fit the bill, don’t think twice and climb onto a water jet-propelled board that lifts you six metres up into the air!
Visit Caleta de Fuste and enjoy Oceanarium Explorer
Oceanarium Explorer is in Caleta de Fuste, a coastal town in the central area of the island. Caleta de Fuste is a great location because it offers quick access to the activities offered by the aquarium and to lots of other excursions.
The town has a beautiful beach, San Buenaventura castle (not open to the public) and a fantastic selection of leisure facilities: golf courses, shopping centres, wellness centres, spas and a huge range of restaurants. If you visit the area with children in high season, you’ll also discover lots of fun events such as theatre shows and children’s activities to enjoy as a family.
If you have time during your trip to Fuerteventura, another great option for families is a visit to Oasis Park, now called Oasis Wildlife Fuerteventura, the largest zoo and botanical gardens in the Canary Islands.
