Ferry Services in the Canary Islands: All You Need to Know

The Canary Islands are a popular tourist destination for their stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. But with seven main islands, hopping from one to another can be a daunting task. That’s where ferry services come in.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of ferry travel between the Canary Islands. From the most popular routes to the best time to book, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your journey seamless and enjoyable. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the fascinating world of ferry services in the Canary Islands!

Operators and Onboard Amenities

With several ferry companies operating in the archipelago, we aim to help you choose the right ferry operator for your needs. Whether you’re looking for comfort, speed, or affordability, you’ll find all the information you need to make an informed decision. From theseating options to the onboard dining and entertainment options, this section will give you a comprehensive look at what you can expect from your ferry trip.

Fred. Olsen Express

With a proud history dating back to 1974, originally under the name Ferry Gomera, Fred. Olsen Express has built a reputation for connecting the archipelago’s islands through the shortest possible routes. This ferry operator, with its fleet of 10 modern and well-equipped ferries, including the Bañaderos Express, Bajamar Express, Marie Curie, and more, provides passengers with the ultimate travel experience, combining speed and comfort. The company’s ferries are equipped with a range of facilities designed to enhance the traveler’s journey, including special cabins and garages for transporting vehicles.

Step aboard a Fred. Olsen Express ferry and discover why this company has become synonymous with seamless and comfortable island-hopping in the Canary Islands.

Popular routes

Fred. Olsen Express offers frequent ferry services between the stunning islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura, ensuring that travelers have easy and convenient access to all the destinations in the archipelago all year round. Additionally, the company operates routes between the Canary Islands and mainland Spain, with departures from the port of Huelva in Andalusia.

Fred. Olsen Express’s most popular ferry routes are:

• Lanzarote’s Playa Blanca to Fuerteventura’s Corralejo
• Tenerife’s Los Cristianos to La Gomera’s San Sebastián
• Fuerteventura’s Corralejo to Lanzarote’s Playa Blanca
• La Gomera’s San Sebastián to Tenerife’s Los Cristianos
• Tenerife’s Los Cristianos to La Palma’s Santa Cruz
• Tenerife’s Santa Cruz to Gran Canaria’s Agaete
• Gran Canaria’s Las Palmas to Fuerteventura’s Morro Jable
• La Palma’s Santa Cruz to Tenerife’s Los Cristianos
• Gran Canaria’s Agaete to Tenerife’s Santa Cruz
• Fuerteventura’s Morro Jable to Gran Canaria’s Las Palmas

Onboard amenities and facilities

Whether you have a disability, want to bring your furry friend with you, or just want a comfortable and easy trip, Fred. Olsen Express will take care of you. You’ll find everything you need on board, such as family-friendly spaces and a shop, as the facilities are made to meet every passenger’s needs. Plus, your comfort is always a top priority, which is why there are cabins and wheelchairs for people with disabilities, flexible seating options, as well as large lounges with a variety of places to sit and areas that are safe for pets. From the large sun deck, you can see beautiful views of the Canary Islands, or you can get a refreshing drink at the bar or cafe.

Special discounts

Fred Olsen Express sells different kinds of tickets with discounts, including those for:

• Children under 12
• People aged 12 to 26 and those over 60
• Big families
• Groups
• Canary Islands Residents

Naviera Armas

With a rich history dating back to 1941, Naviera Armas has established itself as a leader in transportation services between mainland Spain, Morocco, and the Canary Islands, ultimately launching passenger services in 1995. The company connects the islands of the archipelago with modern ferries equipped with the latest technology and offers a wide range of accommodations, from comfortable seating to special cabins for people with disabilities. The onboard facilities are also second-to-none, with large lounges, spacious sun decks, cafes, bars, boutiques, and even family facilities. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Naviera Armas promises a smooth, fast, and comfortable journey.

Popular routes

The Naviera Armas maintains year-round service on the Canary routes. On average, there are two crossings every week between Huelva, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria, whereas there are daily crossings between the Canaries islands.

The following are some of the company’s most popular ferry routes:

• Tenerife to Gran Canaria
• Tenerife to La Gomera
• Gran Canaria to Fuerteventura
• Fuerteventura to Lanzarote
• Huelva to Tenerife/Gran Canaria
• Motril to Nador/Al Hoceima

Onboard amenities and facilities

Naviera Armas’ fleet offers a delightful journey with its impressive onboard facilities. You can relax in spacious armchairs placed in a cozy environment as you cruise across the waves, making it an ideal place to catch up with friends.The company has taken care to make your trip even more comfortable with more spacious seating options in the hallways, surrounded by modern designs and breathtaking scenery. In the onboard cafeteria, you can enjoy sweet and savory snacks as well as hot and cold beverages. Naviera Armas also provides useful amenities such as elevators, which make it simple to transport passengers from the parking garage to the upper deck, and infrastructures for pets.

Special discounts

Adults pay the full fare with no reduction, while special discounts are offered to children between 0 to 11 years old, people aged 12 to 26, and those over 60.

Trasmediterranea

Trasmediterranea has a long history that dates back to 1917. The ferry operator connects Spain with the Canary Islands, Ceuta, Melilla, Morocco, and Algeria. Focusing on providing the best possible experience for passengers, it operates a diverse fleet of high-speed ships for short trips and luxurious, comfortable vessels for longer journeys. The company’s commitment to providing quality services has been supported by its acquisition by Acciona, one of Spain’s largest corporations, in 2002 and by Naviera Armas in 2017, allowing Trasmediterranea to grow and evolve into a leading ferry operator in Europe.

Whether you’re looking for speed and convenience or comfort and relaxation, Trasmediterranea’s ferry network has something to offer everyone, making it the ideal choice for your next maritime adventure.

Popular routes

Along with the Canary islands, Trasmediterránea services the Balearic Islands and mainland ports, including Barcelona and Valencia. Also serviced by Trasmediterránea ferries are ports on the northern coasts of Morocco and Algeria. The company maintains service on these routes all through the seasons. Crossings to the Canary Islands and the Balearics occur daily, whereas crossings from Andalusia to the Canary Islands and the ports in North Africa occur around twice weekly.

Trasmediterránea operates the following ferry routes between the Canary Islands:

• Tenerife to Gran Canaria
• Tenerife to La Gomera
• Gran Canaria to Fuerteventura
• Fuerteventura to Lanzarote
• Andalusia to Tenerife/Gran Canaria

Onboard amenities and facilities

On shorter trips, high-speed ships are used because speed and convenience are the main goals. On longer trips, however, Trasmediterranea ferries are designed to offer the highest levels of comfort so that the journey is an enjoyable part of the vacation. The fleet has four freight ships, four modern and stylish high-speed boats, and many traditional passenger ships with large cabins and exquisite interiors.

Most Transmediterranea Ferries have snack bars, bathrooms, bed cabins, and garages for transporting cars. Some also have duty-free shops on board.Additionally, the company is open to issuing tickets in electronic form (e-tickets), so passengers do not need to present actual tickets at boarding; instead, the process can be completed entirely online.

Special discounts

Discounts are available on Trasmediterránea ferries for those who fall into certain categories, including infants (ages 0-12 months), children (ages 2-13), students, large families, and permanent residents. Adult passengers are required to pay the full, published fare.

Líneas Marítimas Romero

Since 1930, the Romero family has operated the ferry company Lineas Romero between the Canary Islands, but it was only in the 1970s that the company expanded from its original role as a postal service provider into the passenger transportation industry. They have a large fleet of ships perfectly equipped for inter-island travel and have been running the only regular passenger ferry crossing between the islands of Lanzarote and La Graciosa for over 40 years.

Popular routes

The trip between Orzola and La Graciosa takes about 25 minutes, and there are multiple departures per day, with more frequent service during the peak season. Meanwhile, a daily service connects Playa Blanca on Lanzarote with Corralejo on Fuerteventura. This 45-minute ferry ride is available 4–7 times daily, depending on the time of year. In addition, a waterbus operates between Lanzarote’s ports of Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen.

Onboard amenities and facilities

Larger ferries, which can accommodate up to 250 passengers, typically have onboard entertainment like music and a bar where passengers can unwind with a beverage while taking in the sights. Not only can you take in the breathtaking scenery of the ocean from the comfort of your ship, but some of them even have a “glass bottom” so you can see what’s below you as well.

Enjoy the ferry ride with your four-legged friends at no additional cost, thanks to Lineas Romero’s pet policy. Passengers are also permitted 20 kilograms of checked baggage and sports gear, including surfboards and bicycles, at no additional cost. However, cars and motorcycles are not allowed on Lineas Romero ferries.

Special discounts

Residents of the Canary Islands are eligible for a 75% discount on all Lineas Romero fares. On the other hand, large families can save 20-50% on ferry tickets, and kids between the ages of 3 and 11 also receive discounts of up to 50% off the regular price. Even nicer, Lineas Romero does not charge for infants or toddlers under the age of two on any of their routes. There are also seasonal discounts and special deals.

Biosfera Express

Biosfera Express, located on La Graziosa in the Canary Islands, began as a modest family business focused on deep-sea fishing but has shifted its attention in recent years to passenger transportation between the islands of Orzola and La Graciosa.You may rest easy knowing you’re in good hands because they have plenty of sailing experience in this area.

Onboard amenities and facilities

Passengers may rest assured that any trip on one of their high-speed catamarans will be a relaxing and enjoyable one, thanks to the company’s well-trained crew. Their ships can hold up to 250 passengers and are equipped with modern comforts like comfortable seating, clean restrooms, bars, and entertainment systems. Seafood on the grill and breathtaking sea vistas are only two of the perks of taking the ferry “Cap Menorca.” The second boat, the “Badia de Soller,” features a spacious sun roof from which passengers can take in panoramic views of the stunning Canary Islands beaches. The ride takes 25 minutes round way, with 9 departures every day.

Due to the lack of a garage, ferries are limited to transporting just passengers.

Special discounts

Children under the age of 13 pay a reduced rate, while adults pay the full price.

Routes

Several ferry routes connect the different Canary islands to each other, providing a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the islands, whether for leisure or business. As expected, the more popular tourist destinations are well-connected and can offer more options.

It is important to note that all ferry schedules for 2023 are subject to change, so it is always advisable to check for updates before making any plans.Additionally, ticket prices can vary depending on various factors, such as discounts, cabin selection, and vehicle type. It is always a good idea to compare prices and services between different ferry operators to ensure the best value for your travel needs.

From Tenerife

To Gran Canaria
Departing from: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Destination: Las Palmas and Agaete, Gran Canaria
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: Every day; Over 15 daily
Duration: 2-3 hours (Las Palmas) or 80 minutes (Agaete)
Standard or economy class fare: €48 to €72 (depending on the ferry operator and route)

To El Hierro
Departing from: Los Cristianos, Tenerife
Destination: Valverde, El Hierro
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: 6-7 days a week
Duration: 2.5 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €54

To Fuerteventura
Departing from: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Destination: Morro Jable or Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: 1-2 daily
Duration: 7-8 hours
Standard or economy class fare: Starts at €119

To La Gomera
Departing from: Los Cristianos,Tenerife
Destination: San Sebastián, La Gomera
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: About 40 per week
Duration: 50 minutes
Standard or economy class fare: Around €44

To La Graciosa
Departing from: Tenerife
Destination: Caleta de Sebo, La Graciosa
Duration: Up to 13.5 hours
Standard or economy class fare: About €165

Note: If no direct route is available between Tenerife and La Graciosa, travelers must take a connecting ferry trip from Lanzarote.

To La Palma
Departing from: Santa Cruz and Los Cristianos, Tenerife
Destination: Santa Cruz de La Palma
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express.
Availability: Multiple times a day
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €62(depends on the ferry operator and route)

To Lanzarote
Departing from: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Destination: Arrecife, Lanzarote
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: Daily
Duration: 10-20 hours
Standard or economy class fare: Around €117

From Gran Canaria

To Tenerife
Departing from: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or Agaete
Destination: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: 8 daily (from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria); 5 daily (Agaete)
Duration: 80 to 100 minutes
Standard or economy class fare: €44

To Fuerteventura
Departing from: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Destination: Morro Jable or Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas, and Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: Daily
Duration: 2 to 6.5 hours(depending on the ferry operator and route)
Standard or economy class fare: Starts at €48

To La Gomera
Departing from: Las Palmas and Agaete, Gran Canaria
Destination: San Sebastián de La Gomera
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express(to and from Tenerife and La Gomera)
Availability: Over 15 daily (to Tenerife); About 40 per week (to La Gomera)
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
Standard or economy class fare: Starts at €92

Note: There is currently no direct route between Gran Canaria and La Gomera, so a connecting ferry trip from Tenerife is needed.

To Lanzarote
Departing from: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Destination: Arrecife
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: 8 weekly
Duration: 6-10 hours
Standard or economy class fare: Around €49-€94

To La Graciosa
Departing from: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Destination: Órzola, La Graciosa
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas (to Lanzarote); Líneas Marítimas Romero and Biosfera Express (from Lanzarote to La Graciosa)
Availability: 8 weekly (to Lanzarote; Over 12 daily (to La Graciosa)
Duration: Up to 10 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €115

Note: There is currently no direct route between Gran Canaria and La Graciosa, so a connecting ferry trip to Lanzarote is needed.

To La Palma
Departing from: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Destination: Santa Cruz de La Palma
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: Weekly
Duration: 9 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €133

From Fuerteventura

To Gran Canaria
Departing from: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Destination: Morro Jable or Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: 5-6 daily
Duration: 2 hours (to Morro Jable); 6 hours (to Puerto del Rosario)
Standard or economy class fare: Starts at €48(depends on the ferry operator and route)

To Lanzarote
Departing from: Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Destination: Playa Blanca, Lanzarote
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas, Líneas Marítimas Romero and Fred. Olsen Express
Duration: 25-35 minutes
Availability: 20 daily
Standard or economy class fare: Around €18 to €33

To Tenerife
Departing from: Morro Jable or Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Destination: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: 1-2 daily
Duration: 7-8 hours
Standard or economy class fare: Starts at €119

From La Gomera

To Tenerife
Departing from: San Sebastian, La Gomera
Destination: Los Cristianos, Tenerife
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas or Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: Daily
Duration: 50 minutes
Standard or economy class fare: Starts at €25

To La Palma
Departing from: San Sebastian, La Gomera
Destination: Santa Cruz de La Palma
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: 12 weekly
Duration: 4-6 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €58

From La Palma

To Tenerife
Departing from: Santa Cruz de La Palma
Destination: Santa Cruz de Tenerife or Los Cristianos
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas, Trasmediterránea, and Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: Daily
Duration: 2.5 to 6 hours (depending on the destination port)
Standard or economy class fare: Starts at €62

To Gran Canaria
Departing from: Santa Cruz de La Palma
Destination: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: 2-3 daily
Duration: 8.5-12 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €114

To La Gomera
Departing from: Santa Cruz de La Palma
Destination: San Sebastian de la Gomera
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express
Availability: 2 daily
Duration: 4-6 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €58

From Lanzarote

To Tenerife
Departing from: Arrecife, Lanzarote
Destination: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: Daily
Duration: 10-20 hours
Standard or economy class fare: Around €117

To Gran Canaria
Departing from: Arrecife, Lanzarote
Destination: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: Daily
Duration: 5-9 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €94

To Fuerteventura
Departing from: Playa Blanca, Lanzarote
Destination: Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas, Fred. Olsen Express and Líneas Marítimas Romero 
Availability: 20 daily
Duration: 25 minutes
Standard or economy class fare: Starts around €18 to €33

To La Graciosa
Departing from: Órzola, Lanzarote
Destination: La Graciosa
Ferry operator: Líneas Marítimas Romero and Biosfera Express
Availability: Multiple times a day
Duration: 25 minutes
Standard or economy class fare: €15

From El Hierro

To Tenerife
Departing from: Valverde, El Hierro
Destination: Los Cristianos, Tenerife
Ferry operator: Naviera Armas
Availability: 6 per week
Duration: 2.5 hours
Standard or economy class fare: €54

Tips for Traveling in the Canary Islands by Ferry

Here, you will find valuable information and helpful suggestions to make your ferry travel in the Canary Islands as smooth and comfortable as possible. Whether planning a short hop between the islands or a longer journey, our tips will help you prepare for your trip, save time and money, and ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience on board. So, whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, read on and discover the best ways to travel by ferry in the Canary Islands!

Check the operator’s website. Do this to see the latest schedules, services, rates, and policies. This is crucial, especially if you plan to travel with a vehicle.

Book your ferry tickets in advance: It’s recommended to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season, to ensure that you get a seat on the desired ferry and at the desired time.

Check the ferry schedule: Make sure to check the ferry schedule before traveling, as the frequency of ferry departures can vary depending on the route and time of year. In addition, ferry schedules can change, especially during the winter months.

Plan your trip: Take into consideration the time required to reach the ferry port, check-in procedures, and time of arrival at the destination, as well as any additional costs, such as parking fees and taxes.

Bring necessary documentation: Make sure to bring your passport or ID card, as well as any other necessary documentation, such as visas or proof of travel insurance.

Arrive early at the ferry port: It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the ferry departure time to allow enough time for check-in and boarding procedures.

Consider purchasing travel insurance: Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected events or cancellations.

Pack wisely: Only bring essential items on the ferry, and follow the ferry’s baggage policy. Bear in mind that the ferry can get chilly, especially at night, so consider packing a light jacket or sweater.

Familiarize yourself with the ferry’s amenities and services: Know what amenities and services are available on the ferry, such as restaurants, restrooms, and entertainment options.

Respect other passengers: Be mindful of others when traveling on the ferry and refrain from loud music or behavior that may disturb others.

Enjoy the journey: Finally, relax and enjoy the scenic journey through the beautiful waters of the Canary Islands.

FAQs

Discover the Magic of the Canary Islands by Ferry

The Canary Islands are a truly captivating destination, offering diverse landscapes, activities, and cultural experiences. With ferry services operating between the islands, exploring this breathtaking region is easier than ever. From the stunning beaches of Tenerife to the lush green hills of La Palma, there is something for everyone in the Canary Islands. In this guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to make the most of your ferry journey and discover the magic of this remarkable region. So, pack your bags, grab your tickets, and let’s set sail for adventure!