The guide to Canary Islands cruises

Quick insights

• The Canary Islands offer a unique blend of Spanish culture, diverse landscapes and a pleasant climate.
• The ideal time to cruise to the Canary Islands is in the fall (September to November) and spring (March to May).
• If you’re looking to get more favorable prices and availability, it can be helpful to book your Canary Islands cruise at least 6 to 12 months in advance.

Imagine waking up to the snow-covered peaks of an active volcano, spending the day on a sandy beach and enjoying Spanish tapas in the evening. Let's take a dive into an ocean of possibilities as we explore Canary Islands cruises.

Navigating the Canary Islands' geography and culture

A semi-autonomous part of Spain off the coast of North Africa, the Canary Islands are an unusual place where cultures blend together and the landscape can change drastically.

The Canary Islands are known for their diverse landscapes, from volcanic mountains and lush forests to sandy beaches and desert-like dunes. The islands' culture is a blend of Spanish influences and indigenous Guanche heritage, reflected in their architecture, cuisine and festivals.

The Canary Islands are home to a variety of unique and beautiful flora and fauna. For example, the iconic Dragon Tree (Dracaena draco) is native to the Canary Islands and the surrounding region. The tree is known for its umbrella-like shape, slow growth and the red resin it produces, which is known as "dragon's blood."

As far as animals, the Canary Islands Stonechat (Saxicola dacotiae) is a small, brown-and-white bird that is endemic to the island of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands. A rarer sight is the Giant

Gomeran Lizard (Gallotia bravoana), an endangered species that can be found in the jungles and canyons of the Canary Islands.

Choosing the right time for your Canary Islands cruise

Timing your cruise right can enhance your experience. While the weather is beautiful for most of the year, the best time to cruise to the Canary Islands is during the spring and fall months when the weather is especially mild and pleasant. Traveling during the summer and winter months can potentially result in fewer crowds and lower prices.

If you want a more immersive cultural experience, consider timing your cruise to coincide with local festivals, like the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in February or the "Fiesta de San Juan" (St. John's Eve). This celebration of the summer solstice includes bonfires, nighttime swimming, food and music.

How many days do you need on a cruise to the Canary Islands?

The length of your cruise can affect your experience. Here's what to consider:

• Shorter cruises (7 to 10 days): These cruises typically cover the major islands and offer a good overview of the region's highlights.
• Medium-length cruises (10 to 14 days): These cruises allow for a more in-depth exploration of the islands, including some of the lesser-known ones like El Hierro or La Graciosa.
• Longer cruises (14+ days): These cruises often combine the Canary Islands with other destinations like Madeira, the Azores or mainland Spain, offering a more varied experience.

Planning your Canary Islands cruise itinerary

When planning your cruise, the ideal itinerary can make for a memorable experience. Here are some highlights to consider:

• Major islands: Look for itineraries that include stops in Tenerife for its iconic Mount Teide, Gran Canaria for its diverse landscapes and Lanzarote for its volcanic terrain. Each island offers its own flavor of the Canary Islands' culture and natural beauty.
• Natural attractions: Don't miss the chance to visit the Garajonay National Park in La Gomera, the dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria and the Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote. These natural wonders offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing and photography.
• Cultural experiences: Consider stops in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria for their vibrant culture, historic architecture and delicious cuisine. You might also want to explore the charming villages of La Palma and the vineyards of La Geria in Lanzarote.

Is a cruise the best way to see the Canary Islands?

Like all things, there are pros and cons to cruises as opposed to other forms of travel. For instance, while cruises can offer the convenience of exploring multiple islands without the need to arrange separate flights and accommodations, your time spent at any one location will be limited compared to booking a hotel or resort.

Cruising can be a cost-effective way to see the Canary Islands with meals, transportation and entertainment typically included in the price. As such, though, you will have fewer opportunities to sample the cuisine at local restaurants.

Overall, cruises can provide a great overview of the region, but your opportunities to explore any one location in greater detail may be limited.

How rough are the waters around the Canary Islands?

The waters around the Canary Islands are generally calm, especially between April and October. Be aware of the winter season from December to February when seas can be rougher due to the trade winds. If you plan to travel during this time and are prone to motion sickness, you might want to pack accordingly.

Canary Islands cruise packing guide

Speaking of packing, bringing all the appropriate items for your cruise can enhance your comfort and convenience. Here are some things you might consider packing:

• Clothing: Pack for a variety of weather conditions such as warm days and cooler nights. Include swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket and a more formal outfit for special events on the ship.
• Sun protection: Bring a high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
• Travel documents: Don't forget your passport, cruise tickets and any necessary visas. American citizens do not need a visa to visit the Canary Islands for tourism purposes if the stay is less than 90 days within a 180 day period. You will need a passport that is valid for at least six more months after the date you plan to return to the country. It can also be useful to have proof of sufficient funds and a return airline ticket.

The bottom line

Cruising to the Canary Islands offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and rich culture. By choosing the right time to travel, planning your itinerary carefully and packing appropriately, you can make a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience. Remember, the key to a successful cruise is planning ahead and being prepared for the adventure that awaits.