Canary Islands Cruises

Discover the Enchantment of the Canary Islands on a Cruise

The Canary Islands, a stunning archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, are renowned for their beautiful landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and pleasant climate. A cruise to the Canary Islands is a perfect way to experience everything these sun-soaked islands have to offer, from volcanic mountains and sandy beaches to vibrant local cultures. Fun fact: The Canary Islands boast some of the most diverse flora and fauna in Europe, with a striking 29 protected natural areas and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites! There’s something to captivate every cruiser on this unique journey.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Canary Islands

As your cruise ship docks, you’ll want to make the most of your time at these beautiful harbours:

Notable Ports Outside the Canary Islands

Several key ports are often visited before or after cruising the Canary Islands, adding to the richness of your journey:

Best Times to Visit the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands enjoy a mild climate year-round, making them an attractive destination for cruising at any time. However, the best time to visit is generally from April to October, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. This period is ideal for beach activities and exploring outdoor sites. If you prefer milder weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting during the off-peak months of November to March when the temperature averages around 15°C to 22°C.

Cruise Costs Overview for the Canary Islands

If you’re considering a cruise to the Canary Islands, what can you expect in terms of costs? A 1-week cruise generally costs between $1,500 and $3,500 for standard offers and from $4,500 to $8,000 for luxury packages. For a longer, 2-week cruise, expect pricing in the range of $2,500 to $6,500 for standard packages and upwards of $9,000 for luxurious experiences. The cheapest options are typically available during the shoulder season of November to March, while peak summer months can drive prices to their highest. When dining out on the islands, meals generally cost around $20 to $50, while a drink can set you back around $5 to $10.

Major Cruise Lines to the Canary Islands

• MSC Cruises
  MSC operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 11 sailing to the Canary Islands, including MSC Opera and MSC Grandiosa. Departures typically occur from the domestic port of Melbourne or international ports like Genoa and Madeira (Funchal). Known for their family-friendly atmosphere, MSC offers features ranging from thrilling entertainment to diverse dining options for all ages.
• P&O Cruises
  P&O Cruises features a fleet of 7 ships, with all 7 offering itineraries to the Canary Islands, particularly Azura and Ventura. Departures are generally from Sydney or international ports like Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Southampton. P&O Cruises is known for its classic British cruising experience and welcoming onboard environment, catering to guests’ every need.
• Cunard Line
  Cunard operates a fleet of 4 ships, with Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2 visiting the Canary Islands. Most cruise departures occur from Sydney, with international options from Southampton and Hamburg. Cunard is synonymous with elegance and luxury, providing an unparalleled onboard experience highlighted by fine dining and world-class entertainment.
• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess includes 7 that sail to the Canary Islands, featuring Crown Princess and Island Princess. These vessels depart from domestic ports such as Sydney or Perth, or international ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) and Fort Lauderdale. Princess is celebrated for its exceptional service and variety of onboard activities designed for guests of all ages.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Norwegian’s fleet includes 20 ships, with 4 regularly cruising to the Canary Islands, including Norwegian Star and Norwegian Sky. These cruises often depart from Lisbon or Barcelona, and Norwegian stands out for its freestyle cruising concept that allows guests flexibility in dining and entertainment choices, ensuring a personalised experience.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises
  Oceania features a total of 8 ships, with 5 visiting the Canary Islands, including Marina and Nautica. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome). Known for its focus on exquisite dining and destination-rich itineraries, Oceania ensures guests enjoy local cultures and flavours at every port.
• Ponant
  Ponant operates a fleet of 11 ships with 6 heading to the Canary Islands, notably Le Bellot and L’Austral. Departures usually occur from Las Palmas or Dakar. Ponant is recognised for its luxury small ship cruises that combine high-end service with a boutique experience, allowing close access to unique destinations.
• Silversea
  With a fleet of 13 ships, Silversea features 5 that frequently visit the Canary Islands, including Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit. Common ports of departure include Lisbon and Cape Town, where Silversea offers ultra-luxury experience that focuses on personalised service and exclusive shore excursions.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  This luxury cruise line has a total of 6 ships, with 4 that sail to the Canary Islands, including Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner. Departing often from Barcelona or Cape Town, Regent is renowned for its all-inclusive offerings, ensuring guests have an exceptional experience throughout their journeys.
• Explora Journeys
  With a fleet of 2 ships, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II explore the Canary Islands. Common ports of departure include Barcelona and Miami. Explora Journeys focuses on providing meaningful experiences through immersive excursions and a modern, relaxed onboard atmosphere.

Consider These Alternative Regions for Your Cruise

If you’re intrigued by the Canary Islands, consider these alternative regions for your next adventure:

• Caribbean: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy water sports, explore idyllic islands, and experience the unique local cuisines.
• Eastern Mediterranean: This region is rich in history and natural beauty, featuring ancient ruins and stunning coastlines. Perfect for those keen on immersing themselves in captivating cultures while indulging in delicious local dishes!
• Adriatic Sea: The picturesque coastal towns of the Adriatic Sea, like Dubrovnik and Split, complement beautiful waters with rich history and stunning landscapes. This alternative region stands out for its cultural offerings and incredible vistas.
• Portuguese Azores: An off-the-beaten-path destination, the Azores are renowned for their lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and diverse wildlife. This region is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers looking for hiking and eco-friendly activities.
• Madeira: Known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” Madeira is famous for its flowers, stunning scenery, and mild climate year-round. The island offers breathtaking hikes and rich cultural history that melds beautifully with breathtaking landscapes.

Book your cruise to the Canary Islands with CruiseAway, where sun-soaked adventures and captivating experiences await you at every turn. Start planning your getaway today!