Canary Islands Cruises

Explore the Majestic Canary Islands with CruiseAway

Welcome to the **Canary Islands**, an idyllic archipelago of stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Located off the northwest coast of Africa, these islands present a unique blend of Spanish tradition and tropical charm. A cruise to the Canary Islands is an exceptional way to experience their diverse natural beauty, from volcanic landscapes to lush green valleys. Fun fact: the Canary Islands are known as the “Fortunate Isles” due to their year-round mild climate! Cruisers will delight in exploring lively markets, indulging in local cuisine, and taking part in numerous outdoor adventures that these islands have to offer.

Top Harbours to Visit in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands boast numerous harbours that each hold their own charm and attractions. Here are five delightful ports of call:

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife: As the capital of Tenerife, Santa Cruz is a bustling port city with a vibrant local scene. When you dock here, take the time to explore the beautiful **Parque García Sanabria**—a stunning urban park filled with exotic gardens. Don’t miss the chance to visit the **Auditorio de Tenerife**, an architectural marvel. Pro tip: Stop by a local café to sample some **papas arrugadas** (wrinkled potatoes) served with mojo sauce!
• Las Palmas, Gran Canaria: This lively port is famous for its beautiful beaches and rich history. While in Las Palmas, explore the historic district of **Vegueta**, which features amazing architecture and local shops. Be sure to check out **Playa de Las Canteras**, a popular beach and great spot for swimming. Insider tip: Visit the **Casa de Colón** museum, which showcases Christopher Columbus’s voyages, and enjoy a delicious meal at a tapas bar nearby!
• Arrecife, Lanzarote: Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote and offers stunning beaches with clear waters. While there, visit the **Castillo de San Gabriel**, a historic fortress with beautiful views of the sea. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore **Timanfaya National Park**, famous for its unique volcanic landscapes. A must-try dish is **gofio**, a traditional Canarian meal made from roasted grains. Insider tip: Rent a bike to explore the island’s volcanic attractions at your own pace!
• Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura: The laid-back atmosphere of Puerto del Rosario makes it an inviting port. Explore the beautiful beaches, such as **Playa Blanca**, or visit local artisan shops for unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the **Museo de la Sal**, where you can learn about salt production in the region. Tip: Enjoy a stroll along the promenade, where you can taste delicious seafood in one of the local restaurants.
• Santa Cruz de La Palma: This picturesque port features charming colonial architecture and beautiful gardens. Experience local culture at the **Museum of the History of La Palma** and take a leisurely walk through the **Bajo de la Virgen** promenade. If you’re up for an adventure, trek through the **Caldera de Taburiente National Park** for stunning views. Pro tip: Grab a local **mojo** sauce sampler to take home as a delightful souvenir!

Best Times to Cruise the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are known for their pleasant climate throughout the year, which makes them an excellent travel destination for cruisers. The best time to visit is during the **spring (April to June)** and **autumn (September to November)**, offering comfortable temperatures around **20°C to 28°C**. If you prefer more sunshine, the summer months (July to August) can be warm, hitting **30°C or more**, but expect larger crowds during this peak tourist season. For those seeking a quieter experience, consider cruising in the shoulder seasons for more competitive prices and fewer tourists.

Cost of Cruising to the Canary Islands

Curious about the costs? A one-week cruise to the **Canary Islands** usually ranges from **$1,800 to $3,000**, while a two-week cruise can run between **$3,500 and $5,500**. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, expect to start around **$5,000** for a one-week cruise. The most economical months to cruise tend to be in late autumn and early spring, while summer and holiday periods see prices soar. Dining out within the islands can be quite affordable, with budget-friendly meals around **$15 to $30**, and fine dining options going up to **$50 or more**.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Canary Islands Adventures

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of **23 ships**, **10** of them offer itineraries that include the Canary Islands. The **MSC Opera** and **MSC Poesia** are prominent options. Most departures are from **Madeira (Funchal)** and **Barcelona**. MSC is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, diverse amenities onboard, and delightful dining options, making it perfect for all ages.
• P&O Cruises: Featuring a fleet of **seven ships**, all of which cruise to the Canary Islands, the **Azura** and **Ventura** are among the most popular. Cruising primarily from **Santa Cruz de Tenerife** and **Southampton**, P&O offers a warm and welcoming service that focuses on British hospitality paired with unique experiences suited for travellers wanting a comfortable and engaging cruise.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **seven** visit the Canary Islands, including the **Crown Princess** and **Island Princess**. Departures typically occur from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Southampton**. Princess Cruises is known for many onboard activities, entertainment options, and immersive shore excursions, perfect for those looking to truly connect with the local culture.
• Cunard: This luxury cruise line has a fleet of **four ships** that offer itineraries to the Canary Islands, including **Queen Anne** and **Queen Victoria**. Departures generally come from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. Cunard prides itself on its elegant atmosphere, hosting traditional afternoon teas and offering outstanding onboard dining experiences.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With **20 ships**, **four** cruise to the Canary Islands, including **Norwegian Star** and **Norwegian Sky**. Departures most often happen from **Lisbon** or **Barcelona**. This cruise line features a “freestyle cruising” concept that allows guests to indulge in casual dining and flexibility in their itinerary.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of **eight ships**, **four** sail to the Canary Islands, including the **Nautica** and **Marina**. Departing mainly from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Barcelona**, Oceania Cruises is known for its luxurious offerings, featuring stunning onboard décor and exceptional culinary experiences that focus on fresh ingredients from each port.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This upscale cruise line maintains a fleet of **six ships**, with **four** exploring the Canary Islands, notably the **Seven Seas Mariner** and **Seven Seas Voyager**. Departures frequently occur from **Barcelona** or **Cape Town**. Regent Seven Seas provides all-inclusive luxury cruising, featuring gourmet dining, curated excursions, and personalized service, ensuring every cruise is remarkable.
• Ponant: This unique line consists of **11 ships**, with **six** offering itineraries to the Canary Islands. The **L’Austral** and **Le Laperouse** are admired for their small-ship experience and extraordinary service. They often depart from **Las Palmas** or **Dakar**. Ponant offers luxury expedition cruising with a focus on sustainability and immersive local experiences.
• Silversea: Featuring **13 ships**, **five** sail to the Canary Islands, including **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Moon**. Departing most often from **Lisbon** or **Cape Town**, Silversea guarantees an elegant experience onboard with an emphasis on personalized service and enriching itineraries, ensuring every detail is attended to for an unforgettable cruise.
• Explora Journeys: With **two ships**, both visit the Canary Islands—**EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II**. They commonly depart from **Barcelona** or **Lisbon**, blending luxurious experiences with a focus on sustainability and authentic cultural engagements at each port, crafting an enriching cruise adventure tailored to discerning travellers.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re intrigued by the **Canary Islands** but want to consider other exciting destinations, here are five alternative regions worth exploring:

• Madeira: Just a stone’s throw away, this enchanting island offers breathtaking landscapes, stunning botanical gardens, and a pleasant climate.
• Caribbean: Renowned for its idyllic beaches and laid-back vibe, the Caribbean offers a range of tropical islands perfect for sun-soak and relaxation.
• Southern Europe: This region is home to exquisite cuisine, remarkable historical sites, and charming coastal towns, bridging cultural experiences effortlessly.
• Africa: Discover the diverse wildlife and vibrant cultures in countries such as Morocco—just a hop away from the Canary Islands!
• Western Mediterranean: Combining rich history with charming seaside towns, this region offers unique itineraries filled with cultural exploration and relaxation.

The **Canary Islands** are a treasure trove of experiences, adventures, and natural wonders waiting to be discovered. So, why wait? Book your cruise with **CruiseAway** today, and set sail towards an unforgettable escape in paradise!