Canary Islands Cruises

The Canary Islands are part of a wider group of Atlantic Islands scattered across the ocean between Europe and Africa, and they're among the most varied in the group. Seven main islands, each shaped by volcanic activity over millions of years, with landscapes that range from the black lava fields of Lanzarote to the ancient laurel forests of La Gomera, and warm, dry weather that holds through most of the year.

Fred. Olsen has been sailing to the Canaries for decades, and it remains one of our most popular programmes. Depending on your itinerary, you may call at Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Arrecife in Lanzarote, Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura, Santa Cruz de La Palma and San Sebastián de La Gomera. Each island is worth a full day ashore, and the sailing between them, crossing open Atlantic water with the islands coming into view one by one, is a good part of what makes a Canary Islands cruise feel different from a land-based trip. [ReadMoreMob][ReadMoreDesk]

What to expect on a Canary Islands Cruise

Fred. Olsen sails to the Canaries directly from UK ports, Southampton and Liverpool are the most common, so no flights are needed. The crossing takes three to four days, typically passing Madeira or the Portuguese coast on the way south. Most itineraries cover three to five islands, giving you a full day ashore in each without the trip feeling rushed. Our smaller ships berth closer to town centres than many larger vessels, which means less time in transit and more time in the port itself.

When to take a Canary Islands Cruise

The Canaries work year-round, coastal temperatures stay between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius in every season. Autumn and winter are the most popular times to go, offering reliable warmth when much of Europe is cold. Spring is worth considering too, particularly for walking, the interiors of La Palma and La Gomera are at their greenest in March and April. Summer departures are available but the islands are busier, and the heat inland can be considerable.