Canary Islands Cruise Holidays

Why choose a Canary Islands cruise?

Canary Islands cruises combine year-round appeal, volcanic landscapes, beaches and lively resort destinations with the convenience of a cruise holiday. Routes can include Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Madeira, depending on the ship and itinerary. For UK travellers, the Canary Islands are a popular choice when looking for winter sunshine without committing to a single resort. Cruise ships also make it possible to sample several islands in one trip, with onboard entertainment, dining and accommodation included as part of the cruise package.

Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote

Tenerife is known for its volcanic landscape, coastal resorts and access to Mount Teide. Gran Canaria combines beaches, historic areas and varied landscapes, while Lanzarote is distinctive for its volcanic scenery and architecture. Fuerteventura is associated with long beaches and water sports. Some itineraries include Madeira, where Funchal provides access to gardens, viewpoints and mountain scenery. The exact combination varies, so compare the port list and time ashore rather than assuming every Canary Islands cruise visits the same destinations.

Popular Canary Islands Cruise Destinations

• Tenerife
• Gran Canaria
• Lanzarote
• Fuerteventura
• La Palma
• Madeira (Funchal)
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Las Palmas
• Arrecife
• Puerto del Rosario

Each destination above now has its own detailed cruise and tourist information guide. Use the links to explore attractions, shore excursions, port information, practical tips and SEO-friendly destination guides.

Canary Islands Tourist Information

The Canary Islands offer a particularly attractive cruise option for travellers looking for sunshine, volcanic scenery, beaches and a relatively straightforward journey from Europe. The islands sit in the Atlantic off the north-west coast of Africa and each has its own personality. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are among the best-known cruise destinations, while itineraries can also include La Palma and Madeira. A cruise is a convenient way to compare several islands because you can experience a different landscape and atmosphere each day without changing hotels.

Tenerife is often one of the headline calls. Santa Cruz de Tenerife provides access to the island's northern scenery, local streets, waterfront areas and excursions towards Mount Teide. The volcanic interior is dramatically different from the resort areas around the coast, making a shore day suitable for travellers who want more than a beach. Excursions may combine viewpoints, volcanic landscapes and local villages, although mountain journeys can involve significant travel time from the port. Checking the duration and accessibility of each excursion is important, particularly for families or anyone who prefers a relaxed pace.

Gran Canaria offers a broad mix of beaches, resort areas, historic streets and mountainous scenery. Las Palmas is the main cruise gateway and gives visitors the opportunity to explore the city as well as travel further inland. Travellers who prefer a simple port day can combine a walk around the city with local food, shopping or a beach visit. Those looking for scenery can choose excursions into the island's interior, where the landscape changes considerably from the coastal areas.

Lanzarote has a particularly distinctive volcanic character. Arrecife is the main cruise port, and excursions can introduce visitors to lava fields, volcanic formations and landscapes shaped by past eruptions. The island's architecture and artistic heritage are also closely associated with its natural environment. Fuerteventura, by contrast, is strongly associated with long sandy beaches, open landscapes and watersports. Puerto del Rosario is the usual cruise gateway, while excursions can explore beaches, coastal viewpoints and the island's quieter interior.

La Palma provides a greener and more mountainous contrast. Santa Cruz de La Palma has a historic character and colourful streets, while excursions can focus on viewpoints, forests and volcanic scenery. Madeira, when included, adds another dimension to the itinerary. Funchal is known for its harbour setting, gardens, steep hills and distinctive Portuguese character. A Canary Islands itinerary that combines Madeira with Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote can therefore provide an unusually broad range of landscapes within a single holiday.

One reason Canary Islands cruises appeal to UK travellers is the possibility of winter sunshine. Conditions are generally milder than northern Europe, although temperatures, wind and rainfall can vary between islands and seasons. Winter sailings are often chosen by travellers wanting a break from colder UK weather, while spring and autumn can provide a useful balance between warm conditions and sightseeing. Summer cruises can also be attractive, particularly for families travelling during school holidays, although demand and pricing can change significantly.

When comparing a Canary Islands cruise, examine the number of ports, the length of each call and the number of sea days. Some itineraries concentrate on the major islands, while others combine the Canaries with Madeira, mainland Spain or Portugal. Check whether flights and transfers are included if the cruise begins outside the UK. For Southampton departures, compare the additional sea days with the convenience of avoiding a flight. Also look at cabin location, dining arrangements, drinks packages, Wi-Fi, gratuities and excursion costs rather than comparing headline fares alone.

The best Canary Islands cruise for you will depend on whether you prioritise beaches, volcanic landscapes, city sightseeing, food, hiking or simply warm-weather relaxation. Because the islands are close enough to combine efficiently, a well-planned itinerary can provide several distinct holiday experiences in one trip. Allow enough time at each port, check excursion travel times and remember that independent sightseeing works best when attractions are close to the port. With its mixture of Atlantic scenery, volcanic geology and accessible European travel, the Canary Islands remain a versatile cruise destination for couples, families and mature travellers alike.

For travellers who enjoy photography, the islands also provide remarkably varied scenery, from black volcanic rock and rugged mountain interiors to bright beaches, harbour promenades and traditional villages. Food is another useful part of the experience, with local specialities providing an easy way to sample something distinctive without committing to a lengthy excursion. A relaxed port day can therefore be just as rewarding as a full-day tour.

Canary Islands cruises from the UK

Some cruise lines offer Canary Islands itineraries from Southampton, creating a no-fly or fly-free cruise option for UK travellers. These voyages may include several sea days because of the distance from southern England to the islands. Sea days can be part of the attraction for passengers who enjoy the ship as much as the destinations. When comparing a sailing, check how many days are spent at sea, the ship’s facilities and the itinerary. A cruise with more sea time may suit travellers looking for relaxation, while a port-intensive route may suit active sightseers.

When to cruise the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are popular throughout the year because temperatures are generally milder than much of mainland Europe during winter. Winter sailings are particularly attractive to UK travellers seeking a break from colder weather. Summer cruises can provide warm conditions but may feel different from a Mediterranean itinerary because of the Atlantic location. Weather can vary between islands and coastal areas, so pack for sun as well as cooler evenings and wind. Always check the specific sailing date and port schedule when planning excursions.

Excursions and things to do

Canary Islands shore excursions range from volcanic landscapes and national parks to beaches, food tours, historic towns and scenic drives. Tenerife’s Mount Teide is a major attraction, while Lanzarote offers volcanic scenery and distinctive cultural sites. Madeira excursions often focus on gardens, levada walks and viewpoints. Independent travellers should allow plenty of time to return to the ship and account for local traffic. Organised excursions can be useful where attractions are a significant distance from the port or where advance tickets are required.

Finding a good-value Canary Islands cruise

Compare the full cost of the holiday, including cabin, meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, flights where relevant and shore excursions. A longer Southampton sailing can reduce the need for flights but may have additional sea days. A fly-cruise can provide more itinerary choices. Families should compare children’s facilities and cabin arrangements, while couples may prioritise dining and entertainment. If your dates are flexible, check several departures because cruise prices can vary significantly between sailings. Use our cruise deals and guides to compare options before booking.