11 cruise lines that sail to the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands beckon with their unique blend of Spanish flair and volcanic magic. An archipelago off the coast of North Africa, these Spanish isles offer a kaleidoscope of experiences - from the lunar landscapes of Lanzarote to the lush forests of La Palma, Tenerife’s towering El Teide to Gran Canaria’s sun-soaked beaches. The Canaries are a year-round haven for sun-seekers, adventurers and those simply seeking a moment of bliss in their eternal spring climate. Unearth the Canary Islands, where every sunset is a promise of another day in paradise, with these 11 cruise lines: 

Fuerteventura beckons with its vast, windswept landscapes, a canvas of rolling dunes and arid plains cradling pockets of white-washed villages. It’s an island sculpted by the elements, where the sun blesses the land with over 300 days of warmth annually and the winds craft the perfect waves for surfers to dance upon. Ancient volcanoes silently watch over sprawling beaches offering miles of fine sand for tranquil leisure. Here, culture weaves through the alleyways and the flavours of local cuisine echo the island’s blend of Spanish and North African influences. Fuerteventura is raw beauty in its purest form. 

Gran Canaria is an island of contrasts, a miniature continent where vast dunes of Maspalomas blend into lush pine forests and craggy mountain peaks. This jewel of the Canary Islands offers a tapestry of climates and landscapes, inviting travellers to its rugged coastline and sun-soaked beaches. Culturally rich cities like Las Palmas de Gran Canaria echo with vibrant history and present-day buzz. The island’s heart pulses with biodiversity, home to unique flora and fauna. Every turn - from its seaside cliffs to its ancient settlements - tells a story of nature’s artistry and human heritage intertwined. 

La Palma, the Isla Bonita, stands as a verdant jewel in the Canary Islands crown. With a terrain that sweeps from the fiery heart of the Taburiente crater to the serene black-sand beaches, La Palma offers an unspoiled paradise for nature enthusiasts. Its night skies, among the world’s clearest, have earned it a Starlight Reserve designation, making it a haven for stargazers. The island’s network of trails invites explorers to discover lush laurel forests and volcanic landscapes, while its small, picturesque towns exude a timeless charm that captivates every visitor. 

Lanzarote, with its lunar-like landscape, is a spellbinding Canary Island sculpted by volcanic activity. Home to Timanfaya National Park, its raw beauty showcases Earth’s primal forces. Here, the contrast of black lava fields against the deep blue sea creates a dramatic visual spectacle. Lanzarote’s climate is eternally spring-like, inviting sun-seekers year-round. Its beaches range from golden sands to secluded coves, while the vineyards of La Geria offer tastings of unique volcanic wines, further enriching the island’s diverse and magnetic allure. 

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a diverse paradise blending tropical beaches with rugged mountain terrain. The crown jewel, Mount Teide, Spain’s tallest peak, offers breathtaking views above the clouds. The island’s coastline is dotted with bustling resorts and serene natural pools. Unique to Tenerife is a vibrant cultural tapestry, highlighted by the annual Carnival of Santa Cruz, a festival rivalling Rio’s in splendour. With a climate dubbed the eternal spring, Tenerife lures nature enthusiasts, beachgoers and adventures alike, promising an island experience that oscillates between laidback relaxation and thrilling exploration.