What is the best time of year to cruise the Canary Islands?

Cruising the Canary Islands offers dry days and pleasant temperatures year-round, but March–May or September–November are the best months to cruise if you hope to avoid the main summer and winter vacation crowds.

What should I pack for a Canary Islands cruise?

Whenever you cruise to the Canary Islands you should pack light layers, beachwear and sun protection. Evenings can be cool, so be sure to take a light jacket or pashmina to keep you warm. The terrain can be rocky and uneven in places, so closed robust shoes will help you to explore comfortably.

What is the weather like in the Canary Islands?

Year-round sunshine is a key feature of the Canary Islands. The weather stays fairly consistent with daytime highs of 19–24 degrees Celsius (66–75 degrees Fahrenheit) and around ten hours of sunshine every day.

Which islands make up the Canary Islands?

The Canaries are formed of seven main islands. These include: Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, El Hierro and La Gomera.

What is the currency in the Canary Islands?

As part of Spain, the currency throughout the Canary Islands is the euro (EUR).

Which languages are spoken in the Canary Islands?

The native language of the Canary Islands is Canarian Spanish, however English is also widely spoken in the Canaries and many islanders understand German too.

Will I need a visa for a cruise to the Canary Islands?

You won’t need a visa to visit the Canary Islands if you’re a resident of the EU, Schengen member country, Israel, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand or the United States of America (providing you’re remaining in the country less than 90 days). Residents of other countries should check their visa requirements with the Spanish consulate prior to travel.

Canary Islands cruises

The volcanic isles in the Atlantic delight with their varied landscapes, enticing beaches and year-round sunshine.

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Canary Islands cruises special offers

Explore the Canaries

A string of beautiful islands and an array of vibrant ports: there's so much to discover in the Canary Islands.

Tenerife

From the historic architecture of Santa Cruz de Tenerife to the towering 12,000ft peak of Mount Teide, you'll find an astonishing array of sights, sounds and experiences in Tenerife.

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Gran Canaria

With sandy beaches, inviting taverns, and picturesque villages, set against a dramatic volcanic backdrop, Gran Canaria is a destination filled with unique sights and experiences.

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Lanzarote

Lanzarote is a geological wonder. A land of mesmerising landscapes, sun-drenched villages, volcanic beaches, and decadent cuisine.

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Be inspired

If you seek sun, sea and adventure, then a Cunard cruise to the Canary Islands is the perfect getaway, but the pleasure isn’t all in the destination. Treasure your voyage sea days by filling them with exciting on-board activities, delicious meals, or simply space and time to relax at your leisure. Explore our articles to get some inspiration, and imagine yourself sailing on a Cunard Queen.

Bottles of Laurent-Perrier champagne and Rose Cuvee on ice

Fantastic fizz

We pop the cork on the world of sparkling wines, and discover why a glass of bubbly on board Cunard is always special.

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Christmas decorations in Tenerife, Canary Islands

A Canary Christmas

Christmas on board a Cunard Queen in the Canary Islands is nothing short of magical. Join us as we explore local traditions and customs for the festive season.

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Waves of well-being

Taking our cue from Cunard’s sea-inspired Mareel® Wellness & Beauty holistic spa, we explore how the ocean can bring health benefits to mind, body and soul.

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View of the beautiful Roque Cinchado, also known as Los Roques de Garcia - Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

An island paradise

The Canary Islands are a study in contrasts. You’ll find an incredible variety of scenery, from Tenerife’s lush forests and soaring volcanic peak to the black sand beaches of La Palma and the moonscape terrain of Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park. On Gran Canaria, lose yourself in the Sahara-like landscape of the Dunas de Maspalomas, or discover the island's volcanic past in the Caldera de Bandama.

Arrecife in Lanzarote Charco de San Gines boats in Canary Islands

Fuerteventura's verdant volcanic landscape and 90 miles of beaches have won it designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status. With 3000 hours of sunshine per year and perfect Atlantic swells, it's a paradise for watersports enthusiasts.

Each port has a life of its own: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria are vibrant cities rich in architecture and culture, while Arrecife de Lanzarote and Puerto del Rosario are more compact, with stroll-friendly promenades and open air artwork.

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Mediterranean

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Santa Marta Lighthouse and Museum in Cascais Lisbon district Portugal shutterstock 735050020

Western Europe

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Frequently asked questions about the Canary Islands

When on a Canary Islands cruise it is important to check your itinerary to see which islands you will visit. That said, each has a wealth of highlights.

Tenerife, the biggest island, is dominated by Mt. Teide and the Teide National Park. This sometimes snow-capped volcano can be reached by cable car, allowing you to experience the amazing views without the arduous trek. Gran Canaria offers the chance to snorkel off Las Canteras Beach, or visit the protected dunes of Maspalomas. In Fuerteventura you can enjoy many beaches to rest and relax, or a boat trip to Lobos Island to see the rare birds that live there. Finally, in Lanzarote, don’t miss the opportunity to see the geysers of Timanfaya National Park.