Canary Islands Cruises
With an abundance of golden dunes and luscious forests, the Canary Islands are so much more than the exciting seafront resorts they’re known for; on Canary Island cruises, you’ll explore the crashing waterfalls of La Palma, Lanzarote’s lava fields, and so much more, all while soaking in stunning sunshine and captivating culture.
Canary Islands / Azores Cruise Deals
Cruise lines Sailing to Canary Islands / Azores
Relatively close to home, and the perfect addition to any Europe cruise or voyage to Northern Africa, cruises to the Canary Islands are a popular option with cruisers chasing some warmer weather throughout the year. And, with a variety of cruise lines offering sailings to this stunning holiday hotspot – from budget-friendly cruise lines and those perfect for families to luxury cruise lines and more – there’s a cruise experience for everyone to enjoy when it comes to Canary Islands cruises.
Cruise ships sailing to Canary Islands / Azores
If the Canary Islands are on your travel bucket list, and they really should be, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s an incredible selection of cruise ships waiting to whisk you away on an adventure to this stunning Spanish archipelago. Whether you’re looking at the latest Canary Island cruises from Southampton, or thinking about a fly cruise from somewhere sunnier, these remarkable volcanic isles await!
Types of cruises to Canary Islands / Azores
Hoping to hop onto a Canary Island cruise from Southampton, or a fly cruise stopping off at this stunning destination? Well, you have options when it comes to voyages venturing to this Spanish archipelago. As you can see below, you’ll find last-minute deals and all-inclusive packages alongside luxury experiences and family-friendly adventures; whatever cruise experience you’re after, there are Canary Islands cruises to suit.
Campaign Ends 7 Apr 2025
Celebrity Cruises' SPRING SALE!
At least 60% Off 2nd Guest + Save up to £500 per stateroom + Europe flights from £99pp*!
View all campaign deals
Canary Island cruises offer just about everything you could ever want when it comes to a relaxing break. With sun-soaked days throughout the year, stunning desert-like landscapes littered with volcanic mountains, and a rich culture and cuisine to indulge in, there’s always plenty to do and see when you visit – whether you’re in the Canary Islands for a few days or a few weeks. Able to bask in the year-round sunshine on a Canaries cruise, this experience affords you the opportunity to relish in the dramatic scenery and glorious beaches available. Fun-filled days compliment balmy nights under the stars as you island hop in the Atlantic Ocean; a Canary Islands cruise is always an incredible experience.
If you’re a first-time cruiser, Canary Island cruises are a great option, and you can embark on numerous no-fly cruises to the Canary Islands from Southampton. Although, you’ll also find that this is a popular fly cruise destination; with the Canary Islands’ fantastic location in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of Africa, the Canaries and neighbouring Azores are only a short flight away from the UK.
Best Time for a Canary Islands Cruise
Home to a subtropical climate, the Canary Islands enjoy mild, sunny weather throughout the year, making it an excellent cruise destination anytime. While the summer and winter months are great for exploring everything these islands have to offer, Spring and Autumn are popular seasons for Canary Island cruises. It’s the perfect way to escape the bad weather blues in the rest of Europe, and you’ll find voyages to these volcanic isles can be quite affordable.
If you’re hopping on a cruise to the Canary Islands, read our guide to packing for different climates for a helping hand on what to bring with you!
Food and Drink in the Canary Islands
While cuisine on the Canary Islands is similar to what you’ll find in mainland Spain, their proximity to Africa and links to Latin America mean you’ll find some unique iterations of these delicious dishes available:
- Mojo Picón- you'll find this spicy sauce- made from garlic, olive oil, cumin and chilli- served with almost every dish you eat on your cruise around the Canaries
- Papas Arrugadas- this simple dish, made from potatoes topped with mojo picón, is extra special thanks to the unique taste of the potatoes which grow in the volcanic soil on these islands
- Bienmesabe- for those who like to tuck into a sweet treat then this dessert, made from eggs, sugar, lemon zest and almonds, is guaranteed to satisfy those sugary cravings
Top Canary Islands Cruise Destinations and Shore Excursions
Canary Island cruises to Tenerife
Being the largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife possesses dramatically contrasting landscapes and an abundance of diverse experiences to be uncovered, from the towering heights of snow-capped volcano Mount Teide to the mystique of the tropical forests and magnetic shorelines. Meanwhile the capital, Santa Cruz, welcomes shopaholics with deliciously designer boutiques, after which you can soak up the year-round sunshine on the island’s many beautiful beaches. The animal park, cable car ride and carnival celebration also make for must do excursions that will keep the whole family smiling.
Canary Island cruises to Lanzarote
The main port of Lanzarote, Arrecife is home to many wonderful sights, beautiful beaches and quaint whitewashed houses. In particular, you should look out for the Timanfaya National Park with its red and black landscape where if you go on a guided tour, you'll be treated to some experiments which prove that the volcano is only dormant. Back at sea level and you can lap up the sun on the famous Lanzarote beaches, which is in abundance given the easterly location of this island.
Canary Island cruises to El Hierro
This may be the most remote and least developed of the Canary Islands, but there's still plenty for visitors to see and do. With a small dock at Puerto de La Estaca and tiny capital of Valverde, cruisers will be able to get a pint-sized taste of life on these islands. While you're there, keep an eye out for the rugged, volcanic landscape, especially at El Sabinar where the strong winds make the juniper trees grow in strange shapes.
Canary Islands cruises to La Gomera
The main town on this beautiful island is San Sebastian, where you can visit the port where Christopher Columbus left for the new world, as well as the Garajonay National park where a guided tour will help you discover the unique ecosystem here. However, if you're lucky, you may come across the most unique aspect of this island: Silbo. As the island is punctuated by deep ravines, some locals still communicate by this ancient language of whistles.
Canary Island cruises to Fuerteventura
With its miles of beaches and sunny weather, Fuerteventura is popular for those wanting to get stuck into some water sports, especially windsurfing. However, if you'd rather stay on dry land, there's plenty of opportunity to sit back and relax on the sand or explore some of the oldest towns in this part of the world, including Betansuria and La Oliva.
Canary Island cruises to Gran Canaria
With its golden sandy beaches and endless dunes, sunshine and fascinating sights, Gran Canaria is an unmissable cruise destination. Whether you decide to stroll around the bustling, cosmopolitan capital city Las Palmas and visit the Christopher Columbus Museum in the Vegueta district, the old town, enjoy the exciting submarine dive or visit the waterpark, you'll find yourself falling in love with this slice of paradise.
Canary Island cruises to Madeira
Also called the ‘Pearl on the Ocean’, the capital of Madeira, Funchal, is filled with fine beaches and beautiful gardens. You will be amazed by the breathtaking scenery surrounded by banana plantations, lush greenery and vineyards. Either relax in Funchal's Botanical Gardens or for a little more physical exertion, enjoy the "levada" walks (the paths alongside the mini canals) throughout the island.
Canary Island cruises to Morocco
For a taste of the exotic, the fabulous Moroccan ports of Agadir and Casablanca are a melting pot of local culture and Western influence. Old elements blend seamlessly with modern life to create attractive and unique resorts. Don’t miss the Agadir Grand Souk, the largest covered market in the area. A shore excursion to one of these ports is an ideal way to snap up some souvenirs, with everything from leather to spice before heading back up to Portugal and Spain or perhaps even on your homeward leg of the journey. There are lots of different cruises to Morocco to choose from, no matter where you want to visit along the way!
