Canary Islands Cruises: Your Extraordinary Atlantic Escape

From the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote to the lush forests of La Gomera and the golden dunes of Gran Canaria, discover why the Canary Islands are one of the world’s most captivating cruise destinations — where year-round sunshine meets extraordinary natural beauty.

Your Extraordinary Canary Islands Adventure Awaits

The Canary Islands are a breathtaking Spanish archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa — a place where dramatic volcanic terrain, subtropical forests, golden sand beaches, and vibrant local culture converge in one unforgettable destination. Each island possesses its own distinct character, from the otherworldly lava fields of Lanzarote to the towering peak of Mount Teide on Tenerife, which rises over 12,000 feet above sea level. With year-round temperatures hovering between 65–80°F, the Canary Islands beckon travelers in every season.

A picturesque aerial view of Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Czech Republic, featuring tightly clustered red-roofed buildings nestled along a meandering river with a castle and church towers rising above the landscape.
[/fusion_imageframe]
A stunning panoramic view of Prague's historic city center, featuring the Prague Castle complex, colorful baroque buildings, and the Vltava River with the iconic Charles Bridge in the foreground.
[/fusion_imageframe]
Panoramic view of Prague featuring the historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River, with Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral prominently displayed in the background.
[/fusion_imageframe]
A panoramic view of multiple waterfalls flowing over dark basaltic rocks, creating a dramatic and misty landscape with white water cascading between moss-covered stone formations.
[/fusion_imageframe]

Volcanic Landscapes

Otherworldly lava fields, towering volcanic peaks, and dramatic calderas create scenery unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Year-Round Sunshine

Nicknamed the “Islands of Eternal Spring,” the Canaries enjoy warm, sunny weather throughout the year — perfect for cruising in any season.

Spanish Culture & Cuisine

Savor fresh seafood, local wines from volcanic vineyards, and tapas alongside centuries of Spanish heritage, architecture, and festive island traditions.

Explore the Canary Islands

Seven main islands make up the Canary archipelago, each with its own personality and allure. Our cruise advisors will help you find the perfect itinerary to match your interests — whether you crave adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion.

A stunning panoramic view of Prague's historic cityscape featuring Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and the Vltava River under a clear blue sky.
[/fusion_imageframe]

Tenerife & Gran Canaria

Key Ports: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Known For: Mount Teide (Spain’s highest peak), Maspalomas sand dunes, vibrant nightlife, botanical gardens, whale watching

Ideal For: First-time Canary Islands visitors seeking a blend of nature, culture, and resort-style beaches

Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lively carnivals, and diverse microclimates

A picturesque medieval town with iconic orange-red rooftops nestled in a meandering river bend, showcasing classic Central European architectural charm and landscape.
[/fusion_imageframe]

Lanzarote & Fuerteventura

Key Ports: Arrecife (Lanzarote), Puerto del Rosario (Fuerteventura)

Known For: Timanfaya National Park, César Manrique art installations, endless white sand beaches, world-class windsurfing

Ideal For: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts drawn to stark volcanic beauty and water sports

Highlights: Volcanic wine region of La Geria, Corralejo Natural Park sand dunes, Jameos del Agua cave

A panoramic view of Prague showcasing its historic city center, featuring multiple bridges crossing the Vltava River, surrounded by lush green trees and purple lilac flowers in the foreground.
[/fusion_imageframe]

La Palma, La Gomera & El Hierro

Key Ports: Santa Cruz de La Palma, San Sebastián de La Gomera, Valverde (El Hierro)

Known For: UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, ancient laurel forests, stargazing, unspoiled natural beauty, and the whistled language of La Gomera

Ideal For: Experienced travelers and nature lovers seeking off-the-beaten-path authenticity

Highlights: Caldera de Taburiente, Garajonay National Park, world-class dark-sky observatories

Compare Canary Islands Cruise Regions

Feature Tenerife & Gran Canaria Lanzarote & Fuerteventura La Palma, La Gomera & El Hierro
Main Ports Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas Arrecife, Puerto del Rosario Santa Cruz de La Palma, San Sebastián de La Gomera
Best For First-time visitors, families, culture seekers Adventure lovers, water sports enthusiasts, photographers Nature lovers, hikers, stargazers
Highlights Mount Teide, Maspalomas dunes, carnival celebrations Timanfaya lava fields, La Geria wine region, Corralejo dunes UNESCO laurel forests, Caldera de Taburiente, dark-sky observatories
Character Cosmopolitan with resort amenities Dramatic and artistic, volcanic terrain Untouched, intimate, and deeply natural

A panoramic view of Prague showcasing its historic architecture, multiple bridges spanning the Vltava River, and lush green landscapes with purple flowers in the foreground.
[/fusion_imageframe]

Our Canary Islands cruise travel advisors will show you where to begin.

With seven unique islands to explore and a wealth of itinerary options, choosing the perfect Canary Islands cruise can feel overwhelming. That’s where our expert advisors come in.

On Tenerife, you’ll discover Spain’s highest peak — Mount Teide — alongside charming colonial towns, lush northern valleys, and world-famous carnival celebrations.

Gran Canaria is a continent in miniature, offering everything from the sweeping Maspalomas dunes to pine-forested mountain villages and the vibrant capital of Las Palmas.

Lanzarote mesmerizes with its lunar-like volcanic landscapes, César Manrique’s visionary art-meets-nature installations, and vineyards grown in black volcanic soil.

The western islands — La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro — reward travelers with ancient laurel forests, world-class stargazing, and an authenticity that feels wonderfully untouched by time.

If that sounds like a lot to navigate, rest assured — every detail will be expertly handled by Extraordinary Adventures and our dedicated cruise advisors. Call us today!

Beyond the Canary Islands

Many Canary Islands itineraries can be extended or combined with nearby destinations for an even more extraordinary voyage.

  • Morocco – Exotic Moroccan ports like Casablanca and Tangier, with vibrant souks and rich history
  • Madeira – The “Garden Isle” of Portugal, famed for its lush botanical gardens and terraced hillsides
  • Azores – Remote Portuguese archipelago offering dramatic volcanic lakes, hot springs, and whale watching
  • Western Mediterranean – Extend to Spain, Portugal, and the Mediterranean coast for a grand European voyage
A picturesque panoramic view of the historic market square in Warsaw's Old Town, featuring colorful tenement houses, outdoor cafes, and a central open cobblestone plaza at twilight.
[/fusion_imageframe]

Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise—whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

Our specialty cruise advisors will ensure your voyage is everything you dreamed.

Rarely will any of us make it to these extraordinary places more than once. So, if you’re going to do it at all, you should do it right. Let the experts at Extraordinary Adventures ensure that your voyage to these remote destinations is everything you dreamed it would be.

They don’t call us Extraordinary Adventures for nothing, you know.

Best Time to Cruise the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands enjoy mild, pleasant weather year-round, making them a true four-season destination — though each period has its own distinct appeal.

Peak Season (November – March): While much of Europe endures cold winters, the Canaries bask in comfortable temperatures between 65–75°F. This is the most popular time for cruise itineraries, as northern Europeans and Americans seek winter sun. Booking early is recommended.

Spring (April – June): Wildflowers bloom across the islands, temperatures are ideal for hiking, and crowds thin compared to winter. An excellent time for travelers who love nature and outdoor adventure.

Summer (July – September): Warm and dry with temperatures reaching 80–85°F. Perfect for beach-focused visits, though the eastern islands can experience the calima — a warm Saharan wind. Many repositioning cruises pass through during this period.

Autumn (October – November): Warm seas, pleasant weather, and the start of the new cruise season make this an ideal shoulder period with excellent availability and value.

A stunning panoramic view of the historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic, during a magical winter sunset with snow-covered buildings and golden lights.
[/fusion_imageframe]

Why Book with Extraordinary Adventures

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Canary Islands Cruise FAQs

The Canary Islands are a year-round destination with temperatures between 65–85°F. The peak cruise season runs from November through March, when travelers flock to the islands for warm winter sunshine. Spring (April–June) and autumn (October–November) offer excellent weather with fewer crowds and great value. Summer is warm and ideal for beach lovers, though itinerary availability may vary.

The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 60 miles off the northwest coast of Africa and about 800 miles south of mainland Spain. Despite their African proximity, the islands are fully part of Spain and the European Union, making them a unique blend of European culture and subtropical climate.

Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the most popular islands for first-time visitors. Tenerife offers the majestic Mount Teide, diverse landscapes, and vibrant towns, while Gran Canaria features the stunning Maspalomas dunes, charming mountain villages, and a cosmopolitan capital city. Both islands provide an excellent introduction to the archipelago’s diversity.

Canary Islands cruises typically range from 7 to 14 nights. Shorter itineraries may focus on the main islands, while longer voyages often combine the Canaries with Madeira, the Azores, or Moroccan ports. Transatlantic repositioning cruises that include the Canary Islands as a stop can last 14 nights or more. Your cruise advisor can help you find the ideal duration.

Yes, a valid U.S. passport is required for all Canary Islands cruises. Since the islands are part of Spain, you will be entering the European Union’s Schengen Area. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Your Extraordinary Adventures cruise advisor can guide you through all necessary travel documentation.

Pack layers for the Canary Islands — while daytime temperatures are warm and pleasant, evenings can be cooler, especially at higher elevations. Bring comfortable walking shoes for volcanic terrain and hiking trails, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a windbreaker, and smart-casual attire for evening dining onboard. If you plan to visit Mount Teide or highland areas, a warm jacket is essential as temperatures at altitude can drop significantly.

Several major cruise lines offer Canary Islands itineraries, including luxury options like Silversea, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, and Oceania, as well as premium lines such as Celebrity, Holland America, Princess, and Norwegian. Smaller expedition and boutique lines like Ponant and Windstar also visit the archipelago. Our advisors will match you with the perfect cruise line for your style and preferences.

Absolutely. The Canary Islands offer something for every generation — from adventurous volcanic hikes and water sports to relaxing beach days and cultural exploration. Couples enjoy the romantic sunsets, wine tasting in Lanzarote’s volcanic vineyards, and intimate port towns. Families appreciate the diverse excursion options and year-round pleasant weather. Your cruise advisor can tailor an itinerary that delights everyone in your party.

Popular excursions include visiting Teide National Park on Tenerife for stunning panoramic views, exploring the fire mountains at Timanfaya National Park on Lanzarote, hiking through the ancient laurel forests of La Gomera, whale and dolphin watching off the coast of Tenerife, touring César Manrique’s architectural wonders on Lanzarote, and wandering the colorful streets of Las Palmas on Gran Canaria. Wine tasting in La Geria and stargazing on La Palma are also unforgettable experiences.

Yes! Many Canary Islands itineraries include stops in Madeira (Portugal), Morocco, the Azores, or mainland Spain and Portugal. Transatlantic repositioning cruises often feature the Canary Islands as a key port of call between Europe and the Caribbean. Ask your Extraordinary Adventures cruise advisor about options for combining the Canaries with other extraordinary destinations.

Not sure which specialty cruise is right for you?

Take our short quiz to discover the perfect specialty cruise for your travel style and bucket list.