Gran Canaria Ferries

Several ferry operators offer crossings from Gran Canaria to various destinations locally and further afield: Naviera Armas, Transmediterranea, Fred Olsen and Lineas Blue Bird.

Lineas Blue Bird operates small glass-bottomed ferries that offer visitors the chance to explore the island's southwesterly coastline and see some of the port towns on Gran Canaria such as Arguineguin, Anfi del Mar, Puerto Rico and Mógan for example. A special ferry bus service connects to the crossings from Arguineguin and the areas of Meloneras, Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, San Agustin and Bahia Feliz. Lineas Blue Bird has its office at Calle Puerto Base in Mogán (tel +34 629 98 96 33 ).

Fred Olsen offers two-hourly crossings to Santa Cruz de Tenerife throughout the day – the last ferry back from Teneriffe leaves the island at 8.00 pm and arrives back at Gran Canaria at 9.20 pm. The first ferry of the day leaves for Tenerife at 6.00 am and arrives at Tenerife at 7.20 am. Taking the basic price option, two adults in a small car pay approx. 131.50 euros for the crossing, when booking in advance online. Fred Olsen has offices at Puerto Muelle de la Luz in Muelle Grande Poniente in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (tel +34 902 10 01 07).

Fred Olsen, Transmediterranea and Naviera Armas also offer voyages to Morro Jable on Fuerteventura and Arrecife on Lanzarote. The crossing time to Arrecife is 5 hours and 5 minutes to 6 hours. The crossing time to Morro Jable is 2.5 hours, while going to the port of Puerto de Rosario on Fuerteventura takes 6 to 7 hours.

Puerto del Rosario is Fuerteventura's capital and major port. To the south of the harbour lies Playa Blanca, a favourite hang-out for surfers thanks to its constant waves. Also near to the harbour lies Playa Chica, a sheltered beach ideal for families. Puerto del Rosario is a great place to come for a weekend. It is a cultured, fun place with plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes along the streets of León y Castillo and Primero de Mayo.

Morro Jable lies on the south coast of Fuerteventura. Playa del Matorral is one of the best beaches here. To the north of the town and port lies Jandia Natural Park, which impresses with its volcanic peaks. It's a haven for bird life and other indigenous flora and fauna that thrive among the dunes and mountains.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a charming place with many historic buildings such as the 17th century Palacio de Carta with its Baroque and neo-classical architectural elements. The main square is Plaza de España.