Lanzarote, the easternmost of the Canary islands, is impressive not only for its awe-inspiring volcanic landscape but also for its pristine waters and unique underwater marine life. In addition, the year-round temperate climate makes boat trips and sea excursions fun activities to be enjoyed with friends and family.
There are many type of excursions to suit your interest, preference and budget. You can hop on a boat in search of dolphins and whales, sail along the beautiful coastline of Lanzarote, be pampered on an all-inclusive day cruise, go ‘deep’ on a submarine experience, or board a pirate- themed ship, the choice is endless! Some boats even offer glass-bottoms which allow viewing of marine creatures from the inside of the boat.
There are several departure points on Lanzarote, with the southern and eastern regions (where the major resorts are) dominating the scene: Puerto Calero, Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca. Trips to the Isla de La Graciosa, however, mostly departs from Orzola, which is located on the northern tip of Lanzarote.
Puerto Calero is strategically located on the southeast coast of Lanzarote. Apart from the various sailing and catamaran trips aforementioned, it is the departure point for Submarine Safari trip where you get to submerge beneath the surface of the sea for up to 30m in depth (adult: €52, child 2-14 years €30). Most excursion providers here offers free pick up to customers staying in the populous resort of Puerto del Carmen (and vice versa), which is less than 5km away.
Playa Blanca can be located on the southern tip of the island. It is the departure point for several excursion companies, with cruise and catamaran excursions to the pristine beaches of El Papagayo particularly popular. For those prefer to explore the beaches on their own, the Princess Yaiza taxi boats to El Papagayo also depart here. It is also a busy port facilitating island crossings to and from Corralejo in Fuerteventura.
Orzola is a small fishing village located on the north of Lanzarote. Apart from its array of seafood restaurants, holiday makers flock there to catch a ferry or join a day trip to the beautiful Isla de La Graciosa. The island has splendid remote beaches and is full of impressive flora and fauna - ideal for a walk or a hike. Ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes and return tickets cost around €20 for adult (€11 child). A full day catamaran trip which include visiting of La Graciosa town centre, sailing along the coast and exploring remote beaches, swimming/ snorkelling, lunch and refreshment, as well as return ferry transfer from Orzola starts from €59 for adult.
When you are done exploring the moonscape island of Lanzarote, hopping onto the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura is never easier. Two major ferry companies offer several daily departures from Playa Blanca to Corralejo in Fuerteventura. Fred Olsen is slightly faster (20 minutes) and costs around €25 per adult one way, while Naviera Armas takes 35 minutes and costs about €18 per adult, one way. Children pay half price. There are also tours departing from Playa Blanca to Isla de los Lobos and Corralejo. At times, an organised tours seem to offer better value for money, considering the inclusion of transfer and ferries in the prices.
