Sailing routes in the Canary Islands
The Canaries are an ocean cruising ground with a year-round season: bases on Tenerife and Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote with neighbouring Fuerteventura. Legs between islands are longer than in the Mediterranean (20–50 miles) and cross the open Atlantic with a swell, so the area suits experienced crews better. The north-easterly trade wind blows 15–25 knots and accelerates between the islands. Warm water and settled winter weather make the Canaries Europe's main winter sailing area; nights are spent in marinas, as sheltered anchorages are few.
Canary Islands
When is the best time to charter a yacht in the Canary Islands?
The Canaries are sailed all year round. October to April is the main season: the Mediterranean is cold, while here it is warm and the weather settled. In summer the trade wind is stronger and accelerates to 25 knots and more between the islands, which suits experienced crews.
Which sailing route should I pick in the Canary Islands?
Sailing routes in the Canary Islands, planned day by day: “Tenerife — La Gomera”, 7 days, about 120 nautical miles; “Lanzarote — Fuerteventura”, 7 days, about 100 nautical miles; “Tenerife — Gran Canaria”, 7 days, about 225 nautical miles. Each route page has the legs, miles and overnight stops.
Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
For a bareboat charter (no skipper or crew provided), yes: a skipper's licence and, as a rule, a VHF radio certificate. Without a licence, we add a skipper, paid separately from the boat price.
What is the security deposit and how is it paid?
The security deposit is your insurance excess in case of damage, usually €1,000–8,000. It is taken at the base at check-in on a credit card issued outside Russia: charter companies don't accept Russian cards or debit cards. With a hired skipper the deposit terms may be different, and not every charter company accepts a cash deposit or deposit insurance: check with the manager.
