Sailing in the Canary Islands: Discover the Atlantic Onboard | Picuco

Sailing in the Canary Islands: Discover the Atlantic Onboard | Picuco

Set sail on an unforgettable adventure with sailing in the Canary Islands. Enjoy constant winds, crystal-clear waters, and unique volcanic landscapes as you navigate the archipelago. Your maritime experience awaits!

All year round

Sailing in the Canary Islands: Discover the Atlantic Onboard | Picuco

Sailing in the Canary Islands: A Paradise for Sailors

The Canary Islands, bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, are a privileged destination for lovers of sailing in the Canary Islands. Their subtropical climate, with mild temperatures all year round and constant trade winds, offers ideal sailing conditions for both beginners and experts. From the calm waters surrounding the eastern islands to the exciting winds between the western ones, every sailing day is an opportunity to explore hidden coves, spot cetaceans, and enjoy spectacular sunsets over the sea.

The archipelago's geographical diversity allows for a wide variety of routes. You can opt for a relaxing coastal journey, discovering virgin beaches and impressive cliffs, or venture on inter-island crossings, exploring the uniqueness of each island. Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, with their volcanic landscapes and golden dunes, offer a fascinating contrast to the lush vegetation of La Palma or La Gomera. The experience of sailing in the Canary Islands is, without a doubt, a deep connection with nature and the freedom of the ocean.

Why Sail in the Canary Islands with an Expert Guide?

Although Canarian waters are generally friendly, having an expert skipper is crucial to maximize your experience and ensure your safety. A local guide not only knows the best routes and the secrets of each island but is also aware of specific weather conditions and ocean currents. This will allow you to relax and fully enjoy sailing, learning about sailboat handling, marine wildlife, and the rich history of the islands. Furthermore, an experienced skipper can take you to places inaccessible by land, such as secluded coves or dolphin and whale watching spots, enriching your sailing in the Canary Islands adventure. It's the ideal way to learn the basics of sailing if you are a beginner or to perfect your skills with the peace of mind of an expert on board.

The Best Areas for Sailing in the Archipelago

The Canary archipelago offers a multitude of starting points and destinations for sailing. Tenerife, with its modern marinas like Puerto Colón or Los Gigantes, is an excellent starting point for exploring the western islands. From here, you can sail to La Gomera, an island known for its pristine nature and ravines. Gran Canaria, with the bustling capital Las Palmas and its port of La Luz, is a hub for maritime communications and a strategic point for longer voyages. The waters between Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are famous for their constant winds, ideal for regattas and more experienced sailors. La Graciosa, north of Lanzarote, offers an almost virgin environment, perfect for quiet anchorages and enjoying the peace of the Atlantic. Each island has its own charm and peculiarities, making sailing in the Canary Islands a diverse and exciting activity.

Highlights

  • • Constant Trade Winds: Ideal for sailing most of the year.
  • • Average annual water temperature: 19-24°C (66-75°F), suitable for swimming.
  • • Distance between main islands: Minimum 20 km (12 miles) (Tenerife-La Gomera), maximum 300 km (186 miles) (Lanzarote-El Hierro).
  • • Cetacean sighting: More than 26 different species in its waters.
  • • Garajonay National Park (La Gomera): World Heritage site visible from the sea.
  • • La Graciosa Marine Reserve: The largest in Europe, ideal for anchoring and snorkeling.

Practical Information

What to bring

  • High-protection sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Hat or cap
  • Swimsuit and towel
  • Comfortable and light warm clothing (for sunset)
  • Deck shoes or non-slip sole sneakers
  • Camera (waterproof if possible)
  • Motion sickness medication (if you are prone)
  • Small, light backpack

Best time

Sailing in the Canary Islands is possible all year round thanks to its subtropical climate. However, spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) are ideal due to their mild temperatures, constant winds, and fewer tourists. Summer can have stronger winds and higher heat, while winter is mild but with the possibility of some Atlantic storms.

Required level

Sailing in the Canary Islands is accessible for all levels. There are options for beginners with no prior experience, where a professional skipper takes care of everything. For experienced sailors, there are possibilities to rent boats or participate in more demanding voyages.

Sailing in the Canary Islands: Discover the Atlantic Onboard | Picuco

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Frequently Asked Questions

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No prior experience is necessary. Many excursions and courses are designed for beginners, with experienced skippers who will guide you and teach you the fundamentals of sailing.
The Canary Islands enjoy excellent weather all year round. However, the spring months (April-June) and autumn (September-November) offer stable winds and very pleasant temperatures, avoiding the peak tourist season of summer.
Mainly monohull sailboats and catamarans of different sizes are used. The choice will depend on whether you are looking for a more sporty, relaxing, or spacious and stable experience.

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