Las Palmas to Arrecife Ferry

The Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Arrecife ferry is one of the longer inter-island runs in the Canaries, connecting Gran Canaria's major port with the capital of Lanzarote across a good stretch of open Atlantic. Unlike the quick southern hops, this is a proper sea passage often sailed as an overnight or long-daytime crossing, and it appeals above all to drivers and campervan travellers moving between the islands with their own vehicle.

Operator and vessels

The route is run by Naviera Armas (Armas Trasmediterranea) using conventional ro-pax ferries built for distance and cargo, with generous vehicle decks and the option of private cabins, shared cabins or airline-style reclining seats for the longer nights at sea. These ships carry cars, motorhomes, motorbikes and freight alongside foot passengers.

Crossing time and schedule

The direct sailing takes in the order of six hours or more, with the exact time depending on the vessel and on whether it calls elsewhere en route. Frequency is clearly seasonal: expect noticeably more departures in the June to September peak and only a couple of sailings a week through the winter, so forward planning matters.

Is it for you?

• Best suited to vehicle transport and to travellers who like the idea of an overnight crossing with a cabin.
• Foot passengers in a hurry usually find the short flight between the islands quicker, but the ferry wins for cars, campers and cargo.
• You arrive directly in the port of Arrecife, beside the town centre and a short drive from Lanzarote's volcanic landscapes and beaches.

Book early for summer and for any vehicle space, as capacity on the longer overnight sailings fills up.