From Lanzarote to Fuerteventura by ferry: the easiest jump between two dream islands

On the eastern edge of the Canary archipelago, so close to each other that on clear days they seem to touch, are Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. They are separated by a narrow stretch of sea, the Bocaina Strait, and crossing it is one of the simplest and most rewarding excursions you can make during a holiday on either island. They are sibling territories, but very different: Lanzarote is the island of volcanoes and the mark of César Manrique; Fuerteventura, the one of endless beaches and dunes.

The Lanzarote side: volcanoes and art

Although the destination is Fuerteventura, it is worth not turning your back on the starting point. Playa Blanca, in the south of Lanzarote, is a great base boasting sheltered beaches like those of Papagayo, a string of coves with golden sand and turquoise water within a protected area. Just a step away is the Timanfaya National Park, the volcanic heart of the island, where the earth still retains heat just a few meters below the surface and the landscape looks like another planet. Throughout the island, the mark of artist César Manrique can be seen, present in viewpoints, jameos, and cactus gardens that blend into the volcanic terrain as if they had always been there. If you have an extra day before or after crossing, it is worth dedicating it to discovering the unique personality of Lanzarote, whether by peering over a viewpoint or exploring La Geria, the unusual wine region where vines grow in holes dug into the volcanic ash.

A short crossing with cinematic views

The route covered by the ferry from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura connects Playa Blanca in southern Lanzarote with Corralejo in northern Fuerteventura. It is a very brief crossing, lasting just half an hour, which feels even shorter thanks to the turquoise sea and the Lobos islet silhouetted on the horizon. Since the journey is so short and there are so many departures each day, it is suitable for both a day trip and changing your base. You can cross on foot or take your car, which is almost essential in Fuerteventura, where the best beaches are spread along a very long coastline. All this flexibility makes the logistics among the simplest in the entire archipelago. The short jump is even enjoyable thanks to the views, with the deep blue of the channel on both sides.

What to see upon disembarking

Corralejo welcomes you with the Natural Park of the Dunes, a desert of white sand spilling over an impossibly coloured sea, stretching along several kilometres of coastline with beaches that are almost always uncrowded. From there, the island has much to offer:

• Lobos Island: a pristine and protected islet, perfect for hiking and snorkelling, where excellent fish is also served in its small restaurant, just a short boat ride from Corralejo.
• El Cotillo: An old fishing village with calm lagoons to the north and wild beaches ideal for surfing to the south.
• Betancuria: Inland, the former capital of the island, a white colonial-style village surrounded by arid mountains and palm trees.
• The south and Sotavento: In the Jandía peninsula, kilometres of white sand and a world-renowned spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with shallow lagoons when the tide is low.

With the car on board, you can traverse the island from end to end in a single day, stopping at the beaches that appeal to you the most. And if you decide to stay longer, Fuerteventura invites a slow pace, with long walks on the sand and sunsets without haste, in one of those destinations where time ceases to matter.

Tips for the crossing

1. Frequent departures: there are several sailings each day in both directions. However, during peak season, it is advisable to book on platforms like Ferryhopper to secure a spot, especially with a car.
2. The wind rules: these islands are naturally windy; if you are prone to seasickness, besides choosing a larger boat, you can consult your doctor or pharmacist about available medication options to prevent it.
3. Sun protection: the Canarian sun is strong all year round, so a hat, sunscreen, and water are essential in the dunes.

Jumping from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura is to discover just how different two neighbouring islands can be. In just thirty minutes over the sea, you go from black volcanoes to golden dunes, in one of those short journeys that leave a long impression. Few routes offer so much for such little sailing time.