Travelling from Las Palmas to Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

The route between Las Palmas on Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz on Tenerife is one of the most popular inter-island connections in the Canary Islands. Connecting these two vibrant capital cities, this 99.1 km journey offers travellers an efficient and scenic way to hop between these stunning Atlantic islands. While flights connect these destinations, the ferry route provides an excellent alternative that allows you to experience the beauty of the ocean journey while bringing your vehicle along. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about travelling from Las Palmas to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, with a focus on the convenient ferry services that operate throughout the year, alongside practical information about the ports, attractions, and travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

How to get from Las Palmas to Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey between Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you have two main transportation options: flying or taking a ferry.

Flying between the islands is an option for those prioritising speed, though flights connect the main airports rather than the city centres. While this might save some time in the air, you'll need to factor in airport transfers, check-in procedures, and potential delays.

The ferry from Las Palmas to Tenerife offers a more direct city-to-city connection. With a sailing time of just 1 hour and 40 minutes, the ferry provides an efficient service that delivers you directly to the heart of Santa Cruz. The route spans approximately 61.6 miles (99.1 km) across the Atlantic waters between these Canary Islands.

What makes the ferry particularly appealing is the ability to bring your vehicle along, offering greater flexibility for exploring Tenerife upon arrival. With 5 daily sailings and a total of 34 weekly departures, the ferry schedule provides excellent flexibility for travellers. The typical fare is around £168, though prices may vary depending on the season and how far in advance you book.

The ferry journey also offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands – something you simply can't experience when flying above the clouds.

Taking the ferry from Las Palmas to Santa Cruz de Tenerife

You can take a ferry from Las Palmas to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Ferries sail in around 1h 40m with about 5 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 1h 40m and is provided by Naviera Armas. Ferry prices can range around £168 depending on when you travel and what type of ticket you book. Departures start as early as 06:00, with the last departure from Las Palmas to Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 20:15.

Ferry Operator: Naviera Armas

Naviera Armas is the primary operator serving the Las Palmas to Santa Cruz de Tenerife route. As one of the leading ferry companies in the Canary Islands, they offer modern vessels equipped with comfortable amenities for the crossing.

The ferries operating on this route are designed for passenger comfort during the relatively short journey. Onboard, you'll typically find:

• Comfortable seating areas with panoramic views
• Cafeterias and restaurants serving hot meals, snacks, and beverages
• Duty-free shops for picking up souvenirs or essentials
• Outdoor deck space where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and views
• TV lounges and entertainment areas
• Clean toilet facilities throughout the vessel

For those travelling with vehicles, Naviera Armas accommodates cars, motorcycles, and even larger vehicles like campervans (subject to space availability). Vehicle transport makes this option particularly convenient for travellers planning to explore Tenerife extensively upon arrival.

The 1 hour and 40-minute crossing time remains consistent year-round, though sea conditions can occasionally affect comfort, particularly during winter months. The frequency of 5 daily sailings provides excellent flexibility for planning your trip, whether you're looking to maximise your day in either city or prefer a more leisurely pace.

We recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak holiday periods like summer months and around Christmas and New Year when services can fill up quickly.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Las Palmas)

The ferry terminal in Las Palmas is located at the Puerto de la Luz, one of the most important ports in the Atlantic. It's situated approximately 3 kilometres from the city centre, making it easily accessible.

To reach the port:

• By bus: Several local bus lines connect the city centre to the port area. Look for routes heading to Puerto or Santa Catalina area.
• By taxi: A quick 10-minute ride from most parts of Las Palmas.
• By car: If you're bringing your vehicle on the ferry, follow signs to Puerto de la Luz. There's ample parking at the terminal for those dropping off passengers.

The terminal facilities include:

• Ticket offices (though we recommend booking in advance)
• Waiting areas with seating
• Cafés and small shops for last-minute purchases
• Toilets and baby changing facilities
• Information desks for any queries

It's advisable to arrive at least 60 minutes before departure, especially if you're travelling with a vehicle. Foot passengers can typically arrive 30-45 minutes before sailing.

Arrival Port (Santa Cruz de Tenerife)

The ferry from Las Palmas arrives at the Santa Cruz de Tenerife port, conveniently located adjacent to the city centre. This central location makes it incredibly easy to begin exploring Tenerife immediately upon arrival.

Upon disembarking:

• The city centre is within walking distance (approximately 10-15 minutes)
• Local buses (TITSA) connect from the port to various parts of the island
• Taxis are readily available outside the terminal building
• If you've brought your car, you can drive directly from the port following clear exit signs

The port terminal offers basic amenities including:

• Tourist information points
• Cafés and snack bars
• ATMs
• Public toilets
• Small convenience stores

For those planning to explore beyond Santa Cruz, the main bus station (Intercambiador) is about a 15-minute walk from the port, offering connections to all major destinations across Tenerife including the popular southern resorts and Teide National Park.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Las Palmas to Santa Cruz de Tenerife is entirely feasible thanks to the frequent ferry connections and relatively short crossing time. With the earliest departure at 06:00 and the latest return at 20:15, you can enjoy a full day exploring Tenerife's capital.

For an ideal day trip, we recommend catching the early morning ferry from Las Palmas, arriving in Santa Cruz around 07:40. This gives you approximately 10-11 hours to explore before taking an evening ferry back, which is ample time to experience the highlights of Santa Cruz.

A suggested day trip itinerary might look like this:

• 06:00: Depart Las Palmas
• 07:40: Arrive in Santa Cruz and enjoy breakfast at a local café
• 09:00-11:00: Visit the iconic Auditorio de Tenerife and stroll along the maritime promenade
• 11:00-13:00: Explore the Museum of Nature and Man or the TEA (Tenerife Espacio de las Artes)
• 13:00-14:30: Lunch at one of the restaurants in the historic centre
• 14:30-16:30: Shopping and exploring around Plaza de España and Calle Castillo
• 16:30-18:00: Visit Parque García Sanabria, the city's beautiful urban park
• 18:00-18:30: Return to the port
• 18:45: Depart Santa Cruz for Las Palmas

If you're bringing a car, you could extend your exploration to nearby attractions like Las Teresitas beach (about 15 minutes drive) or even up to La Laguna, Tenerife's UNESCO World Heritage city (about 20 minutes drive).

While a day trip is certainly doable, we recommend staying overnight if possible to fully appreciate Santa Cruz and its surroundings without rushing. Many visitors find that at least two days allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore beyond the city centre.

Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Top Attractions

Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. Here are the top five must-see sites:

Auditorio de Tenerife - This striking architectural masterpiece designed by Santiago Calatrava has become the symbol of the city. With its sweeping arch and brilliant white exterior, it's reminiscent of the Sydney Opera House. Even if you don't attend a performance, it's worth visiting for photographs and to admire the design. Open daily for exterior viewing; check performance schedule for interior visits.

Plaza de España - The city's main square features a spectacular artificial lake and fountain. Recently renovated, it's the perfect spot to relax and people-watch. The underground Castillo de San Cristóbal museum beneath the square offers a glimpse into the city's defensive past. Open daily, free entry to the plaza.

Parque García Sanabria - This lush botanical garden in the heart of the city spans 67,000 square metres and features beautiful sculptures, fountains, and an incredible variety of plants from around the world. The rose garden is particularly beautiful. Open daily from 7:00 to 21:00, free entry.

Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África - This traditional market housed in a colonial-style building offers a feast for the senses with local produce, flowers, and crafts. It's the perfect place to experience local culture and pick up some authentic Canarian products. Open Monday to Saturday, 07:00-19:00.

Museum of Nature and Man - Housing the best collection of Guanche mummies and artefacts from Tenerife's indigenous people, this museum provides fascinating insights into the island's original inhabitants and natural history. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:00-20:00, Sunday 10:00-17:00.

Neighbourhoods Worth Exploring

Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers distinct neighbourhoods that showcase different aspects of the city's character:

El Cuadrilátero - The historic commercial centre, bounded by four main streets, is filled with pedestrianised shopping areas, traditional shops, and charming cafés. This is where you'll find most of the city's shopping opportunities, including Calle Castillo, the main shopping street.

Zona Centro - The heart of Santa Cruz encompasses Plaza de España, Plaza de la Candelaria, and the surrounding streets. This area combines historic buildings with modern urban spaces and is perfect for leisurely strolls.

Parque Marítimo - The waterfront area featuring César Manrique's spectacular saltwater swimming pools and leisure complex offers a unique urban beach experience with views of the port and ocean.

Noria District - This more bohemian area comes alive at night with bars, restaurants, and the vibrant carnival atmosphere that Santa Cruz is famous for. It's the centre of nightlife in the city, particularly during the famous Carnival festivities.

Anaga - While technically extending beyond the city limits, the nearby Anaga Rural Park offers spectacular mountain scenery, traditional villages, and ancient laurel forests just minutes from the city centre – perfect for those with a vehicle.

Weather in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife enjoys one of the most pleasant climates in Europe, with mild temperatures year-round that make it an appealing destination in any season.

The city experiences a subtropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 17-18°C (63-64°F) in winter months (December-February) to 24-26°C (75-79°F) during summer (June-August). Even in winter, daytime temperatures often reach a comfortable 21-22°C (70-72°F), making it significantly warmer than mainland Europe during these months.

Rainfall is generally low, with most precipitation occurring between November and February. Even during these wetter months, rain tends to be short-lived rather than persistent. Santa Cruz receives significantly less rainfall than the northern parts of Tenerife due to the protective influence of the Anaga mountains.

The city experiences around 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, with July and August being the sunniest months. Sea temperatures range from 19°C (66°F) in winter to 23°C (73°F) in late summer and early autumn.

Regarding ferry operations, the weather rarely affects the Las Palmas to Santa Cruz route significantly, as the waters between Gran Canaria and Tenerife are generally sheltered compared to open ocean crossings. However, occasional strong winds can make the crossing less comfortable during winter months. The ferry operators monitor conditions closely and will only sail when it's safe to do so.

For the most pleasant experience both on the ferry and while exploring Santa Cruz, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal conditions with warm temperatures, low rainfall, and fewer tourists than the peak summer season.

Cost of Visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers good value for money compared to many European destinations, though prices are generally higher than on the Spanish mainland.

For accommodation, expect to pay from £50-70 per night for a standard double room in a mid-range hotel. Budget options start around £30-40, while luxury hotels can cost £120 and upward.

Daily expenses vary depending on your travel style:

• Budget travellers can get by on £50-60 per day, including modest accommodation, public transport, and eating at local cafés and markets.
• Mid-range travellers should budget £80-120 daily for comfortable hotels, occasional taxis, and dining at mid-range restaurants.
• Luxury travellers can expect to spend £150+ per day for high-end accommodation, car rental, and fine dining experiences.

Some typical costs include:

• Coffee in a local café: £1.20-1.80
• Local beer (caña): £1.50-2.50
• Menu del día (set lunch menu): £8-12
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: £15-25 per person
• Single bus ticket within the city: £1.20-1.50
• Museum entrance: £3-7

To save money, consider purchasing a Bono Bus card for public transport, eating your main meal at lunchtime when many restaurants offer set menus (menu del día) at reduced prices, and taking advantage of the many free attractions like public parks, plazas, and beaches.

Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife can be enjoyed year-round thanks to its mild climate, but certain periods offer particular advantages depending on your preferences.

Peak Season (July-August)

Summer brings the warmest temperatures, averaging 24-26°C (75-79°F), and virtually no rainfall. This is when the city sees the most visitors, particularly Spanish mainlanders on summer holidays. While the atmosphere is lively, you'll encounter more crowds at attractions and slightly higher prices for accommodation. The beaches near Santa Cruz, such as Las Teresitas, are at their busiest during these months.

Shoulder Season (April-June and September-October)

These months offer an excellent balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and good value. Temperatures typically range from 20-24°C (68-75°F), perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. September and October have the added advantage of warmer sea temperatures for swimming.

Low Season (November-March)

Winter brings milder temperatures of 17-20°C (63-68°F) but remains significantly warmer than mainland Europe. There's a slightly higher chance of rain, though downpours are usually brief. December and January see an increase in visitors escaping colder climates elsewhere, with a corresponding rise in accommodation prices around Christmas and New Year.

Carnival Season (February-March)

Santa Cruz hosts one of the world's largest carnival celebrations, second only to Rio de Janeiro. If you visit during this period (dates vary but usually fall in February), you'll experience incredible parades, music, and street parties. While this is a magical time to visit, accommodation fills up months in advance, and prices increase significantly.

For most visitors, the ideal times to visit Santa Cruz are May-June or September-October when you can enjoy excellent weather, reasonable prices, and moderate crowd levels. These periods also offer the best conditions for the ferry crossing from Las Palmas, with generally calmer seas and pleasant temperatures for enjoying the outdoor deck areas during your journey.

Whatever time you choose to visit, the ferry service between Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife operates year-round with consistent schedules, making this island-hopping adventure accessible in any season.

Accommodation Options in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Finding the right place to stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is easy with options to suit every budget and preference. The city centre offers convenient access to attractions, shopping, and the ferry terminal.

Where to Stay

For budget-conscious travellers, hostels and guesthouses in the city centre start from around £25 per night. Solo travellers will appreciate the social atmosphere at Santa Cruz Hostel or Tenerife Experience Hostel.

Couples might enjoy boutique hotels like Hotel Taburiente or Hotel Contemporáneo, offering stylish rooms from £60-£90 per night. For families, apartment rentals provide extra space and kitchen facilities, with options like Santa Cruz Apartments or Ocean View Suites starting at £80 per night.

If you're travelling by campervan, Las Raíces Campsite in nearby La Esperanza offers pitches from £15 per night with basic facilities. Book accommodation well in advance during summer and festival periods when prices typically increase by 20-30%.

Getting Around Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz has an efficient public transport system that makes exploring easy and affordable.

Transport Options

The city's tram network (Tranvía de Tenerife) connects Santa Cruz with La Laguna, with single tickets costing just £1.30. The TITSA bus network extends throughout the island, with a £1.50 starting fare for local routes.

Taxis are readily available and use metres, with a typical city centre journey costing £5-10. For flexibility, car rental agencies like Cicar and Europcar offer vehicles from £25 per day – ideal for exploring Tenerife's diverse landscapes and attractions beyond the city.

Santa Cruz is also surprisingly walkable, with many attractions concentrated in the central area. For environmentally-conscious travellers, bike rental services are available from £10 per day through Bike Point Tenerife.

Plan Your Island-Hopping Adventure

Travelling between Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife by ferry offers a convenient and scenic way to experience two of the Canary Islands' most vibrant cities. With Naviera Armas providing fast services in just 1 hour and 40 minutes, island-hopping has never been easier.

With 5 daily sailings and 34 weekly options, you'll have plenty of flexibility to plan your perfect trip. The earliest departure at 06:00 allows for full-day excursions, while the latest sailing at 20:15 means you can enjoy a complete day before heading back.

Remember that fares start from around £168, with potential savings available when booking in advance. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, the ferry journey between these two captivating destinations forms an essential part of the Canary Islands experience.

Ready to set sail? Check availability now and secure your spot on this popular route to begin your perfect island-hopping adventure!