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

Planning a journey between the Canary Islands' two largest cities? The route from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Las Palmas is a popular connection linking these vibrant island capitals. Whether you're island-hopping or extending your Canarian adventure, this sea passage offers a convenient way to experience both Tenerife and Gran Canaria. With regular ferry crossings operating daily, travelling between these Spanish archipelago gems is straightforward and scenic. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about ferry travel from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Las Palmas, including operators, schedules, pricing, and what to expect during your journey across the 99.1 km stretch of the Atlantic Ocean.

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

When travelling between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas, you have two main transportation options: ferry or flight. Both offer distinct advantages depending on your travel preferences and schedule.

The ferry route between these island capitals spans approximately 99.1 km (61.6 miles) across the Atlantic. This sea journey typically takes around 1 hour and 49 minutes, with the fastest services operated by Naviera Armas completing the crossing in just 1 hour and 40 minutes. Ferry prices typically start from around £162 for this route, though rates can vary depending on the season, how far in advance you book, and whether you're travelling with a vehicle.

One of the major advantages of choosing the ferry is the ability to bring your vehicle, giving you complete freedom to explore Gran Canaria upon arrival. Additionally, the ferry experience itself offers spectacular views of both islands and the open Atlantic Ocean—something you simply can't appreciate from the air.

The ferry service between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas is quite robust, with approximately 5 daily sailings. This translates to around 36 weekly departures and 164 monthly crossings, providing plenty of flexibility for travellers. The first ferry typically departs as early as 01:30, with services running throughout the day until the last departure at 20:00.

Taking the ferry from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Las Palmas

You can take a ferry from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Las Palmas. Ferries sail in around 1 hour and 49 minutes with about 5 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 1 hour and 40 minutes and is provided by Naviera Armas. Ferry prices can range around £162 depending on operator and time of year. Departures start as early as 01:30, with the last departure from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Las Palmas at 20:00.

Naviera Armas is the primary operator serving this route, offering the quickest crossing time between the islands. Their modern fleet provides comfortable amenities for the relatively short journey. While the average crossing takes just under two hours, some services may take longer depending on sea conditions and the specific vessel.

Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating areas, cafeterias serving hot and cold food and beverages, and outdoor deck space to enjoy the sea air and views. Some ferries also feature duty-free shops, though these may have limited selections on shorter inter-island routes.

The journey between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas operates year-round with consistent service. Unlike some Mediterranean routes that reduce frequency in winter months, the Canary Islands' mild climate means ferry services maintain regular schedules throughout the year. That said, during peak holiday periods like Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays, booking in advance is highly recommended as sailings can fill up quickly.

For those travelling with vehicles, the ferries on this route can accommodate cars, motorcycles, and even larger vehicles like campervans. This makes the ferry an excellent option for those planning to explore Gran Canaria at their own pace. Vehicle spaces are limited compared to passenger capacity, so we recommend booking well in advance if you plan to bring your car.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Santa Cruz de Tenerife)

Santa Cruz de Tenerife's port is conveniently located close to the city centre, making it easily accessible for travellers. The ferry terminal is modern and well-equipped with essential facilities for passengers.

To reach the port, you have several options. Public buses connect the ferry terminal with other parts of the city and island. Taxis are readily available throughout Santa Cruz and provide direct service to the port. If you're driving, the port has parking facilities nearby, though these can fill up during busy periods.

Inside the terminal, you'll find ticket offices (though we recommend booking in advance online), waiting areas, restrooms, and small cafés or vending machines. The terminal is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators for those with mobility needs.

It's advisable to arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure if travelling as a foot passenger, and at least 90 minutes if bringing a vehicle to allow time for check-in and boarding procedures.

Arrival Port (Las Palmas)

Las Palmas port is one of the largest and most important in the Canary Islands, serving both passenger ferries and cruise ships. The ferry terminal is located in the Puerto de la Luz area, approximately 6 km from the city centre.

Upon arrival, foot passengers disembark via the main terminal building, which houses various facilities including information desks, restrooms, and some small shops or cafés. Vehicle passengers will be directed to drive off the ferry and can proceed directly onto the main road network.

To reach the city centre from the port, you have several transportation options. Public buses run regularly between the port and central Las Palmas, with the journey taking approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the terminal building and offer a quicker but more expensive option, typically costing around £10-15 for the journey to central Las Palmas.

Near the port, you'll find a range of services including car rental offices, which can be convenient if you arrived as a foot passenger but want to explore the island by car.

Day Trip Possibilities

Is it possible to visit Las Palmas as a day trip from Santa Cruz de Tenerife? The answer is yes, though it requires careful planning to make the most of your time.

With the fastest crossing taking just 1 hour and 40 minutes each way, and with multiple daily sailings starting from early morning, a day trip is certainly feasible. The early departure at 01:30 could allow you to arrive in Las Palmas very early in the morning, giving you a full day to explore before catching an evening ferry back.

For a comfortable day trip, we recommend catching one of the morning ferries and returning on an evening service. This would give you approximately 6-8 hours to explore Las Palmas, which is enough time to see the main highlights of the city.

A sample itinerary might look like this: Depart Santa Cruz on an early morning ferry, arrive in Las Palmas, spend the morning exploring the historic district of Vegueta, have lunch in the Triana shopping district, enjoy the afternoon at Las Canteras Beach, and then head back to the port for your return journey.

If you're considering a day trip, keep in mind that you'll be somewhat limited in how much of Gran Canaria you can see. Las Palmas itself has plenty to offer, but you won't have time to explore the island's diverse landscapes, from the dunes of Maspalomas to the mountains of the interior. For a more comprehensive experience of Gran Canaria, we'd recommend staying at least one night.

An alternative to a self-guided day trip is to book an organised excursion that includes ferry transportation and a guided tour of Las Palmas. These often operate with optimised schedules and can be a stress-free way to experience the highlights of Las Palmas in a single day.

Things to Do in Las Palmas

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria offers a wealth of attractions for visitors, combining historic charm, beautiful beaches, and vibrant city life. Here are five top attractions to consider during your visit:

Las Canteras Beach

This stunning urban beach stretches for nearly 3 km along the city's coastline and is often considered one of the best city beaches in Europe. Protected by a natural reef known as La Barra, the waters are typically calm and perfect for swimming. The promenade behind the beach is lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops. Open 24 hours, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a sunset stroll.

Historic District of Vegueta

The oldest quarter of Las Palmas dates back to the 15th century and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets to discover beautiful colonial architecture, including the stunning Santa Ana Cathedral. The district is home to several museums, including Casa de Colón, which explores Christopher Columbus's connections to the Canary Islands. Most attractions in Vegueta are open from 10:00 to 18:00.

Parque Santa Catalina

This lively square is considered the heart of the tourist area of Las Palmas. Surrounded by shops, restaurants, and bars, it's a great place to experience local life. The square frequently hosts events and markets, particularly during festivals. The area comes alive in the evenings when locals and tourists gather to enjoy the pleasant Canarian evenings.

Jardín Canario (Botanical Garden)

Located just outside the city centre, this is the largest botanical garden in Spain, specialising in Canarian flora. The garden showcases the extraordinary biodiversity of the Canary Islands, with sections dedicated to cacti, palms, and endemic species. Open from 09:00 to 18:00, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city.

Poema del Mar Aquarium

This modern aquarium near the port area is one of the newest attractions in Las Palmas. It houses thousands of marine species across different habitats, with the highlight being the Deep Sea exhibit featuring one of the world's largest curved windows. Open from 09:00 to 18:00 (with extended hours in summer), it's a perfect activity for families or during inclement weather.

Neighbourhoods in Las Palmas

Las Palmas is divided into distinct neighbourhoods, each offering a different aspect of the city's character:

Vegueta and Triana represent the historic heart of Las Palmas. Vegueta, with its colonial architecture and museums, provides a glimpse into the city's past, while adjacent Triana is the main shopping district with pedestrianised streets lined with boutiques and historic buildings.

The Santa Catalina and Canteras areas form the tourist centre of the city. Here you'll find the famous Las Canteras beach, numerous hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres like Las Arenas. The atmosphere is lively, especially in the evenings when the beachfront promenade fills with people enjoying dinner or drinks.

Ciudad Jardín (Garden City) is an elegant residential area with beautiful villas, tree-lined streets, and the Doramas Park. It offers a quieter experience than the more touristy districts.

For nightlife, the areas around Santa Catalina Square and parts of Vegueta offer the best options. Santa Catalina tends to attract a mixed crowd of tourists and locals, while Vegueta's bars and clubs, particularly around Calle Mendizábal, draw a younger, more local crowd, especially on Thursday nights for the popular Tapas evenings.

Puerto-La Isleta, surrounding the commercial port, has a more industrial character but is undergoing regeneration with new cultural spaces and restaurants opening in recent years.

Weather in Las Palmas

Las Palmas boasts one of the world's most consistent and pleasant climates, often described as an eternal spring. The city enjoys around 320 sunny days per year, with average temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F) throughout the year.

Summer (June to September) brings warm temperatures typically between 23-28°C (73-82°F). These months see very little rainfall and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities. However, this is also when the city receives the most tourists.

Winter (December to February) remains mild with daytime temperatures usually between 18-22°C (64-72°F) and night temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C (59°F). There might be occasional rainfall during these months, but prolonged wet periods are uncommon.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) offer perhaps the most pleasant conditions, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists than the summer peak.

One distinctive feature of Las Palmas' weather is the presence of trade winds, which help moderate temperatures and keep humidity levels comfortable. The city can occasionally experience calima—dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert that reduce visibility and air quality, though these are typically short-lived.

Regarding ferry operations, the weather in Las Palmas rarely causes significant disruptions to services. The waters between Tenerife and Gran Canaria are generally calm, though occasional strong winds can affect crossing comfort. The most reliable sailing conditions typically occur in the morning hours before the afternoon winds pick up.

Cost of Visiting Las Palmas

Las Palmas offers good value for money compared to many European destinations, though prices are slightly higher than in mainland Spain due to its island location.

For budget travellers, a daily expenditure of £50-70 per person is possible, covering a hostel or budget hotel, public transportation, eating at casual restaurants or preparing some meals yourself, and visiting a selection of affordable attractions.

Mid-range travellers should budget around £100-150 per day, which would allow for a comfortable hotel, dining at good restaurants, some taxi journeys, and entry to all major attractions.

Luxury travellers can expect to spend £200+ per day, staying at top hotels, dining at the finest restaurants, and perhaps hiring a car or taking guided excursions.

Some typical costs include: a cup of coffee (£1.50-2.50), a casual lunch menu of the day (£10-15), dinner at a mid-range restaurant (£20-30 per person), local bus journey (£1.40), taxi from the port to the city centre (£10-15), and entry to museums and attractions (£5-10).

Money-saving tips include using the efficient public bus network instead of taxis, taking advantage of the free public beaches rather than paying for loungers at beach clubs, and looking out for the menu del día (fixed price lunch menu) offered by many restaurants at a fraction of evening prices.

Best Time to Visit Las Palmas

Las Palmas can be enjoyed year-round thanks to its mild climate, but different seasons offer distinct experiences.

Peak season runs from June to September and again during the winter holidays (December to January), especially around Christmas and New Year. During these periods, the city sees more tourists, accommodation prices rise, and popular attractions can become crowded. However, summer brings perfect beach weather and a lively atmosphere with many cultural events.

Shoulder seasons (April to May and October to November) offer an excellent compromise with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better rates on accommodation. These periods are ideal for exploring the city and island without the summer heat or winter holiday crowds.

The winter months from February to March provide mild temperatures perfect for sightseeing, though they may bring occasional rainfall. This is an ideal time for those more interested in cultural experiences and exploring the island's interior rather than beach activities.

Las Palmas hosts several notable events throughout the year that might influence your visit timing. The most spectacular is the Las Palmas Carnival in February, one of Spain's biggest carnival celebrations after Cadiz and Tenerife. The city also comes alive during the Fiesta de San Juan in June with bonfires and beach celebrations, and the WOMAD music festival in November brings international artists to the city.

For those primarily interested in beach activities, summer is ideal. If you prefer cultural exploration and sightseeing, spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions. Winter visitors will find the mildest climate in Europe during these months, making Las Palmas a popular escape from colder northern countries.

Accommodation Options in Las Palmas

Finding the right place to stay in Las Palmas is easy with options to suit every traveller and budget. The city offers a range of accommodations within easy reach of major attractions and the vibrant city centre.

Where to Stay Based on Traveller Type

Solo travellers will appreciate the social atmosphere of Las Palmas hostels, particularly in the Vegueta and Santa Catalina areas, with prices starting from around £20 per night. Couples might prefer the boutique hotels near Las Canteras Beach, offering romantic seafront views from approximately £60 per night.

Families travelling to Las Palmas should consider the spacious apartment rentals in Ciudad Jardín, providing kitchen facilities and multiple bedrooms from £80-120 per night. Many properties offer special amenities for children, including play areas and pools.

For those exploring the Canary Islands with campervans, Las Palmas has several campsites on its outskirts, providing affordable options from £15 per night with basic facilities and often beautiful natural surroundings.

Getting Around Las Palmas

Las Palmas offers excellent transport options to help you explore after arriving on your ferry from Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

The city has a comprehensive bus network (known locally as guaguas) covering all major areas, with single fares starting at just £1.20. The yellow bus service is particularly useful for tourists, connecting key attractions. For longer stays, consider purchasing a rechargeable travel card for discounted fares.

Taxis are readily available throughout Las Palmas and operate on metres, with typical city centre journeys costing £5-10. Car rental offices are located near the port and throughout the city, with prices starting from around £25 per day – ideal if you plan to explore Gran Canaria's more remote beaches and mountains.

Las Palmas is also surprisingly walkable, especially around the Las Canteras beachfront and the historic Vegueta district. The flat coastal areas are perfect for cycling, with bike rental shops offering daily hires from approximately £10.

Start Your Canary Islands Adventure Today

Travelling between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas by ferry offers an unmatched experience combining convenience, comfort, and stunning ocean views. With up to 5 daily sailings and 36 weekly departures operated by companies like Naviera Armas, you have plenty of flexibility to plan your inter-island adventure.

Remember that the shortest crossing takes just 1 hour 40 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable journey between these two Canarian capitals. Whether you're travelling for a day trip or as part of a longer island-hopping adventure, the ferry connection between Tenerife and Gran Canaria provides the perfect way to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of the Canary Islands.

Book your ferry tickets in advance to secure the best prices, with fares starting from around £162 for the fastest services. Your Canary Islands adventure awaits – with crystal-clear waters, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant city life just a short sea journey away.