Ferries Gran Canaria

When traveling on Gran Canaria ferries, you can take advantage of regular discounts of up to 50% offered to specific traveler categories. Simply select the route that suits you, choose the applicable discount, and it will be automatically applied when you book your tickets on Ferryhopper.

While these discounts differ from one company to another, you can usually expect cheaper Gran Canaria ferry tickets for:

• Children (4-11)
• Young travelers (under 26)
• Seniors (60+)
• Large families (Spanish citizens)

Additionally, Canary Island residents are often entitled to discounts of up to 85% on ferry tickets. 

Note: infants and children up to 3 years old usually travel for free.

As with all the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is blessed with year-round warm weather, making it a top getaway choice regardless of the season. For more information on weather conditions in Gran Canaria, take a look at our guide to the climate of the Canary Islands.

Ferry routes to Gran Canaria are available throughout the year, with ticket demand being noticeably higher during the summer and on holidays. If you plan to visit in the high season, from June to September, we recommend booking your ferry tickets at least 1 month in advance, as this is the peak season and Gran Canaria is at its most crowded.

During the rest of the year, the ferry connections are less frequent and crowds are thinner, so you can usually afford to book your Gran Canaria ferry tickets a few days before departure. Keep in mind, though, that ferries can still get busy on sunny weekends or major celebrations.

Important: the Gran Canaria ferry schedules may vary by season, so always double-check the latest ferry routes on Ferryhopper.

Gran Canaria is often dubbed “the miniature continent,” which aptly hints towards its diverse landscape, featuring golden sand dunes that roll into the sea, craggy volcanic peaks that tower above lush ravines, and endemic pine forests.

Las Palmas de Gra Canaria, the island capital, combines history, culture, and seaside living. In the old quarter of Vegueta, you can stroll past colonial buildings and cobbled streets that reflect the city’s past. Just a short walk away lies Las Canteras Beach, a lively stretch of sand perfect for swimming, surfing, or a relaxed afternoon by the sea.

Heading inland, the scenery changes to rugged volcanic landscapes. Highlights include the Caldera de Bandama, a vast volcanic crater, and mountain villages like Tejeda, famous for its views and traditional charm. Hikers shouldn’t miss Roque Nublo, a striking rock formation surrounded by panoramic trails that showcase the island’s dramatic interior.

The south coast offers a different vibe, with beach resorts such as Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés. The Maspalomas Dunes create a unique desert-like backdrop right next to the ocean, while the area’s hotels, restaurants, and nightlife make it one of Gran Canaria’s busiest holiday spots. Water sports are also widely available, from surfing and diving to more laid-back activities in calmer waters.

Gran Canaria is also a great choice for winter family holidays in the Canaries, thanks to its mild climate, calm beaches, and attractions that stay open year-round. From kid-friendly resorts to water parks and outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to keep younger travelers entertained even in the cooler months.

Here are some helpful tips for a smooth ferry trip and a memorable stay in Gran Canaria:

• We recommend arriving at the port of departure at least 1 hr in advance, especially if you are bringing your vehicle along. Please note that ports on the Canary Islands tend to become busy during peak season.
• Two bus companies connect all major towns and resorts in Gran Canaria with frequent and reliable services. Buses that go to smaller villages, however, are less frequent. Additionally, there are taxis that can take you anywhere on the island.
• If you want to explore every inch of the island, we recommend bringing your vehicle on the ferry or renting one via the several rental services there. To make the most out of your exploration, check out our tips for a 7-day road trip in Gran Canaria.
• If you're split between Gran Canaria or Tenerife, why not visit both? Check out our Map of ferries, where visualize your trip, compare all ferry routes for island hopping in the Canary Islands and plan your adventure hassle-free!
• The local currency is the euro. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere on the island.

Tip: Check out our guide on how to get to Gran Canaria for more information and helpful tips for your trip.

Ferries to Gran Canaria range from high-speed catamarans operating short interisland routes to conventional ferries for longer overnight routes from mainland Spain. Most ferries are pet-friendly and accessible to passengers with disabilities, while some also feature a Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected during your journey. Depending on the route and ferry operator, you can expect the following amenities on your trip.

High-speed ferries to Gran Canaria

The high-speed ferries connecting Gran Canaria with nearby islands in the Canaries are designed to prioritize speed and comfort, while ensuring a safe trip. On most catamarans, you will find:

• Air-conditioned lounges with comfortable seats and tables
• Seating on the deck, where you can enjoy the sea view
• Bars serving coffee, snacks, and beverages
• Car decks

Conventional ferries to Gran Canaria

Conventional ferries operate on the longer ferry connections between Gran Canaria and the Spanish mainland, as well as on crossings to some of the more distant Canary Islands. These vessels are designed for extended journeys, so you can expect a wider range of amenities and services, including:

• Air-conditioned lounges and seating on deck
• Cabins
• Restaurants and snack bars
• Play areas for children
• Entertainment
• Shops
• Dedicated pet-friendly areas
• Car decks

Cabins & accommodation

For greater privacy and comfort, you can usually book a cabin for 1-4 passengers on the conventional ferries serving Gran Canaria routes. Typically, you have a choice between:

• Interior cabins 
• Exterior cabins with a window and sea view
• Suites (with double bed)
• Pet-friendly cabins with a bed and water bowl
• Accessible cabins for travelers with disabilities

Cabin prices normally start at around €140 to €400, depending on the route, company and season.

Additionally, on many conventional and high-speed vessels operating on Gran Canaria ferry routes, you may have the option of booking a reclining seat in the VIP or business lounge, which also includes priority boarding. Prices for these seats typically range from around €80 to €130.

There are 2 ports in Gran Canaria: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Agaete.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Also known as Puerto de La Luz, the port of Las Palmas is in the capital city, on the northeast coast of Gran Canaria. Puerto de La Luz is the island’s main passenger port, serving all long-distance routes from Huelva and Cádiz on the mainland, as well as connections to Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and La Palma.

The port is about 5 km from the city center and just a short walk from the popular Las Canteras beach. Several city buses stop near the port area (Santa Catalina station is the main hub), while taxis and shuttles are also readily available. Gran Canaria Airport is around 25 km away, with the journey by car taking roughly 30 min, while buses 60 and 91 take around 1 hr.

Agaete

The port of Agaete, also known as Puerto de las Nieves, is on the northwest coast of Gran Canaria, around 33 km from Las Palmas and   55 km away from the Gran Canaria Airport. The smaller port mainly handles fast ferries to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, making it the quickest route between the islands. 

You can easily travel between Agaete and Las Palmas by car, taxi and public transport. The car ride normally takes around 30 min, while the regular bus line 103 needs about 1 hr to cover the distance. The journey between Agaete and the Gran Canaria Airport, takes around 45 min by car and around 1.5 hr on the 130 and 60 buses.

Both ports are well-equipped and nearby you will find cafés, restaurants, shops, and hotels, as well as bus stops, taxis, ATMs, car and scooter rental agencies, pharmacies and other useful travel services.

Tip: Head to our guide to the ports of the Canary Islands to pick the right one for your dream trip!

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Gran Canaria, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.