Gran Canaria Loop – Western Route
Las Palmas – Las Palmas (14 days)
The Gran Canaria Loop – Western Route is a two-week voyage across the most spectacular,
mountainous and “oceanic” islands of the Canary archipelago. It combines long offshore passages,
sailing through acceleration zones between the islands, and calmer segments in the lee of the land.
It is an ideal journey for those who want to feel the true Atlantic while still having time for hiking,
exploring colonial towns and enjoying relaxed evenings in marinas.
We start and end in Las Palmas on Gran Canaria, but the heart of the voyage lies among the western islands:
Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro. Each has its unique character – from the lush laurel forests of
Garajonay to the vast Taburiente caldera, and from the post-eruption landscapes of the Tajogaite volcano
to the almost untouched wild shores of El Hierro. As the journey progresses, the ocean becomes deeper,
stronger and more remote – a route where you can truly feel the open Atlantic.
Why This Voyage?
- Sailing in classic trade winds and acceleration zones – a true Atlantic navigation experience.
- Varied landscapes: volcanoes, cliffs, laurel forests, black-sand beaches and the wild coastline of El Hierro.
- A balance of offshore passages with time ashore for sightseeing, hiking and local cuisine.
- Real chances to encounter dolphins and whales when crossing between islands.
- Start and finish in Las Palmas – one of the best marinas in the Atlantic, with excellent flight connections to Europe.
Daily Plan & Attractions
Day 1 – Las Palmas (Gran Canaria)
Sailing: Check-in, briefing, boat handover, provisioning, safety training.
What to see:
- Vegueta – historic colonial district with Columbus House.
- Las Canteras – one of the best urban beaches in the world.
- Castillo de la Luz – fortress near the marina.
Day 2 – Las Palmas → Santa Cruz de Tenerife (55–65 NM)
Sailing: Dynamic passage between Gran Canaria and Tenerife (acceleration zone). Arrival in the large, comfortable marina of Santa Cruz.
What to see upon arrival:
- Auditorio de Tenerife – an icon of modern architecture.
- Mercado Nuestra Señora de África – the island’s best food market.
- Old town of Santa Cruz – boulevards, parks, tapas bars.
Day 3 – Santa Cruz → San Sebastián de La Gomera (35–40 NM)
Sailing: Rounding the Teide massif – possible strong gusts. Arrival in the port historically linked to Columbus’ voyages.
What to see:
- Casa de Colón – museum dedicated to Columbus’ expeditions.
- Iglesia de la Asunción – the church where Columbus’ crew prayed.
- Mirador de la Hila – viewpoint overlooking the town.
Day 4 – La Gomera – Land Day
Sailing: No sailing – full day to explore one of the greenest islands of the archipelago.
Sightseeing & activities:
- Garajonay National Park (UNESCO) – ancient laurel forests and top-tier hiking trails.
- Valle Gran Rey – spectacular terraced valley with dramatic cliffs.
- Mirador Abrante – glass balcony suspended 600 meters above the gorge.
Day 5 – La Gomera → Santa Cruz de La Palma (55–65 NM)
Sailing: Offshore passage – variable conditions, typical Atlantic swell. Arrival in the picturesque port of Santa Cruz de La Palma.
What to see:
- Colorful balconies of Avenida Marítima – symbol of the city.
- Old town – colonial architecture, churches, museums.
- Casa Roja – museum of local traditions.
Day 6 – La Palma – Land Day (optional passage to Tazacorte)
Sailing: Optional short passage along the island or full-day exploration ashore.
What to see:
- Roque de los Muchachos (2426 m) – observatories and views above the clouds.
- Caldera de Taburiente – vast volcanic caldera with numerous hiking routes.
- Tajogaite Volcano (2021 eruption) – newly formed landscapes and viewpoints.
Day 7 – La Palma → El Hierro (55–60 NM)
Sailing: Quiet offshore passage (low traffic), often with a strong oceanic feel. Arrival in La Estaca.
What to see:
- Mirador de la Peña – viewpoint by César Manrique overlooking El Golfo.
- El Golfo – enormous amphitheater-like volcanic formation.
- La Restinga – the best diving location in the Canary Islands.
Day 8 – El Hierro – Buffer / Land Day
Sailing: None – reserve/rest day.
What to do:
- Diving with turtles and manta rays in La Restinga.
- Hiking on the island’s western slopes.
- Lagartario – conservation center for the giant El Hierro lizards.
Day 9 – El Hierro → Tenerife (South) (65–75 NM)
Sailing: Long return passage NE, often on sharper courses. Arrival in San Miguel or Los Cristianos.
What to see upon arrival:
- Los Cristianos – beaches and restaurants.
- Los Gigantes cliffs – reachable by car or local boat.
Day 10 – Tenerife – Land Day
Sailing: No sailing – day dedicated to exploring the island.
Sightseeing:
- Teide – cable car or summit hike.
- Anaga Park – lush mountains and cloud-covered villages.
- La Laguna (UNESCO) – the most beautiful colonial old town on the island.
Day 11 – Tenerife → Puerto de Mogán (45–55 NM)
Sailing: Passage along the sheltered side of the island, usually calmer seas.
What to see:
- Puerto de Mogán – “the Canary Venice”, ideal for an evening ashore.
- Cliffside walk along the southern coast.
Day 12 – Puerto de Mogán → Las Palmas (40 NM)
Sailing: Final passage back to the home port. Sharp courses in NE trade winds, but reduced swell thanks to the island’s shelter.
After arrival:
- Dinner at the marina.
- Walk or swim at Las Canteras beach.
Day 13 – Las Palmas – Reserve Day
Sailing: Reserve day in the home port.
Optional sightseeing:
- Roque Nublo – iconic mountain of Gran Canaria.
- Maspalomas – dunes and lighthouse.
- Arucas – charming town with a rum distillery.
Day 14 – Disembarkation
Sailing: Crew disembarkation, boat checkout, end of voyage.
Notes:
- Possibility to extend your stay in Las Palmas for additional land exploration.
