Lanzarote – Route around the Island – 1 week Cruise

Starting from our base in Marina Lanzarote, you will head out of the marina and then turn north-east up to the Chinijo Archipelago. This is an extensive marine reserve, covering over 700km2. Beyond harbouring numerous endemic species, the islands are a key transit point for migratory birds and pelagic cetaceans. The prevailing NE trade winds may well require a beat up to the islands. The passage will allow for all the crew to familiarise themselves with the yacht and plenty of tacking practice. Sailing towards La Graciosa will expose the yacht to the moderate seas of the Atlantic. If winds are light and you have started early, it is well worth stopping off to anchor just off the natural pools of Punta Mujeres. The water is beautifully clear with obvious areas of sand. If your programme allows, stop in for lunch at the Bar la Piscina for some local fish. Turning around the top of the island you will encounter the Rio, a narrow strait between La Graciosa and the dramatic cliffs of Famara. The small marina will be visible to stbd. Watch out for ferries. The island is charming, there are shops and restaurants and it is easy to organise bike hire and diving. There is water and electricity on the pontoons.

If requested beforehand, Lava Charter will have organised permission to anchor at Playa Francesa (La Graciosa) and El Veril (Alegranza). The array of marine life and tranquillity of the islands, makes it well worth taking a trip around the islands and if weather permits, visiting the El Veril anchorage in Alegranza. Beyond being a marine park, the area is also a Special Conservation Area due to sensitive nesting areas for migratory seabirds (storm petrels, shearwaters, etc) and resident falcons.

The passage along the west coast allows for some easy downwind sailing with the prevailing NE trade winds, passing the unique basalt lava fields of the Timanfaya National Park. Once past the Pechiguera lighthouse on the SW tip of the island, make your way to Marina Rubicón. This is a spacious harbour with an easy entrance with wi-fi, showers, shops, restaurants, water and electricity and a fuel station. Optional extra Marina Rubicón → Playas de Papagayo (anchorage): 1nm Enjoy a late start before heading over to the nearby Papagayo beaches. Clear waters and a mostly sand seabed, particularly in front of the Playa de las Mujeres, makes for easy anchoring.

Another alternative is to sail over to Lobos. Given various tourist boats during the day, the best option for anchoring is to arrive late afternoon. The waters are beautifully clear and one of the best places to anchor is just South of the beach, on the SW side of the island. There is a stone jetty nearby where you can land a zodiac. A great place for snorkelling.

After a night at anchor, your next port of call is Puerto Calero. Steer clear of the Papagayo headland and enjoy the calmer waters of Lanzarote’s lee coast. This is an ideal spot to observe resident dolphins and pilot whales as this area is designated Site of Community Importance, also featuring specific Special Areas of Conservation. Puerto Calero is Lanzarote’s most established marina and a comfortable place to rest with water, electricity, wi-fi, restaurants, shops, a fuel station (open daily) and a laundrette. Enjoy an evening coastal walk from the marina to Playa Quemada.