Sailing around Lanzarote - Call it magic - Cast off!

There are 2 considerations to take into account when planning a trip to La Graciosa. You can choose from Staying in the Marina or Anchoring at Playa Francesa. Both will require permission from the Canary Island Port Authorities. Lava Charter recommends at least a week's notice to allow for your berth or anchorage request to be processed, we can take care of the paperwork for you on request. Please note that there is no electricity provided with a berth, however there is fresh water which is included in the price. Leaving from Marina Lanzarote you will set sail heading towards the north of the island passing the beautiful bay of Arrieta. The prevailing NE trade winds will require you to beat the 35nm to La Graciosa. The passage will allow for all the crew to familiarise themselves with the yacht as tacks will be plentiful. Sailing towards La Graciosa will expose the yacht to the moderate seas of the Atlantic. When sailing through the channel between Lanzarote and La Graciosa, you will find refuge in the calm waters and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the Famara Cliff face. We recommend that you plan your passage to arrive during daylight hours.

After spending a night in the sleepy marina of La Graciosa or Playa Francesa, you will be keen to explore the coast of the island. Sailing around the Chinijo Archipelago is one of the treasures of the Canary Islands. It is a protected UNESCO marine reserve which stretches a total of 70,000 square kilometers, making it the largest marine reserve in Spain. It is not permitted to fish in this protected reserve as the rich marine ecosystem is unique and essential to local inhabitants of the islands. The cruising ground is extensive with beautiful landscapes which will keep you mesmerized for the duration of your passage. Wildlife is plentiful with sightings of Cetaceans a regular occurrence. Upon completion of your island sail, you again have the option subject to availability, to stay overnight in the marina or anchor at Playa Francesa before beginning your third day of sailing.

Leaving La Graciosa always leaves you with a feeling of doubt. You may wish to extend your stay for another night as many of our clients fall in love with the tranquility of the island and its peaceful bays. Your passage to the south of Lanzarote will take you along the rugged coastline of Lanzarote. Along the way you are highly likely to encounter dolphins, who tend to play on the bow of our Bavaria’s for long durations allowing you to take videos and pictures. The passage along the west coast allows for some downwind sailing with the prevailing wind coming from the NE. Lee of the land comes into effect once passing the lighthouse at Playa Blanca. You will have the option of staying in Marina Rubicon, an exceptionally well equipped marina with Wifi, Showers, Toilets, Water and electricity. This is often a place of refuge after either staying at the Marina of La Graciosa or Anchoring at Playa Francesa as you may want electricity to charge your electronic devices and fully charge your yachts batteries. If you are looking for another quiet night at anchor, we highly recommend an overnight stay at the beautiful bay of Papagayo. The waters are pristine and you will have ample shelter from the NE winds. A sandy seabed makes for a peaceful night's sleep.

Whether you have chosen to stay at anchor in Papagayo or in the Marina Rubicon, a must see is the tranquil island of Los Lobos. With just a short passage of 15 nm, this day can be used to enjoy being at anchor and having a lazy day. Los Lobos has an anchoring point on the southern side of the island. There is a bay that looks tempting to anchor at, however there is a shallow reef that does not permit entry via boat. The island does not have any inhabitants, only an information center exists with no shops or supermarkets. The Anchorage can be quite crowded with day charters coming from Fuerteventura, however as the sun begins to set, most of the boats head back to port leaving you with your own private island.

After a night at anchor, your next port of call is the exclusive Marina Puerto Calero. You will travel along the south east of Lanzarote where you can enjoy the calm waters due to the lee of the land, with plenty of wind. This passage is breathtaking and comfortable. At the halfway mark, you find a black sandy beach called Playa Camada. This is an ideal Anchorage for a quick swim before heading into Puerto Calero Marina. The area is known for whale watching. Among the many species, Pilot Whales and Common Dolphin are most likely to be seen. Puerto Calero has fantastic restaurants and all the amenities you could expect from a world class Marina.

This passage again offers the lee of the land, protecting you from the atlantic swell while enjoying the trade winds. The route passes the coast of the tourism town of Puerto Del Carmen, where you will find long stretches of golden sand and clear blue waters. As you make your way back to your starting point you will also pass the island's capital Arrecife. The natural reefs and small fishing ports are a thing of beauty and will get you in the mood to explore them on dry land on your final night in Marina Lanzarote. All of our Yachts are due back at 1600, you will be greeted by the Lava Charter base team who will assist with your berthing. Our staff are always wanting to hear about your trip and your feedback is always welcomed. On arrival we will ensure you have a great final night on board before departing the following day.

Disclaimer : The Passage Plan’s contained in this guide are merely a recommendation of the preferred route to be taken by vessels when navigating in the indicated areas. Any Skipper or Master should exercise their own discretion and be prepared to depart from the Passage Plan when circumstances dictate. Lava Charter S.L.U shall not be liable for any losses, liabilities or damages arising whether or not due to any form of reliance on or usage of any Passage Plan or deviation thereof.