Ferries La Palma

La Palma, known as the "Isla Bonita", the fifth island of the Canary islands by extension and number of inhabitants, is located in the northwestern part of the archipelago. It has an elongated shape, divided in the center by two high volcanic formations: the Cumbre Vieja to the south and the Caldera de Taburiente to the north, a large crater with an impressive diameter of 10 kilometers and a height of 2,423 meters, interrupted by the deep Barranco de las Angustias.

Along its slopes the life of the inhabitants of La Palma develops, between small rural villages with typical terraced crops and few coastal towns among the rocky cliffs.

It is certainly not one of the most visited islands and has only recently received some extra attention due to the eruption of the Cumbre Vieja. But that La Palma does not embody the spirit of the more famous Canary Islands of mile-long beaches and crowded resorts is one of the reasons why it has recently become increasingly popular among those travelers who are looking for nature and adventure on their vacations.

If you are among them, don't miss a visit to this charming place!

How to get to La Palma by ferry?

The only port of La Palma is located in Santa Cruz, the capital of the island.To reach La Palma from the mainland, there is only one connection:

Cadiz - Santa Cruz de la Palma. This route is operated by the company Naviera Armas. The ferries from Cadiz to La Palma stops at the other islands and takes more than 50 hours, but you always stay on board the same ship and there is no transfer.

This ferry only departs once a week: if you need to book an alternative, you can take a ferry from Huelva to Tenerife and then the connection to La Palma.

To get to La Palma from Tenerife, you can travel on the route Los Cristianos - Santa Cruz de la Palma. This route is operated by the companies Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express. Connections to the other Canary Islands are possible with a stopover in Tenerife. 

What to do in La Palma?

As already mentioned, nature is the real queen of La Palma and there is everything from lush laurel forests to bare volcanic landscapes, from high rocky coasts to natural saltwater pools.

Here are some attractions not to be missed during your trip to La Palma, as well as some ideas for a taste of local life.

Caldera de Taburiente National Park
It is undoubtedly the main attraction of the island. In addition to being able to admire the park from its peaks, more than 2,000 meters high, you can walk through the green Canarian pine forests, which contrast with the black volcanic earth, and go into the caldera and the Barranco de las Angustias, where the frequent rains create spectacular streams and waterfalls of fresh, crystal-clear water.

Roque de los Muchachos Astrophysical Observatory
La Palma is famous for being the first Starlight Reserve in the world. Also in the park of Taburiente, you can visit the astronomical observatory of Roque de los Muchachos. Excursions are usually organized during the day, but the views of the nearby islands are priceless. To admire the starry sky, night excursions and guided tours are organized in several viewpoints of the island.

Natural pools of Charco Azul and La Fajana
La Palma has no sandy beaches, but that doesn't stop you from diving into the crystal-clear ocean waters. Visit the natural saltwater pools of Charco Azul and La Fajana, on the northeast coast of the island. Both beaches are equipped and suitable for those traveling with children.

Porís de Candelaria
It is one of the most picturesque places on the island: it is a village of a few houses inside a cave, a few steps from the sea. It is a group of houses, some more than 80 years old, built by fishermen against the volcanic rocks and painted white and blue. The spectacle of the turquoise sea breaking between the black rocks, a few meters from the houses, is something you will not easily forget.

Santa Cruz de La Palma
Finally, dedicate at least one day to visit the capital of the island, Santa Cruz, to taste the local specialties and immerse yourself in the history of La Palma. Here you will find more information about the city and the port.

🚢 Pack your bags and take a ferry to La Palma!
With MrFerry you find the best solution for your ticket and book online in a few simple steps!

If you still have any doubts, below we provide you with all the information you need about ferry travel to La Palma.

Traveling by ferry to La Palma can be advantageous in many ways.

If you travel on the route from Cadiz, the crossing is very long, but the company Naviera Armas uses the largest and most modern fleet here, so your time on board will pass quickly! 

🍸 In addition to services such as bars and restaurants, which offer all kinds of options, you will have access to leisure areas, stores, panoramic terraces, a children's area and entertainment for all ages.

🛏️ You will be able to rest in the armchair included in your reservation, but for greater comfort on longer crossings we recommend adding a private cabin, with toilets for your exclusive use. Remember to book it in advance to ensure your place!

🚗 If you want to include La Palma in your itinerary by road in the Canary Islands, know that you can take your vehicle on all ships! Again, booking in high season, weekends and for large vehicles such as motorhomes and vans is a must.

♿ Access for passengers with reduced mobility is guaranteed on all departures to and from La Palma and on all ships. Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express are equipped to provide you with boarding and assistance on board, but if you need to report special requirements or book accommodation with disabled access, please contact our customer service.

🐾 Finally, if you're traveling with a pet, you'll know how complicated air travel can be! Ferries to La Palma allow you to take your four-legged friend with you without any problems. If you want your pet to accompany you at all times, we recommend the pet access cabin option, available on the longer routes, which is always best booked in advance. You can also reserve a place in the onboard kennels, which are accessible during the crossing. In addition, there is an outdoor area for walking.

Did we forget anything? Check our Frequently Asked Questions or contact customer service.

Mr Ferry can calculate you some quotes for large groups with or without vehicle (bus, but also car or motorbike). If you are at least 10 people travelling, please ask for a special price by filling out the specific form. Our staff will contact you soon to calculate the best available offer!