La Graciosa, known as the eighth Canary Island, lies just across the narrow strait of El Río from the northern tip of Lanzarote, and it feels like a different world. The roads are unpaved, motor vehicles are restricted because the island is protected, and visitors get around on foot, by bicycle or by SUV taxi. The main village, Caleta de Sebo, has white houses, a small harbour and the island’s services, and beyond it are golden beaches, volcanic cones and open flats. The excursion linked here is a catamaran day trip of about five hours. You take a ferry to Caleta de Sebo, explore on your own, then board a catamaran for a cruise along the island’s south coast, with a paella lunch and time to swim, snorkel or kayak at Playa la Francesa. It is the easiest way to see La Graciosa in a single day without arranging transport, food and boats separately.
How it works
The ferries to La Graciosa cross from Órzola, at the north-eastern tip of Lanzarote, in about half an hour, and the strait itself is only about a kilometre wide. The experience combines a ferry crossing, a catamaran cruise, a paella lunch and water activities, and it comes with free cancellation. Meeting details and any hotel pickup options are shown when you choose your date, and they vary by departure area.
What to expect
Free time in Caleta de Sebo lets you wander the sandy streets, have a coffee and rent a bicycle if you want to explore further. The beaches range from calm water good for snorkelling to larger waves that need caution, and quiet coves such as La Cocina and Las Conchas are known to be beautiful, though not all are suitable for swimming. Playa la Francesa is one of the busier family beaches and is the stop used for swimming on this cruise. Bring a hat, sunscreen, a swimsuit and a towel.
Making the most of it
The sea in the strait can be rough on windy days, and ferries and boat trips can change at short notice, so allow a flexible day and check conditions on the morning of the trip. Winter, from about November to March, is the busy season for sun-seeking visitors and the weather is usually warm, but the water is cool, so a light layer helps on the boat.
If you prefer to stay overnight on La Graciosa, Caleta de Sebo has simple accommodation, and a night there is a quiet contrast to the resorts. Pair this day with Mirador del Río, which looks down on the island from the cliff above.
What to expect
The experience
A ferry crossing to Caleta de Sebo, free time on the island and a catamaran cruise with lunch and a swim stop.
Best time
A calm, sunny day, with an early start to make the most of the island.
How long
About five hours for the trip, plus the drive to the departure point.
Tips
Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear and a towel, wear shoes for sandy tracks and check sea conditions on the morning.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a quiet island and a beach swim in a single easy day.
- Families
- Children enjoy the boat and the beach, but check the sea conditions and bring sun protection.
- Couples
- Walk the sandy streets of Caleta de Sebo and take a long swim at the beach.
- Pair with
- Mirador del Río, which looks down on La Graciosa, or the Jardín de Cactus.
- Time needed
- A full day, including the transfer to the north of the island.
Good questions
How do I get to La Graciosa?+
By ferry from Órzola on the north-eastern tip of Lanzarote, a crossing of about half an hour. The trip linked here includes the ferry and a catamaran cruise.
Are there cars on La Graciosa?+
Motor vehicles are restricted and the roads are unpaved, so visitors walk, cycle or take an SUV taxi. Bikes can be rented in Caleta de Sebo.
What happens on the catamaran cruise?+
After free time in Caleta de Sebo, the catamaran cruises along the south coast, with a paella lunch and swimming, snorkelling or kayaking at Playa la Francesa.
Can I cancel the trip?+
Yes, free cancellation is offered, and the weather can also change boat trips. Check the cancellation terms when you choose your date.
Is La Graciosa good for swimming?+
Some beaches have calm water, and others have larger waves that need caution. Playa la Francesa is a popular family beach.
