canariesguide

The Lanzarote to Fuerteventura ferry: the complete guide

Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are the two closest islands in the Canaries, separated by a stretch of sea you cross in under half an hour by ferry. This guide, shared by both islands, covers the route between Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) and Corralejo (Fuerteventura): operators, crossing time, price and practical tips.

In a nutshell

  • Route: Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) ↔ Corralejo (Fuerteventura).
  • Crossing time: around 25 to 30 minutes.
  • Operators: Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen Express, several daily sailings each way.
  • Vehicles can travel too (car, van) — booking ahead is recommended in high season.

The Playa Blanca–Corralejo route

The ferry from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura connects the port of Playa Blanca, on Lanzarote's south coast, to Corralejo, on Fuerteventura's north coast. It's the shortest crossing between two inhabited Canary Islands, which makes it a practical option for a day trip or for reaching the neighbouring island with your own vehicle.

The Lanzarote to Fuerteventura ferry crossing usually takes between 25 and 30 minutes, depending on the operator and sea conditions, with several sailings a day in each direction.

Which operators run the crossing?

Two operators run the route: Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen Express. Both offer several sailings a day, with timetables that vary by season — it's worth checking current times directly with the operators before planning your trip, particularly off-season when sailings can be reduced.

Can you take a hire car on board?

Both operators carry vehicles, so you can make the crossing with your own car or camper van. One thing to watch out for if your vehicle is a rental: most car hire contracts explicitly forbid taking the vehicle across by ferry between islands — check your rental agreement before attempting the crossing with a hire car, or you risk losing your insurance cover.

Practical tips for the crossing

  • Book ahead in high season, particularly if you're bringing a vehicle.
  • Arrive at the port with some time to spare, especially with a vehicle to load.
  • Compare both operators' timetables: sailings often complement each other through the day.
  • Keep an eye on the weather: crossings can occasionally be cancelled or delayed in rough seas.

    • Frequently asked questions

    How long is the ferry from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura?

    Around 25 to 30 minutes between Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) and Corralejo (Fuerteventura), the shortest crossing between two inhabited Canary Islands.

    Which operators run the Lanzarote–Fuerteventura crossing?

    Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen Express, with several daily sailings in each direction.

    Can you bring a hire car on the ferry?

    Physically yes, but most rental contracts forbid taking the vehicle between islands — check your agreement before attempting the crossing with a hire car.

    Do you need to book the ferry in advance?

    It's recommended, especially in high season or if you're bringing a vehicle, since sailings can be reduced off-season.