Gran Canaria is the second most populated island of the Canary Islands archipelago and probably one of the most diverse islands that you can find in the world, inviting you to explore it aboard your charter yacht. The diversity of the island comes from different climates and types of land found on different parts of the island. The north of the island is usually cooler, while the south is warmer, so most tourists visit the south part of the island. Diversity is also noticeable from the flat east coast to the rockier and mountainous west coast of the island.
Find Your Ideal Yacht in Gran Canaria Sailing Region
Why is Gran Canaria Popular Among Sailors?
One of the most significant factors for choosing Gran Canaria as your boat hire destination is the climate, as the island enjoys almost perfect weather: night temperature doesn’t usually get lower than 15°C throughout the whole winter, while daytime temperature rarely goes over 30°C in the middle of the summer. The sea temperature is also stable, normally around 20°C.
Wind conditions are also one of the main reasons for chartering a yacht in Gran Canaria. Trade winds dominate the weather system most of the year. In the trade wind belt, the prevailing wind direction is NE all year round, reaching its peak in power in July and August.
Bigger waves and stronger winds make it a perfect spot for experienced sailors.
On top of excellent sailing conditions, Gran Canaria has a lot to offer in terms of landscapes and cities to visit, as it is one of the world's most diverse islands. The capital - Las Palmas - is a vibrant city with a rich Spanish history and culture. Its harbour, Puerto de la Luz, is one of the most important harbours in Europe.
Yacht Charter in Gran Canaria
Charter a yacht in Gran Canaria and soak up the Spanish sun, explore the island capital, Las Palmas, an architecturally rich city and an important port with laid moorings. Playa de Las Canteras, the symbol of the city, is considered one of the best beaches in the world. Sail to Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, a bustling holiday resort situated on steep slopes of a volcanic valley from which you can get stunning views of the coastline.
A yacht charter in Gran Canaria is the perfect choice for sailing throughout the whole year due to its northeast trade winds. The strongest winds blow in July and August, and the lightest winds in October and November.
Best Places to Visit in Gran Canaria Region
The island Grand Canaria has many must see cities, villages and beaches which surround its imposing mountain and its peak Pico de las Nieves. Therefore, so we suggest that you take a small break from sailing and visit the following spots.
Las Palmas is the Gran Canaria Island capital, a melting pot of different cultures with the most famous one being Pueblo Canario, a fascinating traditional Canary village in the heart of the city. The city also offers plenty of chances to relax, for example on the popular Playa de Las Canteras, the beach that became the symbol of the city.
If you are in the mood for some shopping, stroll down Calle Mayor de Triana and check out numerous shops and boutiques. For history buffs, there is the spectacular old town of Vegueta. Follow the footsteps of Christopher Columbus who stayed here before heading on to America.
The picturesque village on the south of the island, Pasito Blanco, is the usual starting point for sailing around Gran Canaria due to the big modern marina, great nightlife, lots of restaurants and long golden sandy beaches. If you have time, we recommend a couple of attractions just outside Pasito Blanco, like dunes at Maspalomas or Sioux City, a theme park inspired by the American wild west, so you can feel like you are in a western movie.
If you are looking for charming little villages to explore on your Gran Canaria yacht charter vacation, we can recommend Puerto de Mogán and Agaete. Even if they are not so close together, both can offer unique feelings and romantic surroundings. Puerto de Mogán resembles small Venice with many canals and narrow bridges, while Agaete offers a Santorini-like experience with traditional whitewashed houses with green-brown or blue doors located in a green valley between spectacular cliffs.
Important Info for Sailing in Gran Canaria Region
Best time to sail
November - April
Most popular marinas
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Nearest airports
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Airport (LPA)
Number of charter yachts
5+
Popular regattas
Canary Islands Olympic Sailing Week, Regata de Carnaval
Top attractions
Dunas de Maspalomas, Poema del Mar Aquarium, Catedral de Santa Ana de Canarias, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Playa de Las Cantera
Gastronomy Highlights of Gran Canaria Region
The Canary Islands offer a wonderful mix of Spanish, Latin American and African food. You should make sure to taste the local cuisine on your yacht charter vacation in Gran Canaria considering the abundance of regional specialities available.
Papas arrugadas, literally, “wrinkled potatoes”, are unskinned potatoes boiled with plenty of salt. The essential condiment for potatoes and many other island dishes are mojos and traditional sauces among which mojo rojo, mojo verde and picón mojo stand out.
Gofio is a special type of flour made from roasted sweet corn. It can be kneaded into a dough-like meal called pella or mixed with some type of broth creating a dish called gofio escaldado.
Sancocho canario is boiled fish with potatoes, sweet potatoes, gofio, and mojo.
