Un itinéraire de navigation parfait de 10 jours à travers les îles Canaries moins connues

Un itinéraire de navigation parfait de 10 jours à travers les îles Canaries moins connues

Beyond the Crowds: Why the Lesser-Known Canaries Are a Sailor’s Paradise

Escaping the Tourist Trail

When many imagine the Canary Islands, they picture the bustling promenades and sprawling resorts of southern Tenerife or Gran Canaria. While those islands have their appeal, a different world awaits just across the water. This journey is an invitation to discover the archipelago’s quieter soul, a place found in the tranquil grace of islands like La Graciosa, the wild nature reserve of Isla de Lobos, and the dramatic, sparsely populated northern coasts.

Here, the rhythm of life slows. You trade crowded beaches for secluded, golden-sand coves and high-rise hotels for villages with unpaved, sandy streets. The landscape itself becomes the main attraction: stark and beautiful volcanic cones, water so clear it seems to magnify the marine life below, and vast stretches of coastline untouched by development. This is an authentic Canarian experience, where the raw power of nature remains the dominant force.

The Magic of Island-Hopping by Sail

To truly connect with this side of the Canaries, you must take to the sea. A private yacht is more than transport; it is your key to unlocking the islands’ most protected secrets. It grants you the freedom to chart a course to hidden bays inaccessible by land, to drop anchor in a deserted cove for an afternoon swim, and to find a quiet spot to watch the sunset paint the sky, far from any shore-based crowds. Your schedule is guided by the wind and your own curiosity, not by a tour bus timetable.

The Canary Islands are blessed with near-perfect sailing conditions year-round, thanks to the reliable trade winds known locally as the Alisios. These steady northeasterly winds provide a consistent and comfortable sailing experience, filling the sails for exhilarating passages between islands. Imagine the feeling: the gentle heel of the yacht as it cuts through the water, the whisper of the wind in the rigging, and nothing before you but the deep, cobalt blue of the Atlantic Ocean. This is the essence of freedom, a profound connection to the elements that defines the sailing experience.

Your Private Yacht Awaits: Introducing “The Salty Nomad”

Meet Your Vessel

Your home for this 10-day journey is The Salty Nomad, a modern and exceptionally stable 44-foot sailing catamaran. Unlike a traditional monohull, her twin-hull design provides a spacious and level platform, ensuring comfort both under sail and at anchor. The expansive foredeck is the perfect place to sunbathe with a book, while the shaded aft cockpit offers a welcome retreat for alfresco lunches with an unobstructed view of the sea.

Below deck, you will find your private, well-appointed double cabin, a quiet sanctuary for a peaceful night’s sleep. The yacht features a fully equipped galley where your skipper prepares fresh, simple meals, and is outfitted with all the necessary safety equipment, from life rafts and jackets to modern navigation and communication systems. A wide swimming platform at the stern provides effortless access to the water for a morning dip or an afternoon snorkel.

Your Expert Skipper & Guide

A great itinerary is only brought to life by a great guide. Your skipper is much more than a captain responsible for navigating the yacht; they are your local host and expert for the duration of the trip. With years of experience sailing the Canarian waters, they possess an intimate knowledge of the winds, currents, and coastlines that you simply cannot find in a guidebook. They know the most secluded anchorages, the quietest times to visit popular spots, and the best family-run restaurants ashore.

They will share stories of local history, point out marine life, and can tailor the day’s activities to the mood of the group and the conditions of the sea. Professionally qualified and certified, your skipper’s first priority is your safety and comfort, allowing you to fully relax and immerse yourself in the experience. They handle all the technical aspects of sailing, but are more than happy to share their knowledge and let you take the helm if you wish to learn.

The Itinerary: 10 Days of Sun, Sail, and Serenity

This journey is a carefully crafted exploration of the Canary Islands’ most authentic and beautiful corners. We balance exhilarating sailing with deep relaxation, cultural discovery, and the simple joy of life at sea. Below is a day-by-day look at what you can expect.

Day 1: Welcome to Lanzarote & Setting Sail

Your adventure begins upon arrival at Arrecife Airport (ACE), where a transfer will bring you to the vibrant Marina Lanzarote. Step aboard “The Salty Nomad,” your home for the next ten days, and be greeted by your skipper with a glass of crisp, local Malvasía wine. After settling into your private cabin, we’ll conduct a comprehensive briefing on safety and life on board. As dusk settles, we cast off the lines for a short, gentle evening sail to a nearby sheltered anchorage, enjoying our first dinner together under a brilliant canopy of stars.

Day 2: The Golden Beaches of Papagayo

Wake to the gentle lapping of water against the hull. After a fresh breakfast on deck, we set sail along Lanzarote’s sun-drenched southern coast. Our destination is the renowned Playas de Papagayo, a series of pristine, golden-sand coves protected from the wind. We’ll drop anchor in the turquoise water, giving you the entire afternoon to swim, snorkel among the fish, or simply relax on the sun deck. We spend the night at anchor here, with the dramatic, ancient volcanic peaks of the Ajaches mountains providing a stunning backdrop.

Day 3: Crossing to the Isla de Lobos Nature Reserve

Today we make the short but beautiful crossing of the “El Río” strait to the Isla de Lobos, a tiny, uninhabited island and a protected nature reserve. Stepping ashore here is like stepping back in time. The island is completely car-free, its raw, volcanic beauty preserved for all to enjoy. We’ll take a rewarding hike along the island’s main trail to the old lighthouse, offering panoramic views of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. Later, we’ll explore El Puertito, a tiny hamlet with a few fishermen’s huts and a stunningly clear, calm lagoon perfect for a swim.

Day 4-5: La Graciosa, the Unspoiled Gem

This is a highlight of our voyage: the sail north to the official eighth Canary Island, the truly unique La Graciosa. We’ll moor in the main port of Caleta de Sebo, a charming village where the “streets” are simply tracks of soft sand. The afternoon of Day 4 is yours to explore this peaceful settlement, perhaps renting a bicycle to get a feel for the island’s tranquil pace.

On Day 5, we’ll sail from the port to anchor for the day at a secluded spot like Playa Francesa. Here, the white sand and impossibly clear water invite you for a day of pure relaxation, swimming, and paddleboarding, with the dramatic Famara cliffs of Lanzarote as your view.

Tantalizing Tip:

For dinner on Day 4, we highly recommend one of the simple, waterfront restaurants in Caleta de Sebo. There is nothing quite like enjoying incredibly fresh, locally caught fish with your feet nearly in the sand.

Day 6: The Wild North of La Graciosa

We dedicate today to exploring the wild, windswept northern coast of La Graciosa. You can choose between hiring one of the island’s few 4×4 “taxis” for a safari-style tour or, for the more adventurous, embarking on a challenging and rewarding hike. Our destination is Playa de las Conchas, a vast and stunningly beautiful beach that faces the full power of the Atlantic. The views from here across to the uninhabited islets of the Chinijo Archipelago—Montaña Clara and Alegranza—are unforgettable. We’ll return to the yacht for sunset drinks on deck, watching the golden light paint the Famara cliffs across the water.

Day 7: Sailing Under the Giants of Famara

Prepare for one of the most visually spectacular sailing days of the trip. We’ll enjoy a fantastic downwind sail along Lanzarote’s dramatic west coast, directly beneath the Risco de Famara. From the deck of the yacht, you gain a perspective that is simply unavailable from land. You’ll feel dwarfed as you gaze up at the sheer, 600-meter-high volcanic cliffs that plunge into the deep blue Atlantic. We will find a sheltered spot to anchor for lunch, allowing you to fully absorb the breathtaking scale of the landscape. Our day concludes as we moor in the sophisticated and stylish Marina Rubicón in Playa Blanca.

Day 8: Exploring Southern Lanzarote

Today offers a more relaxed pace with a chance to experience Lanzarote’s unique inland culture and geology. You have two excellent options:

  • Option 1: Stay local and explore the chic boutiques, waterfront restaurants, and bustling market of Marina Rubicón at your leisure.
  • Option 2: Take a short trip inland to witness the island’s volcanic heart. You can visit the incredible “lunar” landscapes of Timanfaya National Park or explore La Geria, the unique wine-growing region where vines are cultivated in volcanic ash pits.

Day 9: The Final Sail & Farewell Dinner

We enjoy a final, leisurely sail back along the coast towards our home port of Arrecife. This is a perfect opportunity for anyone interested to take the helm and practice their sailing skills under the expert guidance of the skipper. Feel the power of the wind and the sea as you steer your course. We’ll spend our final night moored securely in the marina, giving you time to pack and relax before we head out for a celebratory farewell dinner at one of Arrecife’s finest local restaurants to share stories and toast to our incredible journey.

Day 10: Disembarkation

Enjoy one last leisurely breakfast on the deck of “The Salty Nomad.” After exchanging photos and contact details with your newfound friends, it will be time to say your goodbyes. We will arrange your transfer to the airport, leaving you with a sun-kissed glow and a wealth of memories from your adventure through the hidden Canary Islands.

Life On Board: What to Expect on Your Sailing Adventure

A Typical Day at Sea

Life aboard “The Salty Nomad” follows the natural rhythm of the sea and sun. Your day might begin by waking gently in a secluded, silent cove, the water lapping against the hull. After a fresh breakfast served on deck, we’ll raise the sails for a few hours of invigorating travel. The morning is dedicated to the journey itself—feeling the yacht cut through the waves, watching the volcanic coastline drift by, and perhaps spotting a pod of dolphins. Around midday, your skipper will find the perfect spot to drop anchor, often in a turquoise bay inaccessible from land. The afternoon is yours to swim, snorkel in the clear Atlantic waters, use the paddleboard, or simply read a book in the sun. As evening approaches, we either settle into a quiet anchorage for the night or moor in a charming marina, giving you the freedom to explore ashore and dine at a local restaurant. It’s a routine that is both relaxing and full of discovery.

Your level of participation is entirely up to you. For those eager to learn, your skipper is happy to teach you the basics of sailing, from handling the lines to taking a turn at the helm. If you prefer to simply unwind and let our expert handle the navigation, you are welcome to relax and enjoy the journey as a passenger. This is your adventure, tailored to your preference.

What’s Included vs. What’s Extra

We believe in transparency so you can plan your trip with confidence. Your trip price is comprehensive, covering all the essentials for a seamless life at sea. Here is a clear breakdown of what is covered and what you will need to budget for separately.

What’s Included:

  • Accommodation for 9 nights in a comfortable private cabin aboard the yacht.
  • The services of your professional, certified skipper, who also acts as your local guide.
  • Daily breakfasts and lunches prepared on board with fresh, local ingredients.
  • All yacht-related costs: fuel, water, marina mooring fees, and standard yacht insurance.
  • Use of on-board amenities, including quality snorkeling gear and a stand-up paddleboard.

What’s Not Included:

  • Your flights to and from Arrecife Airport (ACE), Lanzarote.
  • Evening meals. This gives you the flexibility to explore local restaurants and cuisine ashore each evening.
  • Optional activities on land, such as 4×4 tours, bike rentals, or entrance fees to national parks like Timanfaya.
  • Your own personal travel and medical insurance.
  • Any personal spending, souvenirs, or alcoholic beverages beyond the welcome drink.

Your Canary Islands Voyage Awaits

Is This Trip Right For You?

This voyage is designed for the curious traveler, not simply the tourist. It is for those who find joy in the whisper of wind in the sails and the discovery of a cove untouched by the masses. If your idea of a perfect holiday involves trading crowded resorts for quiet, starlit nights and swapping scheduled bus tours for the freedom to follow the breeze, then this experience will resonate deeply with you.

It is an ideal escape for adventurous couples seeking a unique shared experience, small groups of friends wanting to create lasting memories, or families with older children ready for an active holiday. You do not need any sailing experience to join us. All that is required is a love for the ocean and a desire to explore. Our skipper is a patient teacher for those eager to learn the ropes and a capable captain for those who simply wish to relax and absorb the scenery.

Secure Your Spot on Deck

The vast blue of the Atlantic and the undiscovered corners of the Canary Islands are waiting. A journey aboard “The Salty Nomad” is an intimate experience, and to preserve this, we offer a limited number of voyages each season.

Our 2024 and 2025 schedules are now available. With only three private cabins available per trip, we recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred dates.

For detailed information on availability, current pricing, and the full booking process, please visit our dedicated trip page:

View Trip Details & Book Your Voyage

Should you have any questions or wish to discuss the trip in more detail, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please do not hesitate to reach out.