Overview of Tenerife
Tenerife, the largest island in the Canary archipelago, is a stunning blend of nature and culture. Its picturesque beaches, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant nightlife attract millions of tourists every year. The island boasts two airports, Tenerife North and Tenerife South, offering international flights to and from various locations worldwide.
When it comes to Cruise Ships docking in Tenerife, there are three primary ports of call:
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife Port
- Puerto de la Cruz Port
- Los Cristianos Port.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife port is one of the busiest cruise ports that serves as an entry point for visitors travelling around the Mediterranean region. Puerto de la Cruz Port lies on the northern coast of the island and provides easy access to some amazing tourist attractions such as Loro Park and Botanical Gardens. Situated in the south-western part of Tenerife Island, Los Cristianos port offers access to Arona municipality’s famous beaches.
Not only does Tenerife have a fascinating history dating back to its aboriginal Guanche people that lived there thousands of years ago but it also was a crucial crossroad for explorers en route from Europe to New World countries in the 15th century. Historians believe that Christopher Columbus stopped at Santa Cruz while returning from his trip around South America in 1493.
Don’t let the fact that Tenerife has multiple cruise ship ports throw you overboard – we’ve got all the info you need to stay afloat.
Cruise Ship Ports in Tenerife
Tenerife’s Ports of Call for Cruise Ships
Tenerife is a popular destination for cruise ships. The island has several ports that cater to the needs of these mammoth floating cities.
Here is a table listing the top ports of call for cruise ships visiting Tenerife:
| Port Name | Location |
|---|---|
| Santa Cruz | North Tenerife |
| Los Cristianos | South Tenerife |
| Puerto de la Cruz | North Tenerife |
In addition to these primary ports, cruise ships also have access to other marinas on the island, such as San Miguel Marina and Radazul Marina.
It is worth noting that Santa Cruz, Tenerife’s capital city, boasts one of the busiest ports in Spain and welcomes millions of passengers each year.
Source: https://www.puertosdetenerife.org/en/port-of-santa-cruz.html
Why take a taxi when you can hitch a ride on a friendly dolphin? Just kidding, there’s actually a bus.
Port-to-City Transportation Options
The following transportation options are available at Tenerife’s port:
- Shuttle buses run directly to the city center
- Taxis are readily available at the entrance of the port
- The tram system will take you to various parts of Santa Cruz
- Car rentals are also an option if you prefer driving yourself
- Tours and excursions can be arranged through your cruise company or independent providers
If you’re interested in exploring beyond Santa Cruz, there are additional transportation options such as trains and buses that connect to other parts of the island. It’s recommended to plan ahead and research which mode of transportation suits your needs best.
A unique feature at Tenerife’s port is its accessibility for passengers with disabilities. The port facilities and services cater to a wide range of needs, including mobile ramps, wheelchairs, and accessible restrooms.
Fun fact: Tenerife is the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands with a population of over 900,000 people (World Population Review).
Get off the ship and into the danger zone with these recommended shore excursions in Tenerife.
Recommended Shore Excursions in Tenerife
Tenerife offers numerous possibilities for shore excursions that will ensure an unforgettable experience. Here are some hand-picked options to consider during your stay in Tenerife:
- Explore Anaga Rural Park’s lush greenery.
- Visit Mount Teide, the highest point of Spain on a cable car ride.
- Taste local wines at Casa del Vino and indulge in their traditional cuisine.
- Go on a whale-watching excursion to see pilot whales, dolphins and other marine life.
For those who want something unique and off-beat, head towards the northeastern tip of the island. You’ll find Spanish colonial buildings, stunning rock formations and not-to-be-missed Garachico swimming pools.
Legend has it that Tenerife was once known as Guanche Island during ancient times. The original inhabitants of this island were called Guanches who lived here long before European conquest. Not many know but there still exist some Guanche secrets that can be discovered by exploring the island’s mysterious sites.
If you’re ever in Tenerife and feeling lost, just follow the trail of oversized novelty sunglasses and fanny packs off the cruise ships.
Conclusion
When it comes to docking points for cruise ships in Tenerife, multiple ports cater to the needs of varied vessels. Large and small ships dock at Santa Cruz Cruise Terminal and La Palma Cruise Terminal, respectively. These terminals offer an array of facilities ranging from restaurants, cafes to souvenir shops and currency exchange kiosks for voyagers to utilize. Visitors can enjoy a picturesque view of the island while standing on the ship’s deck or hop onto shore excursions that explore the city’s vibrant culture.
It is noteworthy that passengers should verify their respective voyage itinerary before planning how they spend time ashore in Tenerife. With various ports distributed across different locations throughout the island, some travelers might have more favorable locations for what they wish to do during their hop off than others.
As per records, Santa Cruz Cruise Terminal has been catering to cruise ships since 2001. Since then, it has facilitated passengers worldwide traversing from different stands of life, contributing notably towards Tenerife’s tourism industry growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where do the cruise ships dock in Tenerife?
A: Most of the cruise ships dock at Santa Cruz de Tenerife port, which is the island’s capital.
Q: How far is Santa Cruz de Tenerife port from the city center?
A: The port is located in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, so it’s within walking distance of most of the city’s attractions.
Q: Are there any other ports in Tenerife?
A: Yes, there is a smaller port in the south of the island called Los Cristianos, which is also used by some cruise ships.
Q: Can I walk from the port to the beach?
A: Yes, there are several beaches within walking distance of Santa Cruz de Tenerife port, including Las Teresitas and Playa de las Gaviotas.
Q: How can I get from the port to other parts of the island?
A: There are several options, including taxis, public buses, and organized tours. You can also rent a car if you prefer to explore the island on your own.
Q: Is there anything to do near the port?
A: Yes, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars near Santa Cruz de Tenerife port, as well as a few museums and parks.
