Water Taxi: Puerto del Carmen – Puerto Calero

Experience Lanzarote from the Water: Puerto del Carmen to Puerto Calero

Taking a water taxi between Lanzarote’s lively Puerto del Carmen and the charming Puerto Calero offers a relaxed way to see the island from a different perspective. For just around $12.79 per person, you get a 25-minute scenic cruise that promises both comfort and beautiful views. Departing every 1.5 hours from each port, this trip is perfect for travelers wanting a quick, affordable, and authentic maritime experience that takes you from bustling tourist areas to a quieter, more local feel.

What we especially love about this water taxi are two key things: first, the way it combines convenience with sightseeing—you don’t need to rent a car or navigate busy streets; just hop on and enjoy the sail. Second, the friendly crew and the views—many reviews praise their helpfulness and the stunning vistas of Lanzarote’s coastline, making it more than just a quick ride but a memorable mini-adventure.

A potential drawback? The schedule can sometimes be affected by weather or local events, which might cause delays or cancellations, something to keep in mind if you’re on a tight schedule. Still, for anyone craving a casual, scenic trip that combines ease, affordability, and a touch of maritime charm, this water taxi fits the bill perfectly—especially if you’re exploring Lanzarote’s southern coast or looking for a break from land-based touring.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy short trips, love sea views, or want to add a bit of nautical fun to their Lanzarote holiday. It’s especially good for those who appreciate authentic local transportation options and are keen to see the island from the water without a hefty price tag.

Key Points

• Affordable and Scenic: At just over $12, you get a quick and picturesque ride across Lanzarote’s coast.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple sailings daily from both ports allow easy planning.
• Comfortable Facilities: Boats have covered seating and open-air decks, plus onboard toilets.
• Authentic Experience: It’s more than just transport—many reviews highlight friendly staff and great views.
• Weather-Dependent: Cancellations or delays can happen if the weather turns rough or if local events interfere.
• Good for All Ages: Children must be accompanied, and service animals are allowed, making it family-friendly.

A Detailed Look at the Water Taxi Experience

While many visitors see this as a simple transport option, it offers a surprisingly enjoyable slice of Lanzarote life. The itinerary is straightforward: from Puerto Calero’s marina to Puerto del Carmen’s busy waterfront, with a quick stop in between that’s often filled with interesting sights and the chance to breathe in the salty sea air.

The Ports and Their Charm

Puerto Calero is a peaceful harbor known for its upscale marina, boutique shops, and good selection of restaurants. Many reviews mention leisurely browsing this area, which buzzes with local fishermen, yachts, and a more relaxed vibe compared to the tourist-heavy Puerto del Carmen. The water taxi offers a quick peek at this quieter side of Lanzarote, making it an ideal way to explore without a full day commitment.

Puerto del Carmen, on the other hand, is bustling, lively, and packed with bars, shops, and attractions. It’s the ideal starting point if you want to combine your trip with a stroll along the promenade or a meal before or after your boat ride. The 25-minute sail provides lovely views of Lanzarote’s coastline, with many travelers commenting on how picturesque the scenery is from the water.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The trip begins at the designated meeting point, Lineas Romero Water Taxi and excursions, located in Tías. The boat itself is a clean, modern vessel equipped with toilets and covered seating, plus an open deck for those who want to soak up the sun. The timing is designed for flexibility, with six departures from each port daily, ensuring you can pick a time that suits your plans.

Departures from Puerto del Carmen run from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, while from Puerto Calero, you can hop on from 10 am to 3:45 pm, with a 25-minute crossing. You’ll cruise past the coast, with many reviews noting the beautiful scenery and the chance to spot local sea life, sometimes even dolphins—though this isn’t guaranteed.

The Stops and Their Highlights

Puerto Calero is often praised as an attractive marina, ideal for browsing boutique shops or grabbing a bite by the water. Some reviews mention feeding fish or simply enjoying the peaceful harbor. As one traveler put it, “It’s a lovely marina location in Puerto Calero,” and many find their afternoon plans enriched by this scenic stop.

Puerto del Carmen offers a lively contrast with its busy promenade, shops, and restaurants. Many travelers use this trip as a way to move easily between the two towns without the hassle of land transportation, with the added bonus of seeing Lanzarote from the sea.

Authenticity and Value

A highlight many reviewers mention is the friendly crew, who are helpful and often engaging, making the journey more than just a ride. Some travelers comment that the boat was “clean and comfortable,” and that the 25-minute sail was “fabulous,” making this a worthwhile addition to their Lanzarote itinerary.

The price point is considered excellent value by most, especially when compared to taxi fares or organized tours. One review described it as “a bargain,” with seven people paying only about 104 euros, emphasizing how economical it is for a short scenic escape.

Challenges and Considerations

While the experience generally receives high praise, a few reviews highlight issues like late departures or schedule changes due to weather or local events. For example, one traveler was disappointed when the boat was 40 minutes late, and another found out there was no ferry until late afternoon, forcing them to switch to a bus. It’s a reminder to check the timetable carefully and be flexible if possible.

Weather can also impact the trip—choppy seas or strong winds might cause cancellations or rough crossings, especially in the Atlantic’s unpredictable climate. However, if canceled, most operators offer either a new date or a full refund.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Pre-book your tickets to avoid missing out, especially in peak seasons.
• Check the schedule ahead of time and arrive a little early—boats are well marked, and staff are friendly.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat for open-air decks, and perhaps a light jacket for the shaded areas.
• Consider pairing this trip with a walk or a meal in Puerto Calero or Puerto del Carmen—many reviews mention enjoying local food afterward.
• Be aware that cancellations can happen due to weather or other unforeseen events, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Water Taxi?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, affordable way to enjoy Lanzarote’s coast, especially if you’re staying in either Puerto del Carmen or Puerto Calero. It suits those who enjoy short scenic rides, authentic local transport, or simply want a break from land-based touring. Families, couples, and solo travelers will find value here, especially if they appreciate friendly service and beautiful sea views.

It’s also an excellent option for those who want to combine a bit of sightseeing with practical transport, avoiding busy roads and parking hassles. If you’re interested in seeing another side of Lanzarote that mixes scenery, local life, and affordability, this water taxi deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the water taxi ride last?
The crossing takes approximately 25 minutes, providing a quick but scenic glimpse of the coastline.

What are the departure times?
From Puerto del Carmen, boats depart at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 3:00 pm, and 4:30 pm. From Puerto Calero, departures are at 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 2:30 pm, and 3:45 pm. Times may change slightly due to traffic or weather.

Is the ticket one-way or round-trip?
You can purchase either a one-way or round-trip ticket, giving you flexibility depending on your plans.

Are there facilities onboard?
Yes, the boats are equipped with toilets, which adds convenience for travelers, especially on longer trips or with children.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the trip, making it easy to adapt if plans change. Keep in mind cancellations due to weather are also accommodated.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a family-friendly activity, especially if your kids enjoy boat rides and scenic views.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a jacket for shade or cooler weather. You might also want to bring a camera to capture the views and a small bag for personal belongings.

To sum it up, this water taxi between Puerto del Carmen and Puerto Calero offers a simple yet rewarding journey. It combines affordable pricing, stunning vistas, and friendly service in a way that makes it more than just transportation—it’s a small adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this trip can add a memorable touch to your Lanzarote holiday, giving you a taste of local maritime life and scenic beauty without breaking the bank. If you value authentic scenic experiences and flexible schedules, this water taxi is definitely worth considering.