Ferry to Isla de Lobos: round-trip tickets from Corralejo

Experience the Natural Beauty of Lobos Island by Ferry from Corralejo

Imagine a quick 15-minute boat ride to a tiny, pristine island in the Canary Islands, where wildlife, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and turquoise coves await. This ferry service from Corralejo to Lobos Island offers an affordable way to explore a protected natural reserve, costing just over $20 per person. With round-trip tickets available for flexible departure times, you can spend as much or as little time on the island as you like — whether it’s a quick visit or a full day of wandering.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it simplifies the logistics of visiting Lobos. You book your ferry online, saving time at the port, and the tickets are valid for the same day, making spontaneous plans easy. The other standout is the frequent departure schedule—with multiple options throughout the day—giving you the freedom to plan your visit around other activities or relax on the island without rushing.

A possible consideration is that the ferry ticket does not include the island permit, which is essential to disembark. You’ll need to obtain this permit beforehand through a government website. While this adds a small extra step, it ensures that your time on Lobos remains protected and unspoiled.

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone eager to experience the Canary Islands’ uncommercialized charm. If you’re comfortable with a bit of planning and enjoy exploring at your own pace, this route offers a fantastic balance of convenience and adventure.

Key Points

• Affordable and convenient: Round-trip tickets cost just over $20, with multiple daily departure options.
• Self-guided exploration: Your ticket allows you to explore the island at your own pace, with no guided tour required.
• Requires permit: To disembark, you must obtain a government permit before boarding, which is free.
• Unspoiled landscapes: Lobos is a protected natural park with volcanic scenery, coves, and diverse wildlife.
• Comfortable ferry service: The boats are noted for being clean, with friendly staff, and offer regular, reliable departures.
• Prepare for the elements: Bring water, sunscreen, closed shoes, and a hat—especially since shade is limited on the island.

A Deep Dive into the Lobos Island Ferry Experience

The Basics of the Journey

The ferry from Corralejo to Lobos Island is a straightforward, no-frills operation — but that’s what makes it so appealing. The trip takes only about 15 minutes, which is perfect for those eager to maximize their time on the small island. The price of about $20.64 per person offers excellent value, considering the cost of other excursions or water taxis in the area.

You’ll find multiple departures from Corralejo throughout the day, starting as early as 9:45 am and going until just after 1:30 pm, with return trips starting at 2 pm and extending into late afternoon. This schedule offers great flexibility, whether you want to get an early start, spend more time relaxing, or stay until sunset. The round-trip tickets are valid for the same day, and booking online helps skip long lines and secures your preferred times.

What You Get and What You Need to Know

The actual ferry ride is widely praised for being comfortable and smooth — many reviews mention “very smooth crossings” and “clean boats.” The staff generally receive positive remarks for their friendliness and helpfulness, making the journey as pleasant as possible.

However, it’s important to know that your ticket does not include the permit needed to disembark. The island is a protected natural park, and access is controlled to preserve its pristine condition. You must obtain this permit online before your trip, which is free but essential. Without it, you won’t be allowed to get off the boat.

The Highlights of Lobos Island

Lobos is a tiny but stunning island, covering just 6 square kilometers. The name, meaning “wolves,” harks back to the seals and sea lions that once inhabited it. Today, the island is a designated Natural Park with over 130 plant species and a variety of birdlife, making it a paradise for ecologists and nature enthusiasts.

Among the top sights are:

• La Concha Beach: a wide, sandy stretch perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• El Puertito Coves: a series of small, turquoise-watered coves ideal for snorkeling and relaxing.
• Las Lagunitas Wetland: a bird-watching haven with some of the best birdlife sightings.
• Lighthouse Martiño: perched atop the island, offering sweeping vistas.
• Mountain Caldera: at 127 meters, it provides a scenic climb for hikers, with a circular 12.8 km trail connecting the sites.

Hiking and Exploring

If you’re a hiker, you might want to take on the full circular trail. It takes about four hours to complete and passes through diverse volcanic landscapes, offering spectacular views at every turn. Bring sturdy shoes, water, and sunscreen because, as one reviewer noted, there’s “very little shade,” and the terrain can be rocky, especially near the caldera.

Many visitors, like Andrea and Marie, rave about the peacefulness and beauty of the island. Andrea mentioned, “It’s a comfortable and affordable way to get to Lobos,” while Marie highlighted the friendly staff and the stunning coves. Others noted that the landscape is strikingly volcanic, with some describing it as “an unspoiled, almost movie-set environment.”

Food, Water, and Amenities

While there is a bar-restaurant on the island, it tends to get busy, and supplies may run out quickly. It’s wise to bring your own water, snacks, and sunscreen. Reviewers suggest packing water shoes because the water can be rocky at some points, and the coves are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The limited shade on the island also makes hats and shirts advisable.

Tips from Visitors

• Book your ferry online well in advance — on average, travelers reserve about 11 days ahead.
• Apply for the free permit online before your trip to avoid disappointment.
• Wear comfortable, closed shoes and bring sunscreen, water, and snacks.
• Arrive at the port early to find good seating, especially if you prefer the upper deck.
• Be aware that ferry timings might be tight if you plan to hike the entire island or relax on the beaches.

The Authentic Experience

Many reviews emphasize that this trip isn’t about guided tours or commercial attractions—it’s about connecting with nature in a quiet, unspoiled setting. The freedom to explore on your own, combined with the simple ferry ride, means you’re in control of your day. You can hike, swim, or just relax and soak in the views. Several visitors mention how peaceful and “movie-like” the island feels, making it a perfect escape from the busier main island.

The Downsides

No experience is perfect, and a few travelers feel that the ferry company’s communication could be improved. At least one reviewer noted issues with finding the right boat or seat, especially when tickets are booked through third-party providers. Also, some mention that the island itself may not have as many “must-see” attractions—it’s more about the scenery and atmosphere than specific sights.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible way to visit Lobos, this ferry is an excellent choice. It suits travelers who prefer self-guided exploration and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and birdwatching. It’s especially good for those who value wild, unspoiled landscapes and want to avoid overly commercial tours. However, if you love guided commentary or cultural tours, this might not be the perfect fit.

The Sum Up

This ferry to Lobos Island offers a low-cost, straightforward, and seriously scenic way to experience one of Fuerteventura’s best natural treasures. The combination of easy online booking, multiple departure times, and the freedom to explore at your own pace makes it a compelling choice for independent travelers. The island itself is a quiet haven of volcanic beauty and wildlife, ideal for hikers, swimmers, and nature lovers alike.

While you’ll need to plan ahead to get your disembarkation permit and bring supplies, you’ll find that the excellent value and stunning scenery make it well worth the small extra effort. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, this trip provides a genuine, unfiltered taste of the Canary Islands’ natural side. Suitable for adventurous families, solo explorers, or couples seeking tranquility, it’s a memorable way to connect with an environment that remains beautifully untouched.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book my ferry tickets in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to book about 11 days ahead on average, especially during busy seasons, to secure your preferred times and avoid missing out.

How long does the ferry ride take? The trip from Corralejo to Lobos Island lasts about 15 minutes, making it quick and convenient.

Is the ferry comfortable? Most reviews mention that the boats are clean, modern, and have friendly staff, ensuring a pleasant crossing.

What about the island permit? You must obtain a free government permit online before disembarking. The ferry ticket does not include this permit.

Can I bring food and water? Yes, it’s advisable to bring your own water, snacks, and sunscreen, especially since there are limited amenities on the island.

Are there specific departure times? Yes, departures from Corralejo are at 9:45 am, 10:15 am, 10:45 am, 11:15 am, 12:30 pm, and 1:30 pm. Return trips start at 2 pm, with additional options at 4:15 pm and 5:15 pm.

Is this tour suitable for families? Absolutely. It’s a relaxed, scenic trip that appeals to travelers of all ages, especially those interested in outdoor activities.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable, closed shoes, sun protection, and bring water and snacks. Since shade is limited, a hat or shirt is also recommended.

This ferry service to Lobos Island provides a simple yet enriching way to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the Canary Islands. With its affordability, flexibility, and stunning landscapes, it’s a trip that truly offers an authentic taste of nature—perfect for those seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure.