Lanzarote: Return Ferry to La Graciosa with Bus Pickup

Exploring La Graciosa: A Practical Guide to the Ferry and Self-Guided Adventure

If you’re visiting Lanzarote and craving a taste of the untouched, small-scale charm of the Canary Islands, a trip to La Graciosa might just be the perfect outing. This return ferry experience combines a scenic boat ride with the freedom to explore at your own pace. While it doesn’t include guided tours or organized activities, many travelers love the laid-back vibe and natural beauty that the island offers.

Two things stand out about this experience: first, the beautiful ferry cruise with free Wi-Fi, which makes the journey enjoyable and relaxed; second, the flexibility to discover La Graciosa on your own terms—whether hiking, lounging on beaches, or grabbing a bite at local spots. That said, a key consideration is that the tour doesn’t include guided commentary or organized excursions, so you’re on your own when it comes to planning your time ashore. This makes it ideal for independent travelers who enjoy some spontaneity but are comfortable with self-navigation.

This tour works best for those who value simplicity, affordability, and natural beauty over structured guided experiences. It’s a solid choice if you want a hassle-free day with stunning views, and you’re okay with organizing your own activities on the island. Not suitable for those needing wheelchair access or with limited mobility, but if you’re looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly escape to a peaceful island, this might fit the bill.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible exploration: You can spend your time on La Graciosa as you wish, whether relaxing or exploring.
• Beautiful boat ride: The ferry cruise offers excellent views with free Wi-Fi, making the journey part of the experience.
• Good value for money: At around $46, the price includes return transport and the convenience of pickup from various locations.
• Departure times and logistics: Ferry departure from Orzola at 11:00 AM with a return at 4:00 PM—plan your day accordingly.
• No guided tour included: You’ll be on your own once on the island, so some planning and self-guidance are needed.
• Limited accessibility: The experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so consider mobility needs.

The Experience in Detail

The day kicks off with a pickup service from key resorts in Lanzarote—Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise, Arrecife, Puerto Calero, and others—making it convenient for most travelers. Just note that pickups in Playa Blanca are not available on Mondays or Sundays, so if you’re staying there, you might need to head directly to the meeting point.

Once you’ve been collected, the group heads to the northern village of Órzola, where you’ll board an express ferry. The ferry ride itself lasts about 30 minutes and offers a relaxing way to enjoy the sea. Many reviews mention how pleasant the boat trip is, with some quote it as being “a joyful ferry ride” and “followed the coastline beautifully.” The onboard Wi-Fi allows you to share moments or simply relax during the crossing without feeling disconnected.

As you arrive on La Graciosa, the island reveals white sand beaches, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. Unlike the busier, more commercialized parts of the Canary Islands, La Graciosa is all about quiet beaches, small villages, and pristine nature. Many travelers take this opportunity to hike, explore the coastline, or just unwind in the sun.

You’ll find that the waters around the island are part of Europe’s largest marine reserve, so marine life is abundant. Some travelers have enjoyed snorkeling or scuba diving—though these activities are at their own expense—and others simply wander through the tiny town, discovering local cafes and bars. As one reviewer put it, “La Graciosa was a little gem,” emphasizing its unspoiled beauty.

The flexibility of this trip means you can arrive ready to explore or just relax on the beaches. When you’re ready, you hop back onto the ferry at the designated time for the return trip, arriving back in Lanzarote by late afternoon.

Transportation, Timing, and Price

The cost of $46 per person is quite reasonable for a full day out, especially considering that it covers both return ferry tickets and pickup/drop-off services. While the experience doesn’t include guided commentary or activities, it offers a straightforward way to visit La Graciosa without breaking the bank.

The timing is important: the ferry departs Orzola at 11:00 AM and returns from La Graciosa at 4:00 PM. This six-hour window gives you ample time to relax, explore, or enjoy a quick meal. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning for a picnic might be a good idea, especially if you want to avoid paying island prices.

The pickup times vary depending on your location, with early pickups from Playa Blanca and Puerto Calero starting around 8:30-8:55 AM. It’s worth noting that pickups from Playa Blanca are unavailable on Mondays and Sundays, so check your schedule accordingly.

What Travelers Love (and What They Say)

From the reviews, it’s clear that many passengers appreciate the smooth organization and value. One traveler mentions, “Easy pick-up and drop-off, only a few Euros more than the ferry,” highlighting the convenience and reasonable cost. Another notes that the ferry cruise itself was “lovely, followed the coastline,” reinforcing how enjoyable the boat ride is.

Several reviewers specifically mention La Graciosa’s beauty, calling it “a little gem” and “unspoilt,” with some opting to stay for multiple days or combine the ferry with local buses to explore more of the island. The lack of guided tours doesn’t seem to bother most, as the freedom to roam and discover at your own pace is what many find most appealing.

One review even touches on personal significance, recounting a trip to “remake memories from a previous accident,” which shows how meaningful a quiet, scenic place like La Graciosa can be for reflection or rebuilding positive experiences.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your passport or ID for identification, even if it’s not always checked.
• Pack comfortable shoes—there’s plenty of walking or hiking if you choose to explore.
• Don’t forget sunscreen—the sun on the beaches and during the boat ride can be strong.
• Bring a light jacket or cover-up for the boat ride or cooler parts of the day.
• Consider packing snacks or drinks, as these are at your own expense on the island.
• Make sure to provide your accommodation details during booking to ensure proper pickup arrangements.
• Keep in mind that ferry departure is at 11:00 AM, so be on time for your pickup to avoid missing the boat.

The Best Fit: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for independent travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration and want to keep costs low while enjoying beautiful scenery. It’s perfect if you prefer relaxing on beaches, taking photos, or hiking, rather than following a structured tour route.

It’s also well-suited for those who value convenience and simplicity—the pickup and ferry are straightforward, and the island’s natural beauty requires no guide to enjoy. However, if you’re looking for guided excursions or family-friendly amenities like wheelchair access, this might not be the best fit.

Travelers who are comfortable organizing their own activities and are seeking a peaceful, scenic escape will find this trip offers a perfect mix of ease and authentic island charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a guide during the trip?
No, this tour doesn’t include a guide. You’ll have free time to explore La Graciosa as you wish, making it ideal for those comfortable with self-guided adventures.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers return ferry crossings between Lanzarote and La Graciosa, pickup and drop-off from a nearby meeting point, and free Wi-Fi onboard.

Are there food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly. There are local cafes on the island where you can grab lunch or snacks.

Can I do activities like scuba diving or jeep rides?
Activities such as scuba diving or jeep rides are not part of this tour, but you’re free to arrange them independently once on the island.

What if the weather is poor?
In case of bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date. It’s always good to check the weather forecast and be flexible if possible.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While the tour is straightforward and suitable for most travelers, it may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. The main activity is a ferry ride and self-exploration, which generally works well for older children.

How do I know where to meet for pickup?
After booking, the local partner will contact you to arrange the pickup location near your accommodation. Make sure to provide your details during booking to facilitate this.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an uncomplicated, budget-friendly way to see La Graciosa and enjoy a relaxing ferry ride, this experience is hard to beat. It offers stunning views, the chance to explore a quiet island at your own pace, and the convenience of pickup from most resorts. While it isn’t a guided tour, many travelers appreciate the freedom to craft their own day on this unspoiled piece of the Canary Islands.

For those who love natural beauty, simple adventures, and a bit of flexibility, this trip makes for a memorable and accessible day out. Just remember to pack wisely, plan your activities, and enjoy the peaceful vibe of La Graciosa—an island that truly feels like a hidden treasure.

This ferry and self-guided exploration tour strikes a nice balance for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic, and affordable day away from the busy spots of Lanzarote, tailored for those comfortable with a bit of independence.

You can check availability for your dates here: