Tenerife
28˚00΄N -28˚35΄N and 16˚07΄W-16˚55΄W
Tenerife is the largest of the archipelagos islands, with an area of 2050km² and is situated between Gran Canaria and La Gomera. At a height of 3717m, the volcanic mountain of El Teide, is Spain's highest point and it's often snow capped peak is visible at up to a range of 60M. This is just one of range of mountains that stretch in an east-west direction across the middle of the island and is the reason for a dramatic climate difference between the north and south of the island. The northerly trade winds carry moisture up the north face of the range which results in high rainfall and a humid temperate climate. To the south of the mountain range the climate is dryer and hotter.
There are many good and modern marinas with excellent facilities including dock yards, repair yards, charter companies, chandlers etc. see useful links below. Yacht charter is also popular and more companies chartering yachts are realising the benefits of the all round summer climate of the Tenerife and the Canary Islands
The capital of the island is Santa Cruz which lies in the north of the island along with two other large towns Puerto de la Cruz, the first commercial port on the island and La Laguna which was the old capital dating back to the 16th century. The soil is fertile, and agricultural products include dates, coconut palms, fruit, grain, maize, tomatoes, cotton, sugar, and grapes. The south of the island is famous for its beaches and holiday resorts and its tourism is important to the economy
On the outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz, at the foot of the Orotova Valley, is a world renowned botanical garden founded under the orders of King Charles lll of Spain.
The winter is so warm on the islands that people often mistakenly think that the summer must be overwhelming, but this couldn't be further from the truth. The summer in the Canary Islands is softened by the trade winds that refresh the archipelago serving it with pleasant mild summers with an average temperature of 24˚C. The sea is equally as warm with temperatures fluctuating between 19˚C in the winter months and 22˚C during the rest of the year. This, together with the estimated annual rate of 2,700 hours of sunlight for the islands allows you to make the most of the day, whether you are on the beach, or out on the ocean sailing. Care must be taken regarding the amount of time spent in the sun. With the island being only 1700 miles north of the Equator the sun can burn the unwary and quickly, High factor sun cream and/or good protection in the form of clothing or shade is essential. For the same reason it is necessary to drink lots of water.
The island has a good road infrastructure which is maintained to a high standard and a highway encircles the island. The main commercial harbour is in Santa Cruz. Ferries connect with other islands from here and from other harbours. There is also a regular sea freight service to mainland Europe and Africa. There are two commercial airports on the island. International flights can be made from Reina Sophia (Tenerife south) airport, and interisland flights can be made from either Tenerife North or South airports. If it is necessary to transfer between North and South airports allow at least an hour travelling by road.
View satallite map of Tenerife
Many of the commercial ports also have marinas and fast ferries operating close to the marinas can be a hazard.
http://www.canaryislandsmarine.com/contact Yacht Sales
http://www.spanishpropertyworld.com/canary_islands_marinas.htm Marina property
http://www.1stcanaryislands.com/marine.shtml Canary Islands Directory
