Gran Canaria
27˚44΄N -28˚11΄N and 15˚22΄W-15˚50΄W
Gran Canaria is the third largest island of the group with an area of 1500 sq km and a population of just under 800,000, it is located southeast of Tenerife and west of Fuerteventura. The highest point of the island is Pico de Las Nieves at an altitude of 1,949 meters. The island is almost round in shape, having a diameter of about 50 km. Most of the islands marinas are on the east and south coasts
It is divided into twenty-one municipalities listed below
Las Palmas is the Capital of the island and the municipal center of Las Palmas. The annual ARC begins from the marina here.
This island is known as a "Miniature Continent" due to the different climates and variety of landscapes found. The north tends to be cooler while the south is warmer and sunny. The east coast of the island is flat and dotted with beaches while the western coast is rockier and mountainous. The north of the island is green and cultivated while the south of the island is hot dry and desert like. Gran Canaria enjoys a spring climate all year round with average annual temperatures that fluctuate between 18 and 25˚C. The sea is equally as warm with temperatures fluctuating between 18˚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 in Gran Canaria allow you to make the most of the day, whether you are on the beach, playing a sport, on a day trip or enjoying an outdoor activity. People often mistakenly think that if the winter is so warm on the islands then 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. 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.
Tourism accounts for about 70% of the islands industry, with annual visitors numbering around 2.3 million. Agriculture also plays an important part. Crops grown on Gran Canaria include coffee, bananas, dates, sugarcane, oranges, Aloe Vera and tobacco. There is also a thriving fishing industry around the island, but how long EU bureaucrats will allow this to continue is in doubt. During winter months; the cultivation of flowers and other plants is a booming industry. Tourism has also made Yacht charter popular and more companies chartering yachts are relalising the benefits of the all round summer climate of Gran Canaria and the Canary Islands
The island has a good road infrastructure which is maintained to a high standard. A highway encircles the island and a superhighway surrounds the capital and others lead to the north coast and the airport. Gran Canaria International Airport or the Las Palmas - Gando International Airport is located 18 km from the capital. The main commercial harbour is in Las Palmas. Ferries connect with other islands from here and from other harbours. There is also a regular sea freight service to mainland Europe and Africa. Many marinas are situated in commercial ports with fast ferry operators which can be a hazard.
View Satallite map of Gran Canaria
http://www.grancanaria.com/patronato_turismo/index.php?id=283 Gran Canaria tourist information
http://www.davyjonesdiving.com/ Gran Canary Dive centre and school
http://www.marina-suites-weddings.com/ Marina suites hotel & wedding organiser
http://www.spain-grancanaria.com/uk/photos/mogan/puerto_mogan_13.html Puerto Mogan Marina
http://www.firstchoice.co.uk/holidays/gran-canaria-holidays/ First Choice holidays in Gran Canaria
