Lanzarote
28˚50΄N -29˚14΄N and 13˚25΄W-13˚53΄W
Lanzarote is the most northern and eastern island of the archipelago and lies just 6NM north of Fuerteventura, separated by the strait "Estrecho de la Bocayne". Off the north-western coast lie the three islands of "Isla Graciosa", which has a large marina, "Isla de Montana Clara" and "Isla Alegranza" the last of which has a light on Punta Delgada. Six miles off the north-eastern coast is the unlit Island "Roque del Este which presents a dangerous hazard to vessels aiming to pass down the east side of Lanzarote.
The Marinas on the island are modern and two marinas are among the best on the islands. Yacht charter is also popular and more companies chartering yachts are relalising the benefits of the all round summer climate of Lanzarote and the Canary Islands
Lanzarote is about 50km long and 16km wide with the capital of Arrecife lying about halfway along the eastern coast. The area of Lanzarote is 862 sq km and is divided into the 7 municipalities of Arrecife, Haria, San Bartolome, Tias,Teguise, Tinajo and Yaiza. The island is relatively low lying compared with the other islands with two mountain ranges that rise to maximum of just 670m made up of dramatic volcanic cones.
The road infrastructure over the whole island is very good and well maintained. Public transport, in the form of coaches, is also excellent being safe, clean and efficient. Taxis are readily available in all the major towns. The main airport is on the outskirts of Arrecife.
Tourism is the islands main industry, with visitors mainly from northern Europe Many of the marinas are tourist attractions with good shopping and restaurants. Agriculture also plays an important part. Crops grown on Lanzarote include beans, bananas, dates, fruit and grapes used to produce wine. There is also a thriving fishing industry around the island, and the tinned food industry plays an important part in the islands economy.
It is mistakenly thought 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 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 island 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.
Lanzarote is only a few miles away from Fuerteventura and its marinas so offering other options for day sails to different marinas. Consult Marina pages for contact details for berthing charges and berth availability.
View satallite map of Lanzarote
Useful Links
http://www.lanzaroteguidebook.com/playa-blanca/
http://www.lanzaroteguidebook.com/puerto-calero/
http://www.graysworld.co.uk/marina.html
