Fuerteventura North: Cruise Passenger’s Awesome Trip Guide

Thinking of seeing the northern side of Fuerteventura when your cruise stops there? It’s almost like stepping into a different piece of paradise, you know? This guide right here gives cruise travelers the lowdown on getting the most out of a short visit. We’ll show you all those must-see spots, plus hand you some tips so your shore trips are something you’ll remember, that’s for certain!

Getting Ready for Fuerteventura North

Before you even get to Fuerteventura, it really is good to sort out a handful of details. Primarily, checking how long your ship will dock for definitely is one great move, since you don’t want to be caught out and about when it’s time to go. It sounds obvious, though having that timing in mind genuinely helps you organize what you want to see. Look into shore excursion choices that the cruise folks offer, or think about going solo if you’d like to discover places by yourself. Either way, booking ahead probably will save headaches, you know? Packing cleverly too, it is a must; think sunscreen, a hat, comfy shoes for walking, very much like what you’d take to a beach day, yet ready for exploring towns too.

You will be coming to the Canary Islands, a very special Spanish autonomous community and very much unlike anywhere else on Earth! So take a deep breath, you are not in mainland Spain and things are quite different. People are more relaxed, chilled out and a bit more laissez faire and less wound up. Make the most of that, this too will pass as they say, you see.

Choosing Your Excursion Type

When picking your tours, just a bit depends on what floats your boat, it seems. Do you like everything scheduled and simple? Perhaps those group excursions arranged via the cruise might be the thing. This way, it’s a relaxed experience; you’re with others, all transport has been thought through, and people who know their stuff are showing you around, definitely a no brainer! Nevertheless, if you fancy some exploring yourself, you could look at renting a vehicle or using public transport. Simply be aware if you are booking anything privately, they may operate on island time, very different from the strict schedules of a ship!

Things You Should Definitely Pack

Being ready makes a world of difference. Definitely bring the sunscreen– that sun can be strong, I can tell you! A hat’s a winner for similar reasons. Have comfortable shoes ready so you’re able to stroll all over the place. And definitely don’t forget that water bottle to help you keep hydrated! Actually, being on a boat or close to water does trick you a bit! You need more hydration than usual and not all bars have bottled water always.

Must-See Locations in Northern Fuerteventura

The north part of Fuerteventura packs quite a punch in awesome things you have to see, if you know. From awesome beaches through historical towns, you’ll be spoilt a bit, maybe!

Corralejo: The Tourist Center

Corralejo, quite the tourist hub, has something happening, I tell you. The big draw has got to be its dunes, with that cool, almost desert-like feel, tumbling all the way to that coast. The city part of Corralejo has its charms; lots of places where you’re able to chow down, a great relaxed feel, and some shopping, if you wish. In fact, many cruises offer a shuttle to and from, you know, so access could not be much easier, frankly!

El Cotillo: Beaches and a Lighthouse

On the west part, there is this more calm location called El Cotillo. It has great, chilled-out vibes with awesome, calm waters, perfect for taking it easy. That old harbor still does have the old charm, and not too far off, you’ll find a neat lighthouse with some stunning views to take in, really beautiful.

Lajares

Have you ever heard of this quaint, laid back and serene little village? Known as a surf town, its charm lies in the authentic vibe, retaining plenty of the original character! You see, the center is still brimming with traditional architecture, complemented with cute surf shops and plenty of cafés that spill onto the streets! Perfect for getting away from the hustle.

Lobos Island: A Short Boat Trip Away

Thinking of something slightly more unique? Lobos Island it is; that boat’s only a short hop, skips and jump, to a tiny island close by, totally amazing! What makes this so special, then? Its unspoiled beaches and a relaxed atmosphere are truly the draw. Just make sure you book passage in advance, otherwise you will miss out. This also may mean having to opt for a shore excursion!

Things to Do While You’re There

North Fuerteventura gives cruise people more than places just for seeing; there are tons to do. Let’s investigate:

Hit the Awesome Beaches

The beaches up north have almost legendary status for chilling, really. From the large sands of Corralejo through to the calm bays in El Cotillo, you can simply take it easy on that beach, have a go at some swimming, or perhaps just get a tan.

Surfing or Windsurfing, Maybe?

Winds on Fuerteventura tend to be famous for one very good reason: they’re brilliant for watersports, I reckon. There are places where you could hire gear or even get lessons if it’s new to you. So maybe give windsurfing or surfing a whirl, what do you reckon?

Go Shopping for Local Finds

Wandering through marketplaces and tiny places lets you locate souvenirs or regional treats to take back. Watch out for local art pieces and hand-made items – these will remind you of your cruise pit-stop long afterwards.

Eating Tapas

Okay, maybe not traditional of Fuerteventura, though everywhere in the Canary Islands has a culture of serving delicious morsels in tiny plates to keep people peckish! These generally change per town, location, bar and restaurant, it just means, why have one big meal, when you can pick, mix and sample at little expense?! Some bars offer free tapas for buying a small beer. Do look around!

Some Important Tips for Cruise Passengers

To make certain that your time cruising stops in Fuerteventura, this northern spot becomes smooth and stress-free, think about such ideas:

Keep Watch on Time

Particularly when you’re traveling without that cruise organized trip, it’s extra essential you’re aware of the time. Plan plenty of time in order to get back to your ship; it really does prevent any rushing.

How to Get Around

Look into the choices for transport before coming here, just to save some head-scratching once you are there. Taxis can be handy for whizzing about, however could possibly get expensive if you’re going further afield. Public buses may be kinder on that bank account, but do have timings which might not work for everyone. Hiring that car brings some freedom, although consider car parking particularly in those busy hubs.

Learn a Number of Basic Spanish Phrases

Locals will always appreciate that if you at least have a go at talking their speak; ‘Hola,’ ‘Gracias,’ plus ‘Por favor’ goes a long way. Basically, don’t worry if you don’t have conversational fluency!

Money and Budgeting

In terms of spending and money, most places actually accept card. However, those independent souvenir and craft merchants actually do require cash still. So for just in case, always get a bit! Also, please note there is no need to tip extra, particularly as things will naturally cost a bit less than back home, just let the savings do the rest!

Useful Spanish Vocabulary and Phrases

For those of you that have zero understanding of the Spanish Language, hopefully the few tips can assist:

• Hola – Hello
• Adiós – Goodbye
• Gracias – Thank you
• Por favor – Please
• De nada – You’re welcome
• ¿Cómo está? – How are you? (formal)
• ¿Cómo estás? – How are you? (informal)
• Bien, gracias – I’m good, thank you
• ¿Habla inglés? – Do you speak English?
• No entiendo – I don’t understand
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
• La cuenta, por favor – The bill, please
• ¿Dónde está…? – Where is…?
• Ayuda – Help
• Baño – Bathroom
• Agua – Water
• Cerveza – Beer
• Vino – Wine

Also a good trick for getting around. The pronounciation is that almost all words that have V, B or U in them generally sound like B. For example Vino sounds more like “Beano” rather than Veeno. If unsure, you could try Google Translate if you want some other vocab, of course!

Fuerteventura North – Summary of your excursion

• Timing and Schedule is everything. Be sure that you return on time, or you may find yourself in a very problematic and sticky situation. Ships will very very seldomly wait for anyone, so make sure that shore excursions and trips are adequately timed for drop off and pick up
• Ensure that if planning and arranging private tours that they have enough and adequate legal protection and insurances!
• Don’t forget Sun protection. The winds in Fuerteventura are notorious, so being beside the water, may feel deceptively cool. Apply regularly, do apply frequently and stay in shaded locations when you need a rest.
• Always carry water with you! And do not assume every location has potable and drinking water. Make sure you stay sufficiently hydrated!
• Brush up on some very quick simple Spanish Vocabulary! Locals will tend to respect visitors far better, especially as tourism has massively exploded across the Canary Islands. At least by showing willingness, they will respond better and will respect this, they know the limitations and challenges.