Corralejo: Snorkeling on Lobos Island & Return Ferry Ticket

Lobos Island packs a lot into a simple day trip: a short ferry ride, volcanic walking paths, a white-sand beach, and a 25-minute snorkel in clear Atlantic water. I especially like the freedom to choose how much of the island you explore, and the friendly crew adds useful help without turning the day into a rigid guided tour. The main catch is that the water can become choppy, and the island has almost no shade or services.

At $31 per person, this is good value if you want both transport and a short boat activity. You can hike to La Caldera or the lighthouse, relax at La Concha, and still get on the water near El Puertito. Just arrive early at the Naviera Nortour office, bring your own lunch and water, and avoid choosing the earliest return if you want to see much of the island.

Five things to know before you go

• The snorkel starts at 13:20: If you take the 13:00 ferry from Corralejo, you remain on board until the activity begins. Earlier ferries give you time to walk first.
• The 10-minute boat ride is part of the fun: You cruise along Lobos Island’s southern coast, pass El Puertito, and enjoy a drink before swimming.
• La Caldera takes about 90 minutes round trip: The 127-metre volcanic cone gives views toward Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.
• There is no dependable food supply: Bring enough food and water for the whole day because the kiosk may be closed and there are no shops.
• Snorkeling conditions vary: The fish are a highlight, but wind and waves can make climbing back aboard difficult for weaker swimmers.
• The island is best for active visitors: Paths are rugged, shade is scarce, and the excursion is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

What you are really paying for at $31

The price covers the return ferry from Corralejo, the 10-minute mini cruise, a drink, the 25-minute snorkeling session, equipment, and taxes. That makes the cost attractive, especially if you would otherwise pay separately for island transport and a boat trip.

The value comes from the combination. A basic ferry ticket gets you to Lobos, but this option adds a boat ride into deeper water, where you can see salema, sargo, and the colourful Canary wrasse, locally called vieja canaria. The snorkeling is not a full-length marine expedition, but it adds a pleasant extra hour to a day that already includes beaches and walking.

I would think of this as a flexible island visit with a short water activity, not as a dedicated snorkeling tour. If snorkeling is your main reason for going, the 25-minute swim may feel brief. If you want a reasonably priced day outdoors, the mixture works well.

Getting to the port in Corralejo

Your day begins at the Naviera Nortour ticket office near the entrance to the port, beside La Lonja. This is not a place where you want to arrive at the last minute.

Parking in Corralejo can be difficult, so allow extra time if you are driving. The meeting information has caused some confusion because there are two sets of Corralejo letters near the waterfront. The smaller set by the harbour is the useful landmark, but the ticket office itself is next to the port entrance and La Lonja.

If you miss the boat, there is no refund. Have your booking details ready and carry a passport or identity card. A copy is accepted, according to the activity information.

The 20-minute crossing to Lobos

The ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes. The Barco Majorero is a traditional, family-run ferry, and the ride is generally described as smooth and punctual.

The boat may have a glass-bottom section, giving you a chance to look into the water during the crossing. Do not expect a long sightseeing cruise. The crossing is mainly practical, but it gives you a pleasant first look at the channel between Fuerteventura and Lobos.

Your departure time matters. If you take a ferry before 13:00, you can get off and explore the island before meeting for the snorkeling activity at 13:20. If you take the 13:00 departure, you stay on board until the mini cruise and swim begin. That option suits you if you want the water activity first, but it gives you less control over the day’s rhythm.

Exploring Lobos before the swim

Lobos is dry, volcanic, and exposed. The paths are easy enough to follow in many places, but the ground is rocky and there is no natural shade. Comfortable sports shoes are a better choice than flip-flops for the longer walks.

La Concha Beach in seven minutes

La Concha, also called La Caleta, is about a seven-minute walk from the landing point. Its shell-shaped curve and pale sand make it the easiest place to settle in for a swim or a quiet break.

This is a good first stop if you want a gentle start. You can leave the ferry area, find the beach, and still return toward the meeting point without committing to a long hike. Bring your own towel and food, since the island has no regular shops.

La Caldera in about 90 minutes

The path to La Caldera leads to a 127-metre volcanic cone. The round trip takes about an hour and a half, making it realistic before or after the snorkeling session if you plan carefully.

The reward is the view. From the high point, you can look toward Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, including the volcanic peaks of Lanzarote. This is the best choice if you want a short but worthwhile walk rather than a full circuit of the island.

Do not underestimate the sun or the wind. A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water matter here. The terrain is open, and a pleasant morning can turn into a hot, exposed walk quickly.

Lobos Lighthouse and the longer route

The lighthouse lies at the northern end of the island. It is a quieter place to pause and look out toward the sea and Lanzarote’s volcanoes.

A full exploration of the island takes about two and a half hours. That sounds manageable, but the fixed snorkeling time and ferry departures make the clock important. If you want the lighthouse, La Caldera, La Concha, and the swim, choose a later return ferry.

The 14:20 return is too tight for serious island exploration after the swim. The 17:00 departure gives you far more breathing room. Additional 16:00 and 18:00 returns are available from July through September.

The El Puertito mini cruise

The boat activity begins with a 10-minute cruise along part of Lobos Island’s southern coast. You pass El Puertito, an old fishing port with a white-sand beach and the island’s only restaurant.

This short ride is a useful part of the experience because you see Lobos from the water rather than only from its paths. You also get a drink on board, which is welcome in the heat. The ride is gentle when conditions are calm, but Atlantic wind can change the feel of the trip.

The crew has been praised for clear instructions and practical help. Pablo and Susanna have assisted with ticket questions and even parking advice, while captain Danny has been singled out for placing the boat well for the swim. The family-run feel is one of the nicer features here.

What the 25-minute snorkeling session is like

The snorkeling stop takes about 25 minutes in clear water near the coast. You use a mask and snorkel provided on board, then swim around the boat and look for local fish.

Salema, sargo, and vieja canaria are among the species you might see. The crew may scatter small pieces of bread near the boat, which brings fish close enough for a good look. That can create a lively scene, although one person reported a fish bite after food was thrown. It was treated as an isolated mishap, but it is still sensible not to reach toward feeding fish.

Some people enjoy jumping from the side of the boat. Pool noodles, life rings, and life jackets are available for those who are less confident in open water. That help is particularly useful for children, but flotation equipment does not remove the need to judge the conditions honestly.

The main weakness is the sea state. At times, the boat anchors in water that feels choppy, and getting back to the ladder can be hard if you are not a strong swimmer. One family found the waves too powerful for some members, while others had a fine time. The experience depends heavily on the wind and the day’s water conditions.

There is also a practical crowding issue. When many people are in the water at once, boarding and moving around the boat can feel awkward. If you are nervous in open water, stay close to the boat, use a flotation aid, and tell the crew before entering.

Choosing the right return ferry

After snorkeling, you can select a return time to Corralejo. The listed options are 14:20 and 17:00, with 16:00 and 18:00 departures added from July through September.

The best choice depends on your priority:

• 14:20: Good if you mainly want the ferry and snorkeling. It leaves little time to explore after the swim.
• 16:00: A useful summer compromise, giving you some beach or walking time.
• 17:00: The strongest all-round choice for hiking, relaxing, and snorkeling.
• 18:00: Best for a full summer day, if you are comfortable spending many hours in the sun.

You choose the return time on the day, which gives you some flexibility. Still, do not assume every option will suit every departure date. Check the available times when booking and confirm the practical schedule at the port.

Food, water, clothing, and sun protection

Lobos rewards simple preparation. Bring more water than you think you need, along with a packed lunch or substantial snacks. There are no shops, and the only beach kiosk is not always open.

A cooler bag can help keep drinks pleasant in the heat. One practical tip is to pack food that travels well and avoid relying on finding a cold drink after you arrive.

Bring:

• Swimwear and a towel
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat
• Sports shoes for volcanic paths
• Flip-flops for beach time
• Food and plenty of water
• A passport, identity card, or accepted copy

The island has no trees or natural shade. Plan your walking around the sun, and do not forget that even a short beach stop can become uncomfortable without cover.

Who will enjoy this day most?

I would recommend this experience to couples, families with confident children, and active visitors who want a low-cost mix of swimming, scenery, and walking. It works especially well if you enjoy setting your own pace rather than following a guide from one stop to the next.

Children can take part in the swim, and flotation aids are available. Still, the water can be rough, and parents should judge swimming ability carefully. A seven-year-old who can just about swim may need a life jacket, and younger or uncertain swimmers should stay close to an adult and the boat.

This is not a good match for anyone with mobility limitations. The volcanic paths, exposed terrain, and walking distances make the island difficult to manage without solid mobility. It is also a poor choice if you want a shaded, quiet beach day or a long, highly focused snorkeling session.

The activity can be cancelled in adverse weather. In that case, you can reschedule or receive a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve while paying later if that option is offered for your date.

Should you book the Lobos ferry and snorkeling trip?

Book it if you want a full outdoor day for $31, especially if you plan to take the 17:00 return and combine La Concha, La Caldera, and the water activity. The crew’s friendly help, the short mini cruise, and the chance to see fish close to the boat make this more than a basic island transfer.

Skip it if you need guaranteed calm water, natural shade, easy paths, or a long snorkeling session. For most active visitors, though, it is a strong-value way to see Lobos, provided you bring food, water, sun protection, and realistic expectations about Atlantic conditions.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Corralejo to Lobos Island?

The ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes each way.

Where do I meet the ferry?

Meet at the Naviera Nortour ticket office at the entrance to the port, next to La Lonja.

Can I park near the meeting point?

Parking can be difficult in Corralejo, so arrive well before departure if you are driving.

What happens if I take the 13:00 ferry?

You remain on board until the snorkeling and mini cruise begin at 13:20. You can explore the island afterwards.

Can I explore Lobos before snorkeling?

Yes. If you take a ferry before 13:00, you have time to walk around Lobos before the main activity at 13:20.

How long is the snorkeling session?

The snorkeling activity lasts about 25 minutes.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. A snorkel and mask are available on board. Pool noodles, life rings, and life jackets may also be available for less confident swimmers.

What fish might I see?

You might see salema, sargo, and the colourful Canary wrasse, known locally as vieja canaria.

Is food available on Lobos Island?

There are no shops, and the only beach kiosk is not always open. Bring your own food and plenty of water.

Is the experience suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No. The activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments because of the island’s rugged volcanic paths and walking requirements.