Corralejo: Snorkeling on Lobos Island & Return Ferry Ticket

The best part of this Lobos Island trip is the mix of free time on a wild volcanic island and a short boat snorkeling session in clear Atlantic water. You can swim among salema, sargo, and colorful Canary wrasse, then spend the rest of the day hiking or resting on a quiet beach.

I like the flexible ferry schedule and the friendly Barco Majorero crew, especially the practical help from staff such as Pablo and Susanna. I also like that the boat carries pool noodles, life rings, and extra snorkeling gear, which makes the water less daunting for children and weaker swimmers.

The main drawback is the sea. It can turn choppy, and the snorkeling stop is in open water rather than a sheltered cove. Bring food, water, and strong sun protection, since Lobos has no shops, little shade, and only a beach kiosk that may not be open.

Key points to know before you go

• The snorkeling lasts about 25 minutes: You swim from the boat near the island’s coast, with fish gathering around the vessel.
• You choose your return ferry: Main return times are 14:20 and 17:00, with 16:00 and 18:00 departures added from July through September.
• El Puertito is the scenic center of the boat ride: You pass the old fishing port, white beach, and the island’s only restaurant.
• Lobos is best explored on foot: La Concha Beach is close by, while La Caldera and the lighthouse require longer walks.
• The island is dry and exposed: There are no trees or natural shade, so a hat, water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes matter.
• The $31 price covers the essentials: You get the return ferry, the short cruise, a drink, snorkeling equipment, and taxes, but not food or hotel transport.

From Corralejo port to Lobos Island

Your day begins at the Naviera Nortour ticket office at the entrance to Corralejo port, beside La Lonja. Give yourself extra time if you are driving. Parking can be difficult, and missing the ferry because you arrived late does not qualify for a refund.

The crossing takes about 20 minutes. It is short enough to feel easy, but long enough to give you open views across the water toward Lobos and, in the distance, the volcanic outline of Lanzarote. The traditional family-run Barco Majorero is part of the appeal here. Staff keep the process straightforward and explain where to go once you arrive.

Take your identification with you. A passport or ID card is required, and a copy is accepted. The operator does not provide hotel pickup, so you need to arrange your own way to Corralejo port.

Your choice of outward ferry sets the rhythm for the day. If you leave before 13:00, you have time to explore Lobos before the snorkeling activity begins at 13:20. If you take the 13:00 ferry, you remain on board until the cruise and snorkeling session start.

That later option is useful if you mainly want the water activity. Earlier boats are better if you want to walk to La Caldera, visit the lighthouse, and still have time for the beach.

The 10-minute cruise to El Puertito

The snorkeling program begins with a gentle 10-minute cruise along the southern coast of Lobos. This is not a long sightseeing voyage, but it gives you a pleasant look at the shore before the swimming begins.

The boat passes El Puertito, an old fishing port with a white sand beach and the island’s only restaurant. You receive a drink on board, so this short ride works as a relaxed break before getting into the sea.

El Puertito also helps you understand the character of Lobos. The island is not built up like a resort. Its appeal comes from low volcanic ground, small beaches, old fishing traces, and open sea. You will not find rows of cafés or a choice of beach facilities, so set your expectations accordingly.

The crew makes a difference here. Pablo has helped visitors with parking, equipment, and directions around the island, while Susanna has also been praised for assisting at the port office. Captain Danny has been singled out for careful handling of the boat and for choosing a good spot for the swim.

What the 25-minute snorkeling stop is like

The boat anchors near the island’s coast, and you have about 25 minutes in the water. Masks and snorkels are available on board. The water can be remarkably clear, and the fish you may see include salema, sargo, and the colorful vieja canaria, also called Canary wrasse.

The crew may scatter small pieces of bread near the boat to attract fish. This can bring a sudden cloud of movement around you and makes the short session more interesting. It also means you should listen carefully to the crew and keep a sensible distance from other swimmers.

This is basic Atlantic snorkeling, not a coral reef excursion. You are not promised a wide range of species, underwater rock formations, or coral. On a calm, bright day, the clear water and fish around the boat can be the highlight of your visit. On a cloudy day or in rough water, the scene may feel much less impressive.

The sea conditions are the important variable. Some people find the water easy and enjoyable, while others struggle when waves push them away from the ladder. The crew provides pool noodles and life rings, and life jackets can help children or anyone who is not fully comfortable in open water.

If you are a weaker swimmer, tell the crew before entering. Stay close to the boat and use the floating aids. One useful point from the experience is that climbing back aboard can be harder than swimming away, especially when several people are waiting at the ladder. Choose your moment carefully and do not let the group pressure you into staying in longer than feels sensible.

Children can take part, but this is not a shallow swimming pool. A seven-year-old with limited swimming ability was able to join using a life jacket, yet the open sea can still feel strong. For younger children, an adult should remain close throughout.

Choosing between La Concha, La Caldera, and the lighthouse

The ferry landing puts you within easy reach of several worthwhile walks. You do not need to complete the whole island to have a good day.

La Concha Beach, also called La Caleta, is the easiest choice. It is about a seven-minute walk from the landing point, and its shell-shaped bay is a good place to swim, rest, or let your day slow down. If you take a later ferry back, this is a sensible place to spend the final part of your visit.

La Caldera Volcano is the best short hike for views. The volcanic cone rises 127 metres, and the round trip takes about one hour and 30 minutes. From higher ground, you can look across to Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. The path is described as easy to follow, but the ground is dry, rocky, and exposed, so sports shoes are a better choice than flip-flops.

Lobos Lighthouse is farther north and suits walkers who want to see more of the island. Reaching the lighthouse and returning takes more time, and a full walk around the island takes roughly two hours and 30 minutes. You can relax there with views toward the sea and Lanzarote’s volcanoes, but walking to the lighthouse leaves less time for swimming and the beach.

You should plan around one main goal rather than trying to do everything at speed. A morning ferry, the lighthouse walk, lunch, La Concha, and the afternoon snorkeling session can work well. A later arrival is better for a shorter visit focused on the boat and the beach.

Timing your return to Corralejo

After snorkeling, you can select your return time on the same day. The main options are 14:20 and 17:00, with 16:00 and 18:00 also available from July through September.

The 14:20 boat suits you if the snorkeling is the main reason for booking. It leaves little time for a long walk, especially if you take the 13:00 ferry from Corralejo.

The 17:00 ferry gives you a much better balance. You can swim, eat your own packed lunch, walk to La Concha, and choose either La Caldera or the lighthouse. In summer, the 18:00 departure gives you the most breathing room, but check the available time before you set your plans.

Pay attention to the return time you select. It is easy to become absorbed in the island’s open paths and beaches, then discover that your chosen boat is approaching. You are responsible for getting back to the landing point on time.

Food, water, and sun protection are not optional

Lobos is beautiful partly because it has very little development. That same lack of development creates the day’s biggest practical challenge.

There are no shops. The only beach kiosk is not always open, and food is not included. Bring enough water and food for the full day, including something substantial if you plan to hike. A cooler bag can help keep drinks from becoming warm in the sun.

There are also no trees or natural shaded areas. Pack a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a towel. The dry volcanic ground and wind can make the day feel cooler than expected, but you can still burn quickly.

Wear sports shoes for the longer walks and flip-flops for the beach or boat. You need swimwear, and a light layer may be useful on the ferry if the wind picks up. Keep your rubbish with you and stay on marked paths. Lobos is a natural park, and the lack of facilities makes careful behavior especially important.

Is the $31 price good value?

At $31 per person, this is a strong value if you want more than a simple ferry crossing. The price includes the return ferry, the 10-minute cruise, a drink, the 25-minute snorkeling session, snorkeling gear, and taxes.

A plain return ferry ticket would give you access to the island, but this package adds a boat-based swim in deeper water near the coast. That matters because you can see the island from the sea and snorkel without relying only on the shallow water near the beach.

The value is best for an active full-day visit. You can combine the boat session with a volcanic walk and beach time without paying separately for each part. It is less appealing if you want a guided island tour, a long snorkeling trip, or guaranteed calm water.

Food, hotel transfers, and personal sun gear cost extra. Parking near the port may also take time and planning. Even with those details, the package gives you a lot for the price, provided you are comfortable preparing your own day.

Who should book this experience?

I would choose this trip if you want a flexible day outdoors and enjoy making your own plan. It suits couples, families with older children, and active visitors who want a short swim rather than a full scuba-style excursion.

It is also a good choice if your interests are split between land and sea. One person can enjoy the beach and walking while another focuses on snorkeling. The island’s paths make it possible to create a quiet day without following a guide from stop to stop.

I would think twice if you have limited mobility, since the activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. The volcanic terrain, walking distances, boat ladders, and open-water session all require a reasonable level of movement.

You should also reconsider it if rough water makes you anxious. The crew can provide flotation aids, but they cannot control the Atlantic. On a windy day, snorkeling may feel more like a workout than a calm swim.

Small details that make the day easier

Arrive early at the port, especially if you need to park. Confirm that you are at the correct Corralejo meeting point, since the town has more than one set of large Corralejo letters and the smaller harbor-side signs can cause confusion.

Ask the staff to explain the island timetable before you board. They can point out where to go and how much walking fits your return ferry. If you want the deeper-water snorkeling session, make sure you understand that the activity takes place from the boat rather than from the beach.

Keep your phone and camera secure around the water. The crew has helped recover lost equipment before, but that is not something to rely on. A waterproof pouch is a sensible addition.

Bad weather can cancel the trip. In that case, you can reschedule or receive a full refund. The activity also allows cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Should you book the Lobos snorkeling trip?

Book it if you want a good-value day that combines a short boat trip, clear-water snorkeling, and time to explore a raw volcanic island. The strongest reasons are the flexible return options, the helpful crew, and the chance to see Lobos from both the walking paths and the water.

Choose the 17:00 return when possible if you want the best balance of snorkeling, beach time, and walking. Pack as if you are spending the whole day outdoors, because you are. If you bring water, food, sun protection, and proper shoes, this is an easy way to turn a short ferry crossing into a full island outing.

FAQ

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

The ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes each way.

How long does the snorkeling activity last?

The snorkeling session lasts about 25 minutes. It takes place in clear water near the coast, after a 10-minute boat ride along the southern shore.

What fish might I see while snorkeling?

You might see local species such as salema, sargo, and the colorful Canary wrasse, known locally as vieja canaria.

What return times are available?

The main return ferries leave at 14:20 and 17:00. From July through September, additional return times at 16:00 and 18:00 are available.

Can I explore Lobos Island before snorkeling?

Yes. If you take a ferry departing before 13:00, you have time to explore the island before the activity begins at 13:20. If you take the 13:00 ferry, you stay on board until the snorkeling and mini cruise start.

Is food included?

No. Food is not included, and you should bring your own food and plenty of water. Lobos has no shops, and its only beach kiosk may not be open.

What should I bring?

Bring a passport or ID card, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, food, drinks, flip-flops, and sports shoes.

Is the activity suitable for people who cannot swim confidently?

The crew provides pool noodles, life rings, and other flotation support, and life jackets may help children. However, the snorkeling takes place in open water, which can become choppy, so you should be comfortable following safety instructions and tell the crew if you need assistance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour may also be cancelled because of adverse weather, in which case you can reschedule or receive a full refund.