Why I Would Love The Perfect Canary Island Cruise Escape

*In collaboration with

When you are a parent, even with the best of intentions, sometimes you just want to get away for a breather once in a while, ideally on a fantastic sunshine holiday! Family holidays are obviously incredible, but it is only when you manage to spend some time with your pals to catch up and leave the kids at home, that you truly feel like ‘you’. Earlier this year I was fortunate enough to spend a week on a Caribbean and South American cruise with 3 of my friends, and as a cruise rookie, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

Well, I can safely say that it was absolutely amazing and surpassed all expectations! 

So much so that I’m now looking at another cruise for next year, and perusing locations such as the Norwegian Fjords, and even sunnier, The Canary islands. When it comes to canary islands cruises, there’s a lot to consider, and below are some of the reasons why a Canary Islands Cruise is looking like being top of my list, in particular one with Ambassador Cruise Line!

The Draw of Canary Island Cruises

An archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a mix of the exotic and the typically Spanish. Cruises to the Canary Islands are generally popular with those looking for relaxation, but who also want a taste of adventure (like my friends and I!). Cruises can call at ports around the islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and La Palma.

Why a cruise with friends is the ultimate getaway

Unsurpassed convenience – I think the single best thing about a cruise is the convenience: once you get on the boat, your entertainment, accommodation, meals, transportation, etc is all taken care of for you. You get to focus on relaxing and spending time with your friends.

Different Styles – On Canary Island cruises, there are trips for everyone: those who want to lounge by the pool and get pampered in a spa; those who prefer active sporty activities such as hiking, golfing or tennis; and those who just want to go sightseeing and see the beaches, volcanic landscapes and pretty towns. In addition to the day-to-day activities, evenings can be spent listening to live entertainment, attending themed parties or dining in a top-notch restaurant.

Quality Time – A luxury you and your friends will appreciate is to get away from the kids and hang out – whether this means breakfast on the deck, wine-tasting, or just a long chat over watching the sun drop into the Atlantic.

Rejuvenation – Parenting is a privilege, but can often include gruelling day-to-day drudgery. A cruise is such a good way to recharge your batteries! Get a massage (I fully made the most of the spa on our last cruise!), take a yoga class or just luxuriate in the feeling that somebody else is cooking and cleaning. By the time you return home, you’ll be refreshed and ready to face the family again.

Highlights of a Canary Island Cruise

Tenerife: Party in the cosmopolitan capital of Santa Cruz, climb the majestic Mount Teide or relax on the idyllic Playa de Las Teresitas.

Gran Canaria: wander the streets of Las Palmas, hike across verdant Roque Nublo or rest on Maspalomas Beach.

Lanzarote: Beaded by the volcanic otherworld of Timanfaya National Park, the moons of La Geria’s unique vineyards, or the art and architecture of César Manrique.

La Palma: Nicknamed ‘La Isla Bonita’ (The Beautiful Island) for its lush forests, star-gazing and pretty towns such as Santa Cruz de La Palma.

Making the Most of Your Cruise

Follow these tips, and your Canary Island cruise will be just that bit better.

Book Excursions: Research and book specific excursions well in advance, whether it is a whale watching outing, a local winery, or hiking tour over stunning landscapes.

Allocate a balance of activities and relaxation: There are so many things to do onboard that it’s tempting to plan a 12-hour day full of activities, then sleep for 12 hours straight. However, it is best to schedule in a balance of activity and relaxation time. Take advantage of the ship’s facilities, stroll on deck, or relax in your cabin with a good book.

Stay in Touch: There’s always plenty to do on a cruise ship, but be sure to schedule time to really chat with your friends throughout the trip — over dinner, drinks late at night, whatever — because this will likely be what you remember most from the cruise (I know I did!)

Honestly, booking a cruise with friends is a perfect time for you as a parent to escape from your day-to-day world for a time, and enjoy a luxury life-time experience aboard, seeing beautiful places and catching up with your favourite people. So pack your bags and do a Canary Island cruise – the perfect place to let loose and enjoy yourself!

See more of my travel posts here

Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.