Armas Trasmediterránea
Your Maritime Connection in Tenerife
Hello, traveler! If you are on our wonderful island and feel the call of the ocean, today I am going to tell you everything you need to know to move between islands like a true local. As a local insider from Canaguia.com, I know there is nothing more exciting than seeing Mount Teide fading on the horizon as you head towards a new adventure. For this, one of the most traditional and comprehensive options is to step aboard an Armas Trasmediterránea vessel.
Tenerife is the ideal starting point for exploring the rest of the archipelago. Whether you want to discover the dunes of Gran Canaria, the forests of La Gomera, or the wild nature of La Palma, Armas Trasmediterránea offers a fleet that combines fast ferries with large cruise-style ships. It is the favorite option for those of us who travel slowly, enjoying the sea breeze and the freedom of taking our own car loaded with gear.
Why choose Armas Trasmediterránea ferries?
The history of navigation in the Canary Islands cannot be understood without this company. Traveling with Armas Trasmediterránea means choosing a comfortable and spacious experience. Unlike other options that only focus on speed, this shipping line stands out by offering large ships where you can stroll along the deck, enjoy a full meal in their restaurant, or even take a dip in the pool on some of their longer routes during the summer.
What makes Armas Trasmediterránea special is its versatility. You have ferries that are true floating hotels connecting Santa Cruz de Tenerife with mainland Spain or the more distant islands, as well as fast boats that get you to Gran Canaria in a heartbeat. It is that "old-fashioned travel" feeling but with all the modern comforts that makes many residents still choose their red and white ships for our getaways.
Comfort for the whole family and pets
If you are traveling with children or your dog, Armas Trasmediterránea is a marvel. The lounges are spacious, there are specific areas for pets, and vehicle boarding is very well organized. There is nothing like parking your car in the hold, heading up to the cafeteria for a strawberry "Clipper" (our local soda), and sitting down to watch the ship maneuver in the port of Santa Cruz or Los Cristianos.
Insider Tips: Enjoy Armas Trasmediterránea like a Tinerfeño
To make your journey perfect and ensure you don't look like a rookie, here are my local tricks for traveling with Armas Trasmediterránea:
- Choose the right port: Remember that the company operates from two points. If you are going to Gran Canaria or the Mainland, you will depart from Santa Cruz (north). If your destination is La Gomera, El Hierro, or La Palma, it is most common to depart from Los Cristianos (south).
- Arrive early if taking a car: Although the process is fast, I recommend arriving at least 60 minutes before departure. This way you avoid traffic stress and will be among the first to grab the best window seats.
- The deck breeze: Even if it's sunny below, the wind on the high seas can be tricky. Always bring a hoodie if you plan to go out and spot dolphins from the Armas Trasmediterránea deck.
- The connection bus: Check for the free guagua (bus) connection services the company sometimes offers between the capital and the port of Los Cristianos; it can save you a good amount in taxi fares.
- Snacks and entertainment: For longer journeys, bring a good book or download your favorite series, although the onboard WiFi usually works quite well for the basics.
Conclusion
Traveling with Armas Trasmediterránea is to dive headfirst into the travel culture of the Canary Islands. It is a relaxed, safe, and very comprehensive way to understand that our archipelago is united by much more than just water. If you are looking for comfort, space, and the possibility of taking your life with you in your car, this is your shipping line. Safe travels and enjoy the crossing!