Explore the Enchanting Canary Islands with AIDA Cruises
Just four flight hours away from the chilly German winter, the Canary Islands stand as a magnificent archipelago that is among the most sought-after cruise destinations in Europe. Despite their geographical proximity, each island boasts its unique landscapes, cultures, and excursion options. The German cruise line AIDA positions several ships in the Canary Islands every year, varying in size, amenities, and itineraries. As AIDA prepares for its Canary Islands cruises in 2026 and 2027, it is essential to explore which journey offers the best value for money.
The cruise titled "Canary Islands & Madeira" is a classic beginner route. Priced from €745 per person (as of June 9), this premium package allows travelers to select their preferred cabin. The total cost, including flights, starts at a minimum of €1,335 per person. Notably, children up to 15 years old often travel for free in the third and fourth beds of a cabin.
Gran Canaria serves as the starting and ending port for this cruise. The vessel "AIDAcosma" will visit four remarkable destinations. Important to note, the prices listed are per person based on double occupancy in an interior cabin; prices may vary based on other cabin types. Solo travelers should seek early bookings as single cabins are limited and often sell out quickly.
The "AIDAcosma" is designed with families in mind, featuring a dedicated recreation area complete with climbing elements and water slides, alongside a supervised children's club open to toddlers. The dining experience is also family-friendly, with a children’s buffet available in the "Fuego" restaurant and baby food provided at no extra charge.
This itinerary is straightforward, requiring no elaborate excursion planning. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll through Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village in Madeira, while Fuerteventura is perfect for a day at the beach. The Playa de los Pozos, just a five-minute walk from the harbor, is among the island's most popular beaches, and excursions to islands like Fuerteventura typically cost under €50.
Experience Culture and Adventure on AIDA's Unique Routes
For those looking for cultural experiences, the "Canary Islands & Morocco" cruise is an ideal choice. This seven-day journey starts at just €675 per person (as of June 9), with many dates offering an early booking discount of €200 per cabin. The total costs, including travel arrangements, amount to at least €1,225. This route also begins and ends in Gran Canaria, featuring diverse stops along the way.
The "AIDAblu," one of the smaller ships in the fleet, provides a more traditional cruising experience, characterized by a sense of intimacy and proximity to the sea compared to the larger "AIDAcosma." Due to temperature variations, a warmer jacket is advisable for this trip. In addition to several Canary Islands, the ship will also dock in Agadir, a modern coastal city renowned for its long sandy beaches and a favorite vacation spot in Morocco. For a glimpse into traditional Moroccan life, excursions inland are available, including a trip to Taroudant, a charming oasis city reachable in about an hour and a half.
The "Canary Islands with La Gomera" route combines serene days at sea with active shore excursions. This seven-day cruise starts from €625 per person (as of June 10) and offers significant early booking discounts of up to €400 per cabin. Total costs, including travel arrangements, will vary based on departure airport, starting at around €1,115. Travelers should be aware that many costs associated with an AIDA cruise to the Canary Islands are incurred onboard.
Gran Canaria is the main port for this itinerary, which includes stops at five Canary Islands. La Palma and La Gomera, known for their natural beauty and less touristy atmosphere, are perfect for nature enthusiasts. The Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986, is just a 30-minute drive from the San Sebastián de La Gomera harbor, offering hiking trails through lush laurel forests.
The "Great Winter Break" concept was developed by AIDA during the COVID-19 pandemic as a response to limited flight availability, allowing cruises to warmer regions without the need for air travel. This concept has now become a staple in AIDA's annual offerings, including variations such as the "Great Winter Break Brazil." The "Great Winter Break Canary Islands" takes place from December 20, 2026, to January 10, 2027, with premium rates starting at €3,765 per person (as of June 10). This itinerary is best suited for seasoned cruisers who appreciate extended journeys and sea days, featuring eight days at sea and a 21-day adventure over Christmas and New Year's, starting and ending in Hamburg with stops at eleven ports.
The "Great Canary Islands Journey with La Gomera & Madeira" will cover multiple facets of the region from November 29 to December 13, 2026, combining two Canary routes into a 14-day expedition aboard the "AIDAblu." This offering caters to families with young children as well as active vacationers who wish to use the sea days for relaxation. Prices begin at €1,240 per person (as of June 10), with total costs, including flights, starting at €1,830. An early booking discount of €600 is available per cabin, with Gran Canaria as the primary port of departure and return.
With overnight stays in Madeira, known as the flower island, the itinerary allows travelers to engage in both demanding hikes and leisurely strolls. Fuerteventura features four scheduled land days, recognized for its stunning sandy beaches, making it an ideal destination for a classic beach holiday. La Gomera and La Palma also offer hiking trails suited for various fitness levels.
As reported by abendblatt.de.
