Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Cruise

Gran Canaria holds a myriad of things to see for those visiting the Canary Islands on an MSC cruise. Small towns that appear and disappear, such as Tejeda in the mountainous area of Gran Canaria, which is periodically swallowed by a sea of clouds.

When the clouds lift, they expose the proud peak of Roque Nublo, the alien landscape along its slopes and, further on, an infinite expanse of conifer woods. While staying at Gran Canaria during your MSC cruise, you will also discover rare miniature costal desserts, with dunes unrolling in front of the sea in Maspalomas, a beach and surfing holiday destination.

To experience the millennium-old history of the island, consider going on an excursion to the northern side of Gran Canaria, to the Cueva Pintada Museum, the “Sistine Chapel” of the Prehistoric Period. Decorated with geometrical designs, it is thought to be a calendar. At this archaeological site, you will also be able to observe native dwellings containing everyday utensils. 

Even in the centre of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, you will find reasons to pause as soon as you disembark from your cruise ship. For example, the lively, kilometre-long beach of Las Canteras, protected by a rocky protrusion called the Barra, which defends the coast from the waves; or its paseo (promenade) flanked by small shops, restaurants and bars and with a large open-air aquarium at its back.

However, the more recent history of this territory can be breathed simply by strolling through and immersing yourself in the city centre. In the streets of the old Vegueta, all five centuries of its history can be felt. All kinds of navigators, from Columbus on, have walked these cobbled streets. As an alternative, travel southwards to stroll in the Caldera de Bandama, a short distance from the vineyards of Tafira, where you can visit a winery.