A ferry ride to an island tucked away. The Majorero ferry gets you from Corralejo to Isla de Lobos with a traditional 20-minute crossing and a self-paced day.

I love the fact that this is a family-run service with over 35 years on the route, so the whole operation feels smooth and grounded. I also like the more sustainable approach compared with faster boats—less of a thrill-chasing ride, more of a calm sea-view journey.

One thing to plan for: Lobos is a protected island with no shops and no drinking water, so you’ll need to pack properly and time your return well.

Key Things I’d Bet Your Day Depends On

• Barco Majorero’s long-running service: over 35 years on this specific Corralejo–Lobos connection.
• Flexible returns: choose from return times like 11:40, 14:20, or 17:00, plus extra options in summer.
• Lobos is basically you + nature: volcanic terrain, little shade, and no reliable places to refill water.
• Two classic swimming stops: El Puertito and La Concha (La Caleta) are easy, different beach vibes.
• Two walk styles: a solid hike up La Caldera (about 1h30 round trip) and a longer lighthouse loop (around 2h30).

A Ferry to Isla de Lobos on the Majorero (Barco Majorero)

This day trip works because it doesn’t overcomplicate things. You take a proper ferry, you land on Isla de Lobos, and then you’re free to explore at your own pace—beach time, walking time, swim time, repeat.

The boat itself is the heart of the experience. The service is called the Barco Majorero, a traditional, family-run operation with 35+ years on the Corralejo–Lobos line. I like that it’s not built around speed for speed’s sake. You still get there fast enough for a real day on the island, but the ride feels calmer and more comfortable, with sea views all along.

There’s also a values angle here. The ferry is described as a more sustainable choice than faster boats, which matters on an island that’s protected for a reason. You’re not just visiting a pretty place; you’re visiting a place that’s meant to stay wild.

Finding the Naviera Nortour Desk in Corralejo’s Port

Your day starts at the Port of Corralejo in northern Fuerteventura. The ticket office you want is for Naviera Nortour, at the entrance of the port next to La Lonja. It’s not one of those “search the whole city” situations, but parking can be tricky, so don’t roll in at the last minute.

The practical reason this matters: the ferry is scheduled. If you miss the boat because you couldn’t find the desk or couldn’t get parked, you won’t get a refund. So treat your arrival like you would for an airport shuttle—early enough that you’re not rushing.

If you’re driving, plan to arrive well ahead. Port days can get slow in the final stretch, especially in high season. Once you’ve got your ticket, you’re good.

20 Minutes at Sea: The Crossing, Timing, and Seating

The crossing time is about 20 minutes each way. That short ride is what makes this excursion feel doable even if you’re not in “whole-day hike” mode.

Return timing is where you control the day. On your visit day, return options include 11:40, 14:20, and 17:00. In July through September, there are additional return times from 16:00 and 18:00, depending on availability. So if you want a half-day beach break or a more active island plan, you can match your boat back to your energy.

A small heads-up from real-world experience: if you sit toward the front outside on the way back and the sea is a bit choppy, you might get splashed. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to bring a light layer you don’t mind getting damp.

First Steps on Lobos: Visitor Centre, Josefina Plá, and Your Baseline

When you arrive, you dock at the main pier on Lobos Island. Right there, you’ll be near the statue of Josefina Plá, a Spanish writer and poet born on the island. The statue sits next to the Visitor Centre, which is a nice starting point because it helps you get your bearings quickly.

Lobos Island is a protected Natural Park, with volcanic formations, secluded beaches, and an untouched-feeling feel. This is not a “shopping island.” It’s an island for trails, salt air, and finding your own quiet spot.

Before you wander off, do a quick reality check on logistics:

• there are no shops
• there are no drinking water sources
• the only beach kiosk isn’t always open

That means your plan needs to start with supplies, not with optimism.

Beach Time at El Puertito and La Concha (La Caleta)

Your first big choice on Lobos is beach style. The island gives you options that are close enough to mix and match.

El Puertito is to the right of the harbour. It’s a former fishing village with rustic buildings and a white sandy beach with shallow turquoise water—good for an easy dip without feeling like you’ve committed to a long swim.

La Concha Beach (La Caleta) is to the left of the harbour. Think crescent-shaped and friendly for families and sunbathers, with calmer waters that make swimming feel simple.

Here’s how I’d play it: if you want a slower start, go to one beach for a first swim and photos, then decide whether you want to hike or take a second swim later. Lobos rewards flexibility. The day is long enough for a few different moods, as long as you bring what you need.

La Caldera Volcano and Faro de Lobos: Walks for Different Energies

Lobos isn’t just for lounging. It’s also built for walking, with volcanic views that make the effort feel worth it.

If you want a rewarding hike without committing to a full loop, aim for La Caldera Volcano. It’s the island’s highest point at 127 metres. The hike takes about 1 hour 30 minutes round trip, and the payoff is panoramic views over Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

If you’re more in a “walk it all, see what’s around the bend” mood, the Faro de Lobos (Lobos Lighthouse) route is your match. The lighthouse is in the northernmost part of the island and was once maintained by Josefina Plá’s father. Walking around the island to include the lighthouse takes about 2 hours 30 minutes in total.

Real talk on terrain: this is volcanic and dry, with rugged ground and little natural shade. So pick the walk based on your heat tolerance and your footwear. And yes, you’ll likely earn that late-afternoon swim.

What to Pack for a No-Shops Island: Water, Food, and Sun

This is the single biggest difference between an enjoyable Lobos day and a stressful one: the island doesn’t help you much.

Pack enough food and drinks because there are no shops and no drinking water sources. The beach kiosk near the water may not always be open, and even when it is, you can’t plan a full day around it.

Bring:

• plenty of water
• food (packed lunch works well)
• sunscreen
• a hat and sunglasses
• beachwear plus sports shoes
• water shoes if you want comfortable swimming access

Also think about shade. There are no trees or natural shade zones along the walk areas, so a sun hat is more than a nice-to-have.

And one more practical note: plan your bathroom situation smartly. Some people have found the toilets on the island can be out of use, so it’s wise to use the toilet on the boat before you land.

Value Check: Is a $20 Ferry Ticket Really Worth It?

At about $20 per person, this is strong value for what you actually get: return ferry transport plus a mandatory travel insurance component. You’re not paying for a guided activity you can’t control. You’re paying for access to a protected island that many people can’t reach as easily.

What makes it even better is the flexibility. You choose return times, so you can build a day that fits your pace:

• swim-heavy morning then volcano later
• quick beach stop and a short walk
• full beach afternoon if you’re done with hills for the day

There’s also an option mentioned for permit management tied to Lobos access. If you want help handling that piece, it’s built into the overall setup as optional support.

Is it “cheap” in the sense of no effort? No. You’ll earn the best experience by showing up prepared. But if you pack well, it feels like the kind of day trip where your money mostly goes toward getting you onto the island.

Who This Day Trip Fits Best

This works best for people who like freedom more than structure.

You’ll probably enjoy it if you:

• want a day away from Fuerteventura’s busier stretches
• like beaches with actual swimming water access
• don’t mind walking on volcanic terrain
• can plan your own essentials (water, food, sun gear)

It’s also a decent option for families in the sense that the beaches are approachable—La Concha is described as great for families and sunbathers. If you’re bringing small kids or strollers, you’ll want to be realistic about uneven paths and limited shade.

One caution: even though the activity is listed as wheelchair accessible, the overall island experience involves walking on rugged terrain, so it’s still labeled as not suitable for people with mobility impairments. If mobility is a concern for you, think carefully about how much uneven ground you can handle.

Should You Book the Corralejo–Lobos Ferry Ticket?

Yes, if you want a straightforward, good-value way to reach a protected island and build your own day—beach first, then optional hiking, with return times that help you avoid feeling trapped.

No, if you’re hoping for an island with services like shops and easy water refills, or if you don’t want to think about sun and supplies. Lobos gives you nature, not convenience. And that’s exactly why it’s worth it.

If you’re a “show up and hope” type, this trip will punish that style. If you’re a “pack smart and go with the flow” type, you’re going to like Lobos a lot.

FAQ

Where does the ferry depart from?

It departs from the Port of Corralejo on Fuerteventura.

Where is the meeting point in Corralejo?

You’ll find the Naviera Nortour ticket office at the entrance of the port next to La Lonja.

How long is the boat crossing to Lobos Island?

The crossing takes about 20 minutes.

What return times are available from Lobos?

On the day of your visit you can choose return times such as 11:40, 14:20, and 17:00. In July to September, additional returns from 16:00 and 18:00 may be available.

How long do you get on the island for late departures in summer?

For July to September, if your departure is at 15:30 you get about 2 hours on Lobos, and if your departure is at 16:30 you get about 1 hour, since the last return is at 18:00.

Is there food and drinking water available on Lobos Island?

No. There are no shops and no drinking water sources on the island, and the beach kiosk is not always open.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring a hat, towel, food and drinks, sunscreen, beachwear, sports shoes, water shoes, and a passport or ID card (a copy is accepted).

Are pets allowed?

No, pets are not allowed.

What happens if bad weather cancels the tour?

If the tour is cancelled due to adverse weather, you can choose to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?

It’s listed as wheelchair accessible, but it is also stated as not suitable for people with mobility impairments.