Bañaderos Express Fred Olsen
Bañaderos Express
âš“ The Bañaderos Express is one of the most important fast ferries in the fleet of Fred Olsen Express, running high-speed inter-island links across the Canary Islands. Her main route is Arrecife (Lanzarote) – Corralejo (Fuerteventura), crossing the channel that separates the two islands in a mere 25–30 minutes. The ship takes her name from Bañaderos, a coastal village in the north of Gran Canaria, true to Fred Olsen's habit of naming its vessels after towns and coastal spots around the Canary archipelago.
The Bañaderos Express is a high-speed catamaran built by the well-regarded Austal shipyard (Australia), world specialists in high-speed aluminium catamarans. Her lightweight marine-grade aluminium construction lets her reach very high cruising speeds, making her one of the fastest ferries operating between the eastern Canary Islands.
Fred Olsen Express in the Canaries: background and fleet
Fred Olsen Express is the go-to operator for anyone island-hopping around the Canary archipelago. With decades of history in the region, it runs a fleet of fast ferries linking Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro. The Bañaderos Express is part of that speed-and-frequency fleet, and is particularly useful for Canarian residents who travel between the islands regularly.
History and background of the ship
The Bañaderos Express (IMO 9845697) is the identical sister ship of the Bajamar Express. Although she was designed by the Austal Ships team in Australia, she was built between 2019 and 2021 at the company's yard in Balamban (Austal Philippines), using exactly the same technology as her sister. Launched in May 2021, she completed her sea trials in Asian waters at more than 37 knots. In September she set off on her delivery voyage — more than 20 days — crossing the Indian Ocean, the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean, arriving in the Canaries in mid-October 2021 and making her maiden voyage on the 25th.
She works exclusively for Fred. Olsen Express on the Puerto de Las Nieves (Agaete, Gran Canaria)–Santa Cruz de Tenerife route, working in perfect tandem with the Bajamar Express: as one sails from Tenerife, the other leaves Gran Canaria at the same moment. Together they brought a single standard of comfort and journey time to the busiest route between the two Canarian capitals. She carries the MARINELINK-Smart system, which monitors the waves in real time and automatically corrects the roll of her three hulls.
Full technical specifications
| Ship type | Aluminium fast ferry catamaran |
| Shipyard | Austal (Henderson, Australia) |
| Service speed | ~35 knots |
| Passenger capacity | ~900 passengers |
| Vehicle capacity | ~180 vehicles (on request) |
| Propulsion | High-output diesel engines with waterjets |
| Build material | Marine-grade aluminium |
| Passenger decks | 2 |
| Operating company | Fred Olsen Express |
| Flag | Spain |
| Area of operation | Canary Islands (Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria) |
* Some technical figures are approximate, based on publicly available sources. For exact specifications, check with Fred Olsen Express.
Routes operated and indicative timetables
| Route | Duration | Usual departure* |
|---|---|---|
| Arrecife (Lanzarote) → Corralejo (Fuerteventura) | ~25–30 min | Several sailings a day |
| Corralejo (Fuerteventura) → Arrecife (Lanzarote) | ~25–30 min | Several sailings a day |
| Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) → Morro Jable (Fuerteventura) | ~1 h 50 min | Seasonal / check timetable |
* Indicative timetables, subject to season, weather conditions and availability. Confirm the exact departure time in our search engine.
The Bocaina Strait: the Lanzarote–Fuerteventura route
The Bañaderos Express is a regular on the Bocaina Strait, the stretch of sea that separates Lanzarote from Fuerteventura and is just 11 kilometres wide at its narrowest point. This is one of the shortest and busiest ferry routes in the Canary Islands, and it is especially popular with residents who work on one island and live on the other, with holidaymakers combining both islands in a single trip, and with day-trippers from Corralejo or Playa Blanca.
On Lanzarote the ferry sails from the port of Playa Blanca (not from Arrecife, the island's main port, on every sailing), and on Fuerteventura from the port of Corralejo, in the north of the island. Both ports have good links with their respective resort areas. If you are taking a vehicle, we recommend arriving at least 60 minutes beforehand to allow for the vehicle loading process.
Fares, discounts and how to book
Fares on the Bañaderos Express are among the most competitive in the Canary archipelago, given how short the main route is. A foot-passenger ticket on the Lanzarote–Fuerteventura route starts at around €25–35 each way in mid season. Taking a vehicle on board pushes the total up considerably.
Available discounts:
- Canary Islands resident: residents of the Canary Islands are entitled to 75% off the base fare, for passengers and vehicles alike. You must prove residency with a Spanish ID card (DNI) or a certificate of registration (empadronamiento). This discount makes the route very affordable for islanders.
- Large family: specific discounts apply according to the category (general or special). Check the conditions when you book.
- Fred Olsen Club: the Fred Olsen Express loyalty scheme. Collect points and redeem them for discounts and benefits on future trips.
You can compare prices and real-time availability directly on I Love Ferry.
Which accommodation should you choose for your trip?
| If you are travelling... | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| Alone or as a couple, looking for the best price | Standard seat (indoor deck) |
| With family or a group, wanting a table and space | Seat with table (lounge area) |
| After the views and some fresh air | Outside deck (where available) |
| After extra comfort and a step up in service | Business / Premium lounge (where available) |
| With a pet | Designated pet area + reserved place |
Bañaderos Express · Accommodations
Standard seat · Indoors
The cheapest option on board. Upholstered seats in an air-conditioned lounge, with access to the café and the outside deck. Perfect for the short Lanzarote–Fuerteventura crossing.
✓ Air-conditioned indoor lounge
✓ Access to the onboard café
✓ Access to the outside deck
✓ Ideal for short trips
Seat with table · Lounge
Seats with a built-in table, ideal for families or groups who want room to eat, work or keep themselves entertained during the crossing.
✓ Shared table for several passengers
✓ Air-conditioned indoor lounge
✓ Access to every area of the ship
Outside deck · In the open air
An open-air area where you can take in the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Bocaina Strait. Ideal in fine weather.
✓ Panoramic views of the Atlantic
✓ Free access included in your ticket
✓ Standing area and outdoor seating
Business / Premium · Exclusive access
A separate lounge offering more comfort and privacy. Availability depends on which ship is assigned to each route, so check when you book.
✓ Exclusive-access area
✓ More space and privacy
✓ A step up in onboard service
Bañaderos Express · On-board services
Café on board
The Bañaderos Express has an onboard café serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches and basic supplies. As the main crossing (Lanzarote–Fuerteventura) takes under 30 minutes, what is on offer is geared to a quick bite. On longer routes the selection is wider.
Outside deck
One of the joys of the Bañaderos Express for passengers who like a view is her outside deck, from which you can look out over the Bocaina Strait and the volcanic coastlines of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. On clear days the views are spectacular, thanks to the contrast between the blue of the Atlantic and the arid landscape of the eastern islands.
Travelling with a dog on board
Accessibility — passengers with reduced mobility
The Bañaderos Express has adapted access for passengers with reduced mobility. If you need special assistance during boarding or the crossing, we recommend contacting Fred Olsen Express in advance so that the right help can be arranged both at the port and on board. The ports of Playa Blanca and Corralejo also have adapted facilities.
Comfort on board on short crossings
Because the Bañaderos Express mainly works a route of under 30 minutes, she is designed for quick boarding and disembarkation and fast, efficient service. The aluminium catamaran gives a stable ride thanks to her twin-hull design, although on windy days the Bocaina Strait can throw up a bit of movement. The air-conditioned indoor lounge is the most comfortable option for passengers who would rather not feel the swell.
Bañaderos Express vs. other ferries on the Lanzarote–Fuerteventura route
The route between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura is also served by Naviera Armas (Trasmediterránea), with conventional ferries from Arrecife to Puerto del Rosario. Here is how it differs from the Bañaderos Express:
| Feature | Bañaderos Express (Fred Olsen) | Conventional ferry (Armas) |
|---|---|---|
| Journey time | ~25–30 min | ~2–3 h |
| Departure port (Lanzarote) | Playa Blanca (south) | Arrecife (capital) |
| Arrival port (Fuerteventura) | Corralejo (north) | Puerto del Rosario (capital) |
| Ship type | Fast ferry catamaran | Conventional ferry |
| Daily sailings | Several (high frequency) | Fewer sailings |
| Best for | Visitors in the north / residents | Travellers to and from the capitals |
Which of the two suits you best comes down mainly to where you are starting from and heading to on each island. If you are staying in Playa Blanca, Yaiza or the south of Lanzarote and heading for Corralejo or the north of Fuerteventura, the Bañaderos Express is clearly the better choice for speed and convenience.
Frequently asked questions about the Bañaderos Express
Which routes does the Bañaderos Express operate?
She mainly operates the Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) – Corralejo (Fuerteventura) route, with several sailings a day. She may occasionally be assigned to other inter-island routes in the Canaries, depending on the Fred Olsen Express schedule.
How long does the Bañaderos Express take from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura?
The trip between Playa Blanca and Corralejo takes roughly 25–30 minutes. It is one of the shortest ferry crossings in the Canary archipelago.
Which port on Lanzarote does the Bañaderos Express sail from?
She sails from the port of Playa Blanca, in the south of Lanzarote, not from Arrecife. Playa Blanca is about 35 km from Arrecife (roughly a 30-minute drive).
Does the Bañaderos Express carry cars?
Yes. She has a car deck for vehicles. If you are travelling with a car, motorbike or van, arrive at the port at least 60 minutes beforehand. In high season, allow extra time.
Is there a Canary Islands resident discount?
Yes. Residents of the Canary Islands are entitled to 75% off the base fare, on production of a Spanish ID card (DNI) or a certificate of registration (empadronamiento).
How much does a Bañaderos Express ticket cost?
From around €25–35 each way in mid season for a foot passenger. Canary Islands residents pay 75% less. Compare real-time prices here.
Are pets allowed on the Bañaderos Express?
Yes. Fred Olsen Express allows pets to travel. You must book a place for your pet when you buy your ticket and meet the rules (carrier, documentation). Check the current conditions when you book.
Is she accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. The Bañaderos Express has adapted access. We recommend contacting Fred Olsen Express in advance if you need special assistance during boarding or the crossing.
Is there a café on board?
Yes. There is a café serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and sandwiches throughout the crossing.
How early do I need to get to the port?
With a vehicle: at least 60 minutes beforehand. As a foot passenger: 30–45 minutes is enough. In high season or over public holidays it is worth allowing extra time.
Why is the ship called Bañaderos Express?
Fred Olsen Express names its ships after coastal towns in the Canary archipelago. Bañaderos is a small coastal spot in the north of Gran Canaria, part of the municipality of Arucas, and it gives this fast ferry her name.
Who built the Bañaderos Express?
The Bañaderos Express was built by the Austal shipyard, based in Henderson (Australia), one of the most respected yards in the world for high-speed aluminium catamarans carrying passengers and vehicles.
What is the difference between sailing with Fred Olsen or Naviera Armas from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura?
Fred Olsen (Bañaderos Express) links Playa Blanca with Corralejo in ~30 min, ideal for the south of Lanzarote and the north of Fuerteventura. Naviera Armas sails from Arrecife (the capital) to Puerto del Rosario in ~2-3 hours, which suits you better if your journey starts or ends in either island's capital.
Is there wifi on board the Bañaderos Express?
Given how short the main crossing is (~30 minutes), WiFi is not a headline service on the Bañaderos Express. For up-to-date information on connectivity on board, check directly with Fred Olsen Express when you book.
