Volcán de Timanfaya Naviera Armas
Volcán de Timanfaya
âš“ The Volcán de Timanfaya is one of the highest-capacity ferries in the Naviera Armas fleet and the flagship of the links between Huelva and the Canary Islands, as well as of the inter-island routes within the archipelago. With room for more than 1,500 passengers and over 600 linear metres of vehicles and freight, she is one of the largest ferries in regular service in Spanish waters between the mainland and the Canaries. Her name is a tribute to Timanfaya National Park, the iconic volcanic landscape of Lanzarote, an island the ship itself serves.
The Volcán de Timanfaya was built at the Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft (FSG) yard in Flensburg (Germany) and joined the Naviera Armas fleet in 2003. She is a large ro-pax designed for long ocean crossings, with everything needed for journeys of more than 30 hours between the Iberian Peninsula and the Canarian archipelago. Over her working life she has undergone significant refit and maintenance work to keep the standard of service on board.
Naviera Armas runs the most important sea links between Huelva and the Canary Islands (Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura), and is the only operator maintaining a scheduled service between the mainland and the archipelago calling at several islands. The Volcán de Timanfaya is the ship that normally covers this route, alongside others in the fleet.
History and background of the ship
The Volcán de Timanfaya (IMO 9301440) was built in 2004 at the Spanish yard Hijos de J. Barreras in Vigo as the Volcán de Tijarafe for Naviera Armas, the first of the company's ships designed expressly for the long-distance mainland–Canaries routes. In 2021 she was renamed Volcán de Timanfaya — after the Lanzarote national park, a designated Biosphere Reserve — reinforcing the volcanic, Canarian identity shared by the whole Armas fleet.
Her current route is the Atlantic sea bridge connecting the Port of Huelva with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a crossing of more than 40 hours that forms the backbone of freight transport between the mainland and the archipelago. With a hold offering 2,284 linear metres of lane space for lorries and vehicles, she is one of the largest logistical assets on the Canary corridor, essential both for keeping the islands supplied and for residents travelling on their 75% discount.
The ship's name refers to Timanfaya National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the south-west of Lanzarote. Popularly known as "Las Montañas del Fuego", the Fire Mountains, Timanfaya is one of the most extraordinary natural sites in Spain, formed by volcanic eruptions between 1730 and 1736. Its landscape of lava flows, volcanic cones and deep reds and blacks makes it one of the most visited destinations in the Canary Islands. Naviera Armas has a tradition of naming the ships in its "Volcán" series after volcanic landmarks of the archipelago.
Full technical specifications
| Ship type | Ro-pax ferry |
| Length overall | 176.10 m |
| Beam | 25.60 m |
| Depth | 6.60 m |
| Service speed | ~21 knots |
| Passenger capacity | 1,534 people |
| Rolling freight capacity | ~620 linear metres |
| Passenger decks | Several (long-haul vessel) |
| Cabins | Yes (inside and outside) |
| Propulsion | Conventional diesel |
| Shipyard | Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft (FSG), Flensburg, Germany |
| Year built | 2003 |
| IMO number | 9263928 |
| Call sign | EBIH |
| Flag | Spain |
| Operator | Naviera Armas Trasmediterránea |
Routes operated and indicative timetables
| Route | Approx. duration | Frequency* |
|---|---|---|
| Huelva → Lanzarote (Arrecife) | ~35 h | Weekly |
| Huelva → Fuerteventura (Puerto del Rosario) | ~38 h | Weekly |
| Huelva → Gran Canaria (Las Palmas) | ~40 h | Weekly |
| Huelva → Tenerife (Santa Cruz) | ~43 h | Weekly |
| Lanzarote → Fuerteventura (inter-island) | ~2 h | Depending on the call |
| Gran Canaria → Tenerife (inter-island) | ~3 h | Depending on the call |
* Indicative timetables and frequencies, subject to season, availability and fleet rotation. Confirm the exact departure time in our search engine.
The port of Huelva: the mainland gateway to the Canaries
The Port of Huelva is the only mainland Spanish port offering a scheduled sea link to all four eastern islands of the Canarian archipelago (Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Tenerife). The route is strategically vital both for Canary Islanders travelling to or returning from the mainland and for the freight industry moving goods between the two.
The Huelva–Canaries crossing is one of the longest on the whole Spanish ferry network, at more than 35 hours at sea to the nearest island (Lanzarote) and more than 43 hours to Tenerife. That is why the Volcán de Timanfaya offers cabins with proper beds, a restaurant, a café and everything else needed to make the journey comfortable. If you are travelling by car, booking well in advance is essential, especially in summer and over holiday periods.
At the port of departure in Huelva, arrive at least 2 hours beforehand if you are travelling with a vehicle, and 1 hour as a foot passenger. The port has supervised parking for anyone not taking their car on board.
Fares, discounts and how to book
Prices on the Volcán de Timanfaya vary considerably with the accommodation you choose, the season and how far ahead you book. A standard seat in mid season can start at €60–80 per crossing, while a cabin for two can exceed €200–300. Vehicle tickets are charged on top of the passenger fare.
Available discounts:
- Canary Islands resident: a 75% discount on the base passenger fare for residents registered in the Canary Islands. It is the most significant discount and applies to the passenger ticket (not the vehicle). Proof required: a Spanish ID card (DNI) plus a certificate of registration (empadronamiento) or a residence card.
- Ceuta and Melilla residents: a 50% discount for residents of these autonomous cities on certain routes.
- Large families: a discount according to the category (general or special) recognised by the ministry.
- Youth fare: a reduction for passengers under 26 in certain circumstances. Check availability when booking.
- Armas Club: the loyalty scheme run by Naviera Armas Trasmediterránea. Collect points and earn benefits on future bookings.
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 lowest price | Reclining seat |
| Looking for privacy and rest on a long crossing | Inside cabin (2 or 4 berths) |
| As a couple or family wanting comfort and natural light | Outside cabin with window |
| As a family group with small children | Family cabin (4 berths) |
| For maximum comfort, on business or on honeymoon | Deluxe cabin / suite (where available) |
| On a very tight budget | Reclining seat |
| With a pet | Cabin + pet place |
Volcán de Timanfaya · Accommodations
Reclining seat · Standard
The cheapest way to make the crossing. Reclining seats in a shared area, perfect for passengers who put price first. On a crossing of more than 35 hours, though, it is worth weighing up a cabin for a proper rest.
✓ Reclining seat with headrest
✓ Access to all the ship's public areas
✓ Access to the café and restaurant
✓ The most affordable option
Inside cabin · Berths
A cabin without a window for 2 or 4 passengers. Ideal if you need real rest on a crossing of more than 35 hours but want to keep the cost down. It comes with berths and bed linen, a private bathroom and space for luggage.
✓ 2 or 4 berths with bed linen included
✓ Private bathroom with shower
✓ Wardrobe and space for luggage
✓ Individually controlled air conditioning
✓ Access to all public areas
Outside cabin · With window
The option we would recommend for couples or families who want natural light and sea views during the crossing. It has a window or porthole, berths or beds, a private bathroom and everything the inside cabin offers.
✓ Window or porthole with sea views
✓ Berths or beds with bed linen included
✓ Private bathroom with shower
✓ Individually controlled air conditioning
✓ Natural light throughout the crossing
Family cabin · 4 berths
Designed for families with children. A cabin with 4 berths (or a mix of beds) so that the whole family travels together in one private space. It has its own bathroom and access to the ship's public areas.
✓ Room for up to 4 passengers
✓ Bed linen included
✓ Private bathroom with shower
✓ Ideal for families with children
Volcán de Timanfaya · On-board services
Restaurant and café on board
On a crossing of more than 35 hours, the food on board matters a great deal. The Volcán de Timanfaya has a restaurant with a set menu, a café serving hot and cold items and a self-service area. Meal times are set to suit the length of the voyage, with breakfast, lunch and dinner all available. If you are travelling on a tight budget, it is worth bringing a few snacks of your own rather than relying entirely on onboard prices.
Open deck and promenade areas
The Volcán de Timanfaya has an open deck where passengers can take in the views over the Atlantic during the crossing. On a voyage of several days it is especially pleasant to step outside for some fresh ocean air. The deck has seating areas for enjoying the seascape.
Passenger lounge
Travelling with pets
Accessibility — passengers with reduced mobility
The Volcán de Timanfaya has facilities adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: adapted access between decks, accessible cabins with an adapted bathroom, and reserved spaces in the public areas. Tell the operator about any special requirements when you book so that the right spaces can be assigned on board.
Practical tips for a long crossing
Travelling on the Volcán de Timanfaya means more than 35 hours of ocean sailing. These tips will help you make the most of the trip:
- Book a cabin if you can: the difference in comfort between a seat and a cabin on a crossing of more than 35 hours is enormous. Residents with the 75% discount can get a cabin for a very reasonable price.
- Bring your own entertainment: download box sets, films, podcasts or e-books before you board. Mobile data coverage can be patchy out at sea.
- Seasickness medication: the Atlantic can be rougher than the Mediterranean. If you are prone to seasickness, take something preventive before boarding.
- Toiletries in your hand luggage: even if your suitcase is in the car, keep the essentials for the voyage with you, as the car deck cannot be reached during the crossing.
- Warm clothes for the deck: the Canaries may be the destination, but out at sea, and at night in particular, it can be cold on deck. Pack an extra layer.
Frequently asked questions about the Volcán de Timanfaya
Which routes does the Volcán de Timanfaya ferry operate?
She works mainly the Huelva–Canaries route, calling at Lanzarote (Arrecife), Fuerteventura (Puerto del Rosario), Gran Canaria (Las Palmas) and Tenerife (Santa Cruz). She also makes inter-island hops between these islands as part of the line's itinerary.
How long does the Volcán de Timanfaya take from Huelva to Lanzarote?
To Lanzarote (Arrecife) the crossing takes roughly 35 hours. To Fuerteventura, around 38 hours. To Gran Canaria, around 40 hours. To Tenerife, roughly 43 hours. It is one of the longest ferry crossings in Spain.
Does the Volcán de Timanfaya carry cars?
Yes. She has room for roughly 620 linear metres of vehicles and rolling freight. Cars, motorbikes, vans and motorhomes can all be carried. Book the vehicle space well ahead, especially in summer and over holiday periods.
What accommodation does the Volcán de Timanfaya offer?
A reclining seat (the cheapest), an inside cabin (no window, 2 or 4 berths with a private bathroom), an outside cabin (with a window or porthole and sea views) and a family cabin (for up to 4 people). On crossings of more than 35 hours we strongly recommend booking a cabin.
Is there a Canary Islands resident discount?
Yes. Residents registered in the Canary Islands are entitled to a 75% discount on the base passenger fare, subsidised by the Spanish state. Proof is a Spanish ID card (DNI) plus a certificate of registration (empadronamiento) or a residence card. The discount applies to the passenger ticket, not the vehicle.
Are pets allowed on the Volcán de Timanfaya?
Yes. Pets travel in the designated animal area or in the vehicle on the car deck, in line with the rules. You must carry an up-to-date vaccination record and an identification chip. Book the pet place when you buy your ticket.
Is she accessible to passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. The ship has adapted access, accessible cabins with an adapted bathroom and reserved spaces in the public areas. Mention any special requirements when you book so that the right spaces can be assigned.
Is there a restaurant on board?
Yes. Since the crossing lasts more than 35 hours, the Volcán de Timanfaya has a restaurant with a menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a café serving drinks and snacks throughout the voyage.
How early should I get to the port?
With a vehicle: at least 2 hours beforehand at the Port of Huelva. As a foot passenger: 1 hour. In high season (summer, Christmas, Easter) allow extra time. The same applies at the Canarian ports for the return sailing.
How much does it cost to travel on the Volcán de Timanfaya?
Indicative prices start at €60–80 for a seat in mid season. An inside cabin for two is around €150–250. Canary Islands residents pay 75% less on the base fare. Compare real-time prices here.
Does the ferry sail direct from Huelva or does she call en route?
The ferry leaves Huelva and makes several calls in the Canaries: usually Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Tenerife. The order of the calls and the exact itinerary can vary with the service. Check the detailed itinerary when you book at iloveferry.com.
Can I get to my vehicle during the crossing?
No. Once the vehicle is on the car deck, it cannot be reached while the ship is under way. Keep with you everything you will need for the journey: medicines, toiletries, documents, entertainment and warm clothing.
Why is she called Volcán de Timanfaya?
The name refers to Timanfaya National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the south-west of Lanzarote. Known as "Las Montañas del Fuego", the Fire Mountains, it is one of the most extraordinary natural sites in Spain. Naviera Armas has a tradition of naming the ships in its "Volcán" series after volcanic landmarks of the Canarian archipelago.
