A port of call visit to Fuerteventura lives up to its translation of “What a great adventure”.
Puerto de Rosario is its main port in the northwest of Fuerteventura, the second largest of Spain’s Canary Islands and the closest one to the coast of Africa. Originally named Puerto del Cabras (port of the goats) until 1956, Puerto de Rosario is now a major port and much more developed than in the past.
The town centre is situated close to Puerto de Rosario, so the main points of interest are within easy walking distance. The town has some attractions to offer, the most popular ones being the Unamuno House-Museum which is the former home of famous Spanish poet Miguel de Unamuno.
However, taking a day trip out to see the other wonders of Fuerteventura is highly recommended whether going on your own or on a cruise ship excursion.
Fuerteventura is most popular for its beaches created from the island’s spectacular volcanic origins. It is an island where you will find wide and varied beaches with none ever alike.
Beaches can be either fine white or dark volcanic sand with some offering calm waters, whilst others have waves that will delight any surfer. Various other water related activities include snorkelling, catamaran and banana boat rides are also available.
Cofete is a wild and rocky beach. Travel through corkscrew roads and rocky terrain through the west coast for a fabulous experience. The main attraction is not the beach but the loggerhead turtle hatchery which features beautiful sea turtles in their natural habitat. Another big draw here is the enormous and ancient lighthouse located on Punta de Jandia.
Go on a quad safari for an exploration to such areas as the sand dunes of the Jable Desert or into the crater of one of six volcanoes. These are enormous dunes made up of fine white sand and make for a perfect photo opportunity, especially if you get a chance to scale one of the dunes.
The dunes are easily accessible and can be found in a beautiful nature park. There are also long sandy beaches here that rarely get crowds and the shallow water is perfect for families that want to cool off.
Tindaya is an ancient mystery in the North of the island. At the base of the mountain, there are foot carvings made by the Majoreros over a thousand years ago. You might need a special permit to visit but don’t worry, your cruise line can arrange it with the Environmental Agency in Puerto Rosario.
Located in the small village of La Olive is the Casa de los Coroneles. This enormous 17th century manor was once used as a militia headquarters. Today, the first floor is the best place to see a wide variety of paintings and photographs that originate from Fuerteventura.
Your cruise ship’s tour desk should offer at least some of these experiences so check with them before you begin choosing which activity you want to do. Doing your own thing is easy too, as other parts of the island can be reached via local buses from Puerto del Rosario.
November to late Spring tends to be the season that cruise lines choose Fuerteventura as a port of call. For 2015/2016 the following cruise lines are calling at Puerto del Rosario: Fred Olsen, Holland America, MSC, Norwegian Cruise Lines and P&O.
Fuerteventura’s a delightful discovery that will have passengers wanting to go back once again. It is its beaches, its points of interest, fine weather and varied terrain of mountains and sea that makes Fuerteventura a very enjoyable port of call.
Written by Veronica Shine
