La Gomera from Tenerife: Ferries, Day Trip Plan and What to See
Updated 29 October 2026 · DoTenerife
The ferry from Los Cristianos in south Tenerife to San Sebastián de La Gomera takes about 50 minutes, with Fred. Olsen Express and Baleària running several crossings a day between them. Adult foot-passenger fares are typically around €40–€50 each way. Take an early boat and a late return and La Gomera makes an excellent day trip; to explore properly, stay a night or two.
Ferries from Tenerife to La Gomera
| Fred. Olsen Express | Baleària | |
|---|---|---|
| Route | Los Cristianos – San Sebastián | Los Cristianos – San Sebastián |
| Crossing time | about 50 min | about 50 min |
| Sailings | up to around 4–5 a day | up to around 4 a day |
| Vehicles | Yes | Yes |
Combined, there are up to around nine crossings a day on busier days. Timetables change with the season and day of the week, so check the operators’ websites. Some sailings also continue to Valle Gran Rey or Playa Santiago on La Gomera, or to La Palma and El Hierro.
Fares
- Foot passenger, adult one-way: typically around €40–€50.
- Car plus driver: considerably more; compare return and family fares.
- Discounts: Canary Islands residents get large reductions; operators also offer discounts for over-60s, young people and families on some fares.
Book online in advance for weekends, public holidays and in winter high season. Arrive at the port at least 30–45 minutes before departure; earlier if you’re taking a car.
Getting to Los Cristianos port
The port is at the western end of Los Cristianos, a short walk from the town centre and Playa de los Cristianos. There’s paid parking near the terminal. Fred. Olsen has long run a free connecting bus between Santa Cruz and Los Cristianos for ferry passengers; reserve a seat when you book. See the Los Cristianos area page.
Hire car or tour?
- Hire car from Tenerife: check your rental contract first. Many companies forbid inter-island travel or charge extra, and insurance may not cover you.
- Hire car on La Gomera: several companies operate near San Sebastián port; book ahead.
- Organised day tour: coach tours from the south of Tenerife include the ferry, a guide and lunch. The easiest option if you don’t want to drive La Gomera’s steep, winding roads.
- Public buses: La Gomera’s bus network (Guagua Gomera) is limited and timetables don’t always suit a day trip.
What to see on La Gomera
Garajonay National Park
The heart of the island: a UNESCO World Heritage laurel forest, often wrapped in mist, with walking trails of every length. Alto de Garajonay, the island’s highest point at about 1,487 m, has views of Teide on clear days.
Valle Gran Rey
A deep valley of terraces and palms that ends at black-sand beaches. A favourite with long-stay visitors and walkers.
Hermigua and Agulo
Green northern valleys with banana plantations and steep cliffs. Agulo is one of the island’s prettiest villages. The glass-floored Mirador de Abrante, above Agulo, overhangs a sheer drop.
San Sebastián de La Gomera
The capital and port, linked with Columbus, who stopped here before sailing to the Americas in 1492. The Torre del Conde and the old church are worth a short wander.
Silbo Gomero
La Gomera’s whistled language, recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, is taught in local schools. Some restaurants and tours include demonstrations.
A one-day itinerary
- Early ferry from Los Cristianos (around 9am or earlier).
- Drive up to Garajonay (around 40 minutes) for a short forest walk, such as around Laguna Grande.
- Lunch in Valle Gran Rey or a mountain restaurant. Try almogrote (a cheese spread) and palm honey.
- Viewpoints on the way back: Mirador de Abrante or the Roque de Agando rock tower.
- Late-afternoon ferry back to Tenerife.
Tips
- Seasickness: the channel can be choppy. Sit low and central if you’re prone to it.
- Whales: the Tenerife–La Gomera channel is home to resident pilot whales and dolphins, and you may spot them from the ferry. Our whale-watching guide explains more.
- Weather: Garajonay is often cooler and damper than the coast. Bring a layer.
- Roads: steep and twisting; allow more time than the distance suggests.
- Cash: carry some for small cafés in rural villages.
Back in Los Cristianos for the evening? Check what’s on tonight for live music and shows near the harbour, or see more day trips from Tenerife.
On tonight
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Tenerife to La Gomera?
About 50 minutes from Los Cristianos to San Sebastián de La Gomera on the fast ferries.
Which ferry companies go from Tenerife to La Gomera?
Fred. Olsen Express and Baleària both run the Los Cristianos to San Sebastián de La Gomera route, with several sailings a day between them.
How much is the ferry to La Gomera?
Adult one-way foot passenger fares are typically around €40 to €50 depending on the operator, date and fare type. Taking a car costs considerably more, and Canary Islands residents get large discounts.
Can you do La Gomera as a day trip from Tenerife?
Yes. Take an early ferry from Los Cristianos and a late-afternoon return. With a car or an organised tour you can see Garajonay National Park, a viewpoint or two and one of the valleys.
Can I take a Tenerife hire car to La Gomera?
Only if your rental company allows it in writing; many restrict or charge for inter-island ferry travel. Hiring a car on La Gomera itself is a common alternative.