Santa Cruz Tenerife Cruise Port Information

We visited Santa Cruz in Tenerife on our recent cruise to the Canary Islands. This post contains some useful information to make the most of your day in Santa Cruz.

Where is Santa Cruz, in Tenerife?

Santa Cruz is the capital and largest city of Tenerife and is located in the north-eastern corner of the Canary islands.

Sailing into Santa Cruz, Tenerife

Santa Cruz Tenerife Cruise Port Information

The dramatic mountainous landscape makes for a really picturesques sail in. We were sailing in when the Captain did a full 360 and actually reversed in. Even after many cruises we are still amazed at the precision that these huge vessels are able to maneuver.

Where does the cruise ship actually dock in Santa Cruz?

The cruise ships dock in a u shaped harbour, and the day we were docked in Santa Cruz there were 3 other ships in port. The Artania, MSC Musica and the Oceania Sirena. Our ship the Independence of the Seas was docked right near the entrance to the harbour, but the furthest from the port gates. There was a free shuttle bus into town however we decided to walk, it was a very hot 20 minute walk until we reached the port gates. In hindsight we should of taken the free shuttle and would advise you to do the same!

Out and about in Santa Cruz

The port gates are right in the centre of town and outside these gates is a wide and beautiful promenade called the Avenida Maritima. This avenue leads on to many streets with plenty of shopping opportunities, bars and cafes. Our first impressions were good, Santa Cruz had a lovely spanish vibe.

We found a great cafe bar called Plaza 18, on Calle San Francisco. We enjoyed a Dorada Beer and White Wine for under a fiver (6 euros), and the free wifi was also a bonus! It really didn’t feel like you where in a big city it felt very quaint. There are so many places to eat and drink in Santa Cruz, you really are spoilt for choice.

Walking further into town we came across the Plaza del Principe de Asturias a lovely oasis of green amongst the buildings. Plenty of places to sit in the shade and watch the world go by, we really enjoyed our chilled out time here.

Those that know us know that we love crisps (they are partly responsible for our cuddly appearances and Carole’s nickname at school being spud!) There are plenty of convenience stores dotted around Santa Cruz and were so excited to spot a pack of Lays Salt and Vinegar! As if we hadn’t eaten enough on the cruise we couldn’t resist a pack and savoured every bite!

Plaza de Espana

Just opposite the crisp shop we found the Plaza de Espana, the largest square in Santa Cruz. It was another oasis in the middle of the city consisting of a large paddling pool and areas with plenty of seating. There are fountains here but unfortunately they were not on during our visit, it was lovely seeing the families enjoying the water though. A selection of interesting buildings surrounded the pool with their walls covered with plants. We enjoyed our time sitting here in sunshine. This is very close to the port and walking back to the port entrance only took 5 minutes.

We reached the port and sensibly decided to get the shuttle bus back. The shuttle buses were easily sign posted and did include some steps, however there is a lift should you have any mobility issues. The shuttle bus took us straight back to the ship and was a much better option than our hot walk in!

Since our visit we have found out that there is also a lovely beach called Playa de Las Teresitas only 20 minutes away by car from Santa Cruz. So if you fancy some beach time, this is within easy reach. Do remember to be back within plenty of time though as it is every cruisers nightmare to see the back of the ship leaving port!

We really enjoyed our day out in Santa Cruz, it is a great port of call and an area that we would love to explore in more depth.

The Canary Islands are a great choice for a land based holiday too, so browse and book your holiday with TUI here!

Further reading –

Check out our cruising page for other cruise ship and our cruise port information page to help plan your trip!

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