The Buenavista Express vessel, connecting Huelva with the Canary Islands, has surpassed 9,000 passengers in June and July, an 11% increase compared to 2025, thanks to its recent renovation with leisure and dining areas.
The Buenavista Express ferry, which links the port of Huelva with Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, has recorded historic passenger growth during June and July, coinciding with the completion of the ship's modernisation works. According to data provided by the shipping company Fred. Olsen Express, over 9,000 travellers chose this maritime route during that period, representing an increase of nearly 11% compared to the same period in 2025. In absolute terms, this means almost 600 additional passengers, a figure that the company describes as a record for the start of the summer season.
The Buenavista Express, measuring 172 metres in length and capable of sailing at 21.5 knots, has undergone a comprehensive update of its common areas. The dining areas, rest zones, and entertainment spaces have been redesigned to offer travellers an experience akin to a mini-cruise. Onboard, passengers have access to a swimming pool, sun deck, arcade room, sports bar, calisthenics area, and a coworking space, as well as high-speed wifi. The activity offerings include choreography and dance workshops, body balance sessions, aquagym, family zumba, and stretching, as well as treasure hunts and water games for the little ones, both in the morning and afternoon.
Juan Ignacio Liaño, Fleet Director of Fred. Olsen Express, explained that "this proposal, combined with the advantages of maritime transport such as travelling with one's own vehicle, without baggage restrictions, and with more comfort for families, pets, and those transporting larger volumes of belongings, has contributed to this route recording a record number of users this year." Liaño also highlighted the coordinated work with port authorities to enhance the passenger experience at the Port of Huelva, aiming for "the Fred. Olsen Express experience to begin upon arrival at the port."
The journey between Huelva and the Canary Islands takes approximately 33 hours. During the crossing, travellers can choose from ergonomic seats, premium bunk rooms, exterior quadruple cabins, premium doubles, adapted cabins, and rooms for those travelling with pets, including Pet Rooms with ventilation, televisions, and food preparation areas. The dining offerings have also been strengthened with local and zero-kilometre products, a result of the company's commitment to the Canary primary sector and its partnerships with Gestión del Medio Rural de Canarias (GMR) and other entities.
The shipping company provides passengers with a free assistance and wheelchair service to facilitate the boarding and disembarking of people with reduced mobility, ensuring an accessible and inclusive experience. This comprehensive approach has been key to attracting a diverse profile of travellers, from large families to professionals who take advantage of the coworking area to work remotely during the crossing.
For residents of Huelva, the route to the Canary Islands is consolidating as an alternative to flying, especially for those wishing to transport their own vehicle or a larger volume of luggage without the restrictions of airlines. The Port of Huelva has also seen an increase in passenger movement, positively impacting local economic activity. The company expects to maintain occupancy figures throughout the rest of the summer, with particularly high demand in August and September.
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