In 2024, Fred. Olsen Express is celebrating its milestone 50th anniversary, marking five decades as a pivotal maritime transport service for the Canary Islands. Annually, over a million travelers choose Fred. Olsen Express for their sea journeys, especially during the peak summer season, when the number of passengers typically rises to around 1.1 million.
This year’s summer campaign, named “Un Verano por Navegar” (“A Summer to Sail”), runs from June 21 to September 23. It features enhanced services across all routes to accommodate the expected seasonal increase in travelers. The islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria remain the premier destinations for those seeking a mix of leisure and cultural experiences, whereas Fuerteventura, La Gomera, and La Palma are popular among those looking for a tranquil holiday retreat.
Juan Ignacio Liaño, the Fleet Director of Fred. Olsen Express, highlights the company’s dedication to maximizing the convenience and flexibility of their services during the summer months. He points out that the company goes beyond just transportation by enabling travelers to bring their vehicles and travel without baggage restrictions, integrating the journey as an integral part of the holiday experience.
THE SHIPPING COMPANY’S FIRST VOYAGE WAS IN THE SUMMER OF 1974
Fred. Olsen Express embarked on its inaugural voyage on July 8, 1974, with the launch of the Ferry Gomera, which began regular maritime connections between the Canary Islands. The first vessel, named Benchijigua, had the capacity to transport 399 passengers and 60 vehicles and made three daily trips that lasted 80 minutes each.
The popularity of this service was evident from the start, as it transported over 100,000 passengers in just the first six months, supported by a complementary bus service linking Los Cristianos with the capital of Tenerife.
Since its inception, Fred. Olsen Express has consistently improved and expanded its services each summer, providing a reliable, comfortable, and swift connection across the archipelago with a strong focus on sustainable practices. This commitment has been integral to the holiday experiences of countless island residents and visitors over the years.
FRED. OLSEN EXPRESS: A BRIDGE BETWEEN THE CANARY ISLANDS AND THE MAINLAND
Additionally, this summer, Fred. Olsen Express is set to increase the frequency of its route between the Canary Islands and Huelva from July 1 to September 30, enhancing the schedule from three to four trips per week in each direction. This expansion effectively doubles the number of sailings compared to last summer.
The route is operated by two ships: the Sicilia, which can accommodate 1,000 passengers and 400 vehicles, and the Marie Curie, capable of carrying more than 800 passengers and 600 vehicles.
As Fred. Olsen Express commemorates 50 summers of connecting the Canary Islands, it continues to serve as an essential link in the region, enabling memorable and convenient sea travels for half a century.
