From Schengen Days to Atlantic Crossings: Our Unexpected Adventure in Lanzarote

James Warden
Apr 15
3 min read

Our trip to Lanzarote was meant to be a quick stop, just a few days to rest and make minor repairs. Instead, it turned into an unexpected adventure that taught us valuable lessons about cruising, patience, and the unpredictable nature of life at sea.

Navigating Schengen Days and Customs Challenges

We arrived in Lanzarote with only one or two Schengen days left on our passports. Knowing the strict rules about how long you can stay in the Schengen Area, we immediately visited the customs agents to clarify our situation. They explained that under maritime law, we could stay longer if it was for emergency repairs, food, fuel, or weather-related reasons. They returned our passports and warned that if we officially checked in, they would be required to deport us.

The customs agents gave us clear instructions: no bar fights and check out 24 hours before departure. At the time, none of us realized that our stay would stretch to nearly 30 days. When we finally checked out, the customs agent gave us a funny look, shook his head, and stamped our passports with a knowing smile.

Eye-level view of marina Rubicon with moored sailboats and clear blue sky — Marina Rubicon, a hub for sailing repairs and cruising life

Marina Rubicon and Efficient Repairs

Marina Rubicon quickly became our home base. Known as the warranty center for Privilege catamarans, the boatyard there impressed us with its professionalism and efficiency. Our Sea Warden Privilege 510 needed repairs, and the team worked diligently to get everything fixed as soon as possible.

The boatyard’s skilled technicians handled the repairs with care, making sure every detail was addressed. Their expertise gave us confidence that our vessel was in good hands. The only challenge was the difficulty in sourcing parts. Lanzarote’s customs system can be complex, and getting parts shipped to the island took longer than expected.

This experience taught us a crucial lesson: when cruising, you don’t have a fixed schedule. You either wait for parts or wait for the weather, and both always take priority over any plans you make.

Exploring Lanzarote’s Unique Charm

While waiting, we took time to explore Lanzarote’s beautiful tourist spots. The island’s architecture stands out with its whitewashed buildings and volcanic stone accents, preserving its unique character. We visited several local attractions, enjoying the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Lanzarote offers plenty to see, from volcanic landscapes to charming villages. The island’s relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere made our extended stay more enjoyable than we expected.

Wide angle view of whitewashed buildings with volcanic stone accents in Lanzarote village — Traditional Lanzarote architecture blending with volcanic landscape

Cost of Living and Local Delights

One pleasant surprise was the cost of living. A shopping cart full of groceries cost us around 200 euros, and renting a car was about 225 euros per week, including insurance. This made it easy to explore the island and stock up on essentials without breaking the bank.

We also indulged in one of Lanzarote’s culinary treasures: Iberian ham. We purchased a whole leg to enjoy onboard, savoring its rich flavor during our stay.

Close-up view of a cured Iberian ham leg hanging in a traditional market — Iberian ham, a prized delicacy purchased in Lanzarote

Crew Changes and New Friendships

During our extended stay, we had to manage crew changes. Eric and Marine needed to leave, and our new crew members, Jose and Roa, joined us. Adjusting to new team dynamics while managing repairs and planning the next leg of our journey was a challenge, but it also brought fresh energy and perspectives.

We also met a special couple from Germany. Our stories were strikingly similar—both driven by work-life events that led us to buy sailboats and embrace long-term cruising. Sharing moments with them reminded us of the strong bonds formed through this lifestyle.

Repairs Complete and Ready to Sail

Finally, the parts arrived, and the Selden Furler was repaired. With our boat fully ready, we prepared to leave Lanzarote and set our sights on crossing the Atlantic. Though our stay was far longer than planned, it gave us time to reflect, connect, and prepare for the next adventure.

Our time in Lanzarote was a reminder that cruising life is unpredictable. Plans change, delays happen, but every moment offers something valuable—whether it’s a new friendship, a lesson learned, or a beautiful sunset over the marina.

We left Lanzarote ready for the ocean ahead, with stories to tell and a journey still unfolding.