Since before the days of Christopher Columbus, Gran Canaria has been a hub for boats as they cross the Atlantic. A place to take on fresh food, change crew, mend sails and prepare for the three thousand miles ahead.The tradition continues for ARC yachts, and the marine trades of Gran Canaria are well-equipped to help.
In Las Palmas, Rolnautic Varadero has just opened a new boatyard in the commercial port, so as well as the 65t boat hoist in the marina, they now have two much larger hoists - 150 and 850t. This means the largest ARC monohulls and catamarans can now be lifted ashore for a hull clean or repair work. These are the largest boat hoists available in Gran Canaria.
Other boatyards for haul-out work outside of Las Palmas include Pasito Blanco, Marina Puerto Rico, Arguineguin Cofradia and Puerto de Mogan all of which have 65-70t boat hoists.
Rolnautic is a familar name with anyone who visits Las Palmas marina - the well-stocked chandlery is the place to buy everything from hose to liferafts. There are other marine suppliers in the marina - Alisios and AD Nautic both have a range of supplies, and Maremare is the place for charts and pilot books as well as sailing clothes.
Alisios is another well-known name - their rigging and sail services are always in demand. As well as conducting rig checks, the team can replace standing and running rigging and provide a sail making and repair service.
There are also electrical and mechanical engineers based in the marina, and more providing mobile services Las Palmas also has excellent ferreteria or hardware shops, which are a great place to buy tools and items like hose for emergency pumps. Leroy Merlin and Anidia (ex-King Hogar) have a great selection - but you'll need a taxi or rental car to get there.
Don't forget to check the Local Information section of the Rally Handbook (also available in the Members Area of the website) for contact details and opening hours, or come and ask in the ARC Shop.