Achipencos, Fuerteventura

The Achipencos is a traditional part of the celebrations during carnival time in the capital of Fuerteventura, Puerto del Rosario. The locals turn out in force to see the valiant, and not so valiant, attempts to travel from the port area to a small beach just south of the port.

The vessels are each individually designed around a their own particular theme, and are powered by the efforts of the crew, with a little help, or hinderance from the wind.

The event is usually held on the first Sunday of Carnival Week, and the main road road alongside the port area is closed to traffic to make it safe for the thousands who turn out to watch. If there is inclement weather then it´s switched to the following Tuesday (Carnival Tuesday in Puerto and a local public holiday) or to the following Sunday.

The photographs that follow tell their own story. If you find yourself on the Island when this event is on, it makes for a fun day out.

achipencos