This once made them the perfect launching pad for naval expeditions to the New World and a vital conduit for trade between Europe, Africa and The Americas.Christopher Columbus embarked upon his famous voyage of discovery from the Canaries. Admiral Nelson lost his arm at the Battle of Tenerife in 1797. And during the Second World War Winston Churchill, fearing the fall of Gibraltar, even prepared plans for the British invasion of the islands.Today, the Canaries provide a base for the more sedate pursuits of sports sailing and marine excursions. Lanzarote alone boasts four harbours and two new marinas.So there is no shortage of alternatives for those who want to sample the seas around the island.Boat trips are easy to arrange too. Most hotel and apartment receptions offer a very wide choice and will be more than happy make a booking for you. Not least as they earn commission on each trip sold. Most excursion operators will also pick passengers up and drop them back at their accommodation, making for a hassle free day out.Alternatively, float along to any of the following locations and organize your own slice of life on the ocean wave.