Cape Verde Cruises
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Escape to Cape Verde
Cape Verde is a beautiful island nation in Northern Africa, made up of 10 tranquil islands – each with its own distinct charms and offerings! Idyllically set in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, this slice of paradise is perfect for sun-seekers and water sports adventurers alike – where pristine beaches and sunshine are as endless as the blue ocean! Beyond its turquoise waters and sweeping stretch of golden sands, the stunning island chain boasts breath-taking natural landscapes and an intriguing culture and history.
Whether you’re a beach enthusiast, nature lover, culture seeker, history buff – or simply looking to unwind and relax, Cape Verde has something for everyone! Cruise to Cape Verde and discover the unique beauty of each island.
Best Cape Verde Islands
Cape Verde is home to 10 major islands and a myriad of islets. Each island has an individual character and unique beauty, so there’s always something for every traveller. So, what island is perfect for you?
Santiago – largest and home to the capital
Santiago is Cape Verde’s largest and densely populated island, naturally making it the liveliest and richest in culture and history. The vast island is a place of contrasts – where colonial heritage and modern buildings meet, where sun-drenched beaches and rugged mountains make the postcard-perfect picture! It’s home to Praia, the quaint capital of Cape Verde – complete with an old town centre overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and historical buildings featuring transom windows! A short ride away from the capital lies the old capital Cidade Velha – the first colonial city built by the Europeans in the tropics and is now the country’s sole UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sal – best for lava pools and salt lakes
Sal is arguably the most popular island in Cape Verde, drawing millions of holidaymakers from around the world per year. Its name translates to ‘salt’ in Portuguese, mainly for the abundance of the mineral on the island. Pedra de Lume, set on its east coast, is the site of the former salt mine in the crater of an extinct volcano. Here, you stay afloat like on the Dead Sea due to the high salinity of the salt pans. Watch baby turtles hatch on Ponta Preta Beach or take a dip in the beautiful turquoise Buracona natural lava pool. Santa Maria is Sal’s tourist epicentre, dotted with pastel-coloured buildings, alfresco restaurants and live-music bars.
São Vicente – rich in cultural heritage
Dubbed the cultural hub of Cape Verde, São Vicente is known for its vibrant music scene and colonial architecture. The awe-inspiring island is home of the world’s most renowned thinkers, writers and musicians, including the Grammy award recipient Cesária Évora and the ‘King of Morna’ Bana. Porto Grande is the gateway to São Vicente – a deep and naturally occurring harbour formed as a result of volcanic activity. Mindelo is the island’s capital, where over 90% of the island’s inhabitants live. The capital’s historic quarter is characterised by old colonial houses and commemorative monuments.
Boa Vista – best for natural landscapes
Nature lovers will be captivated by Boas Vista’s breath-taking desert landscapes. Viana Desert is one of the most sought-after attractions in the island, with high-tack sand dunes perfect for witnessing the full moon and the blanket of stars stretching across the night skies! The island also abounds with world-class beaches; Praia de Chaves is a premier surfing spot, famed for having some of the world’s best waves, whilst Santa Monica Beach offers a long stretch of white-sand for lazing under the sun. Get a chance to see loggerhead turtles nesting on the island’s shores too! Sal Rei is the island’s main urban settlement, complete with all the services from resorts to restaurants.
Cape Verde Cruises FAQs
Which cruise line goes to Cape Verde?
Several cruise lines offer cruise itineraries that include ports in Cape Verde, such as Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, P&O Cruises and more! Cruises to Cape Verde with NCL are often tied up with Brazil, Canary Islands and/or South Africa.
When is the best time for a Cape Verde holiday?
Cape Verde is a year-round destination, thanks to its mild weather and plenty of things to enjoy regardless of the season. The best time for a Cape Verde holiday depends on the activities and experiences you’re seeking for. Ideally, the months of December to March are the high time for dry weather, when the skies are sunny and clear. For turtle viewing, keep in mind that turtles nest between July and October, whilst the peak spawning month is August. And if you’re after the vibrant carnivals and festivals, time your visit between January and March.
What is the best money to use in Cape Verde?
The official currency of Cape Verde is the Cape Verdean Escudo. Generally, euros and card payments are widely accepted, especially in tourist-concentrated islands like Sal, São Vicente and Santiago. There are also ATMs in major cities, but it can sometimes run out of cash, so it’s best to be ready to have cash before you explore around. Whilst you can use cards in most high-end hotels and restaurants, cash is king in small shops and local markets.
What are the best things to do in Cape Verde?
Cape Verde has plenty to offer, from beautiful beaches and salt lakes to scenic trails and volcanic landscapes! Whether you’re a beach enthusiast, nature lover, culture seeker, history buff – or simply looking to unwind and relax, the island nation has something for everyone! Set in Santiago, the UNESCO-listed ancient capital Cidade Velha is worth exploring for culture vultures and history buffs. You can also go sandboarding or stargazing in Boa Vista. Or why check out the striking Governor’s Palace and have a go at kite-surfing in Porto Grande?
What language is spoken in Cape Verde?
Portuguese is the official language in Cape Verde, whilst the local language is Cape Verde Creole based on Portuguese. In major tourist areas like Sal and Boa Vista, English is widely used and spoken. Still, it’ll be helpful to learn a few local phrases and sentences to gain a richer understanding of the island country – plus it’s all part of the memorable experience!
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