Lounge Catamaran SODADE Half-Day

If you’re heading to Cape Verde’s island of Sal, a half-day catamaran cruise like the Lounge Catamaran SODADE is often recommended for those seeking a relaxed, fun-filled ocean escape. While we haven’t personally sailed with them, reviews and detailed descriptions point to a memorable trip packed with sunshine, good vibes, and plenty of opportunities to soak up the scenery.

What we love about this experience? First, the friendly crew seems to make everyone feel at home. Second, the unlimited drinks — including beer, wine, and soft drinks — elevate the mood without breaking the bank. Lastly, the chance to see marine life like turtles and whales in their natural habitat adds a special layer of authenticity. One potential consideration? The weather plays a role; windy days might limit swimming or snorkeling activities.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a social, scenic, and easy-going day on the water that doesn’t demand advanced planning or athletic prowess. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups who want a mix of sightseeing, relaxing, and fun, all wrapped into a manageable four-hour outing.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Drinks: Enjoy unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks that keep the atmosphere lively.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, whales, and other marine creatures.
• Beautiful Stops: Visits to Palmeira, Murdeira, and scenic views of Serra Negra.
• Comfort & Convenience: Round-trip hotel transfers and mobile tickets make planning straightforward.
• Weather-Dependent Activities: Swimming and snorkeling depend on ocean conditions.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 60 participants ensuring a personal feel.

An In-Depth Look at the SODADE Half-Day Catamaran Experience

What’s Included and How It Works

This excursion is priced at around $72 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the inclusivity of drinks and transportation. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it ideal for those who want a taste of the sea without a full-day commitment.

Pickup from your Santa Maria hotel is included, which removes the hassle of arranging transport. The mobile ticketing process means you can simply show your reservation on your device — no fuss, no fuss.

As the tour begins at 1:00 pm, it’s perfectly timed for a leisurely afternoon, catching the warm Cape Verde sun while sailing along the coast.

The Route and Stops

Stop 1: Port of Palmeira
The journey kicks off in Palmeira, a vibrant fishing village famed for its colorful houses and lively port. From here, you’ll set sail on the spacious SODADE catamaran, often described as comfortable and well-equipped. Reviewers mention the ship’s stable platform, making it easy to relax on lounge beds, sofas, or even the nets hanging from the sides.

Stop 2: Murdeira Bay
Next, you’ll head to Murdeira — a calm bay where, during summer, sea turtles gather to mate. The stop here is timed for about an hour, giving you a chance to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenery. The bay is protected by the coast and mountain, creating a peaceful environment for marine life and visitors alike. Reviewers highlight the peacefulness and natural beauty of this spot, often calling it a highlight of the trip.

Optional Scenic View of Serra Negra
On the way back to Palmeira, you’ll pass by Serra Negra, a mountain with a lunar-like landscape. Several travelers admired this view, with some noting the stark contrast between the volcanic terrain and the lush coastlines, making it a perfect photo op.

What You Can Expect

Comfort and Atmosphere
Many guests comment on the crew’s friendly, lively attitude, with some noting they even danced along to music while sailing back. The boat is described as stable, even in choppy seas, allowing for dancing, socializing, or simply soaking up the sun.

Wildlife & Marine Life
While not a dedicated snorkeling tour, some travelers appreciated the chance to observe marine creatures. Reviewers mention that the water clarity wasn’t always ideal for snorkeling, especially if the sea is too rough, but it’s an added bonus if conditions permit.

Food & Drinks
The onboard buffet of sandwiches, pizza, crisps, and other snacks is simple but satisfying, complemented by unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks. Reviewers rave about the good quality of drinks and the cheerful atmosphere they create. One guest even shared that everyone was dancing and singing, turning the sail into a party.

The Experience According to Reviewers

Positive vibes seem to be the norm. Guests like Krzysztof, who said, “The crew was very friendly, the drinks were good, and the ride was enjoyable,” indicating the importance of a welcoming atmosphere. Elaine described it as “a great time with good food and drinks flowing. Everyone was up dancing,” emphasizing the social and festive spirit.

Many mention the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. Rony, Lucy, and others are singled out for making the experience special, often going above and beyond to entertain and keep everyone safe.

Weather can be a wild card. Some reviews note windy days made swimming less appealing, but that didn’t seem to dampen spirits. The crew is praised for their ability to adapt, turning the trip into a memorable adventure regardless.

Snorkeling isn’t the main feature, and some guests found the experience disappointing due to anchoring too far from the shore or adverse conditions. It’s vital to remember that snorkeling is more of an added bonus rather than a core activity.

Practical Insights: Value, Comfort, and Experience

Pricing at around $72 for a half-day trip, with all drinks included, offers excellent value — especially considering the premium of unlimited beverages and hotel transfers. The social atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and friendly guides make this a worthwhile expense for most travelers.

Transport is seamless, with round-trip pickups from Santa Maria hotels. This convenience cuts out planning hassles and ensures you start your adventure relaxed and on time.

Group Size — with a maximum of 60 travelers — strikes a balance between a lively atmosphere and personal attention. Many reviews mention the crew’s effort to make everyone feel at home, which is crucial when in a shared setting.

Timing and weather conditions are key. While the trip is scheduled for the early afternoon, wind and ocean conditions can influence the experience, especially the swimming and snorkeling portion.

Flexibility and Cancellations
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if weather or other plans change. It’s reassuring to see the tour adapts to the Cape Verde climate, with options for alternative dates or full refunds.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed, fun-filled day at sea. If you love the idea of sailing, socializing, and enjoying unlimited drinks in a beautiful setting, this tour fits the bill. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy wildlife spotting and scenic views but aren’t necessarily looking for an intense snorkeling or diving experience.

Travelers who appreciate friendly crews and a lively atmosphere will find this trip particularly enjoyable. On the flip side, if your main goal is serious snorkeling or underwater photography, you might want to look at other options, since this isn’t marketed primarily as a snorkelling tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your Santa Maria hotel are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. The tour provides masks for snorkeling, but you may want your own if you prefer.

Can I participate if I don’t want to swim or snorkel?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention just relaxing on the boat, enjoying the views, and soaking up the sun. The crew ensures everyone stays entertained.

What’s the best time of day to go?
The tour starts at 1:00 pm, ideal for catching the afternoon sun and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere on the water.

How many people typically join this cruise?
The maximum number is 60 travelers, which tends to create a lively but not overcrowded environment.

Is snorkeling a key part of this experience?
Not exactly. While masks are provided, snorkeling is dependent on weather and sea conditions and isn’t the main focus of the trip.

Final Thoughts

A half-day catamaran cruise like the Lounge SODADE offers a fantastic way to enjoy the natural beauty and lively spirit of Santa Maria. Featuring friendly guides, scenic stops, and unlimited drinks, it caters well to those seeking a relaxed yet vibrant ocean adventure. The highlights—wildlife encounters, stunning vistas, and a fun crew—are what make this trip stand out.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a taste of Cape Verde’s maritime charm without committing to a full-day or more strenuous activity. The social atmosphere, along with the well-organized logistics, makes it a dependable choice for many visitors.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to unwind in paradise, this cruise promises a memorable day on the Atlantic with plenty of opportunities to make new friends and enjoy Cape Verde’s warm waters.

In sum, if you’re after a lively, scenic, and all-inclusive experience on the water, the Lounge Catamaran SODADE provides a genuine taste of Cape Verde’s maritime magic — perfect for a laid-back yet lively getaway.