Sal Island: Catamaran cruises on Sal Island

Imagine gliding along the calm waters of Cape Verde’s Sal Island aboard a sleek catamaran, with the sun warming your face and the breeze in your hair. That’s the promise of this Sal Island catamaran cruise, a relaxing day on the water that offers a fresh perspective on the island’s rugged coastline and marine life. While it’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, it’s an excellent way to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty.

What truly draws people to this experience are three standout features: the chance to see whales and dolphins, the opportunity to snorkel in pristine waters, and the all-inclusive onboard snacks and drinks. These elements create a laid-back yet memorable outing. That said, some guests have noted that snorkeling wasn’t always possible due to the smell of diesel in the cabin, which could be a consideration if snorkeling is a priority.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a chilled, scenic day at sea, especially those who love marine life or want a break from more active excursions. If you enjoy relaxing on the water with good company and beautiful views, this cruise could hit the spot — just be aware that it might not satisfy those looking for an intense snorkeling adventure or wheelchair accessibility.

Key Points

• Comfortable half-day cruise with all-inclusive snacks and drinks
• Opportunity to spot whales and dolphins, especially from February to May
• Swim and snorkel at Murdeira Bay near Monte Leão
• Marine reserve area, home to sea turtles and seabirds, adding to the natural appeal
• Transport included, with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Not suitable for wheelchair users, due to access restrictions

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This catamaran cruise is designed to be a relaxed exploration of Sal’s west coast, perfectly suited for a chill day out rather than an adrenaline-packed adventure. After a roughly one-hour transfer from Palmeira port, you’ll board the Bazov, the vessel that will carry you along the coast. The journey offers a chance to enjoy the views of Sal’s rugged shoreline, with the captain and crew sharing insights into the area’s natural highlights.

Departing from Palmeira Port

The tour starts with a hotel pickup, saving you the hassle of organizing your own transport. Once aboard, the crew—known for their friendly service—set sail along Sal’s coast. Expect to settle into your spot, soak up the sun, and take in the scenic views of the coastline slipping away.

The Stop at Murdeira Bay

About an hour into the trip, the catamaran anchors near Murdeira Bay, a well-known marine nature reserve. The name “Murdeira” might ring a bell for anyone interested in Cape Verde’s marine environment, as it’s home to healthy populations of sea turtles and seabirds.

Here, you’ll have the chance to swim in the clear waters near the distinctive Monte Leão, a rocky promontory that stands out on the coastline. The water is generally calm and inviting, perfect for cooling off after some time in the sun.

Snorkeling and Floating Nets

The tour also offers a unique chance to float above the sparkling water via floating nets—ideal for relaxing and drying off in the sun. However, a couple of reviews mention that snorkeling was sometimes unavailable, often due to the smell of diesel fumes in the cabin, which caused discomfort for some guests. If snorkeling is a priority, it might be worth confirming availability on the day or considering this as a secondary activity.

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The Return Journey and Marine Watching

On the way back to Palmeira, keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins, particularly between February and May when sightings are more common. Several guests, like Lola, have reported seeing whales, which adds an exciting, memorable element to what is otherwise a relaxing cruise.

Onboard Atmosphere

The crew—friendly and professional—keeps the mood light with music, drinks, and dancing, turning the trip into a lively yet laid-back experience. Snacks and drinks are included, so you can indulge without worrying about extra costs. The onboard atmosphere is casual, making it perfect for groups, families, or couples looking to unwind.

What’s Included and What to Bring

This cruise is straightforward in its inclusions: transfer, the catamaran cruise, snacks, and drinks are all covered in the price of $70 per person. It’s a good value considering the scenic views, marine wildlife, and onboard amenities.

To enjoy the trip comfortably, pack:

• Swimwear for swimming or floating
• Towel for drying off
• Biodegradable sunscreen—important for protecting the marine environment

Note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which could be a concern for some travelers.

The Real-World Experience: Insights from Reviews

While the majority of feedback points to a positive experience, some details are worth noting. One guest praised the knowledgeable staff, highlighting their friendliness and professionalism. They also appreciated the opportunity to see whales, which made the trip especially worthwhile.

Another traveler mentioned that snorkeling wasn’t possible due to diesel fumes, leading to discomfort and vomiting for some. This highlights that, depending on the boat’s condition or engine fumes, snorkeling might not always be feasible. If snorkeling is a must, confirming with the provider beforehand could save disappointment.

A third review simply described the staff as friendly, which suggests a welcoming atmosphere onboard, contributing to an overall pleasant experience.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Book in advance: The tour can be reserved with flexible payment options, and booking early assures a spot.
• Arrive prepared: Bring biodegradable sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel to maximize your comfort.
• Check the weather: Calm seas make for smoother sailing and better chances of wildlife sightings.
• Confirm snorkeling availability: Especially if snorkeling is a priority, ask about diesel fumes beforehand.
• Watch out for the time: The tour lasts around half a day, making it perfect for a morning or afternoon activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for relaxation seekers who want to enjoy Sal’s coast from the water without intense activity. It’s a good pick for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for scenic marine encounters, whale watching, and a leisurely day with snacks and drinks. However, those who prioritize seriously good snorkeling or wheelchair accessibility might want to explore other options or confirm specific needs with providers.

The Sum Up

The Sal Island catamaran cruise offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, marine wildlife, and onboard comfort. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to see parts of the island you might not access from land, especially if you love the idea of spotting whales or floating peacefully in the sea.

While snorkeling opportunities may vary and the experience isn’t overly adventurous, the friendly crew, panoramic views, and marine reserve environment make it a valuable addition to your Cape Verde itinerary. It’s best suited for those wanting a relaxing day at sea, with enough wildlife and scenery to make it memorable.

For travelers wanting a simple, fun, and scenic boat trip with the chance to unwind and connect with nature, this cruise hits the spot. Just remember to check in advance about snorkeling and be prepared for a laid-back day of sunshine and sea.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day without extra planning.

How long is the cruise? The trip lasts approximately half a day, including the transfer, sailing, swimming, and wildlife watching.

Can I snorkel during the tour? Snorkeling is offered, but some guests have found it unavailable due to the smell of diesel fumes. Confirm with the provider if snorkeling is a priority.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen to stay comfortable and protect the marine environment.

Are drinks and snacks included? Yes, all-inclusive snacks and drinks are provided onboard, adding value to the experience.

Is it suitable for children? While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and children should be comfortable with boat trips.

Can I see whales on this tour? Whale sightings are possible and are more common from February to May. One reviewer even saw two whales, making the trip particularly memorable.

This catamaran cruise on Sal offers a laid-back, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Cape Verde’s coast. It’s a straightforward, friendly option for those looking to add a touch of marine magic to their holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: