Imagine gliding through clear waters, surrounded by the gentle movements of rare sea turtles—an experience that sounds like a dream, but for many visitors, it’s a reality on this popular boat tour from Mindelo. While we haven’t participated ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions show this is a genuinely memorable adventure that offers a mix of nature, education, and fun.
What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the chance to swim alongside beautifully protected sea turtles—a rare sight in Cape Verde. Second, it’s praised for knowledgeable guides who make the experience both informative and friendly. Lastly, the eco-conscious approach ensures the turtles are protected while you enjoy your swim.
Of course, there’s one consideration worth noting—the boat logistics sometimes pose challenges, such as access to snorkeling gear and the boat’s condition during high season. This tour is most suited for those who love marine life, are comfortable with boat travel, and appreciate environmentally responsible excursions.
Key Points
- Unique wildlife experience swimming with rare sea turtles.
- Eco-friendly approach prioritizes turtle safety and environmental sustainability.
- Small group size (max 12 travelers) ensures personal attention.
- Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
- Transport includes pickup from your hotel or Porto Grande pier.
- Cost offers good value considering the experience and group size.
An Overview of the Tour Experience
This one-hour boat tour from Mindelo in Cape Verde promises a close encounter with the region’s swimmingly shy sea turtles that have recently started appearing in São Pedro bay. The journey typically begins with a pickup from your hotel or the Porto Grande pier, making it easy to start the adventure without logistical stress. From there, you’ll head to São Pedro, a small fishing village just 15 minutes from the city, where the real magic begins.
Once at São Pedro beach, you’ll meet your highly qualified guide, who provides a brief safety introduction and explains how the experience helps protect the turtles. This is a key point because the tour emphasizes safety measures and ecofriendliness, including strict rules against touching the turtles—highlighting the commitment to conservation.
Looking for more options in Mindelo? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Boat Ride and Turtle Feeding
After the briefing, you’ll hop onto a gentle fishing boat, which is a leisurely way to leave the shoreline behind. Some reviews indicate that access to the boat can be awkward, especially if you’re required to climb in or out via a ladder, a point worth considering if mobility is an issue. Nevertheless, the boat is described as a peaceful platform for approaching the turtles.
Turtles appear quite quickly, thanks to food that is thrown into the water. One reviewer mentioned, “after throwing food into the water, the turtles start to approach the boat, wauuu!! what a magical moment.” The sight of a handful of turtles approaching eagerly is enough to make the entire trip worthwhile.
Swimming with the Turtles
Once the turtles are close, you’ll get into the water to swim alongside them—an experience that is often described as “breathtaking” or “magical” by previous guests. It’s important to note that touching the turtles is prohibited to protect these gentle creatures. The water is generally calm, and the turtles are accustomed to humans, which makes for a memorable but respectful encounter.
A reviewer shared, “We saw approximately four turtles, and the guide was able to interact and play with them.” While the interaction is limited, guides often facilitate a respectful and educational experience, explaining turtle behaviors and the importance of conservation.
Additional Observations and Challenges
A couple of reviewers noted some logistical issues, such as clambering into small boats or the absence of snorkeling gear on-site. One guest mentioned, “We were required to clamber into a tiny rowing boat with six other participants,” which might be uncomfortable for some. Plus, another reviewer pointed out that suitable snorkeling equipment (like fins) was not always provided on arrival, with only masks distributed.
However, in response, the provider indicated they are actively working to improve these aspects by adding ladders and ensuring better gear availability, which shows a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Transportation, Duration, and Practical Details
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it an accessible activity for most travelers. Group sizes are limited to 12 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows guides to give more personalized attention.
The cost of $61.58 per person is reasonable considering the quality of the experience and the small group size. The tour includes pickup service, which simplifies logistics, especially for those staying in hotels or close to the pier.
Booking in advance is recommended—most reservations are made about 29 days ahead. The experience is suitable for most travelers, with a few exceptions for those with mobility issues or who prefer not to be on boats.
What Travelers Say
Reviews highlight the strong points of this tour. Many mention the expertise of the guides; one guest, Stephen, said, “The guide was able to interact and play with the turtles,” which adds a personal touch to the experience.
Some critiques, however, involve the boat’s access—climbing in and out sometimes proving tricky—and the lack of snorkeling gear on site, which some might find inconvenient. One guest, Thorsten, shared that they saw turtles, rays, and fish, but the snorkeling equipment was limited to masks, with fins only available on request.
Ultimately, the tour’s value depends on your expectations. If your priority is getting close to the turtles in a respectful way, and you’re okay with some logistical quirks, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This boat trip offers a rare chance to observe and swim with protected sea turtles—a species you might never encounter so closely elsewhere. The eco-conscious approach, combined with knowledgeable guides, makes this a meaningful activity for nature lovers and conservation-minded travelers.
The small group size and group discounts enhance the overall value, especially given the experience’s uniqueness. It’s a perfect fit for those who enjoy marine wildlife, want a quick but impactful adventure, and appreciate environmentally responsible tourism.
However, travelers should be prepared for some logistical inconveniences, such as boat access and gear limitations. If you’re looking for a hassle-free snorkeling trip with abundant gear, this might not be your first choice. But if your goal is a memorable, respectful encounter with Cape Verde’s enchanting turtles, this tour ticks all the boxes.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
- Wildlife enthusiasts eager to see rare sea turtles in their natural habitat.
- Eco-conscious travelers looking for environmentally friendly activities.
- Those comfortable with small boat rides and water-based experiences.
- Visitors wanting an authentic, intimate tour led by knowledgeable guides.
- Travelers seeking a meaningful experience rather than just a touristy photo op.
- Anyone interested in learning about turtle behavior and conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it ideal for fitting into a day of sightseeing.
Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or Porto Grande pier, adding convenience.
What is the group size?
Maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.
What’s the cost?
The tour costs about $61.58 per person, which includes transportation and the guided experience.
Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, masks are distributed, but fins are only available upon request. Some reviews note the absence of fins on site.
Can I touch the turtles?
No, touching turtles is strictly prohibited to protect them and ensure safety.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but climbing in and out of the boat could be challenging for some.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a light snack. The tour provider supplies basic snorkeling masks.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How do I book?
Advance booking is recommended via Viator, with most people booking about 29 days in advance.
This boat tour from Mindelo offers a genuine connection with nature and a chance to observe one of the region’s most endearing creatures. With careful planning and realistic expectations, it’s an experience that will likely leave you with a smile—and maybe a new appreciation for conservation efforts.