Cabo Verde Cruises

Explore the Enchanting Isles of Cabo Verde: A Cruise Destination Like No Other

Cabo Verde, an archipelago off the west coast of Africa, is a captivating destination boasting stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and crystal-clear waters. With its mix of volcanic islands and picturesque beaches, cruising to Cabo Verde offers explorers a chance to discover this hidden gem while basking in the warmth of Atlantic breezes. Fun fact: Cabo Verde is renowned for its Creole music, particularly Morna, and has produced famous musicians like Cesária Évora. A cruise through these idyllic islands presents a unique opportunity to experience their enchanting rhythms, delicious cuisine, and rich local traditions—all while enjoying stunning views from the comfort of your ship.

Cruise Lines Offering Remarkable Itineraries to Cabo Verde

• MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 2 of them including itineraries that take you to Cabo Verde. The MSC Magnifica and MSC Orchestra both feature a range of onboard activities and entertainment options, such as live shows and themed nights. What truly sets these ships apart is their dedication to family-friendly experiences, ensuring that every cruiser, young or old, has a fantastic time. MSC typically departs from Barcelona or Genoa, offering convenient access to the striking islands of Cabo Verde.
• Princess Cruises contains a fleet of 17 ships, with the Island Princess and Crown Princess sailing to Cabo Verde. These ships are well-known for their exceptional service and excellent dining options. The onboard atmosphere is relaxed, with enriching activities that allow guests to engage with the culture of Cabo Verde before even stepping foot on land. Princess Cruises usually departs from Cape Town or Sydney, making it easy to connect to this vibrant destination.
• Norwegian Cruise Line has a fleet of 20 ships, and 4 of them head to Cabo Verde. The Norwegian Star and Norwegian Viva stand out for their exciting atmosphere and “freestyle dining” options, which allow cruisers the flexibility to dine whenever they like. With diverse entertainment programming and options, these ships ensure everyone has a fantastic time onboard. These cruises predominantly set off from Lisbon or Cape Town, paving the way for a wonderful exploration of Cabo Verde.
• Costa Cruises features 9 ships, with 1, Costa Favolosa, venturing to Cabo Verde. Known for its lively Italian flair, Costa encourages a festive atmosphere with enjoyable onboard experiences and exciting excursions. The ship’s dining options showcase delicious Mediterranean cuisine, creating an appetising introduction to the flavours of Cabo Verde. Departures mainly occur from Buenos Aires or Barcelona, ensuring an exciting start to your island adventure.
• Holland America Line includes a fleet of 11 ships, with 2 ships, Volendam and Zuiderdam, offering itineraries to Cabo Verde. Renowned for its focus on cultural experiences and high-quality service, Holland America ensures guests enjoy stunning views and immersive educational activities related to the islands. The cruises typically depart from Buenos Aires or Fort Lauderdale, offering a wonderful transition to the picturesque surroundings of Cabo Verde.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in Cabo Verde

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 ships offering itineraries to Cabo Verde. Notably, the Nautica and Marina are celebrated for their exceptional dining experiences, featuring a diverse menu that highlights regional flavours. Players in the cruise industry admire Oceania's focus on luxury and comfort, ensuring an exceptional travel experience. Departures for these cruises usually take place from Lisbon or Cape Town, setting the stage for an extraordinary journey through Cabo Verde.
• Fred Olsen has a smaller fleet of 3 ships, with the Bolette and Borealis offering trips to Cabo Verde. Well-loved for their warm atmosphere and personal approach to service, Fred Olsen vessels create an inviting environment onboard. The company prides itself on tailoring experiences to ensure no cruiser misses out on the best of Cabo Verde. Departures commonly occur from Liverpool or Southampton, providing a smooth transition to your tropical escape.
• Seabourn features a fleet of 4 ships, with the Seabourn Sojourn showcasing luxury travel to Cabo Verde. This cruise line is well-known for its intimate settings, premium service, and all-inclusive luxuries. Guests can expect unique shore excursions that allow closer interaction with local cultures during their journeys. Departures mainly occur from Las Palmas or Barcelona, ensuring a sophisticated segue into the stunning coasts of Cabo Verde.

Must-Visit Harbours in Cabo Verde

• Mindelo - Renowned as the cultural hub of Cabo Verde, Mindelo captivates visitors with its vibrant music scene and colourful colonial architecture. Stroll along the busy docks and enjoy lively street performances, or indulge in local cuisine at one of themany eateries showcasing freshly caught fish. The nearby beach is perfect for unwinding in the sun, making it an ideal stop for cruise passengers with limited time in port.
• Praia - As the capital of Cabo Verde, Praia offers a mix of modernity and authenticity. Visit the picturesque Plateau neighbourhood, where you can explore local markets and sample traditional dishes. Don’t miss the nearby Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring well-preserved ruins and historical significance dating back to the 15th century.
• Porto Grande - Nestled in Mindelo Bay, Porto Grande provides a picturesque setting for visitors arriving on cruise ships. Engaging activities, like water sports and beach lounging, can be found nearby, while the harbour itself offers lovely views of the surrounding islands. Explore nearby artisan shops for local crafts and enjoy the lively coastal atmosphere.
• Sal Rei (Boa Vista) - This charming coastal town is the gateway to the island of Boa Vista, known for its sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Visitors can go horseback riding along the beaches or embark on thrilling dune buggy adventures. Relax at one of the many beach bars and enjoy refreshing drinks as you take in the stunning views of the Atlantic.
• Cape Verde Islands - The islands themselves are a veritable treasure trove of exploration opportunities. Visit lush mountains and picturesque beaches scattered across the islands, or participate in hiking tours that showcase the stunning biodiversity of this unique archipelago. Make sure to engage with the friendly locals and learn more about the rich culture that defines the islands.

Seasonal Highlights in Cabo Verde

The climate in Cabo Verde is pleasant year-round, making it an inviting destination at any time. From January to March, temperatures average between 20°C and 25°C, perfect for enjoying activities outdoors without excessive heat. Spring months, from April to June, offer similar comfortable conditions, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 28°C, ideal for beach relaxation and exploring the local sights. The summer months of July to September can see higher temperatures, reaching 25°C to 30°C, making it a great time for water sports and beach lounging. Autumn, from October to December, yields slightly cooler weather, averaging 18°C to 27°C, making it another beautiful season for island exploration without facing the summer crowds.

Cost of Cruising to Cabo Verde

When planning a cruise to Cabo Verde, it's important to consider costs. Generally, week-long cruises to this vibrant destination range from £700 to £1,200 per person, while two-week voyages average between £1,200 and £2,500. Luxury cruises can start from approximately £1,800 for a week. During your stay, budget meals can cost anywhere from £10 to £30, with drinks usually adding an additional £2 to £10, depending on where you fancy dining. This provides ample opportunities to indulge in Cabo Verdean flavours while enjoying the stunning local landscape.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

For those captivated by Cabo Verde but seeking further exploration, consider the following regions:

• Canary Islands - A stunning archipelago located near the northwestern coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are perfect for sunbathers and adventure seekers alike. From volcanic landscapes to lush forests, there’s plenty to discover in this diverse region.
• Caribbean - Often regarded as a paradise for beach lovers, the Caribbean offers incredible islands with diverse cultures and delightful cuisine. Whether you seek relaxation or lively adventures, the Caribbean is a must-see.
• West Africa - Venture into the rich cultures and vibrant histories of countries like Senegal or Ghana, where visitors can experience extraordinary environments while engaging in unique cultural encounters.
• Azores - This stunning group of islands offers breathtaking nature and outdoor activities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking lush landscapes and extensive hiking opportunities.
• Atlantic Coast of Africa - Experience the captivating coasts of African countries along the Atlantic, where you can immerse yourself in unique landscapes, biodiversity, and local traditions.

With its lively culture, enchanting landscapes, and warm hospitality, booking a cruise holiday to Cabo Verde via Cruise1st presents an extraordinary opportunity to explore this vibrant archipelago. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with cherished memories!