For joining any ship on the island of Sal see the above map for the port of Palmeira. It is about a 15-minute taxi ride from the airport (€15 approx). If you are staying over on the island before joining your ship, please see advice below on where is best to stay.
Voyages start and end from Palmeira which is a bay and small fishing port on the west of the island, nearer the airport. The large concrete commercial breakwater is cordoned off.
Wait under the shady tree near the bar, Chiosco, near the Chapel ‘Capela De Sad Jose’ where the local fishermen unload their catch on a little stone jetty. The ship’s dinghy will come in to collect you at joining time.
Cape Verde Sailing Holidays:
A Travel Guide to Palmeria, Sal, Cape Verde
Worthwhile Journeys You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
Keeping in Touch The exact location of your ship may not be known until closer to your joining time, you will be informed by email once the exact position has been confirmed. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s mobile/cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.
What to Do in Palmeria
History Palmeria, steeped in history, offers intriguing insights into Cape Verde’s past. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Salt Mines of Pedra de Lume, a testament to the island’s salt mining heritage.
Culture Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture through art galleries and music venues. The Morna music, a traditional genre of Cape Verde, encapsulates the spirit of the islands.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor Palmeria’s coastline boasts picturesque views. Sailors can appreciate the panoramic views from the top of Monte Leão, offering a glimpse of the Atlantic’s vastness.
Entertainment The nightlife in Santa Maria is lively, with numerous bars and clubs offering live music. Enjoy the rhythms of Funaná, a fast-paced, accordion-based music style.
Eating Out Sample the local cuisine at seaside restaurants, offering fresh seafood and traditional dishes like Cachupa, a slow-cooked stew.
Nature Nature enthusiasts will find Sal’s beaches, like Santa Maria Beach, enchanting. Activities like windsurfing and kitesurfing are popular here, taking advantage of the island’s natural winds.
Unique Features Palmeria’s unique blend of African and Portuguese influences creates a distinct cultural tapestry. The friendly locals and colourful markets add to its charm.
Accommodation The best place for hotels is Santa Maria, a huge choice.
Official Tourist Website For more detailed information, visit Sal’s Official Tourist Website.
Weather in Palmeria Palmeria enjoys a temperate climate year-round. Winters are warm and dry, springs see slightly higher temperatures, summers are hot and sunny, and autumns bring a pleasant coolness with occasional rainfall.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices?
Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
Special Interests If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
How to Get There Recommendation for flights to remote or cold climate destinations we recommend purchasing flexible flights that offer full refunds.
From the UK Direct flights from major UK airports to Amílcar Cabral International Airport on Sal are available. Alternatively, connecting flights through Lisbon offer more flexibility.
From Europe European travellers have numerous options with direct flights from major cities. Lisbon, Portugal, serves as a key hub for connecting flights to Sal.
From North America Travellers from North America can opt for flights with a stopover in Europe, typically in Lisbon, before heading to Sal.
From Australia Australians can expect multiple stopovers, commonly in Europe or South Africa, before reaching Sal. Considering the long journey, it’s advisable to plan for a comfortable itinerary with adequate rest periods.
