| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun 29-12-2024, 17:00Sal, Cape Verde | Thu 09-01-2025, 10:00Sal, Cape Verde | Morgenster | 11 Nights | OM291224 |
Cape Verde Sailing Holidays are one of our favourite winter sailing grounds. They offer a unique blend of exhilarating sailing and rich culture. Sailors enjoy steady winds across the Atlantic archipelago, perfect for exploring its diverse islands. Each stop introduces vibrant African-Portuguese heritage, from rhythmic slave songs to lively marketplaces.
| Vessel type / Rig | Brig |
| Guest Berths | 24 |
| Beam | 19.6ft |
| Draft | 8ft |
| Deck Length | 125ft |
| Overall Length | 151ft |
| Tonnage | 159 tons |
| Year Built | 1919 |
Anyone who likes the idea of sailing amongst tropical sun, big swell and blue seas, cooling sea spray and flying fish, but wants to explore islands and a different culture too. The sailing winds are generally fantastic as this island group sits squarely in the NE trade wind belt and Morgenster has a lot of canvas.
The cabins and below deck spaces are elegant and spacious and this big steel ship sits pretty steady in the Cape verde anchorages so it suits guests who want to be comfortable.
Island hopping in Cape Verde 1 | 05/12/2024 – 16/12/2024
Island hopping in Cape Verde 2 | 17/12/2024 – 28/12/2024 | Christmas trip
Island hopping in Cape Verde 3 | 29/12/2024 – 09/01/2025 | New Year’s trip
Island hopping in Cape Verde 4 | 10/01/2025 – 21/01/2025
Island hopping in Cape Verde 5 | 22/01/2025 – 02/02/2025
Island hopping in Cape Verde 6 | 03/02/2025 – 14/02/2025
Island hopping in Cape Verde 7 | 15/02/2025 – 26/02/2025
A good choice for solo travellers, couples and keen walkers who want a unique travel experience first, and life at sea on a sailing ship as a bonus. These voyages are popular, so there is generally plenty of keen guest crew and professional crew to pull on ropes if you fancy taking more relaxed approach to your holiday. Going aloft is not compulsory, but you do need enough agility to climb down a short boarding ladder into the ships inflatable dinghy, and landings on quays and beaches can be a bit bouncy if the swell is running. Nice and warm though.
Morgenster is an expert vessel for these cruising grounds. In the early days the organisers employed local Cape Verdean guides to sail with the ship and arrange tours on each island on arrival. The ships crew now have enough contacts of their own and have developed a great itinerary. It might not exactly be the same each 11 day voyage, but they do know how to create an active winter sun holiday that has just about everything from diving off the bowsprit to sharing a ‘Catchpa Stew’ with local families.
The Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) are a tropical island group are well south of the Canaries on about the same latitude as St Lucia in the Caribbean. They lie off the West African coast of Senegal and slap bang in the North East trade wind belt. Hot sun, a constant strong breeze (typically force 4-7) and a mix of islands – some of which are 100 miles apart and others only half a day distant, creates a world class cruising ground for those who prefer anchorages and islands to explore without hordes of tourists.
The inhabited islands include Brava, Fogo, Santiago, Maio, Sal, Boa Vista, Sao Nicholau, Sao Antao and Sao Vincente in two distinct groups – windward and leeward islands. The Cape Verde islands are out in the ocean for real blue water cruising and are just about perfect for an island hopping holiday on a ocean tall ship like Morgenster. Sal has hosted world kite surfing and Boa Vista is well known as a windsurfing blast spot. Cape Verde is a real mecca all year round for those who like it windy and sunny, with warm seas to swim in.
On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best sailing and shore landings for the forecast and most idyllic or sheltered anchors and ports. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described below, but you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description below is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage.
Sal has amazing white beaches and turquoise seas and the cross shore winds on the beach at Santa Maria is becoming a mecca for kite surfers. If you are flying in early, then Santa Maria is the best place to stay and chill out on the beach and eat fresh fish in town. When it is time to start your voyage, Morgenster will be in the port of Palmeria, which is a very short taxi drive away from the airport or hotels in Santa Maria. This is not a touristy town and you meet the ships crew in the ships tender, down by the fisherman’s quay.
The first sail usually starts with 110 miles downwind with a day and night passage to Tarrafal on Santiago to find your sea legs. Santiago in the leeward islands is a total contrast to flat Sal, with high mountains and cobbled mountain roads built in the past by slaves. Santiago is the most African island with mountains and green valleys. Morgenster crews typically spend the entire day on the island. With a taxi bus you can travel across the island to visit the colourful markets of the capital Praia and the oldest city of the Archipelago, Cidade Velha. Inland there are mango trees, banana plantations and old grog factories, where the sugar cane is still grinded by a grinding stone pulled on by a cow. From Santiago high roads you can see the classic volcanic form of Fogo – the highest summit in the Archipelago at 9281 feet. Crews have landed on Fogo but the anchorages are usually too exposed.
Spontaneous parties often start on the beach here in Tarrafal, where everyone is dancing to the swinging Cape Verdean music.
Sailing close hauled and 130 miles to make North westwards to Ilha da Sao Vincente gives plenty of sailing action for those who want to set lots of huge sails. For others the simple pleasure of reading a book in hot sun on deck, with a cooling breeze and the odd dollop of sea spray is enough activity.
The upwind passage typically takes a day and night.
Mindelo is the largest harbour of the Cape Verde, and the town has restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. Some of the anchorages have strong currents and swell but Mindelo has a good beach for swimming. Live Cape Verdean traditional music at Club Nautico is worth an evening dinghy ride.
Across a 7 mile strait is Santo Antao. The greenest and maybe the most beautiful island of the archipelago. A perfect island to explore on foot with volcanic craters swirling in trade wind clouds, zig zagging paths between villages and terraced fields, often with spectacular views revealed.
There is no safe harbour so the ship normally stays in Mindelo and those who want to explore the island of Sao Antao catch the local ferry (and we strongly suggest you do as it is one of the highlights of the voyage). A taxi bus is arranged (this can be an open jeep with seats) to take you to the top of the crater, with an amazing walk down the Ribeira Grande valley full of crops and thatched houses, until you reach the coastal road and your lift back to the ferry.
Sail past the uninhabited island of Santa Luzia, and if swell permits the ship may anchor and run a trip ashore. The waters around the island are rich in fish so it may be worth staying on board with a fishing line. Swimming is not recommended due to the large number of sharks, but watching these menacing beauties is a novel treat for wildlife lovers.
The destination on São Nicolau is also called Tarrafal. We anchor just before the harbour, or maybe even moor at the quay. Tarrafal is a peaceful fisherman’s village where we will be welcomed with open arms. There is barely any tourism and the majority of fisherman sail instead of motorized boats.
A jeep safari across the mountains to the wild windward coastline of Sao Nicolau is spectacular. Swim in the wildest natural infinity pool ever – if you dare – with waves crashing against the vertical cliffs below. There are the beautiful worn basalt formations and drive up to the last remainders of a primeval forest in the mountains.
The last island is usually Boa Vista and back to an up and coming watersports destination- with its massive desert dunes, date palms, camels and white, white beaches. A great place to hire a windsurfer if you are into wave sailing or blasts. A short hop brings the ship back to Sal.
Please remember you are guest crew on a sailing ship and there is no such thing as an itinerary. Everything is dependant on the weather, swell conditions and sometimes the strength and stamina of the guest crew. Cape Verde has pretty predictable wind directions most the time so the ship will take advantage of that knowledge. There will be overnight sailing on a couple of passages, and the stars are awesome if there is no Sahara dust in the atmosphere. If you do get dust from Africa then it creates stunning sunsets, but a need to navigate carefully as it often looks clear in the bright sunlight, but there is a haze present. Places you may visit – it will not be possible to go to all these places in the time allowed and the choice will be made by the skipper in light of the weather and crews abilities and or wishes.
ITINERARY
On this voyage we will visit at least five or six islands. These are approximately a day of sailing apart. After each leg we take the time to explore the island of destination. At night we will mostly be anchored, but in some cases we will keep sailing through the night.
The landing places are carefully selected and on most islands that we visit we will organise an excursion with local guides.
DAY 1
Upon arrival on Ilha do Sal you travel to Palmeira on your own accord, for example by taxi. The ‘Morgenster’ is waiting for you there, anchored in the bay. Palmeira is a rustic town where you will find few tourists. The island Sal is desert-like, with miles-long sand beaches. On the south side of the island there is the fisher’s village Santa Maria where the larger hotels and busy tourist attractions are located.
DAY 2
The following morning you have time to take a stroll, make a visit to the town or take a dive in the ocean before we set sail. While sailing from the windward to the Leeward Islands we have the wind in our back. The passengers are divided up in shifts and are encouraged to participate in all duties onboard, from navigation, steering to trimming the sails. Those who dare can climb the mast to see the world from up a yard of a big sailing vessel. The crossing to Santiago is approximately 110 miles; we expect to arrive somewhere during the night.
DAY 3
We anchor in the beautiful bay of the village Tarrafal. Santiago is the most African island with mountains and green valleys. We will spend the entire day on the island. With a taxi bus we travel across the island to visit the colourful markets of the capital Praia and the oldest city of the Archipelago, Cidade Velha. In the inlands we find mango trees, banana plantations and old grog factories, where the sugar cane is still grinded by a grinding stone pulled on by a cow.
We will not come back onboard until the evening. It is no exception that spontaneous parties start on the beach here, where everyone is dancing to the swinging Cape Verdean music.
DAY 4
The crossing from Santiago to São Vicente is the longest leg of this journey. Close-hauled and with most of the sails set we push ‘Morgenster’ to her limits. The night will be spent on the sea.
DAY 5
To reach the gentile beach of Mindelo we sail between the islands São Vicente and Santo Antão. Because of the venturi-effect the winds are usually very strong. Mindelo, on São Vicente, is the largest harbour and the second largest city of Cape Verde. There are restaurants, an indoor market, cafés and souvenir shops. A little beach offers a chance to go swimming.
DAY 6
Santo Antão is considered the most beautiful island of the archipelago. It is also the greenest and most fertile of the islands. With the ferry from Mindelo we sail to Santo Antão and let a taxi bus take us to the edge of the volcanic crater.
From this point we take a walk down to Ribeira Grande. The variations in the landscape and the breathtaking views make this a walk to never forget.
DAY 7
Today we sail close past the coasts of several islands. On our way to São Nicolau we pass Santa Lucia, one of the uninhabited islands of the archipelago. It is very rich in fish so we throw out a fishing line to test our luck. Due to the large number of sharks, swimming is not recommended.
DAY 8
The destination on São Nicolau is also called Tarrafal. We anchor just before the harbour, or maybe even moor at the quay. Tarrafal is a peaceful fisherman’s village where we will be welcomed with open arms. There is barely any tourism and the majority of fisherman sail instead of motorized boats.
On São Nicolau we visit the beautiful worn basalt formations and drive up to the last remainders of a primeval forest in the mountains.
DAY 9
Another amazing leg of our voyage that will take us to Boa Vista. A considerable distance from the village we drop anchor, as it will not be possible to come closer to the shore. The rubber dinghy is used to go to shore, but due to safety precautions we only undertake this during daylight. Boa Vista is one of the islands on which mass tourism is developing. Along the coastline several resorts have risen from the ground. The beaches are indeed beautiful and the inland is known for its remarkable moving sand dunes.
DAY 10 AND 11
The last crossing, from Boa Vista to Ilha do Sal, will probably be made with help of the engine. We drop anchor at Santa Maria, which has already been a touristic spot for some time. The upside is that there is plenty of opportunity to buy souvenirs or get some ice-cream. The last day of your holiday can be spent lying on the beach or renting a surfboard.
The North East trades can blow from force 4 to near gale, but for a ship like Morgenster this is perfect sailing. The skies are normally blue and cloudless but at sea level you can get Sahara dust obscuring views of the next island shore. Seas can be oceanic as you are sailing in the Atlantic many hundreds of miles from the continental shelf, which is great for whales and dolphins, but you can get some impressive swells. In the lee of islands it can be calmer. January is the ‘coldest’ month but still a lovely 21-23 degrees centigrade. Unlike the Caribbean, Cape Verde is generally a dry heat with very few tropical downpours. Some islands have not seen rain in years.
Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail.
We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.
Adam, and Debbie in the Classic sailing Office have both sailed in Cape Verde so do ring us with your questions on 0044 (0)1326 53 1234
Every customer sailing with us will need to fill in basic medical questions on their booking application. Medical facilities ashore are what you would expect for a poor African nation, so if you have a serious medical condition this primitive cruising ground might not be your best choice.
If you are not sure if your current level of fitness and agility are up to a voyage, then please ring the Classic Sailing Office on 01326 53 1234 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.
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.
- Online Reviews
I loved it.
I loved everything about my week. The crew were fantastic, the ship was beautiful, the singing on the deck was great fun, the dolphins were around a lot. It was brilliant!
Least enjoy - Nothing.
Why do I Sail?
I love the ocean and have always loved boats. For this particular voyage I was also researching a children's book involving mermaids and pirates!
Liz K sailed in 2017
What was the best bit?
Climbing in the rigging, unfurling the sails on the yardarm.
The cameraderie between the paid and guest crew was second to none. A fantastic atmosphere. Singing in the evenings on deck accompanied by guitar and trumpet. New Year on St Lucia, we celebrated the New Year 3 times (once for Dutch/European time, once for GMT and once for Caribbean time).
The sun glinstering off the ocean surface like a thousand shards of broken mirror.......flying fish like small humming birds skimming over the surface of the water, dolphins on New Years day: what a start to 2019!
Too wonderful to describe, a life changing experience, I want to pack in my job and sail the world! (making plans now) - Carol from Caribbean Season 2019.
Great experience, will definitely be doing it again. Climbing the rigging was the best bit. 'First time' sailor. John M July 2018
"Thank you for a very nice trip, some hours on Kattegatt this afternoon. Beautiful boat, nice and joyful captain and crew. I loved it! Wish you all a really nice trip during Tall Ships Races. And I would love to join again someday for a longer trip." Camilla A. June 2017
Thank you Harry, Mariann and all your wonderful crew for an amazing week on Morgenster. Great food Will, such patient climbing instruction Michelle, fun birthday outing Evy and lovely guests from 80 to 22 years old. So many highlights but sailing at night with sparkling dolphins at the bow was truly breathtaking!" Sue G.
Just returned from 11 days sailing round Cape Verde. The whole experience was exceptional - friendly, knowledgeable and caring crew; wonderful sailing (the 4am night watch experience was particularly magical!); interesting trips exploring the islands; and great food." Julia G-F
Thank you Harry, Marian, Joost, Rene, Hessel & Willie for a fantastic week's sailing. I'll be humming sea shanties and saying "o nay!!!" for days! I really hope to sail with you again. Happy New Year" Kerry Mc C.
Had a fantastic trip around Cape Verde, Jan/Feb 2016. Lovely crew, felt like a family. Thanks to you all xxxx. Really special people and a holiday to remember. My penguins X" Louise G
What a fantastic time, thanks to everyone on the Morgenster both crew and passengers hope to see you all again, maybe next year?" George Mc L
Harry, Marian and their crew make your stay on board the Morgenster wonderful!" Aleike K
What was the best bit?
The trip was fabulous. The crew were incredibly supportive and even helped me overcome enough of my fear to get out onto the first yard. I felt that I was included in everything and that my contribution, however small, was appreciated. The food was excellent and there were plenty of drinks and snacks throughout the day. We had gorgeous weather all the way. I really enjoyed it. - Caribbean Season 2019 by Amanda G.
Tall Ship Morgenster in action and images. Photos from Classic Sailing customers, ships crew and professional photographers. We hope it gives a flavour of her sailing, life on board, the people that come, her beautiful sailing grounds and what it is like to live below decks.
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