São Vicente sits on one of the Atlantic's great cetacean highways. Board a purpose-equipped private RIB with a marine biologist guide for a pelagic safari after humpback whales, loggerhead turtles and resident pods of bottlenose dolphins in the channel between São Vicente and Santo Antão.
What to expect
You board at the main marina and head north into the inter-island channel, where the biologist begins scanning the surface and listening via hydrophone. Humpback whale encounters — including breaching and tail-slapping — are common between December and April; bottlenose dolphins are resident year-round. The boat slows to a drift for all encounters, respecting animal welfare protocols. A briefing sheet with species identification is provided; the guide photographs your sightings for a follow-up digital record.
Good to know
Sightings are very high but never guaranteed — this is wild ocean. Best season for humpbacks is December–April; dolphin and turtle sightings occur year-round. Wear layers as wind chill is significant on the RIB at speed. Bring sea-sickness remedy if susceptible. Book 48+ hours ahead; morning departures recommended for calmer seas. The trip is 3 hours — leave ample buffer before all-aboard.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Porto Grande — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Porto Grande
- Private Island Safari: São Vicente's Wild Interior & Crater Views
- Mindelo's Creole Soul: Private Cultural Walking Tour with a Local Expert
- Santo Antão Day Crossing: Ribeira Grande Valley Trek & Village Feast
- Sunset Catamaran Sail & Snorkel: Baía das Gatas & Marine Reserve
- Grogue Trail: Private Cape Verdean Rum Distillery & Tasting Journey