Cape Verde Sal: Half-Day Sailing Yacht Trip & Swim

Summary

Half-day sailing along Sal’s coast with swim stop and snacks

You’ll board a classic yacht with a small group off Sal Island, sail along the southwest coast with local crew, pause for swimming or snorkeling in Santa Maria bay, and share drinks plus light snacks on deck—all without crowds or noise. It’s calm, unhurried sailing where you can really breathe in Cape Verde’s ocean air.

What’s the experience like?

“Bom dia!” That’s how Paulo greeted us as we stepped barefoot onto Lucy, his old but well-kept yacht bobbing at the Santa Maria pier. I was still fiddling with my flip-flop when he handed me a cold bottle of water and grinned, “No rush here.” There were only six of us—two couples, me, and an older German guy who kept pointing out pelicans. The sun was already strong but not harsh, just that dry Cape Verde warmth that makes you want to nap. Paulo and his mate Li joked about the wind direction in Creole—Li laughed when I tried to say ‘obrigado’ back to her. Probably butchered it.

The first thing I noticed once we left the harbor was how quiet everything got. No engines droning—just the soft slap of waves against Lucy’s hull and this salty tang in the air that stuck to my lips. It wasn’t a party boat at all; actually, I liked that nobody felt like performing or shouting over music. We sailed south along Sal’s coast for maybe an hour? Hard to tell—I lost track watching flying fish skip across the water. When we anchored near Santa Maria bay, Paulo offered masks for snorkeling (I hesitated but went in anyway). The water was cool and clear—tiny silver fish everywhere—and when I came up for air Li handed me a ginger soda with a wink.

Back on deck, someone passed around little plates of cheese and olives while we dried off in the sun. There was this easy silence between everyone—just wind, waves, and sometimes Paulo telling stories about growing up on Sal before tourism changed things. He said sometimes dolphins show up but “they’re on their own schedule.” We didn’t see any today. Didn’t matter though; I still think about that stretch of blue horizon and how simple it felt to just drift for a bit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day sailing trip on Sal Island

• Board cozy sailing yacht Lucy
• Sail along Sal's southwest coast
• Stop to swim and snorkel
• Enjoy drinks and light snacks
• Relax with friendly local crew

Top questions

How many people are on the sailing yacht trip?

The group is limited to 8 guests for a relaxed atmosphere.

Is this sailing trip suitable for families or solo travelers?

Yes, it’s ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and small groups.

Are drinks and snacks included during the tour?

Yes, drinks (including alcoholic options) and light snacks are served onboard.

Does the tour include swimming or snorkeling?

Yes, there’s a stop in Santa Maria bay where you can swim or snorkel using provided equipment.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the pier in Santa Maria.

Can infants join this half-day sailing trip?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?

No, wildlife like turtles or dolphins may appear but are not guaranteed.

Is this a party boat experience?

No—it’s focused on calm sailing with good company rather than parties or loud music.

What’s included

Your half-day includes all drinks—water, soda, beer or wine if you want—a plate of snacks while you relax on deck after swimming or snorkeling (equipment provided), plus friendly local crew guiding you throughout. Just bring yourself; everything else is sorted once you step aboard Lucy.