Cape Verde: Sal Island Catamaran Cruise & Swim with Drinks

Summary

Half-day sailing Sal’s coast, swim in Santa Maria bay, unwind with snacks

You’ll sail along Sal Island’s southwest coast on a relaxed catamaran cruise, soaking up ocean air and sunshine with a small group. Swim or snorkel in Santa Maria bay (gear included), snack on light bites, sip drinks, and listen to local stories from the friendly Cape Verdean crew. It’s less about sightseeing and more about slowing down — you might end up remembering the quiet as much as the view.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was how the crew greeted us — not just a quick hello, but like they’d been waiting for us all morning. I tried to say “bom dia” and totally fumbled it; Nelson grinned and helped me out (my accent is hopeless). The catamaran felt bigger than I expected, with just enough people that you could actually stretch out. There was this salty tang in the air and someone already barefoot before we even left the dock.

The Atlantic around Sal Island is a different kind of blue — almost metallic in spots. We drifted along the southwest coast while our guide pointed out tiny fishing boats and told us about growing up here. At one point, there was this hush except for water slapping against the hull and a couple of us just staring at the horizon. Someone passed me a cold drink — honestly, it tasted better than any bar back home, maybe because of the sun or maybe because I didn’t have to do anything but sit there.

We stopped near Santa Maria bay for swimming. I hesitated (the water looked chilly), but everyone else jumped right in so… yeah. Turns out it’s not that cold once you’re in — more like a shock that wakes you up. They handed out snorkels if you wanted them; I mostly floated on my back watching clouds move over the island. Snacks came around after — nothing fancy but somehow perfect when your hair’s still wet and you’re salty all over.

There wasn’t any loud music or party vibe — just people chatting quietly or lying back with their eyes closed. Nelson told us stories about dolphins (didn’t see any this time) and how sometimes turtles pop up nearby. Honestly, I still think about that calm from time to time when things get noisy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day catamaran cruise on Atlantic

• Board catamaran in Sal
• Sail along southwest coast
• Enjoy ocean views and breeze
• Stop to swim and snorkel
• Have drinks and light snacks
• Relax and enjoy peaceful sailing

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Sal Island catamaran cruise?

No, pickup isn’t mentioned as included for this tour.

Are drinks provided during the Cape Verde catamaran cruise?

Yes, alcoholic beverages, soda/pop, and bottled water are served onboard.

Do they provide snorkelling equipment on this half-day cruise?

Yes, use of snorkelling equipment is included during the swim stop.

Is lunch served during this Sal Island catamaran trip?

No full lunch is provided; light snacks are served onboard.

Can children or infants join this catamaran cruise?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; suitable for all fitness levels.

Will we definitely see dolphins or turtles on this tour?

No wildlife sightings are guaranteed; sometimes dolphins or turtles appear but it isn’t promised.

How long does the Cape Verde half-day catamaran cruise last?

This is a half-day experience; exact duration isn’t specified but expect several hours at sea.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome alongside couples, families or small groups.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing along Sal Island’s southwest coast on a spacious catamaran with limited group size for comfort. You’ll get soft drinks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages if you want them, light snacks after swimming or snorkeling (with gear provided), plus plenty of time to relax onboard with stories from the local crew before heading back to port.