3-Hour Small-Group Catamaran Cruise with Snorkeling Stop Sal Island

Santa Maria beach and pier

Santa Maria grew up in the 19th century around the export of salt from the island's salt pans, and its long wooden pier was built to load the sacks onto ships. Today the town is the main resort of Sal Island, with a sweep of fine pale sand several kilometres long, calm water on its sheltered southern side and colourful houses along the seafront.

The pier is still the heart of local life: in the late morning fishermen bring in tuna, wahoo and grouper and clean them on the boards. Because part of the pier has been damaged, catamaran departures currently use Santa Maria beach near the pier or Bikini Beach, and we confirm the exact boarding point after booking. Boarding from the sand is part of the fun, so wear clothes that can get a little wet.

Sailing the south coast of Sal Island

Sal is one of the flattest islands of the Cape Verde archipelago, an arid volcanic landscape of sand plains and low hills surrounded by an Atlantic Ocean in every shade of blue. From the water you see the island as the first sailors did: a long golden line of beach, the low silhouette of the hills inland and the white buildings of Santa Maria.

The north-east trade winds that make Sal a famous kitesurfing destination also make it ideal for sailing. The crew hoists the sails and keeps the motor quiet whenever the wind allows, so the cruise feels peaceful, with only the sound of the hulls cutting through the water. Wildlife sightings such as turtles, dolphins or, in spring, migrating humpback whales are possible but never guaranteed.

The swimming and snorkelling stop

Midway through the trip the catamaran anchors in a sheltered spot where the water is clear enough to see the sandy bottom. You can jump in for a swim, float in the warm Atlantic or put your face in the water to snorkel over sand and rocks, where small reef fish often gather. The stop is short, because the focus of this cruise is sailing rather than long water activities.

The swim stop depends on the sea and wind on the day, and the crew always chooses the safest place. Water temperatures around Sal range from about 22 °C in late winter to 27 °C in late summer. As the experience includes getting into deep water from the boat, it is not suitable for non-swimmers; children must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Life on board and the best time to sail

The catamarans are designed for small groups, giving everyone space on the trampoline nets at the bow or in the shade of the cockpit. The crew serves light snacks, soft drinks and water, shares stories about the island and helps you on and off the boat. The atmosphere is relaxed and quiet, with no loud music, which makes it a favourite with families and couples.

Sal enjoys sunshine almost all year. The windiest months are roughly December to May, when the sea can be livelier, while summer and early autumn are calmer and warmer. The 08:30 morning sail usually has the softest light and smoothest water, and the 13:00 departure suits those who like a slow start. Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear and a towel.