Looking for the highest-rated sailing tours Sal Cabo Verde has to offer? When visiting Sal Island, experiencing the Atlantic Ocean from the deck of a sailboat or catamaran is an absolute highlight. With turquoise waters, steady coastal trade winds, and rich marine life, taking a boat trip offers a stunning view of the island away from resort crowds.
However, boat tours in Sal vary drastically. While mass-tourism “party boats” carry large crowds with loud sound systems, boutique sailing focuses on a tranquil, unhurried, small-group experience at sea.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about booking the best sailing or catamaran trip—including exact pricing for shared and private groups, schedules, open bar inclusions, and departure details.
Shared Sailing Trips: Schedule & Pricing
Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and smaller families looking to join a boutique group:
| Experience Type | Duration | Schedule | Adult Price | Child Price (2–11 yrs) | Inclusions |
| Half-Day Cruise (Catamaran or Yacht) | ~3 Hours | Morning: 09:00–12:00 Afternoon: 13:30–16:30 | €59 | €40 | Unlimited Open Bar, Light Snacks, Snorkeling Gear & Swim Stop |
| Full-Day Sailing (Sailing Yacht) | ~6.5 Hours | Full Day: 10:00–16:30 | €129 | €100 | Unlimited Open Bar, Fresh On-Board Prepared Lunch, Snacks & Snorkeling |
Note: Children under 2 years old join free of charge.
📌 Departure Location Note: All departures and arrivals are currently made directly at Bikini Beach (as the main Santa Maria Pier is under construction).
Private Boat Charters: Pricing & Group Capacity
If you want an exclusive, VIP experience for your family, birthday celebration, or private group, you can charter an entire vessel with captain and crew:
Private Sailing Yacht (Lucy – Max 8 Guests)
Perfect for intimate gatherings, small families, and romantic escapes on a classic Jeanneau monohull sailboat.
- Half-Day Charter (~3 Hours):€500(Flat rate for up to 8 guests)
- Full-Day Charter (~6.5 Hours):€1,000(Flat rate for up to 8 guests, includes fresh lunch on board)
Private Catamaran Charters (Up to 20 Guests)
Ideal for larger groups, family reunions, and parties looking for spacious trampoline nets, wide decks, and maximum stability.
- Half-Day Private Charter (~3 Hours):
- Up to 14 Guests:€800
- 15 to 20 Guests:€1,200
- Full-Day Private Charter (~6.5 Hours – Includes On-Board Lunch):
- Up to 8 Guests:€1,500
- 9 to 14 Guests:€1,800
What Is Included on Your Sailing Experience?
Whether you book a shared half-day cruise or an exclusive private catamaran charter, every trip includes:
- Unlimited Open Bar: Enjoy chilled local beer, white & rosé wine, soft drinks, juices, and fresh water throughout the journey.
- Light Snacks & Refreshments: Served on deck during morning and afternoon sails.
- Freshly Prepared Lunch (Full-Day Trips): Full-day sailors enjoy a delicious lunch cooked fresh on board using local Cabo Verdean ingredients.
- Snorkeling Gear Provided: Complete mask and snorkel sets are included for swimming stops in calm ocean bays (conditions permitting).
The Fleet Breakdown for Sailing Tours Sal Cabo Verde
1. Intimate Monohull Sailing (Lucy – Jeanneau Sun Odyssey)
For travelers who love the classic, elegant feel of a traditional sailboat, Lucy offers an exclusive ocean escape along Sal’s western coastline toward Murdeira Bay. Capped at just 8 guests max, it provides the ultimate quiet escape.
2. Performance Catamaran (Kingfisher – Dazcat 1190)
Built for speed and genuine wind sailing, Kingfisher is light, fast, and engineered for guests who want to feel the power of the ocean breeze catching the sails.
3. Lounge Catamarans (Freebird Spirit & Margret)
Ideal for travelers prioritizing wide trampoline nets for sunbathing, large shaded cockpits, and maximum twin-hull stability over ocean swells. Margret (Lagoon 500) is their premier luxury catamaran reserved for larger private charters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where do the sailing tours depart from in Santa Maria?
All tours depart and arrive at Bikini Beach (Santa Maria Pier is currently closed for construction). Exact map pins and captain details are provided upon booking confirmation.
How do I know which private boat option is best for my group?
For groups up to 8 people looking for a classic sailboat, the Sailing Yacht Lucy (€500 Half Day / €1,000 Full Day) offers incredible value. For groups over 8 people or those wanting large sunbathing nets, book a Private Catamaran (€800–€1,800 depending on group size and duration).
What should I bring on board?
Wear your swimwear under light clothes. Bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a light windbreaker for afternoon breezes. A barefoot policy applies on deck.
Where do the sailing tours depart from in Santa Maria?
All tours depart and arrive directly at Bikini Beach (as Santa Maria Pier is currently undergoing construction). The exact meeting point Google Maps location and captain contact details are sent immediately upon booking confirmation.
How do we board the boat from the beach?
A dedicated tender boat (dinghy) picks guests up safely right from the shoreline at Bikini Beach and transfers you directly onto the boat or catamaran.
What happens if the weather or sea conditions are bad?
Safety always comes first. If a trip is canceled by the captain due to unsuitable sea or wind conditions, you will be offered an easy reschedule date or a 100% full refund.
Are there toilets on board?
Yes! Every catamaran and sailing yacht in the fleet is equipped with clean, fully functional marine bathrooms (heads) and freshwater handwashing sinks.
How are dietary restrictions or allergies handled for the Full-Day lunch?
We cater to vegetarian, vegan, and specific allergy preferences. Simply state your dietary requirements when placing your booking on WhatsApp so the crew can prepare your meal on board accordingly.
Can guests prone to seasickness join the trip?
Catamarans offer exceptional twin-hull stability over swells. If you are prone to motion sickness, taking a standard preventative tablet 1 hour prior to departure ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip.
How far in advance should I book?
Because passenger limits are strictly capped to maintain comfort (and the sailing yacht Lucy is limited to just 8 guests), spots sell out fast. We recommend booking 2 to 4 days in advance.
Reserve Your Spot on the Water
Ready to experience Sal from the Atlantic? Book directly through Discover Sal Tours for instant confirmation and local assistance:
- WhatsApp Instant Booking:+238 586 7223
