Port information & tips for Porto Novo (Sao Antao)
Porto Novo is the impressive gateway to the island of Santo Antão and is considered one of the most scenic ports of call in Cape Verde. The port captivates with its location between rugged volcanic massifs and the crystal-clear Atlantic, immediately giving visitors a sense of untouched nature. Highlights include the spectacular Paul Valley with its lush vegetation and the imposing Cova Crater, both of which can be easily explored thanks to excellent connections. Cruise ships dock at the central Porto de Porto Novo, from which the city center, the lively Avenida Marginal, and authentic local markets are just a few minutes' walk away, inviting you to linger.
Arrival & Departure
Getting around
Highlights & Districts
Useful tips
Returning to the ship
Porto Novo on Santo Antão is the picturesque cruise port of the Cape Verdean island and serves as an important gateway to its impressive nature. Since Santo Antão does not have its own airport, arrival for cruise guests from the DACH region always takes place via the neighboring island of São Vicente.
Airplane
The primary arrival route for travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland leads via international flights to the larger Cape Verdean airports of Sal (SID) or Praia (RAI), followed by domestic flights to Cesária Évora Airport (VXE) on São Vicente near Mindelo. Alternatively, there are direct flight connections from Lisbon to São Vicente (VXE). From Mindelo Airport (VXE), you can easily reach the ferry terminal in Mindelo by taxi in about 15 minutes for around 11 Euro (1200 CVE).
Ferry & Local Transfer
From Mindelo (São Vicente), you can reach Porto Novo on Santo Antão easily by ferry. The ferry companies CV Interilhas and Nôs Ferry offer crossings several times a day. The crossing takes only 50 to 60 minutes and costs about 13 to 15 Euro per person. You can purchase tickets directly at the Cais Marítima ferry terminal in Mindelo or online; it is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Once in Porto Novo, taxis and so-called "Aluguers" (shared taxis) are available for trips across the island.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to international arrival times and the required ferry connection, an overnight stay in Mindelo on São Vicente the day before your embarkation is recommended. Many hotels in Mindelo also offer practical airport transfers, allowing for a relaxed start to your Cape Verde adventure. This allows you to use the ferry times to Porto Novo flexibly while exploring the charming city of Mindelo.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
