Port information & tips for Santana
Santana is the fascinating gateway to the Brazilian state of Amapá and is picturesquely located on the northern banks of the mighty Amazon. The region impresses with its untouched nature and the authentic lifestyle of the rainforest, with the immediate proximity to the equator exerting a very special charm. Cultural highlights include the famous Marco Zero equator monument, the imposing Fortaleza de São José de Macapá, and the informative Museu Sacaca open-air museum. Cruise ships dock at the Companhia Docas de Santana (CDSA) terminal, which offers direct access to the port town. From here, the city center can be explored, while the state capital Macapá, located about 20 kilometers away, is easily accessible thanks to organized transfers and taxis.
The port of Santana in Brazil, located in the state of Amapá on the Amazon River, primarily serves as an important cargo port and logistics center for the region. Cruise ships visit Santana as a deep-water port, where processing is carried out by Brazilian authorities and Macapá often serves as the starting point for excursions. A dedicated cruise terminal is currently not available; ships dock at the cargo piers.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is primarily by air via a major international airport in Brazil, from where you take connecting flights to the nearest Macapá International Airport (MCP). Macapá Airport (MCP) is approximately 18 to 23 kilometers from Santana. Airlines such as GOL, LATAM, and Azul offer regular connections from Brazilian hubs such as Brasília, Belém, or Campinas. Due to the long flight duration, it is recommended to arrive at least one day before the planned embarkation.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Macapá Airport (MCP), you can easily reach the port of Santana by taxi. The journey takes about 20 to 22 minutes, with the cost of a taxi ranging between R$90 and R$120. There is a good connection via the federal highway BR-156, which passes through Santana. It is advisable to organize transfer options in advance, as the port of Santana primarily serves cargo traffic and does not offer specific cruise shuttles to the same extent as large cruise ports.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a relaxed start to your cruise, an overnight stay in Macapá or Santana before embarkation is highly recommended. You will find various hotels in Macapá, the capital of the state of Amapá, as well as in Santana. Many travelers take the opportunity to explore the city of Macapá with its international airport before heading to the port in Santana.
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 following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The port of Santana in Brazil, located in the state of Amapá on the Amazon River, primarily serves as an important cargo port and logistics center for the region. Cruise ships visit Santana as a deep-water port, where processing is carried out by Brazilian authorities and Macapá often serves as the starting point for excursions. A dedicated cruise terminal is currently not available; ships dock at the cargo piers.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is primarily by air via a major international airport in Brazil, from where you take connecting flights to the nearest Macapá International Airport (MCP). Macapá Airport (MCP) is approximately 18 to 23 kilometers from Santana. Airlines such as GOL, LATAM, and Azul offer regular connections from Brazilian hubs such as Brasília, Belém, or Campinas. Due to the long flight duration, it is recommended to arrive at least one day before the planned embarkation.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Macapá Airport (MCP), you can easily reach the port of Santana by taxi. The journey takes about 20 to 22 minutes, with the cost of a taxi ranging between R$90 and R$120. There is a good connection via the federal highway BR-156, which passes through Santana. It is advisable to organize transfer options in advance, as the port of Santana primarily serves cargo traffic and does not offer specific cruise shuttles to the same extent as large cruise ports.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a relaxed start to your cruise, an overnight stay in Macapá or Santana before embarkation is highly recommended. You will find various hotels in Macapá, the capital of the state of Amapá, as well as in Santana. Many travelers take the opportunity to explore the city of Macapá with its international airport before heading to the port in Santana.
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 following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Santana serves as the most important gateway to the state of Amapá and allows travelers to easily continue their journey to nearby Macapá. Various options for a comfortable exploration of the equatorial region are available directly at the port area.
Taxi and Private Transfers
Official taxis and private shuttle providers wait for passengers directly at the port exit. These allow for a swift trip to the significant sights of Macapá, such as the Marco Zero Monument or the historical Fortaleza de São José.
Mototaxis
For short distances within Santana, the widespread mototaxis are a popular and dynamic choice. These take guests quickly to local destinations and also provide an authentic feel for Brazilian everyday life in this region.
On Foot
Some shops and local markets in the center of Santana are reachable in about 15 to 20 minutes on foot. The path from the pier leads directly into urban life and offers first impressions of the lively atmosphere of this port city.
To make the most of your stay in Santana, an excursion to the nearby state capital Macapá is recommended, which impresses with unique geographical and historical treasures directly on the Amazon.
Marco Zero
The famous Equator monument offers the rare opportunity to stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere, while simultaneously experiencing the fascinating physical phenomenon of the equinox at this special location.
Fortaleza de São José de Macapá
This monumental 18th-century fortress is considered one of the largest defensive structures in Brazil and grants visitors a deep insight into the colonial history of the region thanks to its well-preserved walls and strategic location on the riverbank.
Orla de Macapá
The lively waterfront promenade invites you to take a relaxed stroll along the majestic Amazon and, thanks to its numerous cafes and expansive views of the giant river, is the ideal place to enjoy local life and the typical cuisine of the north.
Fortaleza de São José de Macapá
The impressive Fortaleza de São José de Macapá is one of the largest fortifications in South America and is located about a thirty-minute drive from the port in Santana. Situated directly on the banks of the Amazon, this 18th-century historical monument offers fascinating insights into colonial history and also provides a wide view over the mighty river. The adjacent Parque do Forte is ideal for a relaxed stroll and features an appealing infrastructure with small cafes and shaded spots to linger. It is best to visit the site in the morning to explore the architecture in peace and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere on the riverbank before starting your return journey to the port about ninety minutes before departure.
The journey back to the port in Santana can be arranged in a relaxed manner thanks to the available transport options, ensuring a punctual return to your ship. Plan for a travel time of approximately thirty minutes for the trip from the sights in Macapá back to the terminal.
Taxi and Rideshare Apps
Taxis are the most convenient choice and can be found at central locations such as Praça Veiga Cabral as well as directly in front of the Fortaleza de São José in Macapá. Additionally, local rideshare apps enable reliable pick-up directly at the sights and will take you safely and directly to the guarded port gate in Santana.
Cruise Line Shuttle Buses
Many ships offer organized shuttle buses that commute regularly between the port terminal and the center of Macapá. The stops are usually located at prominent points like the Marco Zero Monument and the craft market, allowing you to easily plan your way back thanks to fixed departure times and reach the ship on time.
Orientation and Local Transfer
Signage within Santana leads you directly to the port entrance and is clearly visible to drivers. As the port area is extensive and industrial, guests usually use a taxi or the ship's own transfer to get through the gate to the berth, in order to cover the distance within the terminal comfortably and safely.
