Santiago

3 December 2016

The first trip in Cape Verde started! It is great to be back and to sail around these beautiful and diverse islands. The guests stepped on board in Sal and after the introduction it was time for a quiet night. In the morning, we started with a dive in the blue ocean while we waited for customs. When this was arranged, we heaved anchor and set the sails. The first leg is 100 nautical miles and with the wind in our back we set all the square sails and the mainsail for Santiago. A beautiful island with high, steep and green hill with lots to see. 
This morning we dropped anchor at Tarrafal to bring the guest on land to start their island exploration. Today they will visit a village with descendants of escaped slaves who are still holding on to their African culture and way of life. The on to a dam to spot unique birds and with a bit of luck we will spot the Cape Verdean purple heron (Ardea purpurea bournei). Then we go to the market in Assomada this is the biggest market in Cape Verde. For lunch, we go to a traditional Cape Verdean restaurant and then via an huge centuries old Kapok tree on to National Park Serra da Malagueta for a walk. Upon their return, we have fired up the barbecue for dinner.