From the airport named after the country’s most famous singer, Cesária Évora, you can take a taxi or bus to the town of Mindelo. Cape Verde receives very little rain, and this is especially evident on São Vicente. The dry volcanic landscape closely resembles a lunar landscape. However, Mindelo is vibrant and colorful, and its people are warm and welcoming.

In the bay of Mindelo, the ‘Morgenster’ is anchored. Mindelo has been a place where ships stocked up before crossing to South America – and that is exactly what we will do. On the afternoon of Thursday, October 2nd, the crew will pick you up with the dinghy from the Floating Bar in the marina. Your adventure has begun! Once everyone is on board, and the formalities are completed, we will set sail.

The wind is particularly strong in the channel between São Vicente and Santo Antão, allowing us to leave these islands behind quickly. After a day at sea, we will pass close to Ilha Brava, and if the visibility is good, we may also see the towering volcano of Fogo in the background. The temptation to stop is great, but with an Atlantic crossing ahead of us, we must settle for the view alone.

As the journey progresses, you will learn more and more about sailing a brig, navigating, meteorology, and ship maintenance through hands-on experience. During this voyage, we will cross the equator—a milestone for every sailor, with the key question being the best place to do so. There is a high chance of spotting whales, and even farther from shore, seabirds will continue to accompany us. With some luck, we may also see schools of flying fish pursued by mahi-mahi and tuna, as well as dolphins or even sunfish. Halfway through the crossing, we will visit the Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago: a group of rocks formed by seabed uplift rather than volcanic activity. The ocean floor here is more than three kilometers deep. Naturally, we will also have to seek permission from Neptune to sail into the Southern Hemisphere. All “landlubbers” crossing the equator for the first time should prepare for a proper initiation by the King of the Sea.

After our visit to the Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago, the journey will accelerate. Hopefully, we will pick up the southeast trade winds for the final days of sailing toward Fernando de Noronha. This Brazilian archipelago is known for its historic ruins, stunning beaches, and unique nature, featuring tropical seabirds and rich marine life. It is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. We highly recommend taking some time to explore Fernando de Noronha upon arrival. On October 16th, after breakfast, you will say goodbye to your fellow sailors and the ship, having gained the experience of an Atlantic crossing and equator passage.

Sailing on a large square rigged sailing ship is a special experience. Especially on an ocean-going voyage like this one. On the long ocean swell the ‘Morgenster’ feels perfectly at home. On board the ‘Morgenster’ you are not a passenger but guest crew. You will be assigned to a watch together with the crew and receive instruction so that you can actively help sail, steer and navigate the ship. Conditions at sea are changeable and on a sailing ship the natural elements have to be constantly taken into account. You will also be explained how to help yourself and your fellow guests with life on board and in emergencies. Sailing experience is not required. The crew will be happy to explain to you what all the lines, halyards and sheets are for. Most sailors like to actively participate in the work on board, but of course your wishes and possible limitations will be considered.

The shipping company aims to make the ‘Morgenster’ accessible to as wide an audience as possible. However, you must understand that this is a sea voyage aboard a sailing ship, which demands more physically than a daily walk. Some journeys are more challenging than others. To provide an indication of the level of difficulty, we categorize our trips as follows:

Level 1 

Level 1 voyages are suitable for anyone with good mobility and health. Often these voyages are in sheltered areas or close to the coast. However, it is still a journey on a sailing ship, at sea and so you must weigh up for yourself whether you can cope.

Level 2

Level 2 voyages are often heavier or further from home. You must be able to cope well under sometimes challenging conditions, but in case of need, the ship can be in a port within 24 – 48 hours. There is no age limit, but you may be asked to provide additional proof of fitness or health.

Level 3 

Level 3 voyages are only for the experienced and fit sea traveler. The weather can be challenging and there are no ports to call at, along the way. We are out of helicopter range and medical care  from shore is not available. These trips are open to people up to 73 years of age, and you may be asked to provide additional proof of fitness or health.