The bustling port city of Praia offers three standout boat excursions for travelers eager to explore Cape Verde’s coastal treasures. Your best bet is the comprehensive Tarrafal Bay Boat Trip, an 8-hour journey that combines dramatic lighthouse views and volcanic formations with beach time. We love the 7-hour boat tour from Praia for its perfect mix of snorkeling and culture, complete with a tasty barbecue lunch. Cruise ship passengers should consider the island tour package – it packs traditional dancing, scenic stops, and swimming into one efficient day. Let’s explore these top-rated maritime adventures.
Key Points
- The Tarrafal Bay Boat Trip offers an 8-hour tour with highlights like the lighthouse, Mount Graciosa, and Ponta Preta lighthouse, as well as relaxation on Tarrafal Beach.
- The Tarrafal Bay Boat Trip includes a 2-course meal with appetizer, rice, vegetables, and fish barbecue, along with water and soft drinks.
- The boat trip from Praia to volcanic rock formations and marine life takes 7 hours and includes a visit to Ribeira da Barca Village and Assomada.
- Pricing for the Tarrafal Bay Boat Trip starts at $116.25 per person, with additional fees for boat rental, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The Island Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers is a 7-hour tour from the Port of Praia, starting from Kč 1,768 per person, with a small group size and various scenic stops.
Tarrafal Bay Boat Trip and Beach Day
The Tarrafal Bay Boat Trip and Beach Day offers an idyllic day of exploration and relaxation. Priced at Kč 2,526 per person, this 8-hour tour takes visitors on a morning boat trip to the lighthouse, followed by a visit to Mount Graciosa and Ponta Preta lighthouse.
Guests will then have the opportunity to unwind on the white sands of Tarrafal Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, life jackets, and snorkel equipment. Lunch is provided, consisting of a 2-course meal with an appetizer, rice, vegetables, and fish barbecue.
Water and soft drinks are also included, along with liability insurance.
Participants are advised to bring essential items such as flip-flops, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Specific drinks can be purchased in advance due to the remote lunch location.
With a minimum of 2 participants required for the shared group tour, this experience promises a memorable and personalized adventure.
Read our full review: Tarrafal Bay Boat Trip and Beach Day Review
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From Praia: Boat Trip, Snorkeling, Cave & BBQ on the Beach
Praia offers an array of captivating boat tours, and one such experience is the “From Praia: Boat Trip, Snorkeling, Cave & BBQ on the Beach” excursion.
This 7-hour tour departs from Praia, taking travelers on a 30-minute boat ride to explore the stunning volcanic rock formations and local marine life. Guests will visit the Ribeira da Barca Village and Assomada for photo opportunities before snorkeling in the Àguas Belas cave, conditions permitting.
The tour includes a 2-course BBQ lunch on the black-sand beach, as well as water and soft drinks. While the tour price starts at $116.25 per person, an additional 25 EUR boat rental fee is required per person, or 50 EUR for solo participants.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and book without upfront payment. This tour offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and local cuisine, though guests should be aware of the potential extra fees and weather-related changes.
Read our full review: From Praia: Boat Trip, Snorkeling, Cave & BBQ on the Beach Review
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From Port of Praia: Island Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers
Cruise ship passengers can embark on a comprehensive 7-hour island tour departing directly from the Port of Praia. Priced from Kč 1,768 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) showcases the best of Santiago Island.
Highlights include a traditional dance show in São Domingos, scenic viewpoints in Picos and Serra Malagueta Natural Park, and a 2-hour swim at Tarrafal beach. Guests will also explore charming mountain villages, enjoy live local music, and have ample photo opportunities.
The tour includes pickup, drop-off, a local guide, and air-conditioned transportation. Lunch and drinks are available for purchase. Customers rate the tour highly for its scenic stops and value for money, though some suggest guides could provide more information.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is an excellent way for cruise passengers to discover the beauty of Santiago Island.
Read our full review: From Port of Praia: Island Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers Review
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The Sum Up
Praia offers a variety of boat tours and cruises for visitors to enjoy the island’s natural beauty. From snorkeling trips to island hopping excursions, there’s something for all. Travelers can discover hidden coves, explore coastal caves, and indulge in a beachside barbecue. Whether you’re a cruise ship passenger or staying in Praia, these boat tours provide an excellent way to experience the stunning landscapes of Cape Verde.