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Come aboard Le Ponant for an unforgettable voyage.

Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht, like the finest travel address on the waters of the world.

On the Cape Verde Islands, formed from volcanic lava and sculpted by the power of the Atlantic’s waves, you will experience the raw beauty of incomparable nature. There are of course the strains of morna coming from Mindelo. There is the history of a former Portuguese colony that still bears traces of its past and has a geographic situation that has meant many influences for this string of islands. Above all, though, Cape Verde represents an indefinable feeling of freedom. Carried by the wind, Le Ponant will take you into a unexpected world where the elements will imbue you with new emotions.

Soft music rises from Mindelo, the music of Cesária Évora, “the Barefoot Diva”, who is inextricably linked to her island and her town, where she remains revered. The pastel colours of the façades and the former colonial buildings dot the Cape Verdean towns and villages that you will discover from the sea. In São Nicolau, the steep hillsides soon rise on the horizon, while the deep valleys will welcome you to discover the dragon trees, these ancient trees with a majestic silhouette. Boa Vista offers another face of Cape Verde, with its dunes of fine sand stretching as far as the eye can see, revealing the cerulean blue of the Atlantic. And volcanos are everywhere here, watching over the landscape, their sharp contours unveiling the power of wild nature.

Wherever you go, you will be captivated by the markets with their bright colours and fragrance-filled stalls. You will explore Praia, the multi-faceted capital of Cape Verde, planted with tamarind and silk trees. In Maio, you will discover an island far removed from the crowds, where the large beaches of white sand gently bathe in crystal-clear waters. The highest island in the archipelago, Fogo, is like a painting featuring a palette of colours, at times emerald, at times grey, revealing old lava flows amidst lush vegetation. You will discover the historic city of São Filipe inexorably turned to the sea.

Aboard Le Ponant, you will enjoy the privilege of an intimate atmosphere in the hushed comfort of the ship. The changing winds will set the pace of your odyssey, freedom will surge up on the horizon, in the soft calm offered by the interior of PONANT’s emblematic yacht. If you look to the sky, you will perhaps glimpse some of the many bird species that can be found in this piece of land lost in the Atlantic Ocean. You are sure to be surprised by the variety of activities during your trip, from hiking the paths of the archipelago to lazing on the bridge of the ship or on a Cape Verdean beach, to cultural discoveries and the exploration of a fascinating heritage.

Overview

Your voyage

All-inclusive

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Destination

Destination

Atlantic Islands

Mindelo to Mindelo

Duration

8 days, 7 nights on board

Relais & Châteaux

Establishment

Relais & Châteaux

Timeless

Offers

PONANT Bonus 15%

Ref: PO011125

Journey

Your daily itinerary

  • Sail through the Cape Verde archipelago, between little-known ports of call, lively shores and special moments spent aboard Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht.  
  • Discover the treasures of Cape Verde: vibrant markets, historic towns, volcanic landscapes, and dive into the diverse culture and fascinating history of this unique archipelago.
  • Among your activities: Santa Antao from Mindelo, crater village from Fogo, relaxation time on Maio, etc.  
The many faces of Cape Verde null

Customize your journey:

Staterooms and suites

Elegance and refinement

*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.

Details

More information

What's Included

Important travel details

In your luggage

The many faces of Cape Verde

Itinerary

Embarkation 01/11/25 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Departure 02/11/25 at 9:00 pm

1 Nov 25 > 2 Nov 25 - Mindelo

From Mindelo, the cultural capital of Cape Verde and the hometown of the legendary Cesária Évora, you will be able to travel to the neighbouring island of Santo Antao. On the horizon, the island’s sharp contours, a result of volcanic activity in the region, rise out of the Atlantic Ocean. Long deemed impassable, Santo Antao has been partially tamed by man who successfully adapted to the mountain chain that crosses it, in particular by establishing terraced farming there. This unique form of agriculture gives the island an extraordinary beauty which blends in with its wild nature, at times lush, at times mineral. With its deep valleys and jagged peaks, the territory offers stunning panoramas that promise unforgettable memories.

1 Nov 25 > 2 Nov 25 - Mindelo

1 available excursionto this stopover

Arrival 03/11/25 early morning Departure 03/11/25 evening

3 Nov 25 - São Nicolau

Located south-west of São Vicente, the island of São Nicolau is a dramatic sight with steep, richly forested mountains that reach their peak at ᅠMt Gordo. Near the summit, the islandメs attractive capital, Ribeira Brava, nestles in a deep green valley. Not far off, you can hike along the mountain paths of Fajã, where youメll see rare and extremely old dragon trees growing naturally on the high plateaux. Coastal landmarks include the Blue Hole, ᅠpeaceful Tarrafal beach and the picturesque fishing village of Preguiça.

3 Nov 25 - São Nicolau

2 available excursionsto this stopover

Arrival 04/11/25 midday Departure 04/11/25 late afternoon

4 Nov 25 - Boa Vista

The third largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago, Boa Vista offers visitors stunning white-sand beaches and emerald water. Dubbed “the sand dune island”, it is particularly well-known for its wild, desert landscapes that are windswept all year round. Sand dunes, oases and arid plains form the landscape of this small stretch of land that is barely 30 km (20 miles) long. Make the most of your stop here by experiencing the joy of swimming amid abundant marine life.

4 Nov 25 - Boa Vista

1 available excursionto this stopover

Arrival 05/11/25 early morning Departure 05/11/25 late evening

5 Nov 25 - Praia

The capital of Cape Verde, Praia, is located on the southern tip of Santiago island. You can dally in the districts planted with Tamarind and Albizia trees. Above the harbour, the statue of Diogo Gomes pays homage to the man who discovered Cape Verde in 1460. A few streets away, in the old centre, the Ethnographic Museum presents the diversity of the archipelago’s cultural origins. Its historical building with transom windows is one of the city’s more unusual curiosities.

5 Nov 25 - Praia

2 available excursionsto this stopover

Arrival 06/11/25 midday Departure 06/11/25 early evening

6 Nov 25 - Maio

Discovered in 1460 in the month of May, as its Portuguese name indicates, Maio lies east of Santiago in the Cape Verde archipelago. At the southwestern end of the island, you will discover the city of Porto Inglês, also known as Vila do Maio, where the pastel houses nestle against rounded hillsides. This port city played a pivotal role in the export of salt by the English in the 17th century. Overlooking the city, the fortress built in the 18th century as protection against pirate attacks still bears traces of its turbulent past. The long beaches of white sand that edge the island are now an invitation to enjoy the peace and serenity.

6 Nov 25 - Maio

Arrival 07/11/25 early morning Departure 07/11/25 early afternoon

7 Nov 25 - Fogo

Lying west of Praia, the volcanic island of Fogo is Cape Verde's highest landmark. The foothills of Pico de Fogo are ideal for hiking, with an immense caldera surrounding the active crater. Trails start at the little town of Chã das Caldeiras and you can see recent lava flows and older ones sprouting with new growth. Along the rocky coastline you'll come across picturesque Mosteiros and the historic town of São Filipe, where elegant colonial houses overlook the Atlantic.

7 Nov 25 - Fogo

1 available excursionto this stopover

Arrival 08/11/25 early morning Disembarkation 08/11/25 at 7:00 am

8 Nov 25 - Mindelo

Set on the shores of the Porto Grande bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you'll see the pastel-coloured houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.

8 Nov 25 - Mindelo

The many faces of Cape Verde

Customize your journey

Transfer from the airport to the pier of mindelo with lunch

TRANSFER FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE PIER OF MINDELO WITH LUNCH
Details

Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.

Mindelo

Meet at the airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.

You will be transferred to a local restaurant for lunch.

You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.

Your programme includes:

·        The transfer as mentioned in the programme.

·        The meals mentioned in the programme.

·        Services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Personal expenses

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.


Total

AU$230/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

Night in lisbon and transfert in mindelo with lunch (1 night)

Night in Lisbon and transfert in Mindelo with lunch (1 night)
Details

Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.

Day 1 - Lisbon

Meet at Lisbon Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.

You will be transferred to the Hotel (about 15 minutes drive).

Check-in in your room from 3 pm.

The end is the day is at leisure.

Day 2 - Lisbon / Mindelo

After your check out, you will be transferred to Lisbon airport for your flight to Mindelo.

Meet at the airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.

You will be transferred to a local restaurant for lunch.

You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.

Your hotel:

Lisboa Plaza is a charming Boutique hotel in the historic centre of Lisbon. It is located close to Avenida da Liberdade. The atmosphere of informal good taste and the constant updating of services provided make this charming hotel your best friend's home in Lisbon.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

·        1-night accommodation in standard room (or similar)

·         The meal mentioned in the programme.

·        Transfers as mentioned in the programme.

·         Services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Tips

·        Personal expenses

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

·        Early check-in and late check-out.

Contact of your hotel:

Lisboa Plaza Hotel
Travessa do Salitre/Av. Liberdade 1269-066
Lisbon - Portugal
Telephone: +351 213 218 218

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.


Total

AU$700/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

4x4 safari tour

4X4 SAFARI TOUR
Details

Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between your port of disembarkation and the airport.

Mindelo

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the pier by our local English-speaking representative.

From the pier, you will board your 4x4 for a panoramic tour of the island of São Vicente, through breathtaking landscapes. In the heart of unspoilt nature, your adventure will take you from the north coast to the south coast to Palha Carga Beach - a one-kilometre-long beach just for you. On the way, you will stop at Assomada to take pictures.

After enjoying a stop at a black sand beach and crossing the agricultural valley of the island, Ribeira de Calhau, you will drive along the coast to the fishing village of Calhau, with its colourful wooden sailboats and its typical Cape Verdean atmosphere.

You will continue driving along the coast until Salamansa bay.

Then you will be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.

Your programme includes:

·        4x4 Transfer and panoramic tour as mentioned in the programme.

·        Services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

·        Depending on weather conditions, the tour can be done the other way around with the same starting (harbour) and ending point (airport).

·        This tour is a panoramic tour (3 hours' drive with photo stops) in an all-terrain vehicle and involves walking on rough roads with some steps. The vehicles used are local and do not have air conditioning or a sound system.

·        We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 2 passengers.

·        Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems. There are no toilets during the tour.

The duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

In the event of schedule changes of PONANT's selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space, and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.


Total

AU$230/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

Night in lisbon and 4x4 safari tour in mindelo (1 night)

Night in Lisbon and 4X4 safari tour in Mindelo (1 night)
Details

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

Day 1 : Mindelo / Lisbon

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the pier by our local English-speaking representative.

From the pier, you will board your 4x4 for a panoramic tour of the island of São Vicente, through breathtaking landscapes. In the heart of unspoilt nature, your adventure will take you from the north coast to the south coast to Palha Carga Beach - a one-kilometre-long beach just for you. On the way, you will stop at Assomada to take pictures.

After enjoying a stop at a black sand beach and crossing the agricultural valley of the island, Ribeira de Calhau, you will drive along the coast to the fishing village of Calhau, with its colourful wooden sailboats and its typical Cape Verdean atmosphere.

You will continue driving along the coast until Salamansa bay.

Then you will be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for your flight.

Arrival at Lisbon Airport.

Meet at Lisbon Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight.

You will be transferred to the Hotel (about 15 minutes drive).

Check-in in your room from 3 pm.

The end is the day is at leisure.

Day 2 - Lisbon / Paris

After your check out, you will be transferred to Lisbon airport for your flight to Paris.

Your hotel:

Lisboa Plaza is a charming Boutique hotel in the historic centre of Lisbon. It is located close to Avenida da Liberdade. The atmosphere of informal good taste and the constant updating of services provided make this charming hotel your best friend's home in Lisbon.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

·        1-night accommodation in standard room (or similar), including breakfast.

·        Transfers as mentioned in the programme.

·        Services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

. Meals

·        Personal expenses.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

·        Depending on weather conditions, the tour can be done the other way around with the same starting (harbour) and ending point (airport).

·        This tour is a panoramic tour (3 hours' drive with photo stops) in an all-terrain vehicle and involves walking on rough roads with some steps. The vehicles used are local and do not have air conditioning or a sound system.

·        We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 2 passengers.

·        Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems. There are no toilets during the tour.

The duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

In the event of schedule changes of PONANT's selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space, and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.

Contact of your hotel:

Lisboa Plaza Hotel
Travessa do Salitre/Av. Liberdade 1269-066
Lisbon - Portugal
Telephone: +351 213 218 218

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.


Total

AU$680/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

The many faces of Cape Verde

Other available dates

01/11/2508/11/25

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

PONANT Bonus 15%

From

AU$13,300

/person*

08/11/2515/11/25

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

PONANT Bonus 10%

From

AU$14,050

/person*

Discover

15/11/2522/11/25

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

PONANT Bonus 15%

From

AU$13,300

/person*

Discover

22/11/2529/11/25

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

PONANT Bonus 20%

From

AU$12,550

/person*

Discover

29/11/2506/12/25Sold out

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

From

AU$11,800

/person*

Discover

31/10/2607/11/26

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

PONANT Bonus 30%

From

AU$11,590

/person*

Discover

07/11/2614/11/26

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

PONANT Bonus 25%

From

AU$12,380

/person*

Discover

14/11/2621/11/26

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

PONANT Bonus 30%

From

AU$11,590

/person*

Discover

21/11/2628/11/26

7 nights aboard the ship Le Ponant

PONANT Bonus 25%

From

AU$12,380

/person*

Discover