São Vicente

The most popular dive site in São Vicente is the Kwara Wreck. This purposely-sunk fishing trawler rests upright at around 28 meters. Its popularity stems from its accessibility and the abundant marine life it attracts. Divers can expect to see large schools of soldierfish, yellow grunts, and often larger species like moray eels, stingrays, and nurse sharks hiding within the structure. It's a fantastic wreck dive suitable for advanced divers.

A well-known site is Ponta de Tubarão, famous for its resident nurse sharks resting in sandy-bottomed caves. For a less-crowded gem, explore Canal de Corais. This site features beautiful hard and soft coral formations and is excellent for macro photography, with chances to spot nudibranchs, scorpionfish, and frogfish. It offers a different, more intricate diving experience compared to the larger sites.

Water temperatures in São Vicente, Cabo Verde vary seasonally. During the cooler months (January-April), expect temperatures around 21-23°C (70-73°F). From May to December, the water warms up significantly, ranging from 24-27°C (75-81°F), with the peak usually in September and October. This range allows for year-round diving, though the warmer season is generally more comfortable for most divers.

The best time for diving in São Vicente, Cabo Verde is from April to November. During these months, the seas are generally calmer, visibility is at its best, and water temperatures are warmer (24-27°C). This period avoids the stronger winter winds and offers the most pleasant surface conditions. However, diving is possible year-round, with the cooler months offering a different but still rewarding experience.

Underwater visibility in São Vicente, Cabo Verde is typically very good, often ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50-100 feet). The best visibility is usually found from April to November when the seas are calmer. It can occasionally be reduced by plankton blooms, especially after strong winds, but even on lower visibility days, it rarely drops below 10-15 meters. The clear Atlantic waters provide excellent conditions for photography.

Yes, São Vicente, Cabo Verde experiences seasonal migrations. The most notable event is the humpback whale migration from February to May, when they come to the islands to breed and calve. While underwater encounters are rare, you can often see them from the dive boat. Manta rays and even whale sharks are occasionally spotted during the warmer, plankton-rich months from July to October, though sightings are not guaranteed.

Divers in São Vicente, Cabo Verde can expect a mix of Atlantic and West African marine life. Common sightings include large schools of grunts and soldierfish, moray eels, lobsters, and scorpionfish. Pelagic species like barracuda, jacks, and tuna are frequent visitors. You may also encounter several species of rays, including stingrays and eagle rays, as well as nurse sharks resting in caves. Macro life includes various nudibranchs and crustaceans.

The recommended wetsuit thickness for diving in São Vicente, Cabo Verde depends on the season. In the warmer months (May-December), when water is 24-27°C, a 3mm or 5mm full wetsuit is typically sufficient. During the cooler winter months (January-April), with water temperatures dropping to 21-23°C, a 5mm or 7mm wetsuit, possibly with a hood or vest, is recommended to ensure comfort during dives.

To get to São Vicente, Cabo Verde, you will fly into Cesária Évora Airport (VXE) near Mindelo. The airport receives direct international flights from some European cities, particularly Lisbon, Portugal. Alternatively, you can fly into one of Cabo Verde's other international airports (Sal or Praia) and take a short domestic flight to São Vicente. Taxis are readily available at the airport for transfers.

Diving in São Vicente, Cabo Verde is almost exclusively shore-based. Dive centers in Mindelo run daily boat trips to the sites located around the island, all of which are easily reachable within a short ride. There are currently no dedicated liveaboards operating solely around São Vicente. A shore-based stay allows you to enjoy the island's vibrant culture, music, and cuisine after your dives, offering a well-rounded travel experience.