Luxury HotelsDirectoryBeach ResortsBoutiqueParisLondonNew YorkTokyoLuxury HotelsDirectoryBeach ResortsBoutiqueParisLondonNew YorkTokyoLe Ponant operates eight-day, seven-night roundtrip cruises departing from Mindelo, the main port of São Vicente, exploring the Cape Verde archipelago. The itinerary includes São Nicolau, Santo Antão, Boa Vista, Praia, Maio, and Fogo, visiting volcanic landscapes, colonial heritage sites, and pristine beaches. Sailings operate in October and November 2026.
Check availability Official websiteLe Ponant cruises depart from Mindelo, the main port of São Vicente and cultural epicenter of Cape Verde. The city features historic colonial architecture and pastel-colored buildings set among colorful marketplace alleys. Mindelo is the birthplace of Cesáría Évora, the legendary Cape Verdean singer. Guests embark and disembark from this port for the eight-day roundtrip voyage.
The itinerary visits São Nicolau, featuring the historic capital Ribeira Brava situated among steep verdant landscapes with dragon trees in the mountainous Fajã region. Santo Antão displays volcanic terrain with rocky peaks, terraced fields, and steep-sided valleys offering both wild beauty and calm. Boa Vista, nicknamed 'the island of dunes,' offers desert landscapes and white sand beaches bordered by emerald waters. Praia, Cape Verde's peaceful capital, features historic buildings including a renowned ethnographic museum in the historic center. Maio showcases the pastel-colored port of Vila do Maio and an 18th-century fortress. Fogo presents the picturesque coastal village of Mosteiros and the historic city of São Filipe with European architecture facing the ocean.
The 'Faces of Cape Verde' cruise operates for eight days and seven nights on a roundtrip basis from Mindelo. Le Ponant sails these waters in October and November 2026, with 12 total departures scheduled to this destination. The schedule allows guests to experience the archipelago during months offering favorable conditions for island exploration.
The Cape Verde islands were formed by volcanic lava and sculpted by the Atlantic's powerful surf. Landscapes range from lush greenery to arid desert, supporting diverse marine ecosystems. Each island reflects its geological history: Fogo's volcanic national park displays old and newer lava flows; Santo Antão offers verdant mountain valleys; Boa Vista presents wind-swept dune expanses. This natural variety enables varied water activities including diving and snorkeling throughout the voyage.
The cruise departs from Mindelo, the main port of São Vicente and cultural epicenter of Cape Verde, on a roundtrip basis.
The itinerary visits São Nicolau, Santo Antão, Boa Vista, Praia, Maio, and Fogo, plus Mindelo.
The 'Faces of Cape Verde' cruise is eight days and seven nights, operating on a roundtrip from Mindelo.
The cruise operates in October and November 2026, with 12 scheduled departures to this destination.
Mindelo is Cape Verde's cultural epicenter, featuring colonial architecture, colorful marketplaces, and pastel-colored buildings. It is the birthplace of legendary singer Cesáría Évora.
Islands offer volcanic terrain, white sand beaches, mountain valleys, historic colonial cities, and desert dunes. Each island displays distinct geography shaped by volcanic origin and Atlantic influence.
Back to the Le Ponant overview for photos, map, address and verification, or see the full guide above.
Sources: relaischateaux.com
No prices or ratings: rates change daily. We may earn a commission from partner links.