Praia, Santiago Island

Begin your Expedition Cruise in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde perched on the southern shores of Santiago Island, where Atlantic light glazes whitewashed façades and a living history unfolds along the old centre that looks out to the sea. This port sets itself apart with a compact, walkable waterfront and a skyline of historic buildings boasting transom windows that frame the ocean like living portraits. In the old quarter, the Ethnographic Museum invites you to trace the archipelago’s rich cultural tapestry—from African and Portuguese influences to island traditions—connecting you to the diversity that defines the Cape Verdean experience. A short stroll to the harbor culminates in a visit to the Diogo Gomes statue, a tribute to the navigator who first charted these waters in 1460, offering a tangible link to the archipelago’s discovery. As a starting point for your expedition, Praia pairs authentic urban charm with authentic offshore access, making it a signature embarkation for voyages that explore Cape Verde and beyond. The fleet that calls here features purpose-built expedition vessels designed for intimate encounters with windward shores, with shallow drafts and flexible moorings, enhanced by onboard expedition teams, stabilized decks, and panoramic lounges. Onboard services reflect Cape Verdean hospitality: regionally inspired cuisine, insightful lectures, cultural performances, and crew-led excursions that bring the archipelago’s stories to life before you even set foot on shore.