Cape Verde, Sotaventa Group

Trip	Ports of Call	Dates	Days	Trip Type
70	Praia, Santiago	Dec 27 - Jan 5, 2011	10	Adventure

This poor nation off the west coast of Senegal is comprised of 9 main islands, all quite unique from one another. Known for its soulful music, headed by its most famous musician, Cesaria Evora; and its colorful Portuguese culture the Cape Verdes have more recently become popular with kite and surf adventurers. Not quite African and not quite European, Cape Verde today is almost Brazilian in feel.

We begin this adventure in the dramatic capital of Cape Verde, Praia situated on the largest and greenest island Santiago. From there we head west to visit Fogo, or "Fire", regarded as the most spectacular volcanic island in the group. Here we will enjoy the deep, complex wines made on the island after long sessions of wind and surf. We then head west again to visit the spectacular island of Brava, where we can expect to find only ourselves in port.

Winds in Cape Verde blow consistently and strong and swell arrives from the north just as regularly. For those of you looking to perfect your wave riding techniques, with some very interesting culture thrown into the mix, this is the trip. Not recommended for those seeking flat water.

RESOURCES: For information on flights, please visit here. Domestic flights are often booked up well in advance, so make your bookings early. For information on visas, please visit Visa Help and Lonely Planet

Summary: + Wild, remote + Wind and Waves + Culture + Music/dance + Non-touristy, remote outer islands - Rolly, tenuous anchorages - Dengue fever outbreaks - Largish distances between islands - Windward beat back to Praia

Cape Verde Jean Robert, Lonely Planet photo

GUEST RIDER: Unannounced Air: 74.7F Water: 75.7º F Mean Wind Avg.: 13.3 NE Miles: 190

Reservations

Cabin 1 - Gavin Simpson - Guests: Victoria Johnson

Cabin 3 - Gavin Simpson - Guests: Victoria Johnson

Cabin 4 - Randy Campadore - Guests: Guest