From St. Helena to the Cape Verde Islands

Immerse yourself in a maritime adventure from St. Helena to Cape Verde that offers remarkable experiences on the high seas. This journey with MS Plancius promises fascinating encounters with wildlife and impressive views of the Atlantic. Watch majestic whales and experience the impressive spring migration of northern birds as you cross the equator. The journey begins in the charming town of Jamestown, where you can discover British culture and the unique flora and fauna of the volcanic island. Enjoy the starry night on the aft deck and be inspired by the expert lectures on board. This expedition offers you the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature in its purest form and create lasting memories.
 

Itinerary: From St. Helena to Cape Verde

 
Day 1: Departure from St. Helena
Our journey begins in Jamestown, a uniquely located town that has much to offer before we set sail. This charming town, nestled in the dramatic landscape of the island, invites you to experience the local British culture, which harmoniously blends with the tropical climate and fascinating wildlife. Especially the endemic birds of this remote volcanic island are a highlight for nature lovers. A visit to Longwood House, the place where Napoleon died in 1821, offers a fascinating insight into the island's history. For those feeling ambitious, Jacob's Ladder with its 699 steps offers a physical challenge and impressive views as a reward. If you have more time, short hikes invite you to explore the lush nature, or you can snorkel in the shallow waters and observe a variety of tropical and subtropical fish native to the island's clear waters.
 
Day 2 - 3: Sailing on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge
We continue our journey along the impressive Mid-Atlantic Ridge, one of the most fascinating geological features of our planet. This extensive underwater mountain range stretches majestically over a length of 16,000 km (10,000 miles), starting in the icy Arctic Ocean and extending to the southern tip of Africa. It is a true wonder of nature, impressively showcasing the tectonic forces of the Earth. In the evening, we invite you to join us for stargazing on the aft deck. Here, under the vast canopy of the sky, we will show you the many highlights of the equatorial sky. Weather permitting, you will have the opportunity to marvel at these celestial wonders with binoculars or even with the naked eye. It is an opportunity to experience the beauty and mystery of the universe up close as we gently glide over the waves.
 
Day 4 - 8: Crossing the Equator
On the way across the equator, we will be accompanied by elegant Arctic terns and majestic skuas, which are on their impressive spring migration north. These fascinating birds provide us with a spectacular show as they effortlessly glide through the air. In this special phase of our journey, we hope for good weather, allowing us to stay on deck and admire the clear night sky. Watching the stars in all their glory is a highlight we eagerly await. Particularly exciting is the moment when the North Star becomes visible on the northern horizon, a sign that we are approaching the northern part of the hemisphere. This experience connects us with the ancient seafarers who once navigated by the stars and allows us to feel the magic of navigation on the high seas.
 
Day 9 - 10: Sailing to Ilhéus do Rombo and Sao Filipe (Fogo Island)
We will sail past Ilhéus do Rombo and Sao Filipe on Fogo Island, where we have the chance to observe some of the western Palearctic species. This region is known for its rich birdlife, and it offers an excellent opportunity to observe different bird species in their natural habitat. As we leisurely sail along the coasts, we can enjoy the picturesque view of the island from the water. The gentle waves and fresh sea breeze create a relaxed atmosphere, allowing us to fully experience the beauty of nature. The combination of birdwatching and impressive landscapes makes this sailing day an unforgettable experience.
 
Day 11: The Pearls of Praia
We arrive in the city of Praia on the Cape Verdean island of Santiago and disembark later in the day at 6:00 PM. Although no lunch is served, you are free to remain on board or store your luggage until disembarkation. If you have the time, we offer an additional tour in and around Praia. Here you can visit the historic Cidade Velha and its massive hillside fortress, built for defense against English plunderers. Other attractions include the oldest Christian church in the tropics and the whipping post for slaves in the main square. You can also simply stroll through the streets of Praia and enjoy the folk music echoing from the windows of the taverns. Please contact us directly if you wish to continue to Madeira after completing your odyssey. We can refer you to our partner, who offers this unique connecting cruise between Praia and Funchal, providing further opportunities for birdwatching in the Atlantic.
 
 
More Information: The PLA33-26 trip is only bookable in conjunction with the PLA32-26 trip. Please note that the specified itinerary serves merely as guidance and may be subject to change due to weather conditions, ice, and wildlife observations. Landings depend on availability, permits, and environmental aspects. The final schedule is determined by the expedition leader, with flexibility being a crucial element of this cruise.
 
Discover the fascinating landscapes and unique wildlife between St. Helena and Cape Verde – an adventure not to be missed. As spots fill up quickly, we recommend that you inform yourself and secure your trip promptly. Immerse yourself in a remarkable expedition that opens up new perspectives!
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