Cape Verde maritime ports

Key Ports in Cape Verde

Cabo Verde, the volcanic archipelago strategically positioned 600 km off West Africa's coast, relies heavily on its maritime infrastructure to connect its 10 inhabited islands and integrate into global trade routes. Managed by the state-owned port authority ENAPOR (Empresa Nacional de Administração dos Portos)—established in 1988—the country operates nine commercial ports, two of which are deep-water facilities: Porto Grande on São Vicente and Porto da Praia on Santiago. These ports handle inter-island ferries, international cargo, and growing cruise traffic, supporting an economy where maritime transport contributes 10-15% to GDP. In 2024, Cabo Verde's ports recorded significant growth: a 11.83% increase in goods handled (third quarter), over 1 million passengers by September 2023 (up 9.6% year-over-year), and expansions at key sites like Palmeira and Sal Rei. As of October 2025, ENAPOR's investments—totaling €50 million since 2020—focus on modernization, including RORO ramps, cold storage, and digital logistics, positioning Cabo Verde as a refueling and transshipment hub under ECOWAS and AGOA frameworks. This article provides background, infrastructure details, and key facts & figures for each port, drawing on ENAPOR data and recent reports.

Deep-Water Ports

Porto Grande (Mindelo, São Vicente Island)

Background: Porto Grande, operational since the 19th century, was a vital whaling and coaling station during the era of sail-powered ships, earning São Vicente the nickname "Coal Island." Refurbished in 2014 with €20 million from the African Development Bank, it remains Cabo Verde's busiest port, serving as a logistics hub for West Africa and a cruise gateway. In 2023, it hosted the inaugural Mindelo Cruise Terminal, boosting tourism.

Infrastructure: Semi-circular sheltered harbor with 11 wharves (1,590 m quay length), three ferry berths (210 m, 5 m depth), a 300 m bulk pier (11 m depth), and two 200 m container berths. Facilities include 7,000 m² warehouses, 1.5 ha cold storage (6,000 tonnes capacity), and a 240 m coastline terminal for RORO/cabotage.

Facts & Figures (2024 estimates):

• Vessels: 2,305 annually.
• Cargo: 670,000 tonnes (including fuel, cement, gravel; exports: canned fish, bananas).
• Containers: 18,000 TEUs.
• Passengers: Over 2 million (including 100,000+ cruise visitors).
• Depth: Up to 30 m; Berth length: 250-350 m (cruise); Water depth: 8-10 m.

Porto da Praia (Praia, Santiago Island)

Background: Dating to the 15th century as a Portuguese stopover en route to Brazil, Praia Harbor became the capital's lifeline in the 17th century. Modernized in 2014 with €15 million, it serves as the primary commercial gateway for Santiago, the most populous island (population ~300,000), handling 40% of national cargo.

Infrastructure: Natural harbor with two docks, three cargo piers, two RORO ramps, and an 80 m fishing wharf (3 m depth). Includes an 8-ha container freight station (20 reefer plugs), 10,500 m² warehouses, a 350 m passenger wharf, and logistics depot. Total quayage: 865 m.

Facts & Figures (2024):

• Vessels: ~1,200.
• Cargo: 818,900 tonnes (imports: food, machinery; exports: fish products).
• Containers: 15,000 TEUs.
• Passengers: 90,000.
• Depth: Up to 14 m; Berth length: 240 m; Water depth: 12.5 m.

Regional and Island Ports

Porto de Palmeira (Palmeira, Sal Island)

Background: Operational since 1986 and expanded in 2010/2015 (€10 million investment), Palmeira supports Sal's tourism boom (1 million visitors annually) and salt industry remnants. It's a key fuel import point, handling 20% of national energy needs.

Infrastructure: 90 m multipurpose berth, concrete RORO ramp, 2-ha container park with scanning tech, 7,000 m² RORO yard, and 455 m² cold storage. Equipment: 4 quay cranes, 1 mobile crane, 3 forklifts.

Facts & Figures (2024):

• Vessels: 500+.
• Cargo: >70,000 tonnes (fuel, vehicles, perishables).
• Passengers: 150,000 (ferries/tourism).
• Depth: 8 m; Berth length: 90 m.

Porto Sal Rei (Sal Rei, Boa Vista Island)

Background: Rebuilt in 2015 after 17th-century origins tied to salt trade (hence "Salt King"), it now aids Boa Vista's eco-tourism growth. A €5 million expansion added breakwaters, enhancing resilience to swells.

Infrastructure: 170 m wharf, 900 m breakwater, RORO ramp, 2.5-ha embankment, and three warehouses. Includes a ferry terminal for Santiago links.

Facts & Figures (2024):

• Vessels: 150.
• Cargo: 15,000 tonnes (tourism supplies, salt).
• Passengers: 35,000.
• Depth: 8.5 m; Berth length: 170 m.

Porto Novo (Porto Novo, Santo Antão Island)

Background: Opened in 1962 and modernized in 2013 (€8 million), it replaced open-roadstead anchoring, boosting Santo Antão's agro-exports (grogu liquor, coffee). It's the island's economic engine, population ~35,000.

Infrastructure: Three berths (450 m², 8.5 m depth), two container parks, two RORO ramps, small fishing pier, and two warehouses. Features a 2,500 m² marine station.

Facts & Figures (2024 est., based on 2018):

• Vessels: 300.
• Cargo: 140,000 tonnes (consumer goods, perishables).
• Passengers: >50,000.
• Depth: 8.5 m; Berth length: 450 m.

Porto Vale dos Cavaleiros (São Filipe, Fogo Island)

Background: Constructed in 2013 (€6 million) to replace a vulnerable site, it supports Fogo's volcanic agriculture (wine, coffee) and volcano tourism. Expanded in 2018 for fish processing.

Infrastructure: Two wharves (75 m and 100 m, 6.5 m depth), 500 m² warehouse, and marine station with escalators.

Facts & Figures (2024):

• Vessels: 200.
• Cargo: ~25,000 tonnes (agri-products, fish).
• Passengers: 20,000.
• Depth: 6.5 m; Berth length: 175 m.

Porto do Tarrafal (Tarrafal, São Nicolau Island)

Background: Built in 1991 on a 1745 settlement site, it connects São Nicolau's rural economy (potatoes, livestock) with mainland markets. Handles essential imports for ~15,000 residents.

Infrastructure: Two berths (130 m, 5.5 m depth) and four warehouses. Adjacent fishing port processes local seafood.

Facts & Figures (2024):

• Vessels: 250.
• Cargo: >30,000 tonnes (consumer goods, fuel; limited forestry exports).
• Passengers: 15,000.
• Depth: 5.5 m; Berth length: 130 m.

Porto Inglês (Porto Inglês, Maio Island)

Background: With 17th-century roots in salt production and a 1814 naval battle site, it links Maio's ~7,000 residents to Praia. Economy shifted to tourism post-1990s salt decline.

Infrastructure: 350 m x 14 m pier (4-11 m depth), ferry services to Santiago, and nearby airport (2 km).

Facts & Figures (2024):

• Vessels: 100.
• Cargo: ~10,000 tonnes (essentials).
• Passengers: 10,000.
• Depth: 4-11 m; Berth length: 350 m.

Porto Furna (Furna, Brava Island)

Background: Brava's sole port, at a natural harbor mouth, supports the island's ~6,000 residents and remittances-driven economy. Limited by swells, it has development potential for eco-tourism.

Infrastructure: Open roadstead (190 m, 7.5 m depth) with ferry links.

Facts & Figures (2024):

• Vessels: 80.
• Cargo: ~5,000 tonnes (basics).
• Passengers: 8,000.
• Depth: 7.5 m; Berth length: 50 m (cruise); Water depth: 4.5 m.

Cruise Ports in Cape Verde

Here's a overview of the primary cruise ports in Cape Verde, including their key features:

1. Port of Praia

• Location: Praia, Santiago Island

• Region: Africa

• Role: The Port of Praia, located in the capital city, is one of the main deep-water ports in Cabo Verde. It serves as a strategic entry point for cruise ships and showcases the mix of modern and colonial architecture.

• Activities:

• Arrivals: The port accommodates several cruise ships, providing access to iconic local attractions and cultural experiences.

• Departures: Visitors can explore Santiago Island's historical sites, visit markets, and experience local cuisine, including traditional dishes and music performances.

2. Cruise Port of Mindelo

• Location: Mindelo, São Vicente Island

• Region: Africa

• Role: As one of the main urban centers in Cape Verde, the Port of Mindelo plays a critical role not only in cargo but also in cruise tourism. It is often referred to as the cultural heart of Cape Verde and is known for its lively music scene and vibrant neighborhoods.

• Activities:

• Arrivals: Mindelo serves as a key port of call, attracting cruise ships that bring tourists seeking cultural experiences, exploration of the island's historical sites, and opportunities to enjoy local music and cuisine.

• Departures: Passengers can take excursions to explore the island, including visiting local markets, hiking in the surrounding hills, and enjoying beach time.

3. Porto Novo

• Location: Porto Novo, Santo Antão Island

• Region: Africa

• Role: Porto Novo is the main port for Santo Antão, known for its rugged terrain, lush landscapes, and agricultural production. While not as heavily trafficked by cruise ships as Boa Vista or Mindelo, it offers opportunities for unique excursions.

• Activities:

• Arrivals: The port welcomes smaller vessels and some cruise ships, providing access to the island's stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

• Departures: Visitors often embark on hiking trips, exploring the island's lush valleys, and engaging with the local agricultural community, making it a great destination for adventure tourism.