How to Travel Between Cape Verde's Islands by Ferry?

Maxime Boudrias Best answer Updated: July 26, 2024

Maritime transportation between the islands of Cape Verde is provided by CV Interilhas, which offers regular services between the islands of the archipelago. Each island has its own schedules, costs, and routes.

Below, you'll find all the details about crossings, ticket prices, and other important information to plan your trip.

Map of connections between Cape Verde islands © CV Interilhas

Ticket Prices for CV Interilhas

Ticket prices for ferry trips between Cape Verde's islands vary depending on the destination, time, and type of cabin. Here's an approximate price overview:

• Adult passenger: 3,000 to 5,000 CVE
• Baby (0-2 years): Free
• Car: Around 10,000 CVE
• Motorcycle and bicycle: 800 to 2,000 CVE

How to Book CV Interilhas Tickets

Online

1. Visit the CV Interilhas website to purchase your tickets by credit card.
2. Select your departure and arrival ports. Each island has a main port (Santo Antão, São Vicente, São Nicolau, Sal, Boavista, Maio, Santiago, Fogo, Brava).
3. Choose your travel dates. The site may sometimes show limited or no availability; try adjusting the dates if needed.
4. Select the number of passengers and the type of vehicle, if applicable. The form is not translated, but here are the main options:
   • Não Nacional: Non-resident (13 years and up)
   • Criança Não Nacional: Non-resident child (3-12 years)
   • Bebé: Baby (0-2 years)
   • Condutor Não Nacional: Non-resident driver
5. Add any extra luggage (2 carry-on bags per person are included, 300 CVE per additional bag).
6. Enter each passenger's details (name, age, passport).
7. Pay by credit card (try a Visa if other cards are declined).
8. Keep your email confirmation and print it if necessary. You’ll need to show your e-ticket when boarding. If you don’t receive your ticket by email after purchase, contact them at [email protected].

Note: Book online several weeks in advance to secure your spot, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. CV Interilhas recommends buying tickets at least 1.5 hours before departure.

Through agencies

Use authorized agents such as Polar (all islands except Boavista and Sal) and Navex (Boavista, Santiago, Sal, São Vicente). Payments can be made in cash (CVE).

Inter-Island Travel Times

Ferries travel at an average speed of 20 km/h. For example, a trip between the Island of Santiago and Fogo (110 km) takes 5 hours, while between Sal and Boa Vista (65 km) it takes 3 hours. Night crossings are available for some routes, saving you time and a night in a hotel.

Luggage Rules

Each passenger can carry up to two carry-on bags (max. 55x40x25 cm, 8 kg) at no extra cost. For additional luggage, add it when booking (300 CVE each).

Vehicle Transport

You can transport your car. Make sure to have all necessary documents proving ownership. For a rental vehicle, you'll need the rental contract and authorization from the agency to take the vehicle to another island.

Traveling with Pets

Pets are allowed on board under certain conditions. They must be transported in suitable containers and will be considered as checked baggage. Depending on their size, they might be considered carry-on luggage and travel with you.

Guide dogs and assistance animals travel for free and can move in passenger areas without staying in a cage. Provide all documents proving ownership and the need for the animal to get approval for boarding.

Boarding

Show a photo ID (identity card or passport) and your ticket to an agent when boarding. The name on the ID must match the one on the ticket.

Make sure to check in at least 1 hour before departure to avoid any issues.

Learn More

For more information on terms and conditions, schedules, and routes, visit the CV Interilhas website (available in English).

You can also contact them at (+238) 350 033 0 or by email at [email protected]. Note that communications are in Portuguese. Use an online translation tool to help with exchanges (Google Translate, DeepL).