São Vicente to Santo Antão Ferry: Complete Travel Guide (2026)
- Angela & Paulo Silva
- Sep 26, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Everything you need to know to get there, book smart, and make the most of your trip with Green Line Tours.
Why This Ferry Route Matters
Santo Antão is one of Cape Verde's most spectacular islands: volcanic peaks, lush green valleys, terraced hillsides, and some of the best hiking trails in the Atlantic. The good news? If you're in São Vicente, it's just one hour away by ferry.
This guide covers schedules, ticket prices, booking tips, and how Green Line Tours can turn a simple ferry ride into an unforgettable island adventure.
The Route at a Glance
Departs from: Mindelo Ferry Terminal (Porto Grande), São Vicente Arrives at: Garemaritima Porto Novo, Santo Antão Journey time: Approximately 1 hour Daily departures: Yes, morning and afternoon
Ferry Companies
Two reliable operators run this route daily:
Armas Ferry -- nosferry.com Interilhas Ferry -- cvinterilhas.cv
Both offer comfortable seating, indoor and deck options, a snack bar with coffee and light bites, and luggage allowance. Keep your camera out: the ocean and island views are worth
Both companies offer reliable daily services and comfortable seating, with departures in the morning and afternoon. You’ll be in good hands!
2026 Ferry Schedule
Mindelo to Porto Novo (São Vicente to Santo Antão)
Morning: 07:00 and 08:00
Afternoon: 14:00 and 15:00
Porto Novo to Mindelo (Santo Antão to São Vicente)
Morning: 09:00 and 10:00
Afternoon: 16:00 and 17:00
This schedule runs consistently Monday through Saturday. On Sundays and public holidays, times may change. Always confirm at the Mindelo terminal or online before you travel.
⏱ Duration: Approximately 1 hour, depending on weather and sea conditions.
👉 Tip: From Monday to Saturday, the timetable is consistent. On Sundays and holidays, schedules may change. Always double-check at the Mindelo ferry terminal or online before traveling!
Ticket Prices & Where to Book
Tickets cost €10 to €15 per person (one way, adults and children).
You can buy them:
At the Mindelo ferry terminal ticket office, open daily from 06:00
Through Green Line Tours (we handle the booking for you)
On the ferry company websites when online booking is available
Tip: Buy in advance on weekends or public holidays. Ferries fill up fast, and good seats go early. Arriving before departure is always a smart move.
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What to Expect Onboard
Comfortable Seating: Choose between indoor and deck options.
Snack Bar: Enjoy coffee and light snacks while you sail.
Luggage Allowance: Check ferry rules for oversized bags.
Stunning Views: Keep your camera ready for beautiful ocean and island views!
Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey
Arrive early. The terminal gets busy before departure and good seating is first come, first served.
Check conditions. Sea conditions can occasionally affect sailings, though in over nine years of traveling this route with guests, we've only seen this happen once.
Motion sickness. If you're sensitive, take medication before boarding as directed.
Plan your return. Ferries back run twice daily, so build your itinerary around the afternoon departure times.
Is a Day Trip to Santo Antão Possible?
Absolutely. Take the morning ferry, spend the day hiking or exploring, and return on the afternoon service. It's one of the most popular ways to experience Santo Antão without an overnight stay.
Can You Take a Car?
Yes. Some ferries allow vehicles, but space is limited. You must book at the ferry terminal in person and bring your vehicle registration and driver's license.
Why Santo Antão Is Worth the Trip
Santo Antão is Cape Verde's most agricultural island, meaning you'll find an abundance of fresh, locally grown food. Add dramatic mountain scenery, traditional villages, and genuine Cape Verdean hospitality, and you have one of the most rewarding destinations in the archipelago.
Explore Both Islands with Green Line Tours
We specialize in making the most of your time across both islands:
Guided hiking and trekking in Santo Antão
Cultural and city tours in Mindelo, São Vicente
Tailor-made itineraries combining both islands
Ferry tickets, transfers, and accommodation planning
Whether you're spending one day or one week, our local guides handle the details so you can focus on the experience.
Book your Cape Verde adventure with us:
Based in São Vicente and Santo Antão, Cape Verde
✨ Book your São Vicente & Santo Antão tour with our local guides for an authentic, stress-free experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the ferry from São Vicente to Santo Antão? About 1 hour each way, depending on sea conditions.
How often do ferries run? Twice daily in each direction: morning and afternoon departures.
How much does a ticket cost? €10 to €15 one way. Service fees may apply when booking through an agent.
Do ferries run every day? Yes, normally daily. Schedules may vary on Sundays, holidays, or due to weather.
Where does the ferry leave from in São Vicente? The Mindelo Ferry Terminal (Porto Grande), in the heart of Mindelo.
Where does it arrive in Santo Antão? Garemaritima Porto Novo, in the heart of Porto Novo.
Final Thoughts: Your Adventure Awaits!
The São Vicente to Santo Antão ferry makes island hopping easy, affordable, and unforgettable! Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a week-long trekking adventure, this short journey opens the door to one of Cape Verde’s most stunning islands.
Ready to explore? Catch the ferry from Mindelo and let Santo Antão’s landscapes take your breath away!
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