Mindelo – A Good Place to Stop but Take Care

Created by val. Last modified on 2010-01-07 21:55:49
Contributors:
Countries: Cape Verdes

Posted 2009-12-29

Having read and heard some rather disparaging comments about Mindelo and after spending 2 weeks here, I can recommend Mindelo without any reserve whatsoever as a stop over prior to the Atlantic crossing.

The marina is reasonably well run with polite and helpful staff, sure its not downtown LA but we have found the people to be friendly and open. the facilities are basic but reasonable considering the islands location and infrastructure. Things are a little more expensive but not unrealistically so. A new bar and restaurant with swimming pool has opened where all are made to feel welcome, beers are very reasonably priced and served ice cold.

We have shopped every day in the town and have felt no undercurrent whatsoever, in fact, the opposite. local markets are a good source of greens and vegies, without the overcharging which we have come across in other locations. There are 3 main bakeries in town and depending on how you like your bread will depend on which one you revisit, but all are good.

Overall, a very nice stay.

Mike marshall
yacht Zeus

Posted 2010-01-07

LIGHTS AND SHADOWS ABOUT MINDELO - SAO VICENTE – ISLANDS OF CABO VERDE

I spent October and November 2009 in Mindelo (Sao Vicente) during a voyage from Italy to Brazil. I moored my boat in “Marina Mindelo”, a marina well managed by Kai Brossman, a germany engeneering specialized in electronic equipments. I needed to replace the engine of an old Autohelm 4000 and I had the fortune to come in the right place. Kai Brossman has a Raymarine shop in the Marina and I obtained to replace the autopilot in short time at the right price.

The standard of the Marina is good if one consider that you’re in Africa but all the sailors must pay attention at the people that moves around the Marina. Not all this people can be considered reliable. Particularly a “Rasta” boy named Divan is famous for his frauds. Before to know this, I gave him my wears and the money to wash it but I did not see no wears and no money. A friend of mine lent a few money to Divan with the promise of Divan to give back it but the money, of course, has not yet gave back.

The companion of voyage of mine and an italian friend were robbed in front of a discotheque by night. A dinghy has been stolen during my stay ....

I know that the people of Cabo Verde is not friendly as 20 years ago. Here the people is changing and now all the yachtsmen must pay attention.

Rocco De Sanctis
s/y Nesis - Italy