Explore: Tarrafal (Sao Nicolau)
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General Info
This mountainous island lies about 70nm due west of Sal. The peaks here cause sufficient rainfall to support the growth of fruit and vegetables here. The main town on the island is Vila da Ribeira Brava. It has an attractive colonial town centre. Porto do Tarrafal is located on the west coast of the island. It is one of the only places on the island with a (black) sand beach.
One of the best islands to visit. Friendly people and a few security problems.
Position 16° 34.12’N, 24° 21.62’W (anchorage).
Clearance
Not officially a Port of Entry.
However, the Harbourmaster will clear you in, although with no Immigration Authority stationed here passports cannot be stamped. To clear Immigration, you will need to visit an official Port of Entry.
The Harbour office (Delegacao Maritima) is in the pink building (not the blue one with the anchor symbol!) towards the main square.
The office is open from 08:00 to 15:30 (Mon-Fri). There is a standard charge of 7 Euros, no matter the length of stay or size of yacht. Papers may be retained until departure. Water is charged for as well.
Last updated December 2017.
Docking
Pretty anchorage although select a spot to anchor with care; too far south and the swell causes severe rolling; too far north and the bottom is rocky with poor holding. The holding is good in the black sand in 5 to 10m. Keep clear of the fairway as ferries and small cargo boats use the quay.
Dinghies can be left at the slipway at the root of the mole or on the beach. There will be no shortage of children as ‘minders’ to watch it.
A Dutch ex-pat living on the island is a good contact.
Updated December 2017.
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