Praia to São Nicolau Ferry

Search Praia → São Nicolau ferries

The ferry from Praia on Santiago to Ribeira Brava on São Nicolau is one of the longer crossings in Cape Verde. It connects the national capital with one of the quieter and more traditional islands in the northern Barlavento group. The journey is part of the CV Interilhas Linha Redonda circuit, which links islands across both the southern and northern groups.

The Route

Ferries depart from the port in Praia and travel north through the archipelago, stopping at intermediate islands along the Linha Redonda circuit before arriving at São Nicolau. The vessel used is the HSC Liberdadi operated by CV Interilhas. Depending on the direction of the circuit, the ferry may call at Boa Vista and Sal before reaching São Nicolau, or travel via São Vicente. The total journey time from Praia to São Nicolau can be 12 hours or more depending on the specific routing.

How Long Does the Crossing Take?

There is no direct ferry from Praia to São Nicolau. The connection is made via the Linha Redonda circuit which stops at several islands along the way. The total travel time depends on the direction of the circuit and can range from 12 to 18 hours. Most passengers travel overnight. Use the Ondas search tool to check the specific routing and times for your chosen date.

How Often Do Ferries Run?

The Linha Redonda operates twice per week in each direction. The schedule can vary seasonally so always check current departure times before travelling.

Operator: CV Interilhas (vessel HSC Liberdadi)

Line: Linha Redonda

Frequency: twice per week

Duration: 12 to 18 hours (via intermediate stops)

What to Expect on São Nicolau

São Nicolau is one of the least visited islands in Cape Verde and offers a very different experience from the busier tourist islands. The main town of Ribeira Brava is small and quiet with a handful of guesthouses and restaurants. The island is known for its mountainous interior, traditional villages and the Monte Gordo natural park. It is a good island for hiking and for travellers who want to experience a quieter side of Cape Verde away from the resort islands.

Alternative Route via São Vicente

Many travellers reach São Nicolau by flying from Praia to São Vicente and then taking the shorter ferry crossing from Mindelo to Ribeira Brava. This route takes approximately 3 hours by ferry and runs twice per week. It avoids the very long overnight crossing from Praia and can be more practical if your time is limited.

Buying Tickets

Tickets for the Linha Redonda can be purchased online at cvinterilhas.cv or at the port in Praia. Book in advance as this route runs infrequently and can fill up during busy periods. Ondas shows departure times but does not sell tickets directly.