Mindelo

Mindelo on the island of Sao Vincente has been described as the best harbour in eastern Atlantic. This may be true for big ships since the harbour is not open to the sea in any direction. But for yachts this harbour have some severe shortcomings; service is non existent and the wind from the the north is often very strong.

Mindelo is a small town but holds 47000 people. Statistically, every fertile woman have 7 children, so there are lots of children. Life conditions are tough. Average temperature is 35 centigrades and rainfall 20 mm. Abundant are fish though. Everything else must be imported. One third of Cap Verde's BNP comes from remittances from Cap Verde people abroad. One third of the BNP comes from aid from other countries.

In spite of poverty prices for food and clothes are very high. Average monthly income is 120 $.

The harbour is reasonably well protected but the northerly winds are strong. Most yachts choose to anchor, but there is an old ship in the innermost  part of the harbour where mooring is offered. There you can find shower, power and guards.

For those who choose to anchor, it is advisable to make a deal with one of the boys at the beach. He will look after your dinghy, show you the way to the harbour office, help you with purchase of fuel and water and laundry service.

Purchase of provisions is no big problem. Most things are available and prices are not prohibitive for a yachtsman, even if Canary Island prices are lower. Stocking up for an Atlantic crossing is therefore possible.

In the center of town there is a public market and many supermarkets, banks, post office and telephone. In an old red house on the beach there is a library and an internet café.

Finally, we have never been to a harbour outside France so totally dominated by french yachts. Many french people sail to Dakar so therefore it is quite natural to pass Cap Verde on the way to The New World.