Cape Verdes - Security

Overall Crime and Safety

Parts of Cape Verde have been hit with a crime wave as tourists have been attacked and mugged. The U.K. Foreign Office is also advising tourists about an increase in burglaries on the two most popular holiday island destinations of Sal and Boa Vista.

It is recommended to avoid carrying valuables in public, avoid unlit areas after dark and remain vigilant at all times.

Specific areas of concern

Numerous security reports have been submitted to Noonsite over the years from Praia.

Noonsite has received reports in the past from cruisers about dinghy and outboard thefts in these islands. It's important to note however that there are several very rural islands, for instance, Santo Antao, which have hardly any reported crimes at all.

Maritime Issues

Since the 2023/24 season, there have been some anchored boats that have suffered robberies, and there are more beggars in the street. Marina Mindelo, keen to give yacht owners peace of mind, have collaborated closely with the local authorities and improved security, including increased patrols, both on land and on the water, upgraded surveillance systems and additional cameras. With regular communication between the marina and law enforcement, response times have improved, and incidents are swiftly managed.

They remind yacht owners that securing valuables, locking entrances, and being mindful of surroundings remain essential, as is communicating any safety concerns to marina staff and local authorities.

Mindelo on Sao Vicente has improved security significantly since 2010, which is also thanks to a special police squad fighting theft, robbery etc. However, it is not recommended to leave your dinghy unattended at the city beach of Mindelo (as in many other cities around the world). Ask the Port Captain if you plan on leaving your boat and wish to employ a local watchman. For a small daily or monthly charge, you can moor your dinghy at the marina where there is 24/7 security on the pontoons. Alternatively, cruisers recommend paying a local to watch your dinghy whilst you are away.

On May 17, 2024, a tanker was attacked by pirates 363 nautical miles SSW of Nova Sintra, Cabo Verde, according to the ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB). While this was a commercial vessel that was targeted, yachts should be aware when sailing in the vicinity.

Reported Incidents:

• May 2024:  Worrying Piracy Incident off Cape Verde
• October 2022: Yacht burglary in Sal reported in comments.
• September 2021:  While on a walk ashore at Mindelo, two cruisers were attacked and robbed in daylight by a group of bandits.  Read their first hand report here.
• April 2021: Armed boarding and robbery in Praia - 1st hand report here.
  Numerous security reports have been submitted to Noonsite over the years from Praia. It is recommended to avoid Praia and visit Sao Vicente instead.
• January 2020: Incidents of armed boardings and robberies continue in Praia (Santiago). Four boats reported four separate incidents to Noonsite in November 2017, all were boarded and robbed and in two incidents the crew were violently attacked as well. More recently, a catamaran was boarded and the crew held at knifepoint while robbed in January 2020. Praia should be avoided if at all possible.

Be sure to check the latest news and security reports for the Cape Verdes.

See also the comments section for information reported from cruisers related to safety (speech bubble icon).

Last updated: October 2024