Cape Verde is a hotspot for whale activity during March and April, being one of just two breeding sites in the north Atlantic. And this half-day cruise takes you into the waters around the island to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat – all with the help of an on-board marine biologist.

After being picked up from your hotel, you'll sail out to the best spot to catch sight of whales on that day. Being one of two breeding sites in the north Atlantic, it's an ideal opportunity to spot these giants of the sea. March to April is peak season, so your chances are at their highest during these months.

Humpback whales come up for air for minutes at a time, before raising their enormous dorsal fins out of the water as they dive back down to the depths. If you're really lucky, you might see one breach – this is when they launch themselves into the air, before crashing back onto the surface with an almighty splash.

You cancelled it at very short notice via the app with no explanation or apology, we went and seen the reps and again the man was unapologetic and non accountable & also rude

The staff were all lovely and were trying their hardest to make sure we could see any whales, it was also well ran and very informative

Should have been postponed as far too rough and windy, people everywhere were throwing up, 1 poor lady was flat out and needed carrying off the boat. No chance of seeing land let alone a whale. Disgraceful and a total waste of time and money

We enjoyed everything. All the crew were helpful and friendly and knowledgeable and we did get to see the whales

Didn't see any whales. The ocean was too choppy, and we shouldn't have gone out. Many people vomited during the 3 hours from sea sickness (including us) and one lady collapsed and had to be carried off the catamaran.

The staff were great and the experience of seeing the whales was priceless. But, the excursion is expensive compared to other providers - we only booked as the others weren't available. It is also way oversold, too many people in one boat and this impacted the experience a lot. Inconsiderate people stood in the way making it difficult to see glimpses of the whales and there was no policing by staff to stop this.

Why you’ll love this…

Spot whales in their natural environment
Cape Verde is a breeding site in March and April
On-board marine biologist

Important to know

There is a high chance of seeing whales but it's not guaranteed
Can be booked on a catamaran or on gelidonya caicco sailling boat
Not suitable for wheelchair users
We prioritize responsible and respectful wildlife viewing on all of our dolphin and whale-watching tours, and we try to avoid interfering with their natural behaviours as much as possible. While sightings can't be 100% guaranteed due to this conservation-focused effort, we'll try our best to make sure you see them
Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility
Bring a hat

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 1 day before the experience begins.

What’s included

Catamaran cruise
Boat transfer
Transport
Snacks
Marine biologist guide

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Pickup points

To see which pickup points are available, check under availability & prices.

Provider

TUI CAPE VERDE

What people say about this experience

4.3/5

All reviews are verified

Based on 116 reviews

Review categories

Staff

4.5/5

Safety

4.5/5

Service

4.5/5

Value for money

4.1/5

All ratings (116)

5 stars (64)

55%

4 stars (33)

28%

3 stars (13)

11%

2 stars (1)

1 star (5)

M
Mr Smith.
Travelled as a couple
17 May 2025
1
United States of America
You cancelled it at very short notice via the app with no explanation or apology, we went and seen the reps and again the man was unapologetic and non accountable & also rude
A
Alex
Travelled as a couple
13 May 2025
5
United States of America
The staff were all lovely and were trying their hardest to make sure we could see any whales, it was also well ran and very informative
E
Emma
Travelled as a couple
12 May 2025
1
United States of America
Should have been postponed as far too rough and windy, people everywhere were throwing up, 1 poor lady was flat out and needed carrying off the boat. No chance of seeing land let alone a whale. Disgraceful and a total waste of time and money
T
Tracy
Travelled as a couple
9 May 2025
5
United States of America
We enjoyed everything. All the crew were helpful and friendly and knowledgeable and we did get to see the whales
K
Kevin
Travelled as a couple
8 May 2025
1
United States of America
Didn't see any whales. The ocean was too choppy, and we shouldn't have gone out. Many people vomited during the 3 hours from sea sickness (including us) and one lady collapsed and had to be carried off the catamaran.
L
Laura
Travelled as a couple
8 May 2025
3.4
United States of America
The staff were great and the experience of seeing the whales was priceless. But, the excursion is expensive compared to other providers - we only booked as the others weren't available. It is also way oversold, too many people in one boat and this impacted the experience a lot. Inconsiderate people stood in the way making it difficult to see glimpses of the whales and there was no policing by staff to stop this.