Diving São Vicente
Diving in São Vicente: Explore Mindelo’s Underwater Treasures
During your stay in Mindelo, you simply cannot miss the incredible underwater world that São Vicente has to offer. The island is a true paradise for divers, with year-round diving conditions, colorful marine life, and easy access to dive centers right in the city.
At Boa Mindelo Apartments, you’ll be perfectly located to explore these diving spots. Whether you are staying in Boa Mindelo City, just minutes away from the marina, or in Boa Mindelo Beach and Boa Mindelo Azul, close to the ocean, your adventure always starts nearby. After a day of diving, you can relax in your private apartment and relive the highlights of your underwater journey.
Year-Round Diving Paradise
The waters around São Vicente are famous for their stability and visibility. With water temperatures ranging from 21ºC to 27ºC and clear views of 15 to 30 meters, the island is a dream for divers.
- High season (July–November): Warm water, best comfort with a 3–5mm wetsuit.
- Low season (December–June): Slightly cooler, better suited for a 5–7mm wetsuit.
Unlike many destinations, Cape Verde’s dive season never really ends – making Mindelo a perfect choice for a holiday outside the traditional tourist months.
What You’ll See Underwater
São Vicente’s underwater world is vibrant and diverse. Divers can encounter:
- Endemic species like the white tail nurse shark
- Exotic frogfish hidden among the rocks
- Huge shoals of surgeon fish, soldier fish, and yellow grunt fish
- Impressive pelagic species passing through the Atlantic currents
One of the most fascinating dives is located right inside Mindelo’s bay: an 80-metre-long shipwreck that has become a thriving reef. It is home to schools of Soldier Fish, Goat Fish, and Yellow Grunt Fish, offering both beginners and experienced divers an unforgettable experience.
Easy to Access from Boa Mindelo
Most local dive operators are based in Mindelo’s marina, just a short walk from Boa Mindelo City Apartments. Guests staying in Boa Mindelo Beach or Boa Mindelo Azul can reach the marina in just a few minutes by car or taxi. This makes it effortless to plan a morning dive and still have your afternoon free to explore the city, relax at Laginha Beach, or enjoy a coffee in Mindelo’s historic center.
Climate & Comfort
São Vicente may feel like a hidden treasure, but it is easy to reach from Europe and the US, with direct flights to Cape Verde and quick inter-island connections. Once in Mindelo, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather year-round – with average air temperatures of 20–25°C (70–80°F), making it perfect for diving, strolling through the city, or relaxing by the sea.
Why Choose Boa Mindelo Apartments for Your Diving Holiday?
✔ Perfect Location – Boa Mindelo City is just minutes from the marina, while Boa Mindelo Beach and Azul are close to the shoreline.
✔ Comfort After Adventure – Spacious apartments with balconies, Wi-Fi, and modern amenities – perfect to relax after a dive.
✔ Local Tips – We help our guests with insider advice on dive schools, transport, and the best times to explore São Vicente’s underwater world.
✔ Cultural Balance – Combine your diving holiday with Mindelo’s famous music, nightlife, and culinary scene.
✨ Boa Mindelo Travel Tip: Start your day diving among wrecks and schools of tropical fish, then return to your apartment to refresh before heading out to enjoy Mindelo’s vibrant evenings. A stay at Boa Mindelo Apartments offers you the best of both worlds: adventure under the sea and relaxation in the cultural capital of Cape Verde.