Hydrographic Survey in the Cape Verde Archipelago – São Vicente and Santo Antão Islands

Under the protocol signed between the Instituto Hidrográfico (IH) and the Instituto Marítimo e Portuário (IMP) of Cape Verde, a team from the IH Hydrographic Brigade, consisting of four military personnel, conducted a survey of the Port of Mindelo using a modern portable multibeam echosounder system. This advanced technology enables high-resolution detailed seabed mapping with full coverage.

The survey was accompanied by two military personnel from the Cape Verde Coast Guard and one representative from Guinea-Bissau, fostering capacity building in hydrography and strengthening technical cooperation between these Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP) nations. This initiative was carried out through a partnership between IH and IMP, with the support of ENAPOR – Cape Verde Ports and the CPLP Executive Secretariat.

Additionally, a topographic survey of the new Cruise Terminal was conducted, allowing for the update of nautical charts that will serve as a reference for ships docking at this location. Hydrographic surveys were also carried out at the CABNAVE S.A. shipyards, as well as at the Port of Porto Novo on Santo Antão Island, where expansion works are planned to commence soon.

As Cape Verde is a world-renowned tourist destination, updated nautical cartography will contribute to the growth of this sector and the enhancement of navigation safety. With its sunny beaches, marine biodiversity, and scenic mountain trails, the islands attract numerous visitors. With the completion of the new Cruise Terminal in Mindelo, São Vicente Island, even more tourists will arrive aboard cruise ships.

Thus, efforts are being made to ensure that Porto Grande in Mindelo becomes a safe and highly attractive stopover for large vessels crossing the Atlantic. A secure port, equipped with updated nautical charts and modern port infrastructure, will help boost the economy, create jobs, and attract further investment.