Santa Maria

Santa Maria is a large shipwreck on the coast near Ponta Adiante on Boa Vista island. The Spanish-built freighter from 1957 sank in 1968 on a sandbar, leaving behind corroded metal parts that resemble the skeleton of a giant creature.

The ship was built in Spain in 1957 and operated as a fast freighter between Europe and South America. It sank in 1968 under mysterious circumstances on a sandbar, likely due to human error, and has since become a historical reminder of past maritime trade and voyages.

The wreck has become a symbol for Boa Vista and Cape Verde, drawing artists and photographers to document its form. It represents past voyages and maritime adventures that remain part of the island's identity today.

The wreck can be reached by quad-bike tours or 4x4 vehicle trips starting from Sal-Rei, lasting several hours and passing through deserts and small villages. Tours are suitable for visitors of all ages and require no special skills, with experienced guides knowing safe routes.

The wreck sank in 1968 on a sandbar without structural damage, with the exact cause remaining a mystery to this day. This unsolved maritime puzzle adds intrigue to the site for visitors interested in unexplained nautical events and historical enigmas.

Location: Ponta Adiante

Address: 643M+CWP, Ponta Adiante, Cabo Verde

GPS coordinates: 16.20358,-22.86512

Latest update: December 8, 2025 15:33