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Cabnave Shipyard

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Industrial site
—°10
Cabnave Shipyard (Cape Verde)

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The Cabnave Shipyard in Mindelo on São Vicente Island is the premier shipbuilding and repair facility in the central Atlantic region. Since starting operations in 1983, it has played a critical role in Cape Verde's maritime economy and serves as a regional service provider for international fleets. The shipyard is located at the southern end of Porto Grande harbor and features impressive infrastructure, including six dry docks and a modern ship-lift system capable of handling vessels up to 2800 tons. Cabnave provides a wide range of services, from mechanical maintenance and metal fabrication to electronic repairs. Due to Mindelo's strategic location, the shipyard is a preferred stop for fishing vessels, commercial ships, and yachts crossing between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The facility contributes significantly to employment in Mindelo and promotes technical training in the maritime sector. Despite increasing regional competition, Cabnave remains a competitive player in the industry through continuous certifications and partnerships with international shipping companies.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar–May.

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📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Cabnave Shipyard is the largest shipyard in Cape Verde, providing repair services for ships on the Mid-Atlantic route. It is an important economic factor for Mindelo and the entire archipelago.
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Visiting
The shipyard grounds are usually not accessible to the public for safety reasons. From the port quay of Mindelo, you can observe the dry docks and repaired ships from a distance.
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Where to view it
A good viewpoint is the waterfront promenade of Mindelo, from where you have a good view of the shipyard. The height of Monte Cara also features a panoramic view of the port and ships.
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Local products
The shipyard gives ship repair, maintenance, and dry dock services. In Mindelo, fresh seafood, tuna, and local rum (Grogue) are also available.
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Active season
The shipyard is active year-round, with peak times when many ships cross the Atlantic. In the winter months (November to March), traffic is usually higher due to increased shipping.
Nearby
A visit can be combined with a city tour of Mindelo and a detour to Praia da Laginha beach. An island tour to Santo Antão or a whale-watching trip are also recommended.

Geography

Coordinates
16.89600, -24.99600

Facts

  • Commenced operations in 1983 in Mindelo as a state shipyard.
  • Features a ship-lift system for vessels weighing up to 2800 tons.
  • Has a total of six dry docks for simultaneous repair works.
  • Is the only certified large-scale shipyard in the Mid-Atlantic.
  • Employs hundreds of skilled professionals from the maritime sector.
  • Works closely with international fishing fleets from Europe and beyond.

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Notable places around

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Sights in the town Cabnave Shipyard (10)

Praia de Laginha

Town beach of Mindelo with calm waters.

Fortim D'El Rei

Small 19th-century fortress at the harbor.

Manuel d'Novas

Monument to Cape Verdean musician Manuel d'Novas.

waiting place for ferries

Waiting area for ferries at Mindelo port.

Gago Coutinho e Sacadura Cabral

Monument to the Portuguese aviation pioneers.

Corsino Antonio Fortes

Monument to Cape Verdean poet Corsino Fortes.

CNAD - National Centre for Arts, Craft and Design🏛 museum

National centre for arts, crafts and design.

Luís Morais

Monument to Cape Verdean musician Luís Morais.

Praça Nova (Praça Amilcar Cabral)🌳 park

Central square in Mindelo with green areas.

Eden Park Cine-Theatre

Historic cinema and theatre building in Mindelo.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Cabnave?
A significant shipyard in Mindelo, specializing in ship repairs.
Can you visit the shipyard?
Usually not open to tourists as it is an active industrial site.
Where exactly is it located?
In the bay of Porto Grande in Mindelo, on São Vicente island.
How many employees does Cabnave have?
It is one of the city's largest employers, with several hundred employees.
What types of ships are repaired there?
Fishing vessels, cargo ships, and occasionally private yachts.
Cabnave Shipyard: where is it located?
Cabnave Shipyard is located in Cape Verde.
Cabnave Shipyard: what is there to see?
Highlights include Praia de Laginha, Fortim D'El Rei, Manuel d'Novas.
Cabnave Shipyard: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May.
Cabnave Shipyard: why is it worth visiting?
The Cabnave Shipyard in Mindelo on São Vicente Island is the premier shipbuilding and repair facility in the central Atlantic region.
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