Latest news with #ferries
BBC News
2 days ago
- General
- BBC News
Guernsey Harbours says big waves from ferries 'not uncommon
Guernsey's acting harbourmaster has said large waves caused by ferries approaching St Peter Port "aren't uncommon".James Way was speaking to BBC Guernsey after videos posted on social media showed large waves at La Valette Bathing Pools, said to be due to a ferry approaching St Peter Port at high speed from the direction of Way said there was no specific speed limit between the two islands, except in harbours and bays, but all boats must comply with the international rules for prevention of collisions at said: "Ultimately the waves are generated by passing ships, so it's not unusual that we see waves like that at the bathing pools." 'The full elements' Mr Way said there had been a "number of incidents over years" caused by waves from ferries, including a woman who was saved from drowning by two 12-year-old girls at Havelet Bay when she was knocked unconscious by a large Way said there were no plans to introduce a speed limit in the Little Russel - the channel between Guernsey and he said Guernsey Harbours was open to ways to improve safety, including better said the public should be "mindful that conditions can change quite quickly" when swimming at sea or in the bathing pools as people were "exposed to the full elements".Brittany Ferries said it had introduced new rules in 2017 for high-speed vessels using St Peter Port harbour, including reduced speeds and an adjusted course.
Times
4 days ago
- General
- Times
Which is the best Cape Verde island? Here's how to choose
Cape Verde's landscape is spectacularly diverse: soaring volcanic peaks and magical cloud villages, kaleidoscopic desert mirages, biodiverse turquoise seas . . . when it comes to natural wonders, the archipelago's islands have it all. And if none of that were enough to lure visitors, then the steady year-round sunshine hours in return for a six-hour flight from the UK — minus the jet lag — might just do the trick. There are four international airports (Santiago, Sao Vicente, Sal and Boa Vista) and local airports on all the populated islands except Brava and Santo Antao, which can be reached by water. Ferries operate between most of the islands but the seas are often rough and timetables unreliable, so internal flights are a faster, more reliable and cost-effective way to get around, with the added advantage of epic bird's-eye views. To explore the islands themselves, you can hire a rental car, but the roads are treacherous, so taxis or aluguers (shared taxis and minibuses) are advisable for all but the most confident drivers. For luxury, all-inclusive and family-friendly resorts, Sal and Boa Vista are the most developed islands — but there are less-touristed alternatives that many miss. All but one of the archipelago's ten islands are inhabited (Santa Luzia is the only uninhabited island). Here's how to choose between them. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue For some travellers, Sal is simply a pitstop between islands — most international and plenty of local flight traffic flows through Amilcar Cabral international airport — but for the many sun-loving devotees of Cape Verde's most popular destination it is the simple things that keep them here: the consistently warm, dry climate and sublime golden beaches. Sal has several sprawling resorts from international hotel brands like Hilton and Meliá, but you can also find boutique options. Sal's windswept desert landscape can feel a little sparse, but there is plenty to keep visitors occupied: soak up nourishing minerals at Pedra de Lume's surreal salt lakes, see baby lemon sharks at Shark Bay, or visit the Terra Boa mirage where an optical illusion conjures an ocean in the heart of the desert. Originally built as a private farmhouse by its Belgian owners, Hotel Morabeza is one of the most popular independent resorts on the island, and for good reason. Sail around Sal on a full-day catamaran cruise with Tui, with all your drinks and snacks included. • Best hotels in Sal The easternmost island in the archipelago and the closest to Africa, Boa Vista is known for epic white sands and historic shipwrecks — the best-known is the skeleton of the Cabo Santa Maria on Atalanta beach — that can be reached on foot in about two hours from Sal Rei or on one of the island's many 4×4 tours. Along with Santiago, Boa Vista has the joint second-busiest international airport in Cape Verde and there are plenty of budget flights available. Boa Vista also has the third largest population of loggerhead turtles in the world, migrating humpback whales, tropical corals and considerable biodiversity, so there is plenty to learn about the Atlantic's aquatic occupants here. Although Boa Vista is around three times the size of Sal and popular with holidaymakers, its character is more laid-back. Still, there's plenty of fun to be found in Sal Rei, the island's biggest town, which is home to a couple of wonderful family-owned museums — Sodade House of Memory, an elegant local restaurant exhibiting local artefacts, and the Museu dos Naufragos, which is constructed entirely from local and recycled materials and charts the history and culture of Cape Verde. For night owls, there is an abundance of bars, beach parties and local music. Don't miss local institution the Morabeza Beach Club, which is where beach bums gather for cocktails and fresh lobster amid a languid Caribbean vibe. For all-out relaxation, stay at VOI Praia De Chaves Resort, which has a private beach, two pools (one for children) and plenty of water sports. Get away from the landlubbers and see the island from a different perspective on Viator's Boa Vista Adults-Only Cruise, on which you'll explore secluded beaches, snorkel and watch out for whales on a beautiful wooden sailing boat. • Is it safe to visit Cape Verde? Everything to know after holiday illness claims In sharp contrast to much of the parched desert terrain of other Cape Verdean islands, northwesternmost Santo Antao is bursting with life. Wild figs and dragon trees, coconut palms and alpine firs all thrive in this mountainous volcanic terrain. Dizzying, vertiginous roads lead to fairytale valleys scored with cassava terraces and banana trees. Santo Antao is the second-largest island in Cape Verde, so to get around you will need wheels. You can drive yourself with a rental from Porto Novo, but unless you are extremely confident a local driver is a better option. And there's plenty to explore. Visit Fontainhas, a colourful cluster of homes perched on hazy cliffs with a view that has been acclaimed as one of the most beautiful in the world. Locals use donkeys to reach the village but tourists take taxis or rental cars. Sinuous paths, gorgeous mountain vistas and lush ribeiras make it a paradise for hikers. Back down to earth, volcanic black beaches glitter in the turquoise surf, although they are not all ideal for swimming. Generally the seas here are pretty lively but the lava tubes and manta rays beneath the waves will keep keen divers happy. Accommodation ranges from traditional bungalows to eco-lodges, guest houses and some boutique hotels. Stay at Aldea Panoramica, a secret sanctuary in Paul, the greenest, most beautiful valley on the island. Exodus Adventure Travels' varied seven-night private tour of Cape Verde's northern islands takes in Santo Antao as well as Mindelo and Sao Vicente. • Discover our full guide to Cape Verde Sao Vicente is the cultural heart of the Cape Verdean islands. One of the smaller islands, measuring around 88 square miles, what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in spirit. In the capital, Mindelo, you can wander the streets and follow the music: small jazz clubs spill out onto the squares, carnival relics rest in colourful courtyards and the streets fizz with life. There is a proud cultural and creative heritage in Mindelo, marked by various museums and festivals like the Cape Verde Carnival, held on Shrove Tuesday, and the Museu Cesaria Evora, dedicated to the singer known as the 'Barefoot Diva'. Vivid murals of Cesaria, Cape Verde's most famous musical export, also grace the bright colonial architecture. Much of the island is made up of desert-like terrain but there are some excellent hikes to be found and it's well worth taking the six-hour walking route from Mindelo to the top of Monte Verde to drink tea distilled from cloud water at the Cabana de Cha tea house. There are few luxury hotels in Mindelo but you'll find good boutique offerings, hiker's lodges and simple guesthouses. In the heart of Mindelo, just minutes from Laginha beach, is Casa da Djedja, a rustic guesthouse with an elegant courtyard that's perfect for alfresco breakfasts. Sao Vicente is a popular cruise destination. P&O's Southampton To Freemantle sailing visits Lisbon, Madeira and Sao Vicente, among other vibrant ports, on its 39-night voyage to Australia. • Best things to do in Cape Verde• Best hotels in Cape Verde The clue is in the title: fogo means fire in Portuguese. With the sole remaining active volcano in Cape Verde, Fogo's dramatic, lava-scarred landscape comes alive with the cool eucalyptus woods and coffee fields that break through the scorched terrain. The unusually mineral-rich volcanic terroir supports small but internationally respected coffee and wine industries. Both the wine and coffee have unique taste profiles and a multitude of tours are available to help visitors explore the local artisanal produce. The award-winning vineyard at Cha das Caldeiras is the best known and has its own guesthouse. Wander the lunar craters and caves of Cha das Caldeiras National Park and taste the local wines or hike to the summit of the Pico do Fogo volcano. Make Sao Filipe your final stop to see the charming sky-blue church and souvenir shop for colourful ceramics and fabrics in the local markets. Stock up on local wine and coffee beans or, for the stronger constitution, grogue — the local sugar-cane liquor. Stay at Casa Marisa, where the eco-lodges are built on lava fields — in places the floors are still warm to the touch. Sample the high life on a Fogo wine and cheese tasting tour with Get Your Guide — it's not every day you get to taste wine with volcano views. Brava, the smallest of Cape Verde's inhabited islands, is tucked away behind Fogo in the western tail of the island chain. Known as Ilha das Flores — Island of Flowers — the island's high altitude feeds abundant lush valleys and verdant peaks packed with maize and mangos, sugar cane and papaya trees. Brava is only accessible by ferry from Fogo, which takes around an hour — but the journey makes the whole experience feel that much more special when you reach Brava's mysterious, often cloud-shrouded shores. Explore the bay around Faja de Agua, renowned for its wild natural swimming pools carved into the ancient black rock, and seek out handicrafts in the main town of Nova Sintra, named for its Portuguese cousin. Small guesthouses, villas and B&Bs are the main accommodation on the island. You'll find charming private bungalows on the slopes of the caldera above Sao Filipe at La Fora Ecolodge. Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting towns and buying local fish and goat's cheese on this Brava Island: the Routes of Morna day trip (morna being Cape Verde's traditional music).Fittingly for the largest island of the Cape Verde archipelago, Santiago has elements of all the other islands — dramatic green valleys and the imposing volcanic Serra Malagueta mountain range, gold and black sand beaches, vibrant orchards and vegetable gardens rich with cassava and yam, and lemon, fig and coconut trees. It's also home to what is considered the oldest European settlement in West Africa, former capital Cidade Velha, now a Unesco world heritage site. Spend the morning exploring the old fort and Pillory Square then head to the new capital Praia, a half-hour drive to the east. As the most populous city in Cape Verde, Praia also offers plenty of variety and a spectrum of places to stay, from sleek upmarket resorts to humble boutique hotels. Meander round the buzzing African food market, lose an afternoon in the cultural museums, watch the locals practise capoeira or just take in some local music and cocktails as the sun goes down over the bay. A peaceful eco-boutique resort on the gorgeous shores of Ponta de Atum, the King Fisher Village has an infinity pool, stylish rooms and homegrown food. Visit Santiago on Saga's 18-night Canaries and Culture of Cape Verde cruise, with the option to explore the island on a 4×4 excursion. Just a 20-minute flight from neighbouring Santiago, Maio is one of the least developed islands in the chain. There is very little in the way of traffic here, human or otherwise, and the glorious white-sand beaches rival those of the Maldives. Accommodation is simple but welcoming, while palm trees and mature acacia forests provide relief from the arid desert heat. While away the hours in the pretty main town, Porto Ingles, and make sure to sample local goat's cheese and delicious caldeirada de peixe (fish stew). Make time for a visit to the tranquil north coast to spot seabirds and, if you're lucky, a white-tailed eagle. Beachfront Casa Evora, located a few minutes' drive from the airport, is a simple but convenient base from which to explore the island. See the highlights of Maio and end the day with a dip at Bitchirotcha beach on this full-day guided tour via Get Your overlooked in favour of the more populous islands, unspoilt Sao Nicolau is a photographer's dream. It's one of the smaller islands —less than 15 miles at its widest point — so you can see a lot in a day. The Carbeirinho cliffs to the west are one of Cape Verde's most beautiful natural wonders. Sculpted over centuries by the sea, the curved strata of limestone and the caves beneath are something special. Less than half an hour's drive south, you can submerge yourself in the fabled healing sands of Tarrafal beach, or in the wilder north soak in the natural basalt rock pools of Juncalinho. Monte Gordo National Park is the heart of the island. Its misty peaks are home to what is known as the dragon blood tree for the red sap it secretes, used by locals to treat pain. The summit views from Monte Gordo are staggering. A variety of trails will take you to the top — the highest point of the island — and you should allow three to six hours for this, depending on your level of fitness and skill. On a clear day you see the whole of Sao Nicolau, Vicente and Santo Antao. The island's main town, Ribeira Brava, is set in a deep green valley, a location that once helped to conceal its citizens from pirate attacks. Potter around the jumbled, cobbled streets, marvel at the candy-coloured colonial architecture, and stop by the impressive cathedral and town square to people watch. You can reach Sao Nicolau by ferry but the seas are often rough and internal flights between the islands are generally more reliable — plus the descent into the dramatic, volcanic interior is worth the ticket. Accommodation is limited to small guesthouses and home stays. A bright, Insta-friendly guesthouse, the Pensao Bela Sombra has both the island's capital and spectacular mountain terrain on its doorstep. See the best bits of Sao Nicolau on a 4×4 private tour that, along with the sights, includes a stop at the beach for a swim. • Best places for affordable winter sun• Best destinations that are hot all year round
The Sun
24-05-2025
- The Sun
Island dubbed the ‘Caribbean of the Atlantic' with empty beaches that feels like going back in time
A FRENCH island feels like the 'Caribbean of the Atlantic' with empty beaches. Île d'Yeu is a 12-square-mile island off of the coast of France, featuring picturesque buildings and quiet sandy beaches. 4 The 'Caribbean of the Atlantic' according to J ournee Mondiale, sits off the western coast of France and is home to two harbours and is known for its unspoilt coastline. In addition, Ile d'Yeu has a rich cultural heritage dating back to prehistoric times. Today, the island still his some of its historical spots. For example, Pierre tremblante (the Trembling Stone) and Vieux Chateau - an old fortress built on the rocks and surrounded by the sea. Ferries heading to the island arrive at Port Joinville, which is home to a vibrant seaside resort and fishing port. In and around the port are several restaurants and cafes, with quaint outdoor terraces looking out on the harbour. The port town also boasts a few places to hire bikes - which are perfect for exploring the quiet island. The harbour benefits from a beach on each side. On one side is Plage de Ker Châlon - a long stretch of golden sand, with facilities including toilets. The beach also has many rocks to explore and is known for being a good water sports spot. I'm a travel editor and this caravan park is the only family holiday I pay for every summer - it's better than 5-star resorts On the other side of the harbour is Plage de la Borgne - a good spot to watch the boats bobbing in the water. On the other side of the island is Plage des Vieilles - one of the more popular beach with families and it has lifeguards present year-round. In total, the island boasts 30 beaches, with several secluded coves. The food scene across the island is simple, with many places serving dishes using fresh, local produce. One local said: "Our waters have always been special – the clarity comes from the unique mineral composition of our shores. "Even sailors who've traveled worldwide tell me they're astounded by our blues", reports Journee Mondiale. 4 Cars are allowed on the island, however visitors don't often come across them. For those cycling around the island, there is a coastal path that travels past some of the rugged cliffs, the Grand Phare lighthouse and the 14th-century Vieux Chateau fortress. To get to the island, ferries depart regularly from Fromentine on the mainland. And for those who wish to spend a longer amount of time on the island, there are also a number of hotels to choose from. There is also a little-known French island near the UK – with 60 beaches. Plus, the stunning French island that holidaymakers say looks like Tahiti – and it's just a short trip across the Channel. 4
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Researchers unveil next-gen motor that could solve destructive issue with modern ships: 'The future of sailing'
A breath of fresh air may soon power your next ferry ride in Sweden. Researchers have unveiled a propulsion system that could swap traditional diesel engines for air-powered motors, ushering in a quieter, cleaner, and far more sustainable way to move ships. The breakthrough comes from a new study published in Energy Conversion and Management, where engineers simulated real-world ferry operations to test the performance of a pneumatic propulsion system. Their results showed that compressed air motors could power short-distance ships while slashing pollution and fuel dependence. Though unconventional, pneumatic propulsion shows promise as a climate-conscious alternative to the marine diesel engines currently powering most ferries. By compressing and releasing air to generate motion, these systems reduce pollution and reliance on dirty fuels. Kaj Jansson, co-author of the study and ferry maker from the Finnish K. J Marineconsulting Ab, said: "Pneumatic propulsion is the future of sailing on fixed maritime routes. The predictability of pace, payload, and destination of ferry boats allows the replacing of conventional diesel engines that are efficient and reliable but polluting, noisy, and sensitive to fluctuating oil prices with pneumatic ones." Engineers value diesel engines for their power density and reliability. Unfortunately, they come with downsides — especially for the environment. They consume vast amounts of fuel, generate noise, and are a significant cause of pollution. According to the International Maritime Organization, they account for nearly 3% of global heat-trapping pollution. On a smaller scale, ferries produce local air and noise pollution that can affect coastal ecosystems and human health. However, pneumatic propellers are a cleaner and more effective option, creating a significantly smaller environmental impact. Researchers have spent several years developing the pneumatic propeller system, designing it specifically for vessels with consistent routes and speeds, such as commuter ferries. In addition to reducing environmental impact, the system cuts operational costs by lowering fuel and maintenance demands. Researchers estimate it could save ferry operators roughly $73,000 compared to diesel models. The project's backers hope to see full-scale trials within the next year, potentially putting this innovation on the water sooner than we think. If successful, it could offer a quieter, cleaner, and more sustainable way to move ships. This next-gen tech doesn't just cut pollution — it could redefine the future of maritime transport. Do you think governments should ban the production of gas-powered lawn equipment? Absolutely Yes — but not yet I don't know Heck no Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Telegraph
15-05-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
SNP accused of £1bn ferry fiasco after more delays and cost rises
SNP ministers have 'squandered' £1 billion of taxpayers' money after overseeing a scandal-hit deal for the construction of two new ferries, it has been alleged. Russell Findlay, the Scottish Tory leader, said the cost of the Glen Sannox and Glen Rosa vessels had risen to £460 million after a further delay to the latter was announced this week. He told First Minister's Questions that John Swinney had personally signed off the contract to hand the work to the Ferguson Marine shipyard, which was then owned by an independence-supporting businessman. In a scathing attack, he said Mr Swinney and Nicola Sturgeon, the former first minister, had 'exploited' the yard for party political purposes but argued that no one in the SNP had accepted responsibility for the debacle. Ms Sturgeon infamously 'launched' the Glen Sannox, which came off the yard's slipway in a blaze of publicity in November 2017. But the vessel was far from finished and the 'windows' on the bridge were actually squares of black paint, while the funnels were made of plywood. SNP 'cannot be trusted with Scots' money' Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, disclosed that more than £500 million had been spent fixing the existing 'ageing ferry fleet' while the two new vessels were being built. Taking into account the cost of the new ferries, which could rise further, he said this was 'now a billion-pound SNP ferry fiasco' and added: 'The truth is that the SNP cannot be trusted with Scots' money.' Mr Swinney said the latest delay to the Glen Rosa, of up to nine months, was 'unacceptable' but admitted he 'cannot be definitive' about the final cost to the taxpayer. The two ferries were supposed to cost a combined £97 million and be delivered in 2018 when the contract for their construction was awarded to Ferguson's in 2015. The yard was owned at the time by tycoon Jim McColl, who supported independence in the 2014 referendum. It was nationalised in 2019 to prevent it collapsing. But the Glen Sannox alone cost £150 million and was only handed over to CMAL, the ferries procurement body, in November last year. It emerged earlier this week that the cost of the Glen Rosa had risen by another £35 million to around £185 million and its delivery date had been postponed again from September to between April and June next year. However, the £335 million total for the two vessels did not include £83 million paid before the yard was nationalised and £45 million of government loans that were written down. An official audit in 2022 questioned why SNP ministers refused to re-tender the contract shortly after it was awarded when 'severe misgivings' were expressed by ferry chiefs about the ability of Ferguson Marine to build the boats. Mr McColl has previously alleged the deal was rushed through for political reasons to give Ms Sturgeon a boost at the 2015 SNP conference, her first as party leader, and in the following year's Holyrood election. Meanwhile, Scotland 's island communities have been forced to deal with an ageing ferry fleet that suffers regular breakdowns and cancellations. They have complained the unreliable service was threatening tourism, businesses and their day-to-day life. Mr Findlay said: 'Scotland's taxpayers are footing the SNP's bill for the ferries scandal they created. John Swinney can't even say what the final cost will be to taxpayers for the ferry contract that he personally signed off. 'He has never accepted blame. Nobody in the SNP ever has or ever does. Not a single one of them has held their hands up to islanders or taxpayers.' Delays and cost 'unacceptable', admits Swinney Mr Sarwar unveiled figures showing ferry operator CalMac's annual repair costs for its existing fleet had risen from just under £29.6 million in 2014/15 to £62.6 million in 2024/25. This represented a 179 per cent increase and the total maintenance bill over the period was £502.2 million. The Scottish Labour leader accused the SNP of being 'addicted to wasting people's money', citing how the bill for a new prison in Glasgow had surged from £100 million to £1 billion. He also claimed public money had been 'wasted on legal fees' in a series of high-profile court case defeats. Mr Swinney told MSPs: 'I make it clear to parliament that it is unacceptable that those vessels have cost so much and that such delays have been experienced. 'The Government is focused on ensuring that the vessels enter service so that we can deliver on our commitments to provide sustainable ferry services for island communities.' He insisted he would 'always accept my responsibilities' for the actions of his administration and it was 'engaging with island communities and delivering practical solutions to those affected by ferry disruptions.'
