Leaving the Cape Verde Islands, the route to Recife is a rather leisurely one. Of course, you'll have to endure the particular conditions of the Doldrums, but with a few hours of mechanical propulsion, it's easily done... It's also an ideal route for a short stopover in Fernando de Noronha.
Recife, Brazil's port of entry
Approaching Recife, we drop anchor in 3 meters of opaque water, right in the middle of town, in front of the Pernambuco Iate Clube.
In our experience, we strongly recommend accepting the help of a club member to complete the formalities for entering Brazil, which are not a model of simplicity...
Likewise, it's a good idea to leave your dinghy at the Iate Clube and take a ferry to the heart of the city.
The region's mild climate is not its only asset. The Cabanga Iate Clube offers a few marina berths right in the center of town. Alternatively, a few minutes' sail north brings you to Marina Rio & Mar, a safe, comfortable shelter on a river estuary.
A stopover with many attractions
There are many reasons to visit Recife. Sunbathers will love the long, golden ribbon of Boa Viagem beach, although they must observe local regulations, as shark attacks are not uncommon. For lovers of architecture, the city is home to a number of cathedrals, churches and various buildings, often reflecting the city's colonial past.
The presence of favelas means you need to behave with caution. The rule is simple: dress conservatively and show no outward signs of affluence. If you walk around with your arms outstretched, wearing a T-shirt, shorts and flip-flops, you won't attract the attention of pickpockets and other pickpockets.
Travelling a few kilometers by bus is a breathtaking experience. You'd think the drivers were on a Formula 1 driving courseâeuros! Sensitive souls please refrain. Yet it's an easy way to get to one of Brazil's oldest cities, Olinda, just a few kilometers away...
Olinda
In 1982, Olinda, a pretty, colorful city, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It boasts many remarkable monuments and is also a cultural Mecca. Its famous carnival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, seduced by its festive atmosphere and authenticity.
A multitude of restaurants, bars and nightclubs make Recife one of the country's most popular spots for nightlife enthusiasts.
Praia de Suape
Once you've had enough of city life, it's easy to get back to the joys of cruising. Less than 20 miles south of Recife, the Praia de Suape anchorage lies along a beautiful coconut beach. The shallow entrance should be approached with caution at high tide. You then anchor in 4 to 6 meters of water in a sort of lagoon.
