Pretty anchorage although select a spot to anchor with care; too far south and the swell causes severe rolling; too far north and the bottom is rocky with poor holding. The holding is good in the black sand in 5 to 10m. Keep clear of the fairway as ferries and small cargo boats use the quay.
Dinghies can be left at the slipway at the root of the mole or on the beach. There will be no shortage of children as 'minders' to watch it.
A Dutch ex-pat living on the island is a good contact.
Updated December 2017.
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We stayed few days at Tarrafal and we liked it. This is one the rare place were the wind if not blowing all day and the swell not bumping the boat. We anchored in 12 m good holding. It gets very deep near the shore.
To go on land we used to go to the fishing harbor were one kid/teenager would after paddle our dinghy to attache it on a line. Or you can beach it. In both cases you can expect to pay a fee to guard it.
The police office for check in and out is located 5 to 10 min walking East. This is a blue building but look more like a house.
We did meet a very friendly person who became quickly our guide for the Island; He’s name is Nilson. We visited this beautiful Island as Nilson arranged us a Car with a driver for the day.
We did not need, but If you need water or fuel, Nilson can arrange that.
There is few small supermarkets and shops. Veggies and Fruit in the public market at the fishing harbor.
We had a lunch at the Fishing museum and we enjoy it.
Alex Penninckx says:
Jan 17, 2019 04:51 AM
It is possible to get water in the port of Tarrafal on Sāo Nicolau in the fishing harbour. I saw 2 catamarans doing it but don’t know the depth. I spoke one of them. He paid harbour fees and water.