Atlantic Star Nautical Center

Located on the island of Sal, Atlantic Star Nautical Center has established itself as the primary reference for diving in Cape Verde. As the only PADI 5 Star IDC Centre in the archipelago, it provides a level of professional instruction and facility maintenance that is unique to the area.

The centre is ideally positioned for those staying in Santa Maria, offering easy access to the coastline. Whether you are looking to complete your first certification or are an experienced diver seeking advanced training, the school is built to accommodate all levels of expertise.

The centre is run by an international team of professionals, ensuring that communication is never a barrier to learning or safety. Instructors are able to guide you through your training in English, Portuguese, Spanish, German, or Creole.

As an IDC Centre, the school is geared towards high-level training and professional development. The team supports students through the entire progression, from the initial Open Water Diver course right up to the Divemaster level.

The training programme is comprehensive, covering the full range of PADI certifications. You can start with the Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver courses, or progress towards becoming a professional through the Divemaster programme.

Specialty training is also widely available for those looking to refine specific skills. The centre offers courses in Night Diving, Wreck Diving, Cave Diving, Orientation, and Naturalist Diving, allowing you to tailor your education to your interests.

The fleet consists of three new Zodiac boats, which are used to access the various dive sites around the island. These vessels are well-suited for navigating the local conditions and reaching the reefs and walls effectively.

The centre is fully autonomous regarding gas, featuring its own tank inflation system and a well-equipped maintenance workshop on-site. This ensures that equipment is serviced and cylinders are ready for your dives without delay.

For those travelling with their own kit, the school offers free storage for your equipment throughout your stay. Theory sessions are conducted in a dedicated air-conditioned classroom located right on the beach, providing a comfortable environment for your studies.

The waters around Sal are home to a variety of large marine life. You can regularly encounter turtles and various species of Ray (Batoidea) as you explore the seabed. Large schools of fish and diverse tropical fish add constant movement to the underwater landscape.

For those interested in more specific encounters, the area is known for the presence of the Manta ray (Mobula alfredi) and the Nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum). You may also spot Moray eel (Muraenidae) tucked into the crevices of the reef.

Macro enthusiasts will find plenty to observe on the bottom, including Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani) and various flatfish. The presence of different species of tropical fish ensures that there is always something interesting to watch, even during more casual explorations.