Bissau Cruise Ship Port Guide

Where is The Port Located?

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The Port’s Location

Bissau’s cruise port is nestled at the mouth of the Geba River estuary, about 12 km inland from the Atlantic Ocean at 11°51′00″N and 15°35′00″W. This deepwater harbor serves as Guinea-Bissau’s main maritime gateway.

If you’re coming in by sea, you’ll need to navigate the Geba River channel, with water depths ranging from 7-12 meters. Keep an eye out for Bissau Cathedral’s light – it’s a handy landmark that helps guide ships safely into port.

The location is no accident – it’s the capital city’s commercial backbone, handling more than 90% of what comes into the country.

How to get to the port, by air, train, road

The port sits in a prime location that’s easy to reach several ways. If you’re flying in, Royal Caribbean offers airport shuttles – just remember to book these at least two weeks ahead and have your flight info ready.

Train options to Bissau are pretty sparse, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you might catch connections from nearby areas.

Port Parking Options

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Port Parking Options

Bissau’s port has the basics for cruise passengers, but let’s be honest – parking is pretty tight compared to the big international ports. There are just a few parking spots in the port area, so if you’re driving yourself, you’d better show up early to grab one.

Don’t expect fancy multi-level parking garages like you’d find at major cruise terminals. Bissau keeps things simple. Most people find it way easier to just hop in a taxi or arrange transportation ahead of time rather than dealing with the parking headache.

If you’re dead set on driving yourself, you might want to give your cruise line a quick call to check on the current parking situation. Spots and prices tend to shift with the seasons.

Local Transport & Transfers

Local Transport & Transfers

Getting around Bissau is actually pretty easy once you get the hang of it. Consulmar runs regular ferry services between the main port and the islands of Bubaque and Rubane – just check their website for the latest weekly schedules.

Need to get to the islands faster? Grab one of the speedboats that run on Fridays and Sundays for 30,000 CFA each way. They’ll save you tons of time so you can spend more of your day enjoying the islands.

If you’re after something more traditional, old-school canoas leave from the old port on Tuesdays. Coming back from Bubaque? You’ve got options on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Do yourself a favor and book your tickets ahead of time at – trust me, it makes things way smoother.

Port Terminal Facilities and Accessibility

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Bissau’s cruise terminal has three main facilities for ship visitors. You’ll see decent docking procedures when you arrive – there’s staff around to help guide your ship into the berth. The terminal itself isn’t fancy but has some shopping spots where you can pick up local crafts and artifacts that show off Guinea-Bissau’s culture.

The port handles all the basics – they’ll berth your vessel, provide pilotage help, and deal with your luggage. It’s not the biggest cruise stop in West Africa, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in efficiency and real local flavor. While you’re in the terminal, make sure to grab a bite of traditional Bissau-Guinean food before heading out to explore.

Things to Do Before Your Cruise in a Day

Heading to a cruise from Bissau? This tiny West African capital packs a punch! Kick off your day at Bissau Main Market – perfect for grabbing some cool local crafts and munching on juicy tropical fruits. Then swing by the Presidential Palace to check out some sweet colonial architecture.

Make sure you pop into the Centro Artístico Juvenil for some killer contemporary African art. While you’re out, pick up one of those awesome Bijagos masks from the local artists. Got extra time? The stained-glass at Igreja Católica da Bissau is pretty impressive, or you could catch one of those energetic dance shows with all the drumming and fancy masks. Talk about getting your culture fix before hitting the high seas!

Walks near the port

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Walks near the port

Just steps from Bissau’s cruise port, you’ve got three awesome walks to choose from. Kick things off with a lazy wander around the port area – perfect for snapping pics of old-school fishing boats right next to that massive Turkish floating power plant.

Want to soak up some culture? Duck into the nearby markets where locals are selling all sorts of handmade stuff. The buzz of these places really gives you a feel for what Guinea-Bissau is all about.

Feeling a bit more energetic? Hit the waterfront promenade where you can check out fishermen doing their thing against a pretty sweet backdrop. It’s this weird but cool mix of modern port stuff and local flavor that makes for some killer photos your friends will actually want to see.

Dining and Shopping

Dining and Shopping

Let’s talk food and shopping around Bissau’s cruise port! You’ll find a tasty blend of local spots and convenient options to keep you fueled and satisfied during your visit.

1. Dig into Guinea-Bissau dishes at local favorites – Restaurante Papa Loca, O Bistro, or kick back at Coqueiros Bar & Restaurante
2. Not feeling adventurous? Hop back on your ship for familiar flavors at the Italian, Asian, or seafood restaurants on board
3. Hit up the local markets for one-of-a-kind handicrafts and souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else
4. Grab any essentials or tasty local treats from shops near the port before you sail off

Accommodation near the port

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Need a comfy spot to crash near Bissau’s cruise port? You’ve got plenty of solid options that won’t break the bank. Check out Ceiba Hotel Bissau, Hala Hotel, or Dunia Hôtel Bissau – they’re all centrally located with swimming pools and all the modern stuff you’d expect.

Watching your wallet? No worries. Hotel Bassamar and Hotel Lisboa Bissau offer decent digs in the city center without costing an arm and a leg. Flying in? Aparthotel Bambu is just a quick 10-minute ride from the airport.

Feeling a bit more adventurous? Head over to Hotel Kasa Africana on Bubaque Island. They’ve got 24-hour service and mountain bikes you can rent to pedal around the local villages.

See what’s on offer from the Orango Island (Bijagós Archipelago) for a different Guinea-Bissau Cruise destination.

Customs & Immigration at The Port

Customs & Immigration at The Port

Had a good sleep? Now you’ve gotta deal with Bissau’s port entry stuff. Brace yourself for customs – it moves about as fast as a turtle sunbathing.

1. Got your passport with visa? Better have it ready (forget about getting one when you arrive)
2. They’ll hand you a customs form on the boat before you dock – fill it out while you wait
3. Hang on to any transit papers if you’re heading somewhere else afterward
4. Plan to kill a few hours – you’ll be hanging out with other travelers in the waiting area, where you can grab drinks from local vendors

Local Currency & Payment Options

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Local Money Tips for Guinea-Bissau: forget your fancy cards, embrace the CFA, and get ready to carry cash everywhere you go.

The West African CFA franc (XOF) took over from the Guinean peso back in ’97. Need to exchange money? Head to Bissau’s port, banks, or official exchange spots. Bring USD or EUR for the best deals – they use a fixed rate of 1 EUR = 655.957 XOF.

Break your bills into smaller notes for market shopping and daily stuff. Don’t count on ATMs – they’re basically unicorns outside Bissau. Stash your cash in different places, use a money belt, and hang onto those exchange receipts like they’re gold.

Emergency Contacts

Emergency Contacts

Your wallet’s stocked with CFA francs for adventures, but let’s talk safety—know who to call when things go sideways in Bissau:

1. Onboard Emergencies: Hit 911 from cabin phones (if you’re with Oceania) or flag down Guest Services ASAP for security stuff
2. Local Emergencies: Police (117), Fire (118), Ambulance (119)
3. Cruise Line Backup: Your ship’s emergency number (Windstar folks: 206-733-2991 after hours)
4. Embassy Help: Sign up with your country’s embassy before the trip—they’re clutch during emergencies

History of The Port

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Shadows of the slave trade hang over Bissau’s port, a place with some seriously heavy history dating back to the 1700s. Walk around and you’ll literally feel the weight of the past under your feet – this is where the Pidjiguiti massacre went down in 1959, now marked by that powerful Black Fist monument. Fifty dockworkers lost their lives standing up to Portuguese rulers right there.

The harbor watched as Guinea-Bissau finally broke free in 1973 after being under colonial thumb for centuries. Back in the day, it was all about shipping gold for the French, with the British trying to muscle in too. They really expanded the whole operation in the ’80s. The civil war in ’98 messed things up for a while, but nowadays this place handles pretty much all the country’s international trade – we’re talking 99% – with cashews being the big money-maker.

Best Times of Year to Cruise from The Port

November through April is when Bissau’s cruise scene really shines. You’ll dodge the rainy season and soak up sunny days with comfortable warmth. Most travelers flock here during these months, and for good reason – temperatures along the coast typically stay below 32°C.

1. December-February: The coolest temps and smoothest waters make this prime time for snorkeling adventures
2. February-March: Jump into the local Carnival festivities – they’re absolutely worth experiencing
3. November-March: Bird lovers, this is your moment – the wildlife watching is spectacular
4. April: Grab those end-of-season deals before the rains come, while still enjoying fantastic sailing weather

Frequently Asked Questions

What Security Measures Are in Place at Bissau Cruise Port?

While exploring Bissau Cruise Port, you’ll notice plenty of security looking out for you. There’s camera surveillance throughout the port, clear boundaries showing where visitors can and can’t go, and security guards making regular rounds. Your bags will go through X-ray machines when you enter secured areas. The port staff regularly practice emergency procedures too, so you can relax and enjoy your time here knowing they’ve got safety covered.

Are There Medical Facilities Available on the Cruise Ships or Port?

Yes, cruise ships have around-the-clock medical care with real doctors and nurses who know their stuff in emergencies. The onboard clinic can handle typical problems like seasickness or minor injuries, and they have protocols to get you to a hospital if something serious happens. Just don’t count on finding great medical options in every port – they’re pretty basic in most stops.

What Languages Are Commonly Spoken by Port Staff?

Ever feel that special connection when someone speaks your language? At the port, you’ll mostly hear staff chatting away in Portuguese and Guinea-Bissau Creole. English is the go-to for all the shipping stuff, naturally. And sometimes French pops up when they’re dealing with regional trade partners. Nothing builds rapport faster than trying out a few local phrases!

Is Potable Water Available for Refilling Bottles at the Port?

There’s no drinking water stations for refilling bottles at the port. Better to grab water from your ship or buy bottled water from the shops nearby when you’re out exploring.

How Reliable Is Internet Connectivity at Bissau Cruise Terminal?

The Wi-Fi situation at Bissau’s terminal is pretty spotty, to be honest. They’ve got some basic connectivity in the main areas, but don’t count on doing any video calls or heavy browsing – it crawls along. Your best bet? Stick with your ship’s internet or just download whatever you need before you dock. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Caravela Island (Bijagós Archipelago) Cruise Ship Port.