Captain's Log 120626

After more than thirty years sailing some of the world's most famous waters — the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Norwegian fjords, and the South African coast — I get asked the same question quite often:

Is the Ébrié Lagoon actually any good compared to those places?

It's a fair question. And my honest answer is this:

In many ways, yes — it is better.

Don't get me wrong. The Med and the Caribbean are stunning. Crystal clear water, dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches. I've loved sailing there for decades. But after so many years, I found myself craving something different. Something more authentic. Something with real soul.

That's when the Ébrié Lagoon stole my heart.

What Makes It Different

The Sense of Space and Peace In high season, the popular spots in the Mediterranean and Caribbean can feel crowded. On the Ébrié Lagoon, you can cruise for hours and often feel like you have whole sections of water almost to yourself. Its vast size (over 130 km long) gives a wonderful feeling of freedom.

The Unique Mix of City & Wild Nature This is something very rare. One moment you're looking at the modern skyline and energy of Abidjan, the next you turn into a quiet mangrove channel and it feels like you're deep in nature. Very few places in the world offer this dramatic contrast so close together.

Authenticity Many famous charter destinations have become quite commercialised. The Ébrié Lagoon still feels real. Real fishermen working the waters, local communities living along the shores, abundant birdlife, and a genuine West African spirit. It hasn't been "polished" for mass tourism yet.

Calmer Waters Because it's a protected lagoon and not open ocean, the water is usually much gentler. This makes it ideal for relaxed, comfortable charters — especially good for couples, families, or anyone who prefers not to deal with big swells.

The People The warmth and hospitality I've experienced here is something special. It's genuine and welcoming in a way that has really touched me.

Of course, it's not perfect. Infrastructure for tourism is still developing, and some services are not yet at the same level as long-established destinations. But that's also part of what makes it exciting — being here at the beginning of something special.

The Ébrié Lagoon won't be for everyone. But if you're looking for something authentic, peaceful, full of life, and different from the usual charter destinations… then I truly believe you might fall in love with it, just like I did.

So — is the Ébrié Lagoon better than the Mediterranean or Caribbean?

For me? Yes. For you? You'll have to come and see for yourself.

I'd be honoured to welcome you on board and show you why I chose this place for the next chapter.

Captain Murray The Uncharted Waters – Ébrié Lagoon, Abidjan