Trindade vs. Trindade

David has asked whether the Trindade Beach, where I spent an agreeable day during Christmas break, is the same as Trindade Island. The answer is no.

As indicated quite correctly by David, Trindade Island is a very isolated island, lying approximately 1000 miles offshore, in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean. It is a rugged island of volcanic origin, which is inhabited only by a military station. Visitation by passing vessels or as an ordinary tourist destination is not possible nor allowed. Visits are only allowed for research purposes with military permission.

The only way to visit Trindade Island is by participating on a yearly offshore regatta, organized by the Iate Clube do Espírito Santo and sponsored by Radio Eldorado, which starts from the city of Vitória, in the State of Espirito Santo. It is a fairly simple offshore passage, with winds from the beam. I have once tried to crew on a boat to get there, but it didn’t work out. Only few boats participate, and they usually have their own crew. The 8th. edition, held between the 19th. to the 31st. January 2008 had only 18 boats participating.

Even if you participate on the regatta, actually setting foot on the island is not so simple. Anchorage is exposed and dangerous and to land you have to go through open surf. But the brazilian Navy also supports the event and gives logistic support, sometime facilitating short visits.

Visiting Trindade Beach is much easier. Access is by a small, steep and winding, but nowadays paved, road. And in contrast to the Island, you’ll be greeted by masses of visitors if you go there during holidays. The beach is situated about 25 kilometers from the small Paraty Village.


Images from: top - www.abvc.com, bottom - www.veleiro.net