Silversea Expedition Cruises To Bom Bom Island

Discovered and claimed by Portugal in the late 15th century, the islands’ sugar-based economy gave way to coffee and cocoa in the 19th century – all grown with plantation slave labor, a practice that continued into the 20th century. Although independence was achieved in 1975, democratic reforms were delayed until the late 1980s. Free elections were held in 1991, followed by frequent changes in leadership and some coup attempts. With the recent discovery of oil in the Gulf of Guinea, it is expected that this will greatly influence the country’s economy. The Bom Bom Island Resort is located on Principe Island, which is smaller and more rugged than São Tomé. Only 10 miles (16 km) long and four miles (about six and a half kilometers) wide, Principe features breathtaking scenery of beautiful beaches and green clad mountains. Bom Bom Island Resort is the only hotel facility on Principe Island. Pier Information The ship is scheduled to anchor off Bom Bom Island Resort. Tenders will bring guests directly to the resort’s jetty located at Bom Bom Island. The only venue located by the jetty is the resort’s restaurant and a bar. The resort is situated on two islands – Bom Bom Island and Principe Island. A 810-foot (250-metre) bridge connects the two islands. The crossing over the bridge is on foot. Other Sites On Principe Island - Swimming pool, two private beaches, a bar set up, two changing rooms each for gents and ladies and a duty free shop. While there is a limited number of beach chairs, the resort will try to have a reasonable number at each venue. IMPORTANT: Guests must bring towels from the ship. On Bom Bom Island – A beach, the restaurant with a deck and lawn adjacent to the bar, where additional chairs are available. Due to the limited infrastructure, private arrangements are not available in this port.