A sunset sail is a marvellous opportunity to view and photograph Ilha’s iconic World Heritage sites from the sea. And capture the essence of Ilha’s pivotal role in the unique maritime and trading history of the Indian Ocean.

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As the vast triangular sail unfurls, the small natural reed ties gently snap off in quick succession and the wind fills the sail. The Edna glides away with barely a sound – just a soft whoosh of the sea.

We sail close to shore, past the Alfândega (Customs House), the old Port, the Green Mosque, the Memorial Slave Garden, the Governor’s Palace, centuries old merchant homes and warehouses, and the bustling fish market of Makuti Town – a cacophony of colour and boats of all shapes and sizes.

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At the narrow bridge that connects Ilha to the mainland we turn to go around the bay. Tides and winds permitting, we sail to the mangroves of Cabaceira Grande, past the old Swahili village of Cabaceira Pequena and then to the mighty fortress of São Sebastião. Here we anchor right in front of this extraordinary fortaleza as the sun begins its descent. Now it’s time to enjoy a sunset swim, followed by a freshly mixed ‘cocktail of the day’ and tasty petiscos prepared by Café Azulejo.

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All this with an uninterrupted view of the African sun sinking below the horizon, in a blaze of glory.