The Algarve · CRUISES & BOAT TOURS
145 reviewed
Good cruises & boat tours fill up fast on this coast, and the best fill up first. Here are the 15 standouts, with current prices and what sets each apart, so you can lock one in before the calendar closes.
1.5-hour RIB speed boat from Portimão to Benagil Caves, with coastline stops, dolphin spotting chances, and a sunset option.
“We did the evening slot to the benagil caves which was good as it was cooler. The views were amazing. Definitely worth doing 😃”
Speedboat from Albufeira to Benagil Caves for dolphin spotting and a short swim stop. Small-group cruise with a live guide.
“The overall experience was very pleasant and definitely value for money. Due to weather conditions, my booked trip was rescheduled at short notice, but this was not the operator’s fault. They promptly made reasonable arrangements to resolve the situation, which I really appreciated. Customers should be aware that unpredictable weather can sometimes cause such changes, so a bit of flexibility is advisable. Also, since many operators have their customers boarding around the same time, the boarding process can be a little confusing — something to keep in mind when planning your visit. Despite these minor issues, I truly enjoyed the trip and would highly recommend this tour to anyone who…”
Cruise Albufeira’s coast to Benagil’s Sea Cave by modern catamaran, with a swim stop, great guides, music, and value at about $35.
“Funny guide. Loved the experience. So worth every penny paid. We got priority boarding with a baby.”
75-minute small-boat cruise from Lagos to Ponta da Piedade, passing Praia Dona Ana and Camilo with live guide commentary and cave views.
“It was in my opinion, the best way to see Ponta da Piedade and the most fun! Our guides were very amusing and informative. The tour was timed perfectly and included a nice overview for future activities in Lagos. For 20€ you couldn’t ask for more!”
Small-boat dolphin watching plus sea-cave cruise from Albufeira, with a marine biologist, possible Benagil access, and a swim stop.
“Absolutely Amazing Experience! We had an unforgettable time on the Dolphin Watch and Benagil Cave Boat Cruise! The crew was incredibly friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. They made us feel safe and welcome from the start. We were lucky enough to see a group of dolphins swimming freely—such a magical moment! The boat ride along the coast was breathtaking, with stunning views of the cliffs and hidden beaches. The highlight was definitely entering the Benagil Cave. It was even more beautiful in person than in photos! The entire trip was well-organized and ran smoothly. Highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting the Algarve. Thank you for such a wonderful adventure!Read more”
A small-group, diesel-free boat trip from Portimão to Benagil Sea Cave and Praia de Marinha, with a swim stop and coastal sights.
“Daniel & Mauro were excellent guides. The caves were gorgeous and I liked the duration of the trip. It was perfect for us”
Pirate Ship Cave Cruise from Portimão: sail to Benagil, switch to small boats for cathedral-cave views, and keep an eye out for dolphins.
“the guides were very child friendly and full of life. 10/10”
A 75-minute Lagos boat cruise to Ponta da Piedade, with cave access, photo stops, live commentary, and small-boat views for about $20.
“It was a fun, nicely paced tour with enough time for pictures and just enjoying the tour”
Faro Ria Formosa boat tour: small-group cruise to Farol and Deserta, lighthouse views, bird spotting, and swim breaks.
“Great tour! We discovered 2 beautiful islands. Antonio was sharing stories. Great time”
Lagos boat tour to Ponta da Piedade sea caves and beaches. 75 minutes, small group, live multilingual guide for about $20.
“Amazing boat tour and wonderful guide!! The caves and cliffs were magnificent!! And a bonus…we got to see some dolphins!!”
Kayak and boat tour from Lagos through Ponta da Piedade sea caves, with a swim stop and expert guidance. Two hours.
“Great tour with great guidance and beautiful caves. We felt very safe throughout the trip, the guide was super friendly and told us a lot about the different caves. 1000% recommended, loved it!”
Shaded small-group boat trip from Olhão through Ria Formosa to 3 islands, with island time, guide commentary, and a lighthouse stop.
“It was a magnificent day and the OSSSEY team was great from start to end. Great for kids, very food structure in Farol. Deserta was just perfect and the sunset there was something spectacular.”
Parasail up to 80m over Albufeira’s coast on a 1.5-hour boat trip, with a pro crew, clear safety briefings, and views that pay off fast.
“Great experience with the family. The guides were nice, funny and made the experience lively and fun. Would've liked to be a little bit longer in the air but they have schedule to maintain. Recommend.”
3-hour Algarve catamaran cruise from Albufeira to Carvoeiro with caves and Benagil Cathedral Cave, plus a sea swim stop and WiFi for $34.
“This activity is nice and easy. Our guide was very nice and funny. His explanation along our way to Bengali cave on the caves and coastline were interesting. The boast was confortable, has a bar and little restaurant if needed. I would recommend for everybody. It easily can be a family activity or friends activity and both would be happy!”
2.5-hour Algarve catamaran from Lagos for common dolphins, marine-bio commentary, and a cove swim with an inflatable water slide and snack.
“Can watch the dolphins. Enjoy a cookie and fruit and some time on water”
