Boat Trips from Vilamoura Marina
Boat trips are on every single list of Best things to do in Vilamoura. Not surprising, as there are over 800 boats berthed in the Vilamoura Marina. The Algarve coast has optimal sailing conditions and offers some stunning scenery.
Numerous tour companies operate boat tours from Vilamoura, we have grouped the tours by theme: caves, dolphins, boat type and also included some boat tours in other locations that are really worth seeing.
Disclosure: Some links on this page may be affiliate links. Should you make a purchase via one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no cost to yourself) which helps maintain this site. All bookings are provided by third parties we do not own or operate any of the trips.
Cave Boat Trips from Vilamoura Marina
The sea cave tours are the most popular boat trips in the Algarve. From Vilamoura these trips take a minimum of 2.5 – 3 hours. Cruise along the rugged coastline, visit rock formations and caves that can only be accessed by sea.
The most visited cave is the famous Benagil Cathedral, a huge airy cave with a hidden beach, two entrances and a dramatic circular ‘skylight’.
Planning on exploring the Benagil Caves by boat? We have selected some of the most popular boat trips for you.
1. Sunset Benagil Cave Quest
This boat trips combines two of the most popular tours in Vilamoura – the Benagil Cave Trip and Sunset Cruise. Depart from Vilamoura Marina late afternoon and cruise along the coast until you get to the natural wonder that is Benagil Cave. On your return, enjoy the cool breeze while you watch the sun set. Read More
2. Traditional & Cultural Caves Boat Trip
One of the most popular boat excursions is the Ocean Quest Traditional Cave Quest. Enjoy a leisurely 3 and half hour trip aboard this 18m modern catamaran visiting the rock formations, grottos and caves. Includes a tasting of regional sweets and liquors. Swimming stop along the way weather permitting.
3. Vilamoura to Benagil Cave Tour with entry
Explore the renowned Benagil caves on this tailor-made speed boat, relax and appreciate the awe-inspiring scenery. The location is truly captivating, offering numerous opportunities for capturing memorable photos. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit other stunning destinations along the route and the crew will make efforts to locate wild dolphins whenever feasible.
Dolphin Watching Trips
Dolphins are regularly seen along the Algarve coastline all year long, making these Vilamoura boat trips extremely popular. Peak season for dolphin sighting seeing is during the warmer months coinciding with best sea and weather conditions for a boat trip- usually available from May to October.
Go on a dolphin safari cruise in search of the playful creatures out at sea in their natural enviroment. Watch them race around, doing flips and jumps before coming up for air to breathe. Get an inside look at the sea caves along the coast as well as other rock formations in this magnificent area!
4. Vilamoura Private Dolphin Watching and Caves Trip
Take your group on this fun and exciting speed boat trip to the caves and searching for dolphins.
5. Dolphin Safari from Vilamoura Marina
Embark on an exhilarating boat trip from Vilamoura Marina, along the coast in search of dolphins. This family-friendly adventure offers the best opportunity to spot these magnificent creatures. The experienced crew with their extensive knowledge will assist in the search and provide fascinating insights while you also enjoy the beautiful Algarve coastline.
Full Day Trips with BBQ and Benagil Caves
Our favourite Vilamoura boat trip is the full day (usually 7 hours) BBQ and caves tour. There are three tour boat companies in Vilamoura that offer this trip. The itinerary is very similar: depart in the morning from the marina, cruise along the coast, visit the Benagil caves, see the dolphins, disembark on the beach for the BBQ, stop for a swim and return to Vilamoura at around 5pm.
With the BBQ lunch and drinks included, this trip is one of the most popular in the summer and is also fantastic value. Read on for more details.
6. Full day BBQ and Caves Boat Trip
Experience the ultimate full day cruise along the Algarve coast with a memorable BBQ on a secluded beach before you visit the Benagil Caves. Dive into adventure with paddle boards or snorkelling, allowing you to explore nearby beaches and crystal-clear waters.
7. Condor Full-day BBQ and Caves Sailing Trip
Cruise along the Algarve coastline from Vilamoura Marina to the Benagil caves aboard this schooner replica. The BBQ lunch is served on a secluded beach. The Condor de Vilamoura full-day (7hr) cruise and beach BBQ is one of the most highly rated boat trips in Vilamoura.
8. Vilamoura Full day BBQ and Kayak Catamaran Trip
Experience the ultimate full day cruise along the Algarve coast with a memorable BBQ on a secluded beach before you visit the Benagil Caves. Dive into adventure with kayaks, paddle boards or snorkelling, allowing you to explore nearby beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Relaxing Coastal Cruises from Vilamoura
9. 3-Hour Sailing Trip on the Condor de Vilamoura
Set off from Vilamoura on the Condor for 3 hours along the coast past Albufeira towards the Galé Beach. Watch bottlenose and common dolphins playfully swim about their environment while enjoying the scenic boat cruise.
Vilamoura Sunset Sailing Tours
A great way to end the day in the summer. You can enjoy a welcome drink with some appetizers before you get to see the beautiful sunset over the horizon.
Stop for a swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and if you are feeling laidback then relax on the decks of your boat while listening to mellow music as it sails back into Vilamoura.
10. Sunset Sailing Yacht Trip from Vilamoura
Embark on a romantic 2.5-hour sunset sailing cruise along Vilamoura and Albufeira’s coastline on a luxury yacht. You’ll be greeted by a welcome drink. Watch the sunset and relish aperitifs while sailing. Pause for a swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters or simply unwind, soak up the sun and enjoy music before returning to Vilamoura.
Fishing Trips from Vilamoura
Enjoy a half-day or full day fishing trip from Vilamoura. Either join a trip or charter a private boat for your group. All equipment is provided and all levels of experience accepted. In the area you will find trips for reef fishing, big game fishing and shark fishing. Viator.com lists a few fishing from Vilamoura Marina. Alternatively contact Kiosk Fortuna for more info and local bookings.
Hen and Stag Boat Parties
Charter a luxury yacht for a full-day or a few hours for your hen do, birthday or a romantic proposal.
Luxury Private Cruise for Group of 10 (click on link or image below for more details).
Most private charters will accommodate 8-10 people. Contact us for larger groups.
Ria Formosa Boat Tours
The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a coastal lagoon area that extends along the coast from Quinta do Lago to Cacela Velha (Tavira). This scenic area is home to over 200 species of birds and a wide array of marine wildlife. This is a popular hiking and cycling area but the best way to see it is by boat.
Try the Ria Formosa: Tour to Paradise Boat Tour. Go on an adventure exploring the hidden gems of Ria Formosa Natural Park and enjoy a 4-hour boat trip to see all its beauty. Visit Olhão’s market for wide variety seafood that is sourced from this area, then head back home with pickup and drop at your accommodation in one package!
Where to check-in for boat trips at Vilamoura Marina
Most of the Vilamoura boat trips (except the Condor) have their meeting points/check-in desks on the west side of the marina near Murphy’s Bar (blue marker on the map). The Condor de Vilamoura is one of the few that departs from the opposite side, the pier next to the Tivoli Marina Hotel. Private charters will depend where the boat is berthed.
Tips
- These trips are very popular and are usually sold out – book early;
- Dolphin sightings cannot be guaranteed;
- Check-in is generally 30 minutes before departure;
- All trips depend on weather and sea conditions;
- You will not be allowed to disembark inside the cave on any of the trips;
- Don’t forget sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and a windbreaker just in case;
- Wear appropriate clothing, high heels are usually not allowed.
FAQ
Can you swim with the dolphins during the boat trips in the Algarve?
No. None of the boat tour operators will allow you to swim or interact with the wild dolphins, this is for your safety and the animals’ welfare. You can swim with dolphins in a controlled environment at the Zoomarine Park in Guia.
When do the boat trips start in Vilamoura?
The season typically starts from May to October, weather and sea permitting.
Can I book a private boat trip for a large party?
The private yachts or speed boats usually take about 8-10 people max. The largest luxury yacht in Vilamoura can accommodate 14 people. For larger parties check out our page: Boat Trips for Groups and Parties.
Where do I find information about Vilamoura Marina?
Visit the official website for Vilamoura Marina.
