Aboard · CATAMARAN CRUISES IN ALGARVE
This is the shortlist you would send a friend: 12 catamaran cruises in Algarve worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you step aboard.
Set out from Albufeira Marina on a spacious catamaran with guides such as Philippe or Tomas. Cruise past beaches and rock arches to Benagil Cave, enjoy multilingual commentary and music, then stop for about 10 minutes of swimming before returning.
“The boat trip was really good! The guide was informative and added some humor into the tour which made it fun. Would definitely do again!”
From Lagos Marina, you’ll cruise to Ponta da Piedade, slide into a double kayak, and paddle through arches and grottoes for about 75 minutes. Guides such as Bruno, Ricardo, and Alfonso lead the route in English or Portuguese, followed by swimming and an onboard sea slide.
“The kayaking was amazing. The guides brought great energy which elevated the whole experience. We thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend”
Sail from Lagos Marina to Ponta da Piedade, Dona Ana, Camilo, Porto de Mós, and Praia da Luz on a stable catamaran. You get a swim stop, paddle boards, sun nets, Wi-Fi, live English or Portuguese commentary, and a bar serving drinks and snacks.
“Had a great time, would easily recommend it to any of my friends”
From Marina de Lagos, AlgarExperience takes you offshore on a spacious catamaran to look for wild dolphins with guides such as Nadja and Diogo. Expect marine-life commentary, Algarve coast views, a fruit-and-cookie snack, and a swim stop with an inflatable slide. Orcas and whales are possible, but never guaranteed.
“Brilliant afternoon spent watching Risso dolphins. Guide was fantastic along with the other crew members. Boat is very comfortable with plenty of room for all guests to get good views of the dolphins. We all had a fantastic time.”
Cruise west from Albufeira Marina on a roomy catamaran past São Rafael, Praia da Marinha, and Benagil. Your multilingual crew explains the coast, stops for an ocean swim when conditions allow, and serves sparkling wine on the return. You will view the caves from the water, not enter them.
“Really enjoyed they asked us if we wanted to stop for a swim and were happy to do so. The staff let us be to chill, stand around and take pictures of the view. It wasn’t overcrowded and everyone was friendly. Nothing to improve from myself! Would definitely recommend this trip to anyone. 10/10”
Spend about five hours sailing from Faro through the Ria Formosa with guides such as João, Pedro, and JC. Swim at Ilha Deserta, visit Farol, see oyster farming at Hangares, and enjoy two hours on Culatra, with optional fresh fish lunch.
“Fantastic tour and terrific value for money. Pedro was an exceptional guide whose knowledge, humour and rapport with his clients was delightful. Highly recommended”
Cruise west from Albufeira Marina past Galé, Benagil, and Carvoeiro, then transfer by dinghy to a beach for a BBQ, open bar, and swimming. The crew speaks English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French. Sea conditions control cave access and swimming.
“This was truly a Top Ten lifetime experience! Just book this trip - you’ll have an amazing day! The scenery was spectacular, the crew was fantastic and really engaged with us! The food, the drinks, and the picnic setting were great - I did not want it to end. We are a family that is tough to please and each of us LOVED it!”
Take a 45-minute catamaran from Faro through the Ria Formosa to Ilha Deserta, also called Barreta Island. Spend a few hours or the day on the beach, walk the 2-kilometer boardwalk, and eat at Estaminé Restaurant. Return crossings let you choose your schedule.
“Lovely view, pretty busy at 7pm when returning back but friendly staff :)”
Sail from Lagos to Benagil Cave on a spacious catamaran with guides such as Antonio, Enrique, Laura, Diogo, and Gabriel. Expect coastal views, several caves, a front photo platform, shaded seating, a toilet, and a weather-dependent swim near Benagil.
“Amazing experience. The catamaran ride was great and we explored way more grottos than I expected. We spent enough time in the Benagil cave to take enough pictures and videos. The results are amazing. Thank you to our guide, a very skilled skipper and the wonderful added bonus of having a portuguese water dog on board! Definitely recommend this trip!”
Spend six hours aboard Ophelia from Portimão, cruising past Ferragudo to Benagil. Small boats take you into the caves, then you’ll enjoy a beach BBQ, wine, soft drinks, swimming, and paddleboards before returning along the coves near Carvoeiro. Crew members speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
“Great value for money. Didn't get bored. Caves are amazing. Crew were friendly. Enjoyed paddling at the beach. Food was very good. Our mini boat party on the way back was excellent.”
Sail from Portimão Marina along the Algarve coast, entering caves near Benagil and stopping by Marinha Beach for a swim. Guides such as Miguel and Elio have added lively commentary, while the stable catamaran offers room to enjoy the cliffs. The tour lasts two hours.
“We were able to see a lot of caves along the coast. Only had a few minutes inside Benagil Cave itself so had to be quick when getting pictures but the guides were helpful with doing that. After seeing the caves we were able to dive into the water off the boat. The guides were great and entertaining. Would definitely recommend”
From Portimão Marina, cruise past Carvoeiro to Benagil Cave aboard a quiet solar-electric catamaran. Guides including Marco, Pedro, Edgar, and Anna lead the coastal tour, with shaded seating, a restroom, bar, music, and a summer swim stop except on sunset trips.
“The best boat trip in the region. The boat itself is spacious and quite comfortable. The crew are super friendly. More than recommend. Thanks to Marco and Edgar for the incredible experience.”
Pick a river, a coast or a harbour.
