Faro: Boat Tour to Desert Island

Discover the Algarve’s Hidden Treasure: The Boat Tour to Desert Island

A 3-hour boat adventure in the Algarve offers a perfect mix of relaxation, nature, and scenic beauty. For $43 per person, this tour takes you along the Ria Formosa, a stunning natural park filled with vibrant birdlife and captivating landscapes. Departing from Faro, it promises a peaceful escape to one of Portugal’s most beautiful deserted beaches, with crystal-clear waters and soft sands.

This tour is ideal for those who love birdwatching, snorkeling, and exploring untouched beaches. The wheelchair-friendly boat and small group size (limited to 12 participants) ensure a comfortable and intimate experience. While the tides influence the route, the western or eastern ends of Desert Island are accessible, giving visitors different perspectives depending on the time of day.

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Key Points

• Duration: 3 hours, with flexible routes based on tides
• Price: $43 per person, includes water, binoculars, and snorkel masks
• Highlights: Scenic views of Ria Formosa, birdwatching, swimming, snorkeling, and visiting Desert Island
• Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly and small group size
• Departure Point: Faro, near Eva Senses Hotel, with easy access and a separate check-in process

Starting Point in Faro and Easy Access to the Boat

The tour begins at Estr. do Passeio Ribeirinho 169 in Faro, with clear directions to the departure area. Guests walk past the Eva Senses Hotel and cross a railway track, then proceed along a wooden walkway to the jetty where the “The Algarvian Queen” boat is waiting. The boarding process starts 10 minutes before departure, with a separate entrance making it easy to skip lines.

The meeting spot is convenient for travelers staying in Faro, and the boat itself is designed to accommodate wheelchair users, ensuring accessibility for all. The small group size makes for a more personalized experience, with a maximum of 12 participants on board.

Scenic Journey Through Ria Formosa’s Landscapes

The scenic cruise covers approximately 30 minutes of traveling through the Ria Formosa’s winding channels and salt marshes. During this time, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the landscape, characterized by blue, green, and white hues from the tide-carved sand dunes and lush vegetation. The natural beauty of this protected area provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with species like flamingos and storks often visible.

The narration by the crew offers insights into the history and stories of the Ria Formosa, making the journey both relaxing and educational. This stretch of the tour is perfect for appreciating the tranquility of this natural park while observing the diverse bird species in their habitat.

Exploring Desert Island and Its Crystal Waters

Depending on the tide, the boat takes one of two routes: at high tide, the western end of the island is accessible, revealing its most wild and untouched areas. At low tide, the cruise moves to the eastern side, where the Faro-Olhão inlet offers a privileged access point.

Once at the island, visitors are free to swim, snorkel, or simply walk along the soft sands. The crystal waters invite a refreshing dip, and the sand dunes provide a picturesque backdrop for relaxing on the beach. The snorkel masks and binoculars included on board enhance the experience, allowing for closer observation of marine life and bird species.

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Visiting Faro’s Estaminé Restaurant and Coastal Views

The tour includes an approximate 30-minute visit to the eastern end of Desert Island, near the Faro-Olhão inlet. This area is home to the Estaminé restaurant, a well-known spot for enjoying local cuisine and scenic coastal views. The viewing opportunity here complements the beach time, giving visitors a taste of local culture and beautiful landscapes.

During the cruise back, the pass by of natural park areas and scenic channels offers additional vistas, making the entire 3-hour experience both relaxing and visually engaging.

The Traditional Village and Its Charm

Part of the itinerary features a 15-minute stop or walk at a traditional village near the park. While brief, this stop allows for a quick look at local life and possibly some small local shops or scenic streets. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of the region before returning to Faro.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour package covers fresh water onboard, the crew, and use of binoculars and snorkel masks, making it easy to focus on the experience itself. However, food and drinks are not included, so visitors should bring sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Towels are not provided, so travelers planning to swim or snorkel should consider bringing their own. The boat’s UV protection shade offers some relief from the sun, but sun protection remains essential.

Practicalities: Accessibility and Group Size

This wheelchair-accessible boat ensures that people with mobility needs can enjoy the tour comfortably. The small group size of up to 12 participants enhances the personal feel of the trip, promoting interaction with guides and fellow travelers. The live guides, available in English and Spanish, share interesting stories and local insights throughout the journey.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers who might need to adjust plans. The starting times vary, so checking availability is recommended. This makes it a convenient option for spontaneous or well-planned trips alike.

Why This Tour Stands Out in the Algarve

The unique focus on Desert Island and the natural beauty of Ria Formosa make this trip stand out among other boat experiences in the Algarve. The tide-dependent routes add an element of unpredictability and adventure, giving visitors the chance to see different parts of the island.

With birdwatching, snorkeling, and scenic views all included, this tour balances nature exploration with relaxation. The friendly guides and accessible design are added benefits, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This 3-hour boat trip appeals most to nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a peaceful escape. It’s also well-suited for families or groups with mobility needs, thanks to its wheelchair accessibility. If you enjoy scenic waterways, crystal waters, and informative guides, this is an experience to consider.

Final Thoughts on the Faro Boat Tour to Desert Island

This tour delivers excellent value for its price and offers a relaxed, scenic experience of the Algarve’s Ria Formosa. The small group size and friendly crew create an intimate atmosphere, perfect for appreciating the wild beauty of the natural park and the tranquility of Desert Island.

While no meals or towels are included, the snorkeling gear and binoculars enrich the experience, making it both engaging and comfortable. The tide-dependent route adds a bit of variability, so checking the schedule for optimal tide times can enhance the experience.

This boat tour in Faro stands out as a balanced, scenic, and educational trip that suits those looking to explore Portugal’s natural coastline in a relaxed setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the boat tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair friendly, making it accessible for travelers with mobility needs.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours.

What is included in the price?
The price includes fresh water, the crew, the catamaran tour, and binoculars and snorkel masks for exploration.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so guests should bring their own.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Estr. do Passeio Ribeirinho 169 in Faro, near Eva Senses Hotel, at the jetty with the vessel “The Algarvian Queen.”

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and towels if you plan to swim.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Is the tour offered in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English and Spanish.

What are the tide conditions affecting the route?
At high tide, the western end of the island is accessible; at low tide, the eastern end near the Faro-Olhão inlet is reached.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, families, and travelers who enjoy scenic, peaceful trips in a small group.

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