Discover Lisbon from the Water on a Historic 1895 Boat

A 2-hour cruise along the Tagus River offers an authentic way to see Lisbon’s most iconic sights. Departing from Porta de Embarque Doca da Marinha, this tour takes place on the Riga, a beautifully restored vessel built in 1895. With its classic charm and comfortable setting, the boat provides a unique perspective on Lisbon’s landmarks. Travelers can enjoy complimentary drinks, including Moscatel, a sweet Portuguese wine, and learn about the city’s maritime heritage from an experienced crew. This cruise is suitable for those seeking a relaxing, scenic experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

One notable feature is the sunset option, which enhances the experience with golden hues over the Lisbon skyline. The tour’s balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and leisure makes it an appealing choice for history buffs, photography lovers, or anyone wanting to enjoy Lisbon from a different vantage point. The only consideration is that this tour does not include hotel pickup or meals, so plan accordingly. Overall, it’s a memorable way to connect with Lisbon’s natural beauty and cultural history aboard a vessel that embodies the city’s maritime spirit.

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Key Points

Historic vessel built in 1895: Fully restored for modern comfort while preserving its traditional maritime character.
Two-hour scenic cruise: Offers ample time to explore Lisbon’s landmarks from the water.
Iconic landmarks: Includes the Belém Tower, Monument of Discoveries, Christ the King, and more.
Complimentary drinks: A bottle of Moscatel and Portuguese pastries are included.
Expert storytelling: Guides with over 30 years of sailing experience, like Jorge Alves, share engaging stories about the boat and Lisbon.
Sunset views: Optional sunset cruise with golden lighting and a toast with Moscatel.

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The Riga: A Living Piece of Lisbon’s Maritime History

The Riga is more than just a boat; it’s a historic vessel built in 1895 and fully restored to reflect its original charm. Its design and history make it a captivating setting for a leisurely cruise along the Tagus River. The boat’s structure preserves the maritime character of Lisbon’s past, offering an authentic feel during the journey. The vessel is equipped with Bluetooth speakers playing music, adding a relaxed vibe to the scenic sail.

The crew, led by Jorge Alves, provides a knowledgeable narration, sharing fascinating stories about both the boat’s history and the landmarks you pass. With more than 30 years of experience sailing traditional boats, Jorge’s insights enrich the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. The boat’s renovation ensures comfort, providing stable and smooth sailing even for those new to boat trips.

From Porta de Embarque Doca da Marinha to Lisbon’s Historic Landmarks

The cruise departs from the Porta de Embarque Doca da Marinha, a convenient starting point close to key parts of the city. The sightseeing stops include prominent sites such as Commerce Square, Alfama, and the Monument of Discoveries, which are all visible from the water. The boat pauses briefly at each location for photo opportunities and to appreciate the city’s historic architecture.

The route is designed to provide a comprehensive view of Lisbon’s most recognizable monuments. The Belém Tower and Christ the King are highlights, both offering striking vistas perfect for photos. During the cruise, the guide explains the significance of each site, adding context to the impressive views. The photo stops at these landmarks are ideal for capturing memories and admiring Lisbon from a fresh angle.

Enjoying the Sunset and Wine Tasting on the Water

One of the tour’s most enchanting moments is the sunset cruise, where the sky turns golden as the city’s skyline is bathed in warm light. During this time, passengers receive a complimentary glass of Moscatel, a sweet Portuguese wine, perfect for toasting the sunset. The 20-minute stop at a viewpoint includes free time, some food tasting, and wine tasting, creating a relaxed atmosphere to savor Lisbon’s flavors.

The Moscatel adds a special touch to the experience, emphasizing the local wine culture while enjoying the stunning scenery. The food tasting involves dry pastries, typical Portuguese-style cookies, which complement the drinks perfectly. This part of the tour emphasizes leisure and allows ample opportunities for photos and reflection on Lisbon’s beauty.

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The Experience of a Private or Public Cruise

The tour offers flexibility, with options for a public group (up to 14 guests) or private charter. Both options include the same highlights, but private bookings provide a more personalized experience. The small group setting enhances the chance to ask questions and enjoy a more intimate atmosphere. The tour guide leads the cruise, sharing stories and answering questions in Portuguese and English.

The group size and flexible reservation—with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—make this tour accessible and stress-free. Payment can be made later, giving travelers the chance to plan their trip without immediate commitment. The friendly crew and professional guide help create a warm and engaging environment on board.

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Practical Details and What to Bring

This cruise is designed for comfort and ease. Travelers should wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for sailing. It’s advisable to bring a jacket, especially if choosing the sunset option, since it can get windy or cooler on the water. A camera is recommended to capture the stunning views and landmarks from the boat.

Since the tour does not include hotel pickup or meals, it’s best to plan for how to get to the departure point and consider having additional snacks or drinks if desired. The duration of 2 hours makes it a manageable addition to a day exploring Lisbon, fitting well into most schedules.

How This Tour Stands Out From Other Lisbon Water Tours

What sets this Tagus River cruise apart is the historic vessel itself. Built in 1895, the Riga offers a sense of maritime authenticity that many modern boats lack. The knowledgeable guide, Jorge Alves, with over 30 years of sailing experience, adds depth to the experience through engaging stories and local insights.

Unlike larger, more commercial tours, this cruise emphasizes intimacy and storytelling, making it a more authentic experience. The inclusion of complimentary drinks, a photo stop at the Belém Tower, and sunset views elevate it above simpler boat rides. Its focus on history, scenic beauty, and local flavors make it especially appealing to those interested in a cultural connection.

Final Thoughts on the Lisbon Tagus Cruise on a Historic 1895 Boat

This two-hour cruise on the Riga offers a relaxing, scenic, and educational way to experience Lisbon’s most famous landmarks from the water. The restored historic vessel, combined with expert narration and stunning sunset views, creates an atmosphere that’s both charming and memorable. The complimentary Moscatel and Portuguese pastries add a taste of local culture to the journey.

While it does not include hotel pickup or additional meals, the easy booking options, private group availability, and flexible cancellation policy make it a convenient choice. This tour suits those who appreciate history, photography, and scenic boat rides with a touch of local flavor. It’s an ideal way to see Lisbon’s iconic sights while enjoying a peaceful, waterside escape.

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