Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Explore Ria Formosa’s Islands with a Delicious BBQ and Water Activities
The Olhão: Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour offers an engaging 7-hour journey along Portugal’s Algarve coast, focusing on the scenic beauty of the Ria Formosa. Priced at $80 per person, this tour departs from the Marina de Olhão and is ideal for those seeking a full day of relaxation, sightseeing, and water fun. With a maximum capacity of 15 people, it maintains an intimate atmosphere, perfect for travelers who appreciate personalized service.
This trip combines stunning island landscapes, swimming, paddleboarding (SUP), and a full on-board BBQ meal prepared by the crew. The inclusion of a bathroom on the boat ensures comfort, making it a practical choice for a day on the water. While it offers a rich mix of activities, it does not include onboard drinks or transportation to the meeting point, which are things to keep in mind. This experience suits those looking for a balanced day of adventure, scenic views, and laid-back enjoyment.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Duration: 7 hours of exploring Ria Formosa’s islands with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.
- Inclusions: The trip includes boat transportation, life jackets, a guide, a BBQ meal, SUP, and onboard bathroom facilities.
- Activities: Stops for swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxing on white sand beaches with clear waters.
- Start point: Meet 20 minutes early at the shop next to the ferry tickets at the Marina de Olhão.
- Group size: Small group experience with up to 15 guests, ensuring a personalized vibe.
- Languages: Guided in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Planning more time in Olhao? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Departing from Olhão’s Marina for a Scenic Waterway Ride
The tour begins at the Olhão Marina, where guests meet 20 minutes before the departure at the shop next to the ferry tickets. From there, the small group boards a comfortable and well-equipped boat designed for easy navigation through the channels of the Ria Formosa. This setting ensures excellent viewing angles of the natural surroundings and a relaxed pace throughout the day.
The boat trip itself takes travelers along the channels of the park, providing beautiful sights of the landscape and the white-sand islands. The max capacity of 15 guests helps maintain a peaceful environment that allows for plenty of opportunity to take photos and enjoy the scenery.
Discovering the White Sand Islands and Clear Waters
The main highlight of this tour is visiting the islands with white sand and crystal-clear water. These islands are perfect spots for swimming and sunbathing, with some stops allowing guests to take a dip directly from the boat. The calm waters and beautiful beaches make this a relaxing escape, whether for a quick swim or just soaking up the sun.
The tour guides lead guests to these islands, sharing insights about their natural and cultural significance. These stops are carefully timed to maximize enjoyment without feeling rushed, making it suitable for families and travelers seeking a peaceful day on the water.
Water Activities: Swimming and Paddleboarding (SUP) Included
One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the inclusion of SUP (stand-up paddleboarding). When stopping at the islands, guests can choose to paddleboard on the tranquil waters, adding a fun and active element to the day. The SUP equipment is provided, making it easy for beginners and experienced paddlers alike to enjoy.
Swimming is also a key feature, with swim stops arranged to allow guests to cool off in the clear waters of the islands. The boat’s onboard bathroom adds convenience, enabling guests to freshen up after swimming or before heading back on board.
More Great Tours NearbyOnboard BBQ: Fresh Food Served During the Day
A major highlight for many is the full BBQ meal prepared by the crew during the trip. The onboard barbecue offers a delicious and satisfying meal, adding a culinary dimension to the experience. Guests can enjoy their meat, fish, or vegetarian options while taking in the scenic views.
The crew makes sure that everyone is well-fed and comfortable, serving drinks and keeping the atmosphere lively and friendly. This casual meal on the boat breaks up the day nicely and provides a perfect opportunity to relax between water activities.
While you're exploring Olhao, here are other experiences we've looked into
Comfort and Safety on a Well-Equipped Boat
The boat used for this tour is designed with guest comfort and safety in mind. Besides bathroom facilities, the vessel is equipped with life jackets and receives security instructions before departure. The guide leads the journey, sharing information about the area’s ecology and history, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.
The boat’s size and facilities make it suitable for travelers of various ages and mobility levels, with wheelchair accessibility noted as a feature. The small group size ensures that guests are not overwhelmed and can enjoy a more personalized experience.
Practical Details: Meeting Point and Booking Flexibility
Guests are asked to meet at the shop next to the ferry tickets at the Olhão Marina 20 minutes before the scheduled departure. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making planning straightforward.
This experience offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, and the reserve now, pay later option provides flexibility for travelers who are finalizing their plans. The tour is guided in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour best suits water lovers, families, and small groups looking for a relaxed yet active day on the water. The swimming, paddleboarding, and scenic island stops make it ideal for those wanting to explore the natural beauty of Ria Formosa in a comfortable setting. However, travelers should be prepared for a 7-hour experience, so it’s best for those comfortable with a full day outdoors.
While the trip offers excellent value with its inclusive BBQ and water activities, it does not include onboard drinks or transportation to the meeting point, which are worth considering when planning your day.
Unique Features That Set This Tour Apart
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of scenic sightseeing, water activities, and a hearty BBQ meal all in a small-group setting. The friendly guides and well-equipped boat ensure both safety and comfort, making this a reliable choice for those wanting a well-rounded day on the Ria Formosa.
The SUP inclusion and the chance to swim in pristine waters make the trip particularly appealing for active travelers who want to enjoy the Algarve’s natural environment without feeling rushed.
Final Thoughts: A Relaxing Day of Nature and Good Food in Algarve
The Olhão: Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour offers a cost-effective and enjoyable way to see some of Portugal’s most beautiful islands. The combination of sightseeing, swimming, paddleboarding, and a tasty BBQ makes it a well-rounded experience for those seeking a mix of relaxation and water-based fun.
The small group size and personalized approach contribute to a warm, friendly atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, or small groups. While it does not include onboard drinks, the delicious barbecue and scenic stops more than compensate.
This tour will appeal most to travelers who appreciate beautiful landscapes, water activities, and informative guides. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable choice for a full day exploring the natural beauty of Ria Formosa with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the sun.
✨ Book This Experience
Olhão: Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers – Tour along the islands
“Lovely day very relaxing past 3 island then boat stops at beach for swim, paddle board and relax soak up the sun whilst the crew prepare bbq and se…”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour price?
The boat trip, life jackets, security instructions, guide, BBQ meal, SUP, and bathroom on board are included.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 7 hours, with specific starting times available depending on the day.
Do I need to bring anything?
Guests should bring sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for comfort during water activities and sunbathing.
Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.
Are drinks included during the trip?
No, bar services are not included, but the crew serves drinks alongside the BBQ.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Guests meet 20 minutes before departure at the shop next to the ferry tickets at the Olhão Marina.
