Sesimbra: Family Friendly Boat Sea Tour w/ Submarine Vision

Explore the Unique Sea Tour of Sesimbra with Submarine Vision

The Sesimbra: Family Friendly Boat Sea Tour with Submarine Vision offers an engaging way to experience the stunning coast of Arrábida Natural Park from the water. For only $24 per person, this 2-hour cruise departs from Sesimbra Harbour and features panoramic underwater windows, providing a rare glimpse into the marine life and underwater landscapes of the protected marine area. This tour is especially popular among families and those seeking an accessible yet educational adventure on the water, with the opportunity to spot dolphins, observe local fishing traditions, and enjoy scenic viewpoints like Ribeira do Cavalo and Boca do Tamboril Cave.

While the boat’s underwater windows set this experience apart, it’s worth noting that the tour maintains a respectful distance from landmarks to preserve their natural beauty. The guided commentary is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring an informative experience, and life vests are provided for safety. The main limitation is that the tour does not include food or drinks, so travelers should plan accordingly.

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Key Points

• Cost-effective activity at $24 per person with a 2-hour duration.
• Features underwater panoramic windows for viewing marine life.
• Departures from Sesimbra Harbour, with scenic stops at notable locations.
• Opportunities to see dolphins, coral, and endemic flora.
• Guided commentary available in multiple languages.
• Suitable for families, wheelchair users, and those seeking an easy boat experience.

Starting Point at Sesimbra Harbour

This tour begins at Aquarama, located next to the Marina entrance in Sesimbra. The meeting point is straightforward to find, with clear signage, and the boat, named APNEA, is well-equipped with panoramic windows and safety features. The departure time varies depending on availability, so checking in advance is recommended.

Once on board, the crew welcomes guests warmly and provides a safety briefing, including the use of life vests for both adults and children. The boat’s design with large windows makes it easy to observe underwater scenes without getting wet, which is especially appealing for families with young children.

Navigating the Arrábida Natural Park from the Water

The vessel cruises into the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, a marine protected area within the Arrábida Natural Park. The 15-minute cruise through this area introduces guests to the biodiversity of the coast, including large schools of fish and endemic flora species. The scenic route passes several notable points, including Mula Bay, Ribeira do Cavalo Beach, and Boca do Tamboril Cave.

During this part of the journey, the guides explain the importance of marine conservation and fishing traditions, such as the historical significance of the Friar’s Rock. The information is delivered clearly, adding an educational layer to the sightseeing.

Scenic Pauses at Famous Landmarks

The tour includes multiple scenic stops along the route, each offering a chance to capture photographs and marvel at the coastal scenery. Notable stops include:

• Ribeira do Cavalo Beach: Known for its crystal-clear waters and wild beauty, this beach is one of the most photogenic spots on the coast.
• Boca do Tamboril Cave: A fascinating sea cave that creates dramatic scenery and possible photo opportunities.
• Friar’s Rock: An iconic rock formation with historical fishing ties, observed from a safe distance to preserve its natural state.

The boat pauses near these landmarks, giving guests ample time to enjoy the views and snap photos. The slow pace ensures a relaxed experience, with scenic viewing platforms providing good angles for all.

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The Underwater World Through Panoramic Windows

The highlight of this cruise is the underwater windows on the hull of the boat, which reveal the seabed and marine life in real-time. This feature creates a spectacular perspective, allowing guests to see corals, fish, and other marine creatures without diving.

Guests can observe the diverse underwater ecosystem of the Marine Park, with the guides describing the various species and habitats encountered. The underwater view adds a fun and educational element, making this tour especially appealing to children and families.

Encountering Dolphins and Marine Life

One of the most exciting aspects is the possibility of seeing dolphins. The crew is experienced in spotting these intelligent animals and can often circulate around them, giving extended viewing opportunities. This lucky encounter is a highlight for many.

Plus, the tour’s focus on marine biodiversity means that travelers can expect to see corals, schooling fish, and endemic flora along the rocky coast. The large schools of fish and endemic flora species contribute to a vibrant underwater scene.

Scenic Views from the Upper Platform

Along With the underwater windows, the upper deck provides a panoramic view of the coast and the sea breeze. This open-air space is perfect for enjoying the breathtaking scenery, especially during scenic pauses at key points like Mula Bay and Inferno Beach.

The views from the top deck complement the underwater perspective, giving guests a comprehensive sense of the coastal landscape and sea life of the Arrábida Natural Park.

The Final Stop at Inferno Beach

The tour concludes with a scenic view of Inferno Beach, renowned for its natural beauty and secluded setting. The boat remains nearby for a few minutes, allowing guests to soak in the scenery before heading back to Sesimbra Harbour.

This final stop offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to reflect on the marine and coastal beauty experienced during the cruise.

Logistics and Accessibility

The activity operates with a live guide in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication throughout. The meeting point is easy to locate, with the Aquarama gate near the Marina entrance.

The boat is wheelchair accessible, making this experience suitable for guests with mobility needs. The group size typically ensures a comfortable environment, with safety measures like life vests provided as requested.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Travelers should bring water and biodegradable sunscreen to stay comfortable during the tour. Since food and drinks are not included, packing a small snack or drink is recommended. The tour does not include offboarding at any stops other than the departure and return points, so plan for that.

While the tour emphasizes respect for nature, activities such as fishing, feeding animals, or littering are not allowed. This helps maintain the natural beauty of the marine protected area.

The Experience with Aquarama: A Well-Regarded Provider

Established in 1999, Aquarama is known for providing marine-tourist activities in Sesimbra and the Marine Park. Their crew is praised for knowledgeable guidance and friendly service, making the experience pleasant and informative. The underwater windows and scenic stops are consistent highlights.

The reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially regarding the unique underwater views, dolphin sightings, and value for money. The cost and duration make this a cost-efficient way to discover the coast.

The Sum Up: A Fun and Educational Sea Adventure

This Sesimbra boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic vistas, marine biodiversity, and underwater exploration through its panoramic windows. At $24, it provides excellent value for families and individuals interested in a relaxed yet engaging sea experience.

While no food or drinks are included, the scenic stops and underwater views compensate with visual treasures and marine encounters. The accessible design and multilingual guides make this tour suitable for a wide range of travelers.

For those wanting a fun, educational, and scenic aquatic adventure in Sesimbra, this tour delivers memorable moments and a unique perspective on Portugal’s coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the guided tour, insurance, life vests (on request), and pictures, including photos with the Aquarama Instagram Frame.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included. Travelers should bring their own if desired.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly and offers safety equipment for children. The underwater windows and scenic stops are engaging for all ages.

Can I see dolphins on this tour?
Dolphin sightings are possible, and the crew is experienced in spotting them. Encounters are not guaranteed but are a common highlight.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring water and biodegradable sunscreen. The tour does not require special clothing beyond comfortable attire suited for the weather.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the Aquarama gate beside the Marina entrance in Sesimbra.

What happens at scenic stops?
The boat makes pauses at locations such as Ribeira do Cavalo and Boca do Tamboril Cave for photos and sightseeing, maintaining a respectful distance from land formations.

Can I disembark anywhere during the tour?
No, the tour starts and ends at Sesimbra Harbour with no offboarding at other stops.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby