Sailing The Algarve Coastline Cruise with BBQ on the Beach

Explore the Algarve Coastline by Boat with a Beachside Barbecue

The Sailing The Algarve Coastline Cruise with BBQ on the Beach offers a relaxed yet scenic way to discover Portugal’s stunning southern coast. Priced at $83.81 per person, this 7-hour full-day tour departs from Quarteira and promises an enjoyable mix of sightseeing, swimming, and a delicious barbecue lunch right on Benagil Beach.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a combination of natural beauty, delicious local food, and the chance to explore famous caves and secluded beaches. While it has a moderate rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on four reviews, its appeal lies in the opportunity to sail along the coast and enjoy a hearty outdoor meal, with some weather-dependent cave exploration.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure lasting approximately 7 hours from Quarteira.
• Price per person: $83.81, including lunch, water, and drinks.
• Highlights include sailing past iconic beaches such as Santa Eulália, Fishermen beach, São Rafael, and Praia da Marinha.
• Visit the famous Benagil Cave (depending on sea conditions) and enjoy a barbecue lunch on a secluded beach.
• Swim in clear waters and explore sea caves if the weather allows.
• The tour features a mobile ticket, with a meeting point at Marina de Vilamoura.

Departure from Vilamoura’s Marina at 10:00am

The tour begins at 10:00am at Marina de Vilamoura, with check-in recommended 20 to 30 minutes before departure. It proceeds along the coast, passing by notable beaches such as Santa Eulália and Fishermen beach, where impressive rock formations and old fishing villages provide a picturesque backdrop.

The boat navigates past São Rafael with its striking rock features and Praia da Marinha, often cited as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The guide points out these highlights, making the journey both visually stimulating and educational.

Visiting Benagil Cave and Other Coastal Stops

A key moment of the tour is the visit to Benagil Cave, one of the Algarve’s most photographed natural formations. Guests should prepare their cameras because the cave’s interior provides a stunning photo opportunity. However, the visit to Benagil depends on sea conditions, so flexibility is essential.

Another stop is Praia Grande de Pera, where the group anchors near a secluded beach inaccessible by land. Here, a beach barbecue awaits, featuring grilled fresh fish, pork steaks, chicken, along with salad, bread, seasonal fruit, and a selection of drinks including wine, juice, and water. This 1 hour and 30 minutes stop allows travelers to relax, indulge, and soak up the sun.

The Beach Barbecue Experience

The beach barbecue is a standout feature, offering a plentiful meal set outdoors. The lunch includes a variety of grilled meats and fresh seafood, complemented by seasonal fruits and drinks. The setting provides a relaxed atmosphere, with the secluded beach offering a perfect backdrop for enjoying the meal.

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate authentic outdoor dining in a scenic environment. The tour provides bottled water and alcoholic beverages, ensuring guests stay refreshed throughout the day.

Exploring the Coastal Caves by Dinghy

If weather conditions permit, the tour includes an exploration of the caves near Benagil using a dinghy. This adds an adventurous element to the day, allowing passengers to get closer to the sea caves’ stunning rock formations. The cave visit is free of charge, but it is sea condition-dependent, so it may be canceled if conditions are unfavorable.

This optional activity enhances the overall experience by offering a more intimate view of the Algarve’s coastline’s unique geological features.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The meeting point is at Marina de Vilamoura, a well-known marina in Quarteira. The tour involves a mobile ticket and is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 120. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, making it a family-friendly outing.

The tour runs most days, with an average booking window of 36 days in advance, reflecting its steady popularity. Since no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, travelers should arrange their own transportation to the marina.

The Guides and Overall Service

Based on the sole review, the crew receives praise for their attention, friendliness, and availability. The guides, such as Sr. Paulo and Sr. Manuel, are noted for their warm and attentive service, contributing to a positive experience on the boat.

While the overall rating is moderate, the review highlights a spectacular trip with satisfied guests enjoying the scenery and the excellent service from the crew.

Value for Money and Considerations

At $83.81, the price includes a full day of sailing, lunch, water, and drinks. No additional costs are specified for the cave visit, which may depend on sea conditions. The experience is a good value for those looking to combine sightseeing, culinary enjoyment, and sea activities.

A noteworthy limitation is the weather dependency for the cave visits and cave exploration by dinghy. Travelers should check the forecast and be prepared for possible changes to the itinerary.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This sailing trip suits families, couples, and groups of friends seeking a scenic, relaxing day along the Algarve coast. It’s ideal for those who appreciate outdoor dining, sea views, and the chance to swim in clear waters. Some flexibility for weather and sea conditions makes it better suited for travelers with a relaxed outlook.

The Sum Up: An Enjoyable Coastal Day with Authentic Flavors

The Sailing The Algarve Coastline Cruise with BBQ on the Beach offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, leisure, and culinary delight. Its major appeal lies in visiting famous beaches and caves, combined with a hearty outdoor meal in a scenic setting.

While the moderate reviews suggest some variability in experience, the friendly crew and beautiful landscape make this tour a worthwhile choice for those wanting a full-day maritime adventure. It’s especially fitting for those who value local flavors, natural beauty, and relaxed travel pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $83.81 per person, including lunch, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours from the departure at 10:00am.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Marina de Vilamoura, in Quarteira, Portugal.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Santa Eulália beach, Fishermen beach with Albufeira old town view, São Rafael beach, Praia da Marinha, Benagil Cave (sea-condition dependent), and Praia Grande de Pera with a beach barbecue.

Is cave exploration included?
Yes, cave visits are included but dependent on sea conditions. A dinghy allows closer exploration if weather permits.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the marina, and hotel pickup is not included.

What should I bring?
Guests should arrive 20-30 minutes early and bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is organized by MTS Globe Portugal.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the activities.