Sesimbra: Secret Bays and Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling

Exploring Sesimbra’s Secret Bays and Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling: An Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of uncovering some of Portugal’s best-kept coastal secrets, this Sesimbra boat tour might be just what you’re looking for. It promises a laid-back yet adventurous way to see the unspoiled beaches, explore hidden coves, and snorkel in calm, clear waters—perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a break from busy tourist spots.

What really drew us in are the authentic local feel of visiting spots known mostly by people who live nearby, and the chance to relax in serene surroundings. Plus, the small-group size (limited to just eight participants) ensures a more personal experience that feels less rushed and more engaging. On the flip side, some might find the duration of 2.5 hours a bit short, especially if they want more time at each stop or to fully unwind.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of scenery, gentle adventure, and a touch of local flavor. It’s particularly good for those looking for a value-packed experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling without breaking the bank. If you’re after a peaceful day on Portugal’s coast with friendly guides sharing tips along the way, this might just be perfect.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: You’ll visit secret beaches and bays known mainly to locals, away from the crowded spots.
• Snorkeling and Marine Life: Calm, crystal-clear waters make snorkeling a real highlight, with the chance to see fish and marine creatures.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Expect stunning views of cliffs, sea caves, and rugged coastlines while sailing along the coast.
• Small Group & Personal Service: With just eight travelers, guides can offer personalized attention and share detailed info about the ecology and points of interest.
• Value for Money: At $57 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with snorkeling gear, life jackets, and regional drinks included.
• Flexible & Relaxed: The tour includes several stops for photos, swimming, and exploring beaches, making it a relaxed pace suitable for most travelers.

What to Expect from the Sesimbra Boat Tour

We love how this tour balances adventure with relaxation. From the moment you meet your guides at Blue Coast Tours in Sesimbra, you’ll get a friendly introduction to the itinerary, safety instructions, and what to look forward to. The guides’ knowledge about the local ecology and marine life adds a layer of richness that keeps the experience engaging.

The Itinerary and Stops

Each stop on this tour is carefully chosen to showcase the coast’s natural beauty, with enough time to enjoy each location fully. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Starting Point at Blue Coast Tours

Your journey begins here, where you’ll meet your friendly guides and get ready for the adventure. The meeting point is straightforward, and from there, the boat gently sails along the coast, immediately setting a relaxed tone.

More Great Tours Nearby

Praia da Cova – 30 Minutes

The first stop is Praia da Cova, a quieter beach that’s perfect for photos and a quick dip. The guided tour here offers insights into the local environment, and the scenery is simply lovely, with cliffs and lush vegetation surrounding the bay. This is a great spot for those wanting a quick taste of the ocean without too much exertion.

Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach – 30 Minutes

Next is Ribeiro do Cavalo, one of the most celebrated beaches in the area. Its unspoiled natural beauty makes it a favorite among visitors. Here, you’ll enjoy a walk, swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing. This stop gets rave reviews—reviews mention the guides being very friendly and knowledgeable, making it easier to appreciate the surroundings fully.

A guest noted, “We had such a good time! Snorkeling, short beach stops, port wine, and the best local recommendations,” showing how this stop combines natural beauty with a touch of local flavors.

Praia da Mijona – 30 Minutes

Moving along, Praia da Mijona offers another pristine beach. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. Expect fewer crowds and unspoiled natural scenery. Several reviewers mention how they enjoyed snorkeling in tranquil waters, observing marine life in crystal-clear conditions.

Inferno’s Beach – 20 Minutes

The next stop is Inferno Beach, a more rugged, less developed spot, but just as stunning. This is a quick stop—just enough time to take photos and dip your toes in the water. It’s more about soaking in the wild, untouched coastline than lounging in the sun.

Baleeira Bay and Beach – 40 Minutes

Baleeira Beach is often highlighted as the culmination of the tour. Here, the guides take you on a guided walk, and there’s an option to enjoy some regional wine tasting—adding a charming local touch. Guests have appreciated the opportunity for a longer break, swimming, snorkeling, and even taking pictures of the dramatic sea caves and coastal formations.

One reviewer shared, “George and Marco were very welcoming and informative—they even shared pictures and a celebratory toast,” illustrating how this stop combines scenic beauty with personal interactions.

End of the Tour

After exploring the final beach, the boat heads back to the starting point. Throughout the journey, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to reflect on the scenery and capture some last photos of the rugged coastline and tranquil bays.

The Experience of Snorkeling & Marine Life Viewing

Snorkeling is a major highlight—many travelers rave about the calm, crystal-clear waters conducive to seeing marine life. The provided snorkeling gear and life jackets make it accessible even for beginners. Several reviews mention the quality of the snorkeling experience, noting the friendly guides’ help in spotting fish and marine creatures.

One guest said, “We went snorkeling and swimming in pristine waters, as well as enjoying a local made drink,” which echoes how the experience is both scenic and relaxed. The marine life is lively enough to keep even curious first-timers engaged, with many leaving with new appreciation for the local ocean ecology.

The Guides and Service

Throughout the reviews, guides are consistently praised. Described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, they seem to make all the difference in creating a memorable trip. One review mentioned the guides sharing information about ecology and marine life, adding value beyond just sightseeing.

The small group setting helps ensure personal attention, and many reviews highlight the crew’s warmth and enthusiasm. The boat is well-equipped with snorkeling gear and life jackets, and the regional drinks are a nice touch to unwind after some swimming.

Price and Value

At $57 per person, this tour offers great value—especially considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear, life jackets, and regional drinks. It’s a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to experience Portugal’s coast without paying for longer, more expensive boat trips.

The reviews confirm this, with many guests feeling they received more than they expected, especially regarding the variety of locations visited and the quality of guides. The stops for photos, swimming, and relaxing make the trip feel generous without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and cultural richness through local drinks and insights. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, photography, or simply relaxing in natural settings. Because of the short duration, it’s ideal for visitors with limited time but who still want a taste of Portugal’s coastal treasures.

While not specifically designed for families or children, the calm waters and slow pace make it accessible for most ages, provided guests are comfortable on a boat. Those looking for a full-day adventure or more extensive exploration might find this too brief, but for a half-day escape, it’s spot on.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sun protection: Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential.
• Swimwear and towels: You’ll want these for swimming and relaxing.
• Comfortable clothes: Light, breathable clothing suitable for being on the water.
• Book early: The small group size means spots can fill up quickly.
• Check availability: Starting times vary; plan ahead to fit it into your schedule.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour begins at Blue Coast Tours in Sesimbra, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if plans change.

What’s included in the price? The price covers a boat tour, snorkeling gear, life jackets, guides, and regional drinks.

Are there any additional costs? Food and drinks besides the included regional drink are not included, and you should bring your own snacks if desired.

How long is the tour? It lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak Portuguese, Spanish, English, and French, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and the calm waters make it accessible for most beginners.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but always check with the provider if traveling with very young children.

Final Thoughts

This Sesimbra boat tour offers a fantastic way to connect with nature, explore unspoiled beaches, and enjoy Portugal’s stunning coast at a sensible price. The combination of scenic sailing, snorkeling, and knowledgeable guides creates a relaxed yet engaging experience that appeals to those wanting an authentic taste of local beaches away from the crowds.

If you’re short on time but want a memorable coastal adventure, this tour delivers genuine scenery, marine life encounters, and friendly service. It’s especially worthwhile if you appreciate the idea of discovering hidden beaches and enjoying tranquil waters, all without blowing your travel budget.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a long, action-packed day, it’s a perfect choice for a peaceful, scenic escape. Overall, it’s a straightforward, well-reviewed experience that many travelers have found truly worthwhile.

Happy sailing and snorkeling in Sesimbra!

You can check availability for your dates here: