Lisbon: NYE Fireworks Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks

Thinking about ringing in the new year in a unique way? If you’re looking for an experience that combines the magic of Lisbon’s skyline with a relaxed, sophisticated vibe, this New Year’s Eve Catamaran Cruise might just be what you need. We’ve looked into this special offering from Royal Marine, and it seems like a fantastic option for those who want an upscale, personal celebration on the water.

What we particularly like about this cruise is how intimate it is — limited to just 12 guests, which means no crowded decks or loud chaos. The focus is on enjoying the stunning views of Lisbon’s landmarks and fireworks with plenty of space to relax and soak in the moment. The fact that food and drinks are included also makes this a more comfortable, fuss-free way to welcome the new year.

One thing to keep in mind: the cruise is scheduled late into the night, from around 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. So, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a longer evening and willing to bundle up for the outdoor deck. It’s perfect for travelers craving a luxurious yet intimate way to celebrate, especially if you’re looking to avoid the crowds on land and enjoy an exclusive vantage point.

Overall, if you’re after a special, memorable way to ring in 2024 with gorgeous river views, this cruise offers a mix of exclusivity, comfort, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a good fit whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a peaceful, elegant New Year’s experience.

Key Points

• Limited Capacity: Only 12 guests for a personalized experience.
• Prime Fireworks View: The best angle to see Lisbon’s famous fireworks.
• Beautiful Landmarks: Illuminated monuments and iconic sights along the Tagus River.
• All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, and a celebratory toast included.
• Comfort & Safety: An experienced crew ensures a relaxed and secure environment.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Perfect if you want a memorable, elegant New Year’s celebration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lisbon NYE Catamaran Cruise

If you’re considering this cruise, you’re probably wondering what the experience will actually look like from start to finish. Let’s walk through the itinerary and what makes each part special, as well as what you might want to keep in mind.

Starting Point: Doca de Belém

The adventure begins at the historic Doca de Belém, a popular departure spot for many Lisbon boats. The meeting point is well-organized — just arrive about 10 minutes early, so you’re not rushed and can settle in comfortably. The meeting point is next to Padrão dos Descobrimentos, with clear coordinates to help you find it easily.

Safety Briefing and Welcome

Once onboard, your crew provides a brief safety talk. It’s a quick but useful step, especially for those unfamiliar with boat cruises, so you feel confident as you set out on the water. The boat itself is a sleek catamaran, offering a stable and spacious platform to enjoy the evening.

Monument to the Discoveries

Your first stop is at the Monument to the Discoveries, a symbol of Portugal’s maritime history. Here, you get a chance to snap some photos of the illuminated monument and take in the views of the river and city skyline — a great introduction to the sights.

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25 de Abril Bridge

Next, you’ll cruise towards the 25 de Abril Bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate for its striking red color. The bridge is a key Lisbon landmark, and from the boat, it’s even more impressive against the night sky. Expect around 15 minutes here to take photos and enjoy the view.

Commerce Square and Lisbon’s Nightlife

The highlight of the cruise is a longer stop at Commerce Square, one of Lisbon’s most famous plazas. With about 45 minutes to explore, you can admire the illuminated facades, take in the atmosphere, and enjoy the scenic views of the river. Many reviews highlight this as a memorable part of the experience — a perfect backdrop for your New Year’s toast.

Scenic Cruise & Celebrations

Afterward, the boat will cruise again, passing in front of Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods — Alfama, with its narrow streets, and other iconic sites. You’ll get a full 45-minute scenic cruise, during which you can relax on the deck, sip your included champagne or Portuguese sparkling wine, and snack on cheeses and sausages provided onboard.

Strategic Fireworks Position

As midnight approaches, the boat positions itself in front of Terreiro do Paço, the main square where Lisbon hosts its spectacular fireworks show. Here, you’ll have an unobstructed view of the colorful explosions, making it an ideal spot to celebrate the new year.

New Year’s Toast & Fireworks

When the clock strikes midnight, the crew will facilitate your champagne toast, adding a touch of elegance to the celebration. Many guests mention how special it feels to watch the fireworks from such a privileged vantage point, away from the crowd and noise on land.

Return to Belém

After the celebration, the boat heads back to Doca de Belém, arriving around 1 a.m. The return journey is a chance to unwind, reflect on the evening, and savor the peaceful river views after the excitement.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

The Intimacy and Exclusivity

With only 12 guests onboard, this cruise offers a personalized, relaxed atmosphere. There’s ample space to move around, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the views in quiet. This setup makes it feel more like a private celebration than a crowded public event.

The Best Fireworks Viewing Angle

Positioned directly in front of the main fireworks show, you won’t miss a single explosion. Many reviews emphasize how this exclusive vantage point enhances the visual experience, allowing full appreciation of the display’s colors and patterns.

The Food and Drinks

The inclusion of cheeses, sausages, and soft drinks, along with premium drinks like Portuguese sparkling wine, wines, craft beers, champagne, and water, means you won’t need to worry about booking separate packages or dealing with long lines. The onboard service is attentive, making sure everyone’s needs are met in a cozy setting.

The Scenic Landmarks

From the Discoveries Monument to Lisbon’s iconic bridge and square, the cruise offers a great chance to see the city from a different perspective. The illuminated landmarks create a picturesque backdrop, perfect for photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

Timing and Weather

The cruise runs from 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., so be prepared for a late night. Lisbon can be chilly in winter, especially near the water, so bundling up with warm clothing, jackets, and comfortable shoes is essential. The deck is outdoor, so dress warmly; shoes with white soles are recommended for easy movement, and avoid high heels to stay stable on the boat.

Group Size and Cost

Only 12 seats are available, which means it can sell out quickly. While the price might seem higher than land-based parties, the value lies in the exclusivity, prime viewing spot, and inclusive food and drinks. It’s more of a premium experience, suited for those wanting something memorable and refined.

Accessibility and Content

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus. The experience is conducted in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, accommodating a variety of travelers. Since some content is shown in its original language, it’s a good choice for multilingual groups.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for couples celebrating a romantic new year, friends wanting a relaxed yet upscale celebration, or anyone looking to avoid the chaos of land-based parties. It’s perfect if you appreciate beautiful scenery, a calm atmosphere, and a touch of luxury. While families aren’t explicitly highlighted, older travelers or those comfortable on boats will find it a delightful way to start the year.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a quiet, elegant, and scenic way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Lisbon, this catamaran cruise ticks all the boxes. The limited guest list guarantees an intimate setting, while the prime location offers unbeatable views of fireworks and city lights. The inclusion of food and drinks elevates the experience, making it feel more like a special occasion than just a boat ride.

While it does require a late night and some bundling up, the peaceful waters, stunning vistas, and the exclusivity make it worth considering — especially if you’re after a memorable and refined New Year’s celebration. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking something a bit different, more personal, and truly special.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for families or children?
The tour is adult-oriented, and since it runs late into the night, it might not be ideal for young children. However, older kids comfortable on boats and in cooler weather could enjoy the experience.

How many people are on the cruise?
Only 12 guests are allowed, which keeps the environment intimate and comfortable.

What’s included in the price?
Food (cheeses, sausages, snacks), five premium drinks (like sparkling wine, wines, beers, soft drinks, water), champagne, and a New Year’s toast are included, making it a convenient all-in-one celebration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a jacket, and a camera are recommended. Outdoor clothes are essential, especially since the deck is open-air.

How long is the cruise?
The whole experience lasts about 2.5 hours, from 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., with most of that time spent cruising along Lisbon’s illuminated landmarks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

Where exactly do I meet the boat?
At Doca de Belém, next to Padrão dos Descobrimentos, with coordinates 38.69449234008789, -9.204044342041016.

If this sounds like the kind of celebration you’d love, booking early is a must — spots fill up quickly. It’s a memorable way to bring in the new year, with Lisbon’s stunning river scenery, a handful of fellow travelers, and the excitement of fireworks all around you.

You can check availability for your dates here: