Lisbon: Cruise to the Beach with BBQ, Open Bar and Music

Taking a boat cruise along Lisbon’s Tagus River sounds like a perfect way to see the city from a different perspective. This particular tour, offered by Stern Wind Cruises, promises a laid-back yet lively experience—combining iconic sights, beach relaxation, good food, and drinks, all wrapped into a three-hour package.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with fun. First, the stunning water views of Lisbon’s landmarks like the 25th of April Bridge and Belém Tower are truly captivating; you’ll get excellent photo ops without the crowds. Second, the beach stops for swimming give you a chance to cool off in the Atlantic, a lovely bonus that turns a sightseeing cruise into a mini beach day.

However, one thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to coordinate your own transport to the meeting point. Also, given the open water, it’s not suitable for those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues.

This cruise tends to suit travelers looking for a relaxed, social experience—especially those who appreciate good food, drinks, and a scenic setting. It’s a great way to combine some sightseeing, beach time, and a touch of celebration in one easy outing.

Key Points

• Scenic Lisbon views from the river including major landmarks
• Beach stops for refreshing swims in the Atlantic
• All-you-can-eat BBQ and open bar with wine, beer, and soft drinks
• Music and a lively atmosphere to keep the vibe upbeat
• Expert guidance providing commentary on Lisbon’s sights
• No hotel pickup, so plan your arrival at the meeting point

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Cruise Experience

When you arrive at the meeting point near Praça do Comércio, you’ll find a sizable white building with a clock and a taxi stand outside. Your ticket exchange at the Pacífico Cruises office is a quick step before boarding. Once on board, the boat sets off along the stunning banks of the Tagus River, heading towards the Atlantic Ocean.

The guide kicks off with a bit of commentary about Lisbon’s most famous sights, like the 25th of April Bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate, and the Belém Tower, a symbol of Portugal’s maritime history. This part of the cruise offers a relaxed way to get your bearings and snap some memorable photos.

A highlight of the trip is the strategic beach stops. These are positioned in front of beautiful beaches where you can hop off and enjoy a swim in the clear waters. Imagine floating in the Atlantic with Lisbon’s skyline in the background—sounds pretty idyllic, right? Based on reviews, these moments are well-received: “We loved the way the boat stops right in front of the beaches, perfect for quick swims,” a passenger shared.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll be treated to an all-you-can-eat BBQ, featuring various meats that satisfy most appetites. The food quality is generally good, and it’s quite handy to have something substantial while enjoying drinks and music. The open bar is another highlight—offering wine, beer, and soft drinks—making it easy to keep hydrated and in a festive mood.

Music livens up the atmosphere, often with a playlist that fits the relaxed vibe of the trip. Multiple reviews praise the friendly guides and lively ambiance, noting that the guidance is knowledgeable and adds context to the sights. One reviewer happily exclaimed, “Exciting and the view was beautiful. We had a great time!”

The cruise winds down after the beach stop, with the boat gently heading back to the original starting point. The leisurely pace ensures you’re not rushed, and you can relax knowing the guide will help keep everything smooth and safe.

The Practical Details

The total duration is around three hours, which strikes a good balance for a day trip—long enough to enjoy the sights and the beach, but not so long that it becomes tiring. The tour costs $56 per person, which, considering the food, drinks, and entertainment included, offers a fair value.

Since there’s no hotel pick-up or drop-off, you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point—a straightforward walk from Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon’s most central and easily accessible spots. The meeting point is clearly marked, and the ticket exchange process is simple, but it’s worth arriving a little early to avoid any last-minute rush.

The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, and French, which is helpful if you want some guidance but aren’t fluent in Portuguese. The group size tends to be moderate, enough to keep the experience intimate without feeling crowded.

Note that the experience isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness, as the boat is on open water and may sway more than a regular cruise.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer noted, “Exciting and the view was beautiful. We had a great time!!” This enthusiasm underlines how engaging the scenery and atmosphere are. Others appreciated the friendly guides and the great selection of wine and drinks, which added to the enjoyment of the trip.

A common theme is the delight in the beach stops—many say these are the highlight, offering a perfect break from the water touring. The combination of sightseeing and beach relaxation is what makes this cruise stand out for many.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, social outing that combines some sightseeing, a bit of beach fun, and good food and drinks, this cruise will likely hit the spot. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere and want to experience Lisbon from the water without the fuss of a more structured or lengthy tour.

This experience is perfect if you’re visiting Lisbon and want something casual and enjoyable, especially on a warm day when the chance to swim in the Atlantic sounds tempting. It’s also suitable for those who want a taste of Portuguese cuisine and wine while taking in scenic views.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

This cruise offers a relaxed way to see Lisbon from a different angle—showcasing iconic sights, giving you a break for a swim, and letting you indulge in good food and drinks. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable outing that combines sightseeing with leisure in a balanced way. The added bonus of music and a friendly guide makes it feel like a fun gathering rather than a formal tour.

While it’s not tailored for those with mobility issues or seasickness, if you’re comfortable on open water and looking for a casual, social experience, this trip could be a highlight of your Lisbon stay.

It’s a good choice for travelers who value authenticity, scenic beauty, and relaxed fun over structured sightseeing. For the price, you get a solid mix of sights, snacks, and drinks—plus the chance to cool off in the Atlantic, which is a refreshing break after wandering Lisbon’s bustling streets.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at the designated spot near Praça do Comércio.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately three hours, including the beach stop.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket includes an open bar (wine, beer, soft drinks), a BBQ meal, and the opportunity to swim at the beach.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, outside drinks are not allowed onboard, but the open bar is included in the ticket price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed, but the tour isn’t specifically designed for families. Consider the open water and seating arrangements.

What languages are available for guidance?
Guidance is offered in English, Portuguese, and French.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, this tour isn’t recommended for travelers with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, and a towel if you plan to swim.

How do I find the meeting point?
Look for the white building with a clock near Praça do Comércio and exchange your voucher at ticket office number 1 (Pacífico Cruises).

In the end, if you’re looking for a fun, laid-back way to see Lisbon’s sights, enjoy some beach time, and indulge in fantastic food and drinks, this cruise is worth considering. It’s a simple, friendly experience that captures the spirit of Lisbon’s maritime charm—perfect for a warm day spent relaxing by the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: