Lisbon: Private Catamaran Charter for up to 18-People

Taking to the water in Lisbon is one of those experiences that instantly elevates your trip. If you’re looking for a way to see the city from a different perspective without the crowds or the hustle of busy sightseeing tours, a private catamaran cruise might be just what you need. This particular experience offers a two-hour journey along the Tagus River, with plenty of room for up to 18 people, making it ideal for groups celebrating special occasions or just wanting a chill day on the water.

What really caught my eye about this tour was the chance to combine sightseeing with relaxation. First, you get to admire some of Lisbon’s iconic sights from the water—think Belem Tower, the Christ the King statue, and the 25th of April Bridge—without having to navigate busy streets or noisy buses. Second, it’s a customizable experience: you can participate in sailing or just kick back with a drink in hand.

That said, one thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include a guide or meals, which might matter if you’re after a more comprehensive sightseeing or dining experience. Still, for those wanting a flexible, scenic, and comfortable outing, this boat trip suits quite a broad audience—especially groups looking to celebrate or just enjoy the city’s stunning river views.

Key Points

• Private, spacious boat for up to 18 people, perfect for groups or celebrations.
• Flexible itinerary: sail, relax, or participate—it’s your choice.
• Spectacular river views of Lisbon’s landmarks from a unique vantage point.
• Includes drinks and a light snack, making the experience easy and enjoyable.
• Departure from Belem with a short walk to the marina, easy to access.
• Optional sunset cruises available for an added fee, subject to schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect on This Lisbon Catamaran Tour

This experience is set up to give you a comfortable, scenic way to enjoy Lisbon’s river and landmarks without feeling rushed or overly structured. You meet your skipper at the Doca do Bom Sucesso marina in Belem, an easy-to-reach area known for its picturesque waterfront and nearby restaurants. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll hop aboard your private catamaran—spacious, bright, and equipped with life jackets and amenities.

Once settled, your trip kicks off with a gentle sail down the Tagus River. The route is designed to showcase Lisbon’s most photogenic sights from the water. You’ll first glide past the Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that looks spectacular when viewed from the river. According to reviews, this view is truly something special—Emma shared that she couldn’t recommend it enough, especially for a celebratory event like a hen party. The boat’s vantage point offers an entirely different perspective from the usual city walks and is perfect for snapping memorable photos.

From there, the boat turns in the opposite direction toward Lisbon’s city center, passing under the 25th of April Bridge, which adds a sense of adventure and grandeur to the trip. As you sail past the Discover monument and the MAAT Museum, you’ll get a good sense of Lisbon’s blend of history and modernity.

You’ll also have the option to participate in the sailing or simply relax with a drink and crackers provided onboard. To enhance the experience, the tour includes one drink per person—you can choose beer or soft drinks—and a light snack. While there’s no guide, the crew is friendly and happy to answer questions or share tips about the city’s sights.

Stop Highlights and Sightseeing

The tour’s itinerary is fairly straightforward but packed with visual highlights. It starts with a walk from the marina into the Belém area, where you get a brief safety briefing before setting sail. The 105-minute cruise provides plenty of time to soak in the views, snap photos, and enjoy the gentle movement of the boat.

The route takes you past Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks. The Belem Tower is undoubtedly the star of the show, especially from the water, and many reviews mention how impressive it looks from this vantage point. The boat then heads toward the city, passing under the 25th of April Bridge, known for its striking red color and suspension design that’s reminiscent of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.

As you cruise back towards the marina, your crew might point out sites like the Discover monument and the new MAAT Museum, both of which add context to your visual feast. The entire trip feels relaxed and customizable—whether you want to lounge, take photos, or participate in the sailing, the choice is yours.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience shines in its simplicity and flexibility. It’s not a guided tour with a lot of commentary, but rather an opportunity to enjoy Lisbon’s river scenery at your own pace. The private group aspect means you won’t be sharing your boat with strangers—perfect for celebrations or just a peaceful day with friends or family.

Another notable feature is the scenic route. Many reviews mention how spectacular the views are—Emma, for example, noted that her group “hired the catamaran for a hen party,” and they found the crew accommodating and friendly. The boat’s size and layout make it ideal for socializing, and the onboard amenities help keep everyone comfortable.

The cost of $682 for up to 18 people breaks down to a reasonable rate considering the exclusivity and the scenic value. When you factor in the drinks, snacks, and the private setting, it offers decent value—especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a memorable, relaxed day on the water.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Departure point is at the marina Doca do Bom Sucesso in Belem, close to the Vela Latina restaurant and next to a BP gas station, making it easy to find.
• The duration is 2 hours, with available start times—you’ll want to check availability for sunset cruises, which include a 50 euro supplement.
• Included in the price are the crew, one drink per person, light snacks, insurance, and VAT. No meals or transfers are provided, so plan accordingly.
• The meeting point is in front of gate 1, and the activity ends back there, making it straightforward to arrange transport.
• Weather considerations: the itinerary can change depending on conditions, so flexibility is key.
• Children are welcome but must be supervised by adults, and wheelchair access should be notified in advance.

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What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather
• Sun protection—sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen
• Don’t wear high heels—they’re not allowed onboard

Is This Experience Right for You?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, private way to see Lisbon’s landmarks from the water, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for groups celebrating special events, couples, or friends wanting a casual, flexible outing. Since it doesn’t include a guide or meals, it’s best for those who are happy to enjoy the scenery and company at their own pace.

Keep in mind that you’re paying for the exclusivity and comfort of a private boat, so if you’re looking for a more structured or guided experience, you might want to explore other options. Conversely, if you love the idea of a personalized sailing adventure with beautiful views and a relaxed vibe, this tour could be just perfect.

The Sum Up

This private catamaran cruise offers a wonderful way to appreciate Lisbon from a tranquil, scenic vantage point. It’s ideal for groups who want to enjoy the river’s beauty without the clutter of larger tours or guided commentary. The opportunity to relax, take photos, and soak in the sights from the water makes it especially memorable, and the friendly crew helps create a welcoming atmosphere.

While it’s not a full sightseeing tour with in-depth narration or meals, the focus on beautiful views, privacy, and flexibility makes this experience stand out. It’s a great choice for celebrations, intimate gatherings, or simply a lazy day enjoying Lisbon’s riverside charm.

If you’re seeking a laid-back, exclusive way to see the city’s highlights from the water—without breaking the bank—this private catamaran could be just what you’re looking for. Just remember to check the schedule for sunset options if you want that magical golden hour experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for large groups? Yes, it accommodates groups of up to 18 people, making it perfect for families, friends, or celebrations.

Does the price include meals? No, the tour includes drinks and a light snack, but no full meals are provided.

Can I participate in sailing activities? Yes, you have the option to participate in sailing or simply relax and enjoy the ride.

Is the tour private? Absolutely, this experience is designed for your private group, offering exclusivity and flexibility.

Are there options for sunset cruises? Yes, sunset tours are available for an additional 50 euro supplement, but you should check availability for your date.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing, and avoid high heels.

Is there wheelchair access? You should notify the provider in advance if wheelchair access is needed.

What is the meeting point? The activity starts at the marina Doca do Bom Sucesso, in front of gate 1, next to Vela Latina restaurant.

What if the weather is bad? The itinerary can change depending on weather conditions, and you may need to reschedule or cancel—cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and private way to take in Lisbon’s best river views, this catamaran tour is certainly worth considering. It offers a peaceful escape from the busy city streets and a chance to enjoy the city from a stunning perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: