Sesimbra: Boat Trip with Snorkeling at Secret Beaches and Bays

If you’re exploring the Lisbon District and considering a boat tour that combines natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, this Sesimbra boat trip might just be worth your attention. It’s a three-hour excursion that promises to take you through stunning crystal-clear waters, offer opportunities for snorkeling and swimming, and introduce you to some truly hidden beaches and caves. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or even a small group, this journey aims to give a memorable taste of Portugal’s coast.

What immediately appeals to us about this experience is how it balances guided exploration with freedom to relax. Plus, the reviews highlight that it’s well-loved for its knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery—but there are a few things to keep in mind, like the limited duration and the fact that it doesn’t include hotel transfers. If you enjoy being on the water, appreciate natural landscapes, and don’t mind a shorter tour, this could be a good fit. That said, it’s best suited for those who want a more intimate and personalized experience rather than a large, commercial cruise.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: This 3-hour trip offers a compact but immersive coastal adventure.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants for a more personal experience.
• Highlight on natural beauty: Focused on secluded beaches, caves, and marine biodiversity.
• Popular with reviewers: Strong ratings, especially for guides, scenery, and the relaxed vibe.
• Includes snorkeling and paddleboarding: Perfect for water lovers.
• No hotel pickup: You’ll need to meet at the pier, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Sesimbra Boat Trip

What’s the Experience All About?

This boat trip starts at Sea Dreams Tours and Fishing, located next to the Sesimbra Naval Club. From there, you’ll hop aboard a small vessel and venture out into the Arrábida Natural Park—a protected area renowned for impressive marine life and stunning landscapes. The core of the experience is a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing stops at some of the coast’s most beautiful and untouched beaches.

The tour is designed to be flexible and personalized, with a focus on small groups (up to 10 people). This setup means you’ll often get more attention from your guides, more tailored stops, and a chance to ask questions or just enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The duration of 3 hours keeps it manageable for most travelers, fitting nicely into a morning or late afternoon slot.

The Itinerary Explained

Starting Point and Sesimbra

Your adventure begins at Sea Dreams Tours, with a quick photo stop in Sesimbra. You’ll get a glimpse of the coast and the town’s charm before heading out to the open water. The guides usually point out interesting sights along the way, setting the stage for what’s ahead.

Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach

One of the tour’s standout stops is Ribeiro do Cavalo, famed for its translucent waters and dramatic cliffs. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard. Reviewers love this part, describing it as “the highlight” and praising how clear the water is—perfect for spotting fish and marine life. You might find yourself jumping in multiple times, thanks to how inviting the waters are.

Inferno Beach

Next, the boat drifts along to Inferno Beach, a smaller, wilder spot. It’s another quick stop, but with enough time to snap photos and take in the dramatic scenery. It’s a place that feels untouched—ideal if you’re after that feeling of being away from the crowds.

Baleeira Beach and Coves

The final stop is Baleeira Beach, which impresses many visitors with its untamed beauty. Here, you’ll have about an hour, giving you time for snorkeling, swimming, tasting regional food and wine, and just soaking up the tranquil environment. The mention of wine tasting adds a special local flavor, making the experience stand out from typical boat trips.

Marine Life & Scenic Views

Throughout the trip, guides are attentive and knowledgeable, often pointing out interesting marine species and highlighting the flora and fauna that thrive in these waters. Multiple reviews emphasize how guides like Teresa and José make a difference, providing friendly service and insightful commentary.

The scenery is truly one of the trip’s biggest draws. Expect breathtaking cliffs, caves, and the vivid blue of the ocean, creating picture-perfect moments. Several reviewers mention how “beautiful the views are,” with one describing it as “a true sanctuary of nature.”

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Value and Pricing

At $59 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest in the area, but many feel it offers good value. The small group size, expert guides, and inclusion of snorkeling gear and local drinks elevate the experience. Plus, the park fees and insurance are covered, which simplifies planning.

Some travelers mention that, while the trip is short, the quality of the experience makes it worthwhile. Especially if you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure that doesn’t require a full day or large crowds, this is a solid choice.

What to Expect in Terms of Comfort and Practicalities

The meeting point is straightforward—next to the Sesimbra Naval Club, at the third gate of the pier. It’s advisable to arrive 30 minutes early to check in and prepare.

The tour includes life jackets, insurance, and a guide who speaks multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French. The group size is limited to 10, meaning it feels cozy rather than crowded. No hotel pickup is included, so you’ll need to organize your own transport to the pier.

As for what to bring: comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, a camera, and a sun hat are recommended. The tour operates in good weather, so check the forecast before heading out.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a picture of a consistent favorite among visitors. Eleonora from the UK mentions the “excellent boat trip” and appreciation for the host, Teresa, noting she was “a lovely host.” Travelers from Belgium shared how they had a “super gezellig” (really fun) day with friends, highlighting the friendly atmosphere.

Portuguese guests rave about the guides’ knowledge, with António praising the crew as “above all the trip.” Ariella calls it “the highlight” of her trip, especially mentioning jumping into the water and enjoying the crystal waters.

Families and couples alike love the relaxed vibe, the scenic beauty, and the chance to see marine life. One reviewer, Manuela, even celebrated her husband’s birthday with this tour, describing it as “spectacular” and full of informative commentary about beaches and cliffs.

Another key highlight is the wine and food tastings at Baleeira Beach, which elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The guides’ attentiveness clearly shines through, with many reviewers noting how they go out of their way to make everyone comfortable and engaged.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for those who appreciate scenic coastal views, snorkeling, and small group experiences. It’s perfect if you want a short, manageable outing that offers a taste of Portugal’s natural coast without the hassle of planning multiple activities. It also suits travelers who enjoy relaxing on beaches, exploring caves, and trying regional wine and food in a laid-back setting.

It’s not suited for travelers looking for a full-day tour or those who prefer hotel pickups and drop-offs, since those are not included here. If you’re worried about seasickness, note that the guides are flexible, and you can choose to skip choppy waters.

The Final Word

For a short but memorable exploration of Portugal’s stunning coast, this Sesimbra boat trip stands out. The combination of secluded beaches, caves, snorkeling, and a friendly guide creates a well-rounded experience that leaves many travelers feeling satisfied. It’s a great option if you value personalized service and beautiful scenery over large crowds or lengthy tours.

While it’s not perfect—being only three hours and with no hotel transfers—its strengths in scenery, tranquility, and quality guides make it a solid choice. Whether you’re looking to relax, take photos, or paddle around with marine life, this trip offers a genuine taste of Sesimbra’s coastal charm.

If you’re dreaming of crystal waters, hidden coves, and a peaceful escape, this boat trip could be just what you need. It’s especially suited for those who want a small, intimate experience that captures the essence of Portugal’s coastline.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear is included, so you won’t need to bring your own unless you prefer to use your personal equipment.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the focus on swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views makes it manageable for children comfortable in water. Check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

Are hotel pickups included?
No, the tour does not include hotel transfers. You will need to meet at the designated pier next to the Sesimbra Naval Club.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from about 15 to 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy swimming, photos, and relaxation without feeling rushed.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, making it accessible to a range of travelers.

Can I do paddleboarding?
Yes, some stops offer stand-up paddleboarding, giving you the chance to explore the waters at your own pace.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, a sun hat, towel, and camera are recommended. Comfortable shoes are also advised for the meeting and disembarking.

In essence, this Sesimbra boat trip offers a balanced blend of adventure and serenity, wrapped in a small-group setting. If you’re after a genuine and scenic escape, this tour might just be the perfect addition to your Portugal itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: