Sesimbra: Family Friendly Boat Sea Tour w/ Submarine Vision

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Sesimbra’s natural beauty without spending hours on land, this Family-Friendly Boat Sea Tour with Submarine Vision might just be what you need. While we haven’t tested it ourselves, the buzz from travelers suggests it offers a memorable glimpse into one of Portugal’s most scenic coastal areas.

What really draws people are the panoramic underwater windows that give you a peek at marine life in its natural habitat and the chance to see the coast from a different perspective. Plus, the tour’s moderate price point—around $24 per person—makes it accessible for many budgets.

One thing to consider is the 2-hour duration, which might seem short for some, but it generally packs a lot into that time. If you’re after a relaxed, engaging experience that combines scenic views, marine education, and a touch of adventure, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone curious about marine biodiversity without the commitment of a full-day activity.

Key Points

• Unique Underwater Views: The boat’s panoramic windows give you a close-up look at marine life from the comfort of the vessel.
• Scenic Coastal Stops: You’ll pause at several stunning spots, including Ribeira do Cavalo, Boca do Tamboril Cave, and Inferno Beach.
• Educational and Entertaining: Learn about Sesimbra’s fishing traditions and the protected marine area from knowledgeable guides.
• Good Value for Money: At around $24, it offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenery, marine life, and local insights.
• Accessible and Family-Friendly: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for children, with life vests provided.
• Memorable Marine Encounters: Past travelers have spotted dolphins and have enjoyed watching them through the underwater windows.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

When you arrive at the Aquarama meeting point, right next to the marina entrance, you’ll find a welcoming crew eager to get you out on the water. The tour departs from Sesimbra Harbour, setting a relaxed tone for the next couple of hours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Arrábida Natural Park
The journey begins with a 15-minute cruise through the protected marine area, where you’ll immediately notice the pristine waters and vibrant marine life beneath the boat. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, explaining the significance of the park and its biodiversity. Past guests mention that the crew takes care to explain everything in English, even though some may be the only non-Portuguese speakers onboard.

Scenic Pauses at Key Spots
Throughout the tour, there are several scenic stops designed to give you the best views of the coast. These include Mula Bay, Ribeira do Cavalo Beach, Boca do Tamboril Cave, and Friar’s Rock. These are not just photo stops but moments to appreciate the stunning landscape. The boat maintains a respectful distance from these sites, which means you’ll get great views without feeling like you’re intruding.

Ribeira do Cavalo Beach
This wild beach is often highlighted by travelers as a favorite. The water here is famously clear, and the surrounding cliffs make for breathtaking photos. The tour stops here long enough for you to soak in the scenery or snap some pictures.

Hidden Gems & Additional Views
Other stops include Praia da Mijona and Inferno Beach. The latter is where the tour heads back toward Sesimbra, offering sweeping views of the coastline. The guides often pause here, giving you a chance to admire the rugged coast and perhaps spot a few more marine creatures.

The Underwater Experience
The highlight for many is the underwater windows on the boat’s hull. Travelers have reported being lucky enough to see dolphins and marine life through these viewing panels. One reviewer mentioned that they even watched dolphins swim past the boat, a truly special moment. The boat’s upper deck also offers scenic views, making for a well-rounded experience.

Final Cruise & Return
The tour concludes at Inferno Beach, after which you’ll head back to the marina, with plenty of time to reflect on the sights and maybe share photos. The entire trip lasts about 2 hours—just enough time to enjoy a balanced mix of sightseeing, marine observation, and relaxation.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike many typical boat trips, this experience emphasizes marine protection and education. The Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park is a key feature, and the guides seem well-versed in explaining its ecological importance. The inclusion of pictures and social media moments, like the Instagram frame, adds a fun touch for sharing your adventure.

Past visitors rave about the knowledgeable crew and the stunning views. One reviewer noted, “The team seems to consists of seasoned mariners and scuba divers who know a lot about the surroundings,” which really adds to the confidence that you’re in good hands. Another highlights the chance to see dolphins, calling it “stunning,” and mentions that they appreciated the time spent circling around marine life.

A Practical Look at the Tour

The price of $24 makes this a feasible option for many travelers, especially considering the quality of the experience. For the cost, you get a scenic boat cruise, multiple photo stops, underwater views, and guidance in multiple languages. It’s a good deal for those interested in both scenery and marine life.

The duration of around 2 hours is manageable for most travelers, fitting easily into a morning or early afternoon plan. The tour is wheelchair accessible and provides life vests for safety, which adds to its family-friendly reputation, although it’s not explicitly marketed as a family activity.

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What Could Be Better?

While the experience is highly praised, some might find the short duration a bit limiting—they may wish for a longer tour to see more or spend more time at each stop. Also, since the tour concentrates on the protected marine area and scenic coast, it doesn’t include activities like swimming or snorkeling. If those are priorities, you might need to look elsewhere.

Another consideration is weather dependency. As with most boat trips, wind or rough seas could impact the experience. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth preparing accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This boat tour is ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone interested in marine biodiversity without committing to a whole day at sea. If you’re traveling with kids or elderly relatives, the accessible boat and short duration make it a practical choice. The focus on educational moments and scenic beauty also appeals to those wanting to learn about Sesimbra’s rich coastline and fish life.

It’s also great for photo enthusiasts—the combination of scenic stops, marine views, and underwater windows makes for plenty of memorable shots. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins adds an extra layer of excitement.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including scenic stops and marine viewing.

• What is the price?
  It costs around $24 per person, offering good value considering the experience provided.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with life vests provided for children and easy access onboard.

• Can I see marine life through the underwater windows?
  Many past travelers have been lucky enough to see dolphins and fish through the underwater windows, which is a highlight of the trip.

• Are drinks or food included?
  No, drinks and food are not included. You might want to bring water and a snack.

• Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
  Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for everyone to enjoy.

• How many stops are there?
  The tour makes several scenic pauses, including stops at Ribeira do Cavalo and Boca do Tamboril Cave, among others.

• What should I bring?
  Bring biodegradable sunscreen, water, and your camera. Dress comfortably for the weather.

• Is it possible to cancel?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Will the guides speak English?
  Yes, guides are available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, and they make an effort to explain everything clearly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an enjoyable, educational, and scenic experience on the water that balances coastal views with marine wildlife encounters, this Sesimbra boat tour with submarine vision is a solid choice. It offers a relaxing way to see the coast from a comfortable boat equipped with underwater windows, meaning you get both surface and underwater sights without getting wet.

It’s especially suited for families or groups who want a fun yet informative outing. Although it’s a shorter tour, the combination of scenic stops, marine encounters, and the chance to learn about the protected area makes it a worthwhile addition to your Portugal itinerary.

Just remember, the tour’s success depends a bit on the weather, so keep an eye on forecasts. But with friendly guides, good value, and unforgettable views, this experience can truly enhance your visit to Sesimbra.

You can check availability for your dates here: