<!–
The 10 Best Tours in Algarve
The Algarve is a coast that practically invites exploration. With its rugged cliffs, secret caves, and playful dolphins, it’s a place where boat trips and adventures are part of the scenery. Unlike many destinations, the Algarve offers a variety of tours that combine nature, history, and fun — perfect for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush on a speedboat or a relaxing cruise with a marine biologist, you’ll find something that suits your style. Our favorites include the Benagil Caves Speed Boat Tour which makes the most of the dramatic coastline, and dolphin-watching cruises where marine life takes center stage.
The Algarve shines for its coastal boat tours, caving excursions, and dolphin safaris — but it’s not just about sightseeing. It’s about engaging with the landscape, understanding the marine environment, and experiencing the thrill of being on the water. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best tours, detailing what makes each special, so you can pick the perfect adventure for your trip.
1. Portimão: Benagil Caves Speed Boat Tour with Sunset Option
Discover the iconic Benagil Sea Caves on this 1.5-hour speedboat adventure from Portimão, with the option to enjoy a sunset cruise. This tour is praised for its lively guides and stunning coastal views, including visits to Ferrarago, Carvoeiro, and Algar Seco.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility — you can choose between a shared group or private experience, perfect for families or those looking for a more intimate voyage. The highlight is the visit inside the Benagil Sea Cave, one of the world’s most photographed caves. Along the way, keep an eye out for dolphins, often spotted frolicking in the waves.
Guests consistently praise the entertaining guides and the breathtaking scenery. One review notes, “Getting access to all the caves and coastal views by boat that we otherwise would not see. So beautiful!” This tour offers great value and a memorable perspective on the Algarve coast, especially during sunset when the colors glow against the limestone cliffs.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a quick, fun, and scenic boat ride with insider access to caves and the chance to see dolphins, all in a friendly atmosphere.
2. Portimão: Benagil Sea Caves Speedboat Adventure Tour
For those craving adrenaline, this 1.5-hour tour delivers a thrill as you race across the waves to see the famous Benagil Sea Caves. At only around $23 per person, it’s an affordable way to experience the Algarve’s rugged coastline.
What makes this trip unique is its speed — you’ll get a true rush as you zoom past secret beaches and hidden grottos. The guide, Edward, is known for his enthusiasm and creates an exciting atmosphere. The highlight, of course, is the visit inside the Benagil Cave, with the added bonus of spotting dolphins if you’re lucky.
Guests rave about the fun-packed ride and the breathtaking coastline views. One review states, “The boat ride along the Algarve coast to the Benagil cave was truly amazing! Such a breathtaking coastline and fantastic guides!!!”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a fast-paced, energetic tour with the chance to see dolphins and iconic caves, all at a budget-friendly price.
3. Albufeira: Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave
This 2.5-hour cruise from Albufeira blends dolphin spotting with visits to stunning sea caves. The tour offers a relaxed, informative experience with the added excitement of encountering playful dolphins, often seen surfacing close to the boat.
What sets this apart is its combination of wildlife and scenery. A marine biologist shares insights about the local ecosystem, and the trip includes a short swim stop at a beautiful beach, weather permitting. Guests love the humorous crew and the opportunity to see dolphins in their natural environment, often within minutes of departure.
Reviewers highlight the value and enjoyable experience, noting that it’s perfect for families and nature lovers alike. One person wrote, “Thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend,” emphasizing its balance of fun and education.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in wildlife, scenic coasts, and a laid-back vibe — especially if dolphins are your highlight.
4. From Lagos: Boat Cruise to Ponta da Piedade
Sail from Lagos to explore the spectacular Ponta da Piedade with this 75-minute boat trip. The natural arches and golden cliffs provide some of the most stunning scenery along the Algarve coast.
This tour offers insightful commentary from local guides about the geology and history of the coast. You’ll pass secluded grottos, beaches, and look out for D. Ana and Camilo Beach. The small boat size (only about 10 people) means a more personal experience and better access to the caves.
Guests praise the informative guides and the beautiful scenery, with many calling it a “great way to see the coastline.” One reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable skipper and the close-up view of the caves.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a short, intimate, scenic cruise with expert commentary and photo-worthy moments.
5. Albufeira: 2.5-Hour Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching
This more comprehensive tour combines visits to the Benagil Caves with dolphin spotting in a 2.5-hour adventure, priced at $38. It’s a great option for those wanting a fuller experience of both caves and marine life.
The jet-powered boat whips along the coast, giving plenty of thrilling moments. Guides are praised for their expert commentary and the chance to see dolphins — often within minutes. The trip also includes stops at rock formations and resorts along the coast, providing a well-rounded scenic experience.
Many reviews emphasize the excitement and value of the tour, like one person saying, “The caves were outstanding, and the guides were fantastic.” It’s best suited for families, couples, or anyone seeking a fun, active way to explore.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want dolphins, caves, and coastal scenery wrapped into one exciting tour.
6. Albufeira: Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour
This 2-hour tour from Albufeira combines speed, scenery, and wildlife in a small-group adventure priced at $33. You’ll zip past coastal rock formations, make a short swim stop, and look out for dolphins in their natural habitat.
What makes this tour stand out is its small group size and friendly staff, including guides Gabriel and Filipe, who are known for their careful attention to comfort and safety. While some reviews mention not always seeing dolphins, most agree the coastal sightseeing is still spectacular.
It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a quick, energetic trip with a personal touch, and will appreciate the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a fast-paced, small-group experience with a focus on caves, the coastline, and dolphin sightings.
7. Benagil: Kayaking Tour to the Benagil Cave (Free Shower)
For a more active adventure, try this kayaking tour along the coast, lasting 1-2 hours. It allows you to paddle inside the Benagil Cave and explore hidden spots that are sometimes inaccessible by boat.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity for personalized exploration of the caves and the marvelous views from the beaches like Marinha and Carvalho. The introduction on proper kayak techniques ensures beginners feel comfortable, and the free shower at the end is a nice touch after your paddle.
Many reviews praise the marvelous scenery and the unique perspective kayaking offers, providing an active alternative to boat trips. It’s well suited for adventurers who want a hands-on experience with nature.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers eager to explore caves at their own pace and get close to the coast’s natural beauty.
8. Portimão: Benagil Caves & Dolphins Watching with Biologist
This 2.5-hour tour combines the spectacular beauty of the Benagil Caves with a marine biologist onboard who shares insights about the local sea life. Priced at $45, it’s an engaging, educational experience.
The biologist guide explains the geology, marine species, and dolphin behavior, enhancing the trip’s informational value. Expect to spot dolphins, with many reviews highlighting dolphins swimming around and under the boat as a highlight. The tour also visits remote caves and beaches.
People love the interactive narration, and it’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the coast’s ecology. One reviewer said, “Seeing the dolphin was amazing,” and many appreciated the knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a combination of scenery and education, with a focus on marine life.
9. From Lagos: Explore Ponta da Piedade Sea Caves by Kayak
This guided kayak and boat tour from Lagos is a two-hour adventure through Ponta da Piedade’s stunning caves and arches. Priced at $43, it offers an up-close experience that combines paddling with scenic cruising.
What makes it unique is the blend of kayaking and boat exploration, giving a personal connection to the landscape. The guide shares fascinating stories about the coast’s geology and history, making it educational as well as fun.
Travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to discover hidden beaches. The small group nature means more personal attention and opportunities to capture great photos.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers who want a hands-on exploration of the coast’s caves and cliffs.
10. Portimão: Benagil Cave and Praia de Marinha Boat Tour
This 2-hour boat tour from Portimão combines visits to the famous Benagil Cave and the stunning Praia de Marinha — often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The tour is known for its small, diesel-free boats that make for a more intimate experience. Along the way, you’ll also see Forte de Santa Catarina and Ferragudo Castle, adding some local history to the trip. The swimming stop at Marinha Beach is a highlight, with clear waters perfect for a quick dip.
Reviews are filled with praise for the friendly crew and the unbeatable scenery. One traveler noted, “We saw a lot of the caves & parts of the coast you cannot see from land,” which makes this a value-packed option.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a scenic, relaxed boat ride with some history and swimming in the mix.
How to Choose Your Algarve Tour
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interest level, and mobility. For adventure and speed, options like the Benagil Sea Caves Speed Boat Adventure or Benagil: Kayaking offer active experiences. If you prefer relaxing scenery with wildlife, then dolphin cruises or Ria Formosa island tours might suit your style.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordable prices of tours like the Lagos boat to Ponta da Piedade or the Portimão boat to Marinha Beach. For history or ecology buffs, the marine biologist-led trips are excellent.
Booking early is a must during peak season, and always check the weather forecast — especially for boat-based adventures.
Final Thoughts
The Algarve offers a wide array of tours to match any traveler’s interests, from thrilling speedboats and kayaks to relaxed cruises with expert narration. For pure adventure, the Benagil Sea Caves Speed Boat Tour is hard to beat. If wildlife and nature are your focus, the dolphin and marine biologist cruises deliver both fun and insight.
For a more intimate experience, small-group boat trips like the Lagos cruises are excellent. And if you want to actively participate, kayaking offers a chance to touch the coastline in a way few other tours do.
Whatever your style, these tours promise memorable moments that will make your Algarve trip truly special. Be sure to book in advance, especially during high season, and prepare for an adventure that’s as scenic as it is authentic.
