2H Private Sailing Catamaran “Vertigo” Tour in Lisbon up to 18pax

If you’re after a way to see Lisbon without the crowds and the hassle of busy sightseeing buses, a private sailing trip might just be your thing. The 2-hour private catamaran tour with Vertigo promises an exclusive experience on the Tagus River, showcasing some of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks from a totally different perspective. We’ve looked into what travelers are loving – and a few things to consider – to help you decide if this cruise fits your travel style.

What really stands out about this experience is the personalized vibe of a private boat for just your group, and the views of iconic sights like Belém Tower, the Discovery Monument, and Saint George’s Castle. Plus, the boat’s relaxed pace means you can truly unwind while taking in the scenery. On the flip side, some might find the two-hour duration a bit fleeting for fully soaking in all the sights, especially if you’re eager to explore Lisbon on land as well. But if you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is best suited for those who want an intimate, flexible way to enjoy Lisbon’s riverfront and landmarks—whether you’re celebrating something special or just looking to relax and see the city from a new angle. It’s also a popular choice for groups, families, or friends who want a private, stress-free outing.

Key Points

• You’ll get exclusive access to a private catamaran just for your group of up to 18 people.
• Expect stunning views of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks from the calm waters of the Tagus River.
• Includes bottled water and light snacks, making the trip comfortable without bringing your own supplies.
• Duration is around 2 hours, which is ideal for a quick, scenic escape but might leave some wanting more.
• Great for those seeking a relaxed and private experience rather than a crowded tour bus.
• Flexible itinerary with stops at Belém Tower, Discovery Monument, Ponte 25 Abril, Christ Statue, and Commerce Square.

An Honest Look at the Experience

When you hop aboard the Vertigo catamaran, you’re stepping into a vessel designed for comfort and style. The boat can accommodate up to 18 people, but it feels spacious, thanks to its open layout. The crew is described as accommodating and friendly, creating a relaxed atmosphere that lets you forget the hustle and focus on the scenery. Many reviews mention how the staff’s professionalism and attentiveness really enhance the trip, making it easy to sit back and enjoy.

The main draw here is the viewing experience. You’ll cruise past some of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks, all seen from the river instead of crowded streets. For example, Belém Tower and Saint George’s Castle are both perfectly framed from the water, giving you fantastic photo opportunities. Reviewers often mention how the photos from this trip are a highlight, with some calling it “the best way to see Lisbon.”

Since bottled water and light snacks like peanuts or crackers are included, you can stay refreshed without hassle. Drinking options are flexible—each person can choose bottled water, beer, or a soft drink—so there’s room to customize your refreshment. If you want a full meal or special catering, that’s available for purchase with 48 hours’ notice, which makes this a flexible option if you’re celebrating a birthday or special occasion.

The itinerary is straightforward but packed with landmark stops. The boat will pause at Belém Tower, a UNESCO-protected fortress with fantastic views and historical significance. Then, you’ll cruise past the Discovery Monument, commemorating Portugal’s Age of Exploration. The Ponte 25 Abril, often called the Lisbon Golden Gate, offers a striking modern contrast. The Christ Statue and Commerce Square round out the tour, giving you a comprehensive look at Lisbon’s waterfront.

What the reviews highlight

• Many guests rave about the views: “Lisbon at sunset is beautiful,” and “the views were unbelievable” are common sentiments.
• The crew’s friendliness and professionalism are often praised. One reviewer even mentioned how helpful and responsive the staff were from booking through to the cruise.
• The boat’s comfort and cleanliness are frequently mentioned, adding to the relaxing vibe.
• Some reviews note that the cruise isn’t really sailing but more of a motoring experience, which is typical for many river cruises but worth noting if you’re expecting traditional sailing.
• People also loved the flexibility of the experience, with many describing it as suitable for celebrating birthdays or hen parties. One reviewer even humorously mentioned considering getting a sailing license after their trip!

Practical details

The cost per group, around $687.84 for up to 15 people, makes it a decent value when split among friends or family, especially considering the private nature of the tour. The two-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day, and the intimate size means it’s not overwhelming or crowded. Plus, being a private tour, it’s entirely customizable within the itinerary – you can sit back, chat, take photos, or just enjoy the scenery.

You’ll meet at Doca do Bom Sucesso, a location that’s convenient and accessible by public transportation, which is handy after a day exploring Lisbon. The tour ends back at the starting point, so there’s no need to worry about extra transfers.

Considerations

While most reviews highlight the positive aspects, some mention that the cruise primarily shows the environment around Belém, and not all landmarks are visible from every angle. Also, the cruise is mostly powered by engines, so if you’re expecting traditional sailing, you might be a little disappointed. The two-hour cruise is enough to see the main sights, but if you’re eager for a longer or more in-depth experience, you might want to look for options with extended durations or sunset add-ons (which come with a 50 extra fee).

Weather is a factor—like all outdoor activities, this cruise depends on good weather. If it’s canceled due to rain or high winds, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, giving some peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a peaceful, private way to enjoy Lisbon’s scenic riverfront, this cruise ticks a lot of boxes. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or friends celebrating special occasions, and those who want to skip the busy city streets for a more relaxed, scenic experience. It’s particularly good if you enjoy a calm environment and appreciate beautiful views without the noise of a large tour bus.

Travelers who enjoy a bit of luxury and comfort, along with good value—especially considering the private aspect—will find this tour appealing. However, if you’re after a long, in-depth sightseeing experience or a traditional sailing adventure, this might not be quite what you’re looking for.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, including children, as it’s a private boat with a safe environment. Remember, it’s a boat trip on open water, so small children should be supervised.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
The tour includes bottled water, soft drinks, and snacks, but if you want a full meal or specific drinks, catering can be arranged for an extra cost with 48 hours’ notice.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough to see several key landmarks without feeling rushed. It’s a good length for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.

What landmarks will I see?
You will sail past Belém Tower, the Discovery Monument, Ponte 25 Abril, Christ Statue, and Commerce Square, providing a comprehensive riverfront overview of Lisbon’s most iconic sites.

Is this a sailing experience?
No, the boat is mainly powered by engines, so it’s more of a cruising experience than traditional sailing. Some guests mention this, so if you’re after a real sailing adventure, this might not match your expectations.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, so plan accordingly in case of bad weather or changes.

Final Thoughts

For those wanting a private, scenic, and relaxed way to enjoy Lisbon’s sights from the water, the Vertigo catamaran tour offers a lot of value. The comfort of a small group combined with the stunning backdrop of Lisbon’s landmarks makes it a memorable experience. It’s especially suitable for celebrating special occasions or for travelers who prefer a curated, personalized approach rather than large, crowded tours.

While it’s not a sailing adventure and the duration is brief, the views and service make this a worthwhile addition to your Lisbon trip, especially if you love the idea of seeing the city’s highlights from a peaceful boat. The reviews consistently praise the crew, the comfort, and the scenery, confirming that most guests leave with great memories.

Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or just looking for a unique way to see Lisbon, this private catamaran trip is worth considering—just keep an eye on the weather and your schedule to make the most of it.