Boat Trip to Secret Bays and Beaches with Snorkeling

Exploring Portugal’s Secret Bays: A Straightforward Review of the Boat Trip to Secret Bays and Beaches with Snorkeling

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your Portugal trip, this boat tour in the Setubal District offers a chance to see some of the area’s best-kept secrets. It’s a relaxed, roughly two-and-a-half-hour journey that combines scenic cruising, snorkeling, and a taste of regional drinks. This experience is perfect for travelers who love a mix of nature, light adventure, and peaceful coastal views.

What we really like about this tour is how approachable and well-organized it seems. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which always makes a difference when you’re in unfamiliar waters. Plus, the stops at pristine, less-frequented beaches give you a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the quiet beauty of Portugal’s coastline. On the downside, the water can be on the chilly side, which might be a surprise for some. Also, keep in mind that snacks are not included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry.

This trip is best suited for those who want a straightforward, relaxing day on the water with a bit of snorkeling thrown in. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic views, local drinks, and exploring hidden spots without complex logistics or long travel times. If you’re traveling with family or friends who love being on the water, this could be just right. However, if you’re after a more active or lengthy adventure, this might feel a little brief.

Key Points

• Short but Scenic: About 2.5 hours of boat cruising packed with beautiful coastal views and quiet beaches.
• Snorkeling Included: Opportunities to explore underwater worlds at multiple stops.
• Guides Make a Difference: Friendly, knowledgeable guides help enhance the experience.
• Regional Drinks: Enjoy tasting local drinks at Baleeira Beach, adding a nice regional touch.
• Limited Snacks: No included snacks or soda, so bring your own if needed.
• Small Group: Max of 8 travelers, making it more intimate and personal.

An Honest Look at the Experience

When we think about what makes a good boat trip like this, a few things stand out: the scenery, the comfort of the boat, the quality of the stops, and the overall value for the price. At around $59.29 per person, this tour offers a pretty good deal considering all the stops and activities included. It’s not a full-day extravaganza, but it hits a sweet spot for those who want a taste of Portugal’s coastal beauty without committing to an entire day or an expensive tour.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1: Ribeira do Cavalo Beach
Right at the start, you’ll visit Ribeira do Cavalo Beach, widely praised for its clear waters and natural beauty. This spot is a favorite among reviewers, who mention the opportunity to snorkel in its chilly but rewarding waters. Kenneth_S highlighted that the crew, Marko and George, do a great job explaining everything, and you’re even served a little wine to wind down at the end. It’s a relaxing place to dip your toes, take photos, and marvel at the landscape.

Stop 2: Praia da Mijona
Next, you’ll head to Praia da Mijona, which is described as a hidden gem. It’s an ideal spot for a refreshing swim in calm, clear waters. It’s a quieter alternative to busier beaches, making it perfect if you’re after peace and privacy. Reviewers appreciated the ease of finding the location, thanks to clear maps, though they noted the label on-site isn’t very prominent.

Stop 3: Inferno Beach
The third stop is at Inferno Beach, another lesser-known spot that offers snorkeling and exploration. The chance to discover more secluded parts of the coast is a highlight. This stop is particularly suited for those who want to spend more time in the water or simply enjoy the rugged beauty of Portugal’s coastline.

Stop 4: Baleeira Beach
The final stop is at Baleeira Beach, which gets about an hour of your time. Here, you can snorkel, relax, and sip regional drinks, which adds a lovely local flavor to the trip. The longer stop allows you to unwind a bit more, and the regional drink tasting is a nice touch mentioned by travelers. It’s also a good chance to soak up the scenery and reflect on your day.

The Practical Details

The boat itself is described as a safe and comfortable vessel, accommodating a small group (up to 8 people). This smaller size tends to make for a more personalized experience, and the guide’s role is emphasized as being both friendly and informative. The tour starts at Blue Coast Tours Sesimbra, easily accessible and well-marked with maps, a simple but important detail for travelers unfamiliar with the area.

The tour includes all fees and taxes, snorkeling kits, and a guide, so there are no surprises. Just note that snacks and soda are not included, so bringing some snacks along might be wise if you tend to get hungry. The regional drinks offered at Baleeira Beach are a nice inclusion, adding a local touch to the experience.

The Reviews Say It All

One thing that shines through from reviews is how valued the guides are. Kenneth_S mentions Marko and George as being great, with good English and explanations. Favrissy_L appreciated the clear directions and the kindness and knowledge of the guides. The comments about the scenery being beautiful and the waters being chilly are consistent, but everyone agrees that the overall experience is worthwhile.

Most reviews express satisfaction, with a perfect 5-star rating from all 33 reviews, and the tour being recommended by 100%. That kind of feedback suggests that this experience hits its mark for most travelers, especially those who enjoy a peaceful, scenic boat ride with some snorkeling thrown in.

Is It Worth It?

Given the price point and the reviews, this tour offers solid value. You get multiple stops at different beaches, snorkeling gear, and the chance to enjoy regional drinks—all in a small group setting. If your goal is to see Portugal’s coastline from the water, discover some hidden spots, and have a relaxing time, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s less about adrenaline or adventure and more about laid-back exploration with friendly company and beautiful scenery.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who appreciate tranquility combined with light adventure. It’s ideal for those seeking a leisurely day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and enjoy secluded beaches. If you’re visiting Portugal and want to see the coastline from a different perspective, this is a good choice. It works especially well for small groups or couples looking for an intimate, relaxed outing.

Not the best option if you’re seeking a full-day adventure, high-energy activities, or family-friendly excursions—since the water can be chilly and it’s quite a short trip overall. Still, for a quick, scenic escape, this boat tour can be a real highlight.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and snorkeling time.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included, along with a snorkeling kit, guidance from the guides, and regional drinks at Baleeira Beach.

Are snacks provided?
No, snacks and soda are not included, so bring your own if you want something to nibble on during the trip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best for those comfortable with boats and chilly water. Service animals are allowed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Blue Coast Tours Sesimbra, Rua Clube Naval de Sesimbra, and ends back at the same point.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the boat?
Limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, making it a cozy, more personal experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic voyage along Portugal’s lesser-known beaches, this boat trip is a smart pick. It offers a balance of beautiful views, snorkeling, and regional drinks, all in a small group setting. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which helps elevate the experience from simply a boat ride to a memorable outing.

This tour is best for those who value quiet, natural beauty and a touch of local flavor without the fuss or overcrowding. It’s a straightforward way to explore the coast, perfect for a quick getaway or a peaceful afternoon under the sun.

While it’s not the most adrenaline-packed or extensive adventure, its simplicity and the genuine charm of the stops make it a worthwhile addition to your Portugal itinerary. For a small investment, you get a chance to see some of the coast’s hidden treasures and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.