Yacht Tour – Sesimbra and Arrabida’s Secret Beaches and Bays

Exploring the Yacht Tour – Sesimbra and Arrabida’s Secret Beaches and Bays

If you’re thinking about a day on the water in Portugal’s Setubal District, this private yacht tour around Sesimbra and Arrabida is worth considering. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on plenty of reviews and the detailed info available, it seems like a relaxing yet adventurous way to see some of the coast’s most beautiful spots. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or just looking for a unique way to enjoy the ocean, this trip offers a good balance of wildlife spotting, swimming, and scenic views.

What we really like is the flexibility of the experience. It’s a fully customizable tour that lets you decide whether you want to snorkel, paddleboard, or just soak up the sun on deck. Plus, the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat is pretty special. That said, a potential consideration is the price—at around $750 for up to 10 people, it’s a fair bit more than a group tour, but you’re paying for exclusivity and tailored experiences. This is best suited for small groups wanting a private, personal adventure in a stunning setting.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your group’s interests
• Excellent chance to see dolphins and marine wildlife in their natural environment
• Includes snorkeling gear and paddleboards, making water activities easy and accessible
• Stunning scenery and secret beaches, perfect for exploring away from crowds
• Ideal for small groups or families seeking a personalized day on the water
• Weather-dependent, so flexibility in planning is helpful

A Closer Look at the Private Yacht Experience

This tour, offered by Bolhas Tours, promises a 3-hour journey along the Arrabida coast, with the option to extend or customize based on your preferences. The starting point is conveniently located in Sesimbra at Av. dos Náufragos 3, making it easy to access from nearby areas. While the standard duration is three hours, the focus here is on quality over quantity, giving you enough time to enjoy various activities without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The main highlight is the chance to cruise around the Maritime Park of Arrabida, a protected area teeming with marine life and stunning geological features. The guides are said to be very knowledgeable, sharing insights about the area’s biodiversity and geological formations, which adds value to the trip.

One of the most praised aspects is the opportunity to spot dolphins and other marine animals. A reviewer, Melissa, described the experience as “incredible,” noting they saw dolphins up close—including babies! She mentioned the boat stopped in the middle of the sea for paddleboarding and using sea scooters, which she called “exceptional memories.” Such reviews highlight that this isn’t just a sightseeing cruise but an active adventure with genuine wildlife encounters.

Secret Beaches and Hidden Caves

The tour takes you to secluded beaches and natural landmarks along the coast, accessible only by boat—perfect for those seeking tranquility away from busy beaches. These spots are described as “secret,” highlighting their unspoiled, untouched appeal. The boat is equipped with a swim platform, making water access easy, whether you’re jumping in for a swim or just dipping your toes in.

Activities to Enjoy

• Snorkeling: The tour provides top-quality snorkeling equipment, so you can explore underwater life, coral formations, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the area’s vibrant fish.
• Sea scooters and paddleboarding: Sea scooters make underwater exploration more fun and less tiring, while paddleboards add a relaxed, scenic element to your day.
• Sunbathing and relaxing: If you prefer to just lounge in the sun, the deck offers space for that, with stunning views to keep your attention.

The Guides and Service

Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff. Melissa found the personnel “very kind and helpful,” which makes a difference when you’re out on the water and want to feel secure and well-looked-after. The guides are also attentive to safety, especially during water activities.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $750 for a group of up to 10, this private tour can seem steep for a 3-hour experience. However, considering the private nature, personalized itinerary, and included equipment—snorkels, sea scooters, paddleboards—it’s a good value. You’re not sharing the boat with strangers, so the experience is intimate and tailored.

Think about it this way: if you were to rent a boat and equipment separately, it might add up quickly. Plus, the chance to see dolphins and explore less-accessible beaches makes the cost worthwhile for many travelers. Just remember, the experience is weather-dependent, so a rainy or windy day could lead to cancellation or a different experience.

The Experience: Who Would Love It?

This tour is best suited for small groups, couples, or families who want a private, flexible outing. If you’re keen on marine wildlife viewing, snorkeling, or just soaking up the scenery, this trip checks those boxes. It’s also great if you enjoy customized experiences where you can choose activities rather than follow a rigid schedule.

Families with kids who are comfortable in the water will likely enjoy the snorkeling and paddleboarding. But if you’re after a more relaxed day without water activities, the deck lounging is still a highlight, especially with the scenery and the chance to spot dolphins.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, with most bookings made about a month or so ahead. Availability might be limited during peak seasons.
• Weather matters: Keep an eye on the forecast—bad weather could mean cancellation or a less active day.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and a towel are a good idea, plus a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater shots.
• Arrive a little early: Meeting at Av. dos Náufragos 3 ensures you’re ready to set sail on time.

FAQs

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, the activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding are generally suitable for kids comfortable in the water. The private nature makes it adaptable, but always check with the provider if you have young children.

How many people can join the tour?
Up to 10 people per group, making it perfect for small family or friend groups who want a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers the private boat, snorkeling equipment, sea scooters, and paddleboards. It’s a full package tailored to your interests.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3 hours, but the flexible itinerary means you might choose to extend or modify activities if you wish.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Av. dos Náufragos 3, Sesimbra, and returns to the same meeting point.

Is the experience accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the tour is near public transit, making it accessible for many travelers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving an intimate day on the water with personalized attention, this yacht tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife, stunning scenery, and water fun. The chance to see dolphins close up, explore secret beaches, and enjoy activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding makes it a flexible choice for those wanting more than just a typical boat ride.

While the price might seem high compared to group tours, the exclusivity and tailored experience could be worth it. It’s particularly well-suited if you value safety, comfort, and flexibility in your adventure. Just plan ahead, keep an eye on the weather, and you’ll likely return with stories to tell and plenty of photos to prove it.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a unique family activity, or just want to enjoy Portugal’s stunning coastline away from crowds, this private yacht trip is a memorable way to see the Arrabida coast in style.