Porto: Open Water Swimming Tour with Wetsuit

If you’re craving something a little different during your time in Porto, this Open Water Swimming Tour offers a refreshing perspective on the city’s coastline. Unlike typical city tours or boat rides, this experience gets you in the water, challenging your swimming skills while offering spectacular views of Porto’s unique geography. It’s an activity that combines a sense of adventure with the chance to enjoy Portugal’s famed Atlantic Ocean.

What we really like about this tour is how it caters to those wanting to push their limits—whether you’re an experienced swimmer or simply looking for an exhilarating experience in the sea. Plus, the guide’s attention to safety and capturing your moments with photos and videos helps make it feel both professional and personal. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that ocean conditions can vary, so flexibility about the starting point and route is key.

This tour is best suited for confident swimmers who are comfortable in open water and want an active, memorable experience. If you’re traveling with friends who love a bit of adventure or are keen to see Porto from a different angle, you’ll find this a solid choice. Just keep in mind the physical aspect of swimming in the ocean—this isn’t for everyone, especially non-swimmers or those looking for a relaxing paddle.

Key Points

• Challenging and Unique: This is a one-of-a-kind way to see Porto’s coast, swimming from the city to Matosinhos.
• Guided by Experts: Your guide selects the best spot based on weather and sea conditions, ensuring safety and enjoyment.
• Photos and Videos Included: Get professional shots of your swim for memories or social media.
• Flexible Routes: The direction can change depending on currents and wind, making each tour different.
• Good for Confident Swimmers: It’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those not comfortable in open water.
• Affordable for the Experience: At $68, you get an hour of adventure plus safety gear and media coverage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Porto Open Water Swimming Tour

If you’re someone who loves a splash of adventure mixed with scenic beauty, this Porto open water swim could be just what you’re looking for. At its core, it’s a guided tour that takes you swimming from Porto’s coast to Matosinhos—an area famed for its seafood and lively beach scene. The entire experience lasts around an hour, but within that time you’re getting more than just a workout; it’s a chance to see the Porto coastline from the water and challenge yourself in the Atlantic.

The Itinerary & Route

The tour begins at either Praia dos Ingleses or Matosinhos Beach, with the starting point determined on the day by your guide based on weather, wind, and currents. This flexibility means each experience is tailored to conditions—so no two swims are exactly the same.

You’ll receive a brief introduction and safety instructions before warming up with some light exercises. Once in the water, the guide will lead you along the coast, pointing out landmarks like Castelo do Queijo, a notable feature visible from the sea. The route itself can vary between 1 to 3 kilometers, depending on the day’s conditions, and your guide will ensure you stay safe and comfortable throughout.

Expect Scenic Views & Marine Encounters

One of the highlights is how you’ll get to see Porto from a completely different perspective. You’ll enjoy views of Porto’s terraces and the very particular geography that makes the city special. The water can be calm or a little wilder depending on the day, offering a dynamic experience that’s more adventurous than a pool swim.

Your guide is not only there for safety but also to capture your swim with photos and videos. These keepsakes can be surprisingly fun, especially when combined with the bragging rights of having swum in the Atlantic. A review mentions that the guide was able to film and photograph the swim, making it easy to relive the moment later.

What’s Included & What You Need to Know

For the price of $68, the tour covers all essential safety gear—like a swim cap, a personal buoy, and insurance—plus the media coverage. You’ll also enjoy the company of a knowledgeable local guide who speaks multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French.

You’ll need to bring your own wetsuit unless you arrange a rental in advance. If you don’t have one, the tour provider can try to rent you one with at least 10 days’ notice. Keep in mind, this activity isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with limited water confidence.

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The Physical & Technical Aspects

Swimmers should have a decent level of confidence in open water. The activity involves swimming at least 1 kilometer, sometimes up to 3, which can be quite different from pool swimming—there are waves, currents, and marine life to be aware of. The experience is designed to be accessible yet challenging; the guide will be attentive to your pace and comfort level.

According to reviews, the guide’s expertise makes a big difference. One reviewer shared that, due to bad weather, they couldn’t complete the swim but received a private swimming lesson instead, which was highly appreciated. This shows the flexibility and professionalism of the team—something you’ll want in an outdoor activity like this.

The Post-Swim Chill & Social Aspect

After your swim, you’re encouraged to relax at a nearby terrace with a juice or snack of your choice. It’s a perfect way to wind down, chat about the experience, and enjoy the scenery. This social aspect enhances the overall vibe of the tour, making it more than just a swim—it’s a shared adventure.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is best for adventurous swimmers who appreciate scenic views and want to add a physically engaging activity to their Porto itinerary. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the sea and are comfortable in open water, but it’s not designed for non-swimmers or anyone who prefers a relaxing beach day.

Travelers with a sense of curiosity about Porto’s coastline or those looking to test their sea legs will find this tour particularly satisfying. The guide’s professionalism and the media coverage add value, especially if you’re keen to share your swim with friends or keep a visual record of your adventure.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking something active and memorable in Porto, this open water swim ticks a lot of boxes. You get to challenge yourself in a safe environment, enjoy stunning coastal scenery, and be guided by experienced locals. At just $68, it offers a genuinely different way to experience Portugal’s Atlantic coast—an adventure that’s both exhilarating and scenic.

It’s a fantastic choice if you love outdoor activities, are comfortable in open water, and want to add a splash of thrill to your Porto trip. Just remember to check the weather and sea conditions beforehand, and if you need a wetsuit, give yourself enough time to arrange one.

For those who want a mix of challenge, beautiful views, and professional guidance, this swim is a solid pick. It’s more than just exercise; it’s an immersive way to see Porto’s coast from a fresh perspective.

FAQ

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to join this tour?
Yes, this activity is suited for confident swimmers who are comfortable in open water. The swim can be up to 3 km, depending on conditions, so some level of stamina and water confidence is necessary.

What should I bring?
You should bring your own wetsuit if you have one. If not, the provider can try to rent one for you with sufficient notice. Also, wearing a swim cap is included, and you might want to bring sunglasses or sunscreen for after.

Can I join if I don’t have a wetsuit?
Wetsuits are recommended for comfort and safety, especially in colder water. You can request a wetsuit rental through the tour provider if you notify them at least 10 days in advance.

What is the duration of the activity?
The swimming itself lasts up to 1 hour, but the entire experience—including briefing, warm-up, and photo/video sessions—may take a little longer. The tour is designed to be flexible and safe, based on daily conditions.

Is it suitable for children?
This activity is best suited for adults and experienced swimmers. Non-swimmers or children not comfortable in the ocean are unlikely to enjoy or safely participate in this tour.

What happens if the weather isn’t suitable?
The guide will select the best spot on the day, considering weather, currents, and wind. If conditions are unsafe, the tour can be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

This open water swim offers a rare chance to connect with Porto’s coast in a truly active way. It’s perfect for those seeking an adventurous twist to their vacation and who enjoy the thrill of swimming in the Atlantic. Just be prepared, stay safe, and enjoy the views and the splash!

You can check availability for your dates here: