Sesimbra: Private Boat Tour-Wild beaches, secret bays, Caves

If you’re dreaming of discovering Portugal’s lesser-known coastal gems, a private boat tour in Sesimbra might just be what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of an experience that mixes natural beauty, tranquility, and unique moments on the water.

What we love about this tour: First, the chance to visit hidden beaches and secret bays that aren’t crowded and are mostly known to locals. Second, the opportunity to explore sea caves by boat, which adds an adventurous, almost mysterious element to the outing.

One potential drawback? The price point of $358 for a group up to 8 might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but considering the personalized experience and the exclusive access, many would say it offers good value.

This tour is well suited for travelers who love nature, scenic views, and a more intimate way of experiencing Portugal’s coastline—perfect for couples, small groups, or families wanting to escape the crowds.

This experience made our article of 15 Most Highly Rated Boat Tours & Cruises In Sesimbra.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience with up to 8 guests
• Multiple stops including beaches, bays, and caves
• Snorkeling gear included for exploring marine life
• Guided tour with local guides in several languages
• Scenic views and photo opportunities at every stop
• Ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Boat Tour in Sesimbra Stands Out

This private boat trip offers a chance to see some of the most stunning natural spots along the Sesimbra coast. Unlike larger, more commercial excursions, this experience emphasizes intimacy and flexibility—allowing you to enjoy the scenery at your own pace, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing on deck.

The tour’s 3-hour duration makes it a manageable addition to your day. It’s long enough to cover several key locations but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. Plus, the small group size means you’ll get personalized attention from guides who are eager to share their knowledge and help you make the most of your time on the water.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Stop 1: Starting Point at Blue Coast Tours Sesimbra

Your adventure begins at the Blue Coast Tours meeting point. Here, you’ll meet your guide, receive a quick briefing on safety, and get ready for the trip. Since there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, planning your transport to this meeting point is something to consider.

Stop 2: Praia da Cova – A Photo and Exploration Stop

Your first stop is Praia da Cova, a beautiful stretch of coastline where you’ll be able to take photos, enjoy a guided tour, or just soak in the views. The stop lasts about 40 minutes, giving plenty of time to walk around, swim, snorkel, or admire marine life.

What makes this special? It’s a chance to get your first glimpse of the dramatic coastline and maybe catch a glimpse of some local marine creatures if you’re snorkeling.

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Stop 3: Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach

Next, you’ll head to Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach, known for its striking natural beauty. This stop is especially popular for swimming and snorkeling, with a 40-minute window. From reviews, people loved the “very friendly guides” and the opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters.

This spot is famous among locals and those in the know for its tranquility and pristine water, perfect for a refreshing swim.

Stop 4: Praia da Mijona – Serenity and Tasting

Here, you’ll enjoy a relaxing stop with free time for swimming and snorkeling, along with a regional wine tasting and an aperitif. It’s a chance to slow down, take in the scenery, and perhaps enjoy some of Portugal’s local flavors. The 30-minute break gives you enough time to walk along the beach or simply unwind.

Stop 5: Inferno Beach – Hidden Paradise

The next stop is Inferno Beach, a true hidden gem with scenic views and calm waters. It’s described as a “hidden paradise” where you can unwind, swim, and snorkel. The boat will stay here for about 15 minutes—enough to soak up the atmosphere and admire the rugged coastline.

Stop 6: Baleeira Beach – Underwater Adventures

This is the final major beach stop, where you’ll get another chance for a swim, take photos, or explore marine life through snorkeling. The guided tour and wine tasting mentioned in the description add a touch of regional charm. It’s also a great spot to see the coastline from different angles.

Stop 7: Forte de São Domingos da Baralha – Cultural Touch

A quick 15-minute visit to this historic fort adds some cultural context to your trip, giving you a snapshot of Portugal’s maritime history.

Return to Base

After these stops, your tour concludes back at the starting point. Throughout the experience, guides are attentive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and informed.

What to Expect from the Experience

The tour promises breathtaking views at every turn, especially during scenic drives between stops. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for cooling off, swimming, or snorkeling, with gear provided. The regional drinks and cake are thoughtful touches that allow you to toast the local scenery and enjoy some regional flavors.

Since the boat explores sea caves—an aspect praised in reviews—you’ll love the sense of discovery and the chance to see formations that are best appreciated from the water. The experience’s emphasis on small group sizes makes it more personal, and guides are known to be friendly and accommodating.

The Value of the Tour

At $358 for up to 8 people, this is a pricier outing, but it covers all the essentials: a private boat, snorkeling gear, guided commentary, local drinks, and scenic stops. The exclusivity and personalized touch make it feel like a special treat rather than just a sightseeing tour. If you’re someone who values quality over quantity and loves discovering hidden corners away from crowds, this could be a worthwhile splurge.

Keep in mind, there’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point. But once on board, the focus is on relaxing, exploring, and enjoying the natural beauty of Sesimbra.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is excellent for travelers craving a peaceful escape, nature lovers, and those interested in marine environments. It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples wanting a more intimate adventure. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the gentle pace and focus on scenery and marine activities mean it could work for families with older children who enjoy water-based adventures.

If you’re looking for a highly personalized, scenic, and relaxed way to experience Portugal’s coast, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Guided tour with local guides speaking Portuguese, Spanish, French, or English, life jackets, snorkeling gear, boat, regional drink, and cake.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, you’ll need to meet at Blue Coast Tours Sesimbra, so plan your transport accordingly.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific stops and activities scheduled along that time.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the calm waters and scenic nature suggest it could suit older children; always check with the operator if unsure.

Are drinks and snacks provided?
Yes, regional drinks and cake are included, and there’s wine tasting at some stops.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours can be canceled with full refund if weather conditions are unsuitable, so check the forecast.

Do I need snorkeling experience?
No, gear is provided, and snorkelers of all levels can enjoy the calm waters.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are often flexible—check with the provider if you have specific requests.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour in Sesimbra offers a fantastic way to see some of Portugal’s most beautiful, less-visited spots. With stunning coastal scenery, the thrill of exploring sea caves, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, it’s especially appealing for those who want a peaceful, personalized day on the water. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the intimacy and exclusivity could make it a highlight of your trip.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing escape, a chance to capture memorable photos, or a fun marine adventure, this tour has a lot to offer. If you’re okay with a small group setting and enjoy discovering secret beaches away from crowds, it’s definitely worth considering.

Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: