A boat tour is a great way for families to enjoy the Algarve. From Olhao to Sagres, there are fun trips for all ages. In this post, we will look at five boat tours in different cities of the Algarve.

In Olhao, you can visit the calm waters of Ria Formosa. Boats stop at small islands where kids can swim and play. Vilamoura has big boats that sail smoothly. Many tours include dolphin watching, which kids love. From Albufeira, you can take a trip to the Benagil Cave. Some tours also include a beach BBQ. Boats are safe and have life jackets for everyone.

In the Western Algarve, we have Lagos, where small boats visit the Ponta da Piedade caves. The trip is short and perfect for young children. In Sagres, you can see cliffs, beaches, and maybe even dolphins. These tours are exciting and good for kids who enjoy nature.

All along the Algarve, boat trips are fun, safe, and full of things to see. It is a great way to enjoy the sea together. Joining a family boat tour in the Algarve will make your stay unforgettable.

1. Dolphin watching in Olhao

Olhao is an authentic city in the Eastern Algarve. The city is renowned for its vibrant fish market and other fresh food offerings. A boat tour to the dolphins in Olhão is an adventure for the whole family. You will go out to the ocean and try to find wild dolphins. Dolphins are often spotted on almost all trips, as the skippers are very experienced and encourage passengers to help locate them. Sometimes it is hard to find them, as they are wild animals and not fed. Fortunately, this does not happen often, and the boat trip itself is very nice.

2. Benagil cave tour from Vilamoura

This Vilamoura Benagil cave tour has been designed with the needs of your family in mind. If you are on holiday in the Algarve or still planning it, a Benagil tour should be part of it. The Benagil cave is certainly one of the most impressive sea caves of Portugal and maybe even the world! On this tour, you will have time to stop in a secluded bay for a swim or even some snorkeling. Fun is guaranteed for all ages.

3. Boat tour with kayak and SUP from Albufeira

This Benagil boat tour from Albufeira with kayak or SUP is one of the most exciting ways to explore the famous Benagil Cave. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the stunning Algarve coast, then switch to a kayak or standup paddleboard to get even closer to the impressive caves and rock formations. Paddle right into hidden grottoes and admire the natural beauty from a unique perspective. It is the perfect mix of chill and adventure for the whole family, fun, scenic, and unforgettable.

Boat tour
Boat tour

4. Ponta da Piedade cave tour in Lagos

Explore the amazing area around Ponta da Piedade on this 1 h 15 m cave tour from Lagos Marina. With small groups of up to 10 people, you will enjoy a personal experience guided by a friendly local skipper. 

On these grotto tours, you will cruise past iconic beaches like Praia da Batata, Dona Ana, and Camilo, and discover the names and stories behind the caves and rock formations. This scenic boat trip is a must do in Lagos and offers stunning views of the coastline of the region and hidden gems.

5. Family fishing tour in Sagres

Enjoy an unforgettable fishing tour in Sagres, perfect for adventure lovers. Led by Master Ze, a local skipper with 35+ years of experience, this 3-hour trip takes you to the best fishing spots along the stunning Sagres coast. You will avoid tourist crowds and discover hidden areas with sea sculpted cliffs. Fishing in Sagres is fun for the whole family. If you are not into fishing, you can just enjoy the boat tour and watch.

Each of these boat tours offers a special experience. Whether you want to explore known spots like Benagil or enjoy peaceful nature, a family boat tour in Portugal is a must. Book on time, especially in summer, they sell out fast.

Author bio: Dutch-born Bo Irik grew up in Southern Portugal, and her passion for the sea resulted in SeaBookings.com, an online platform about sea experiences around the world.