Benagil Caves & Coast from Portimão on an Eco-Friendly Catamaran

Portimão , Portugal

Benagil Caves & Coast from Portimão on an Eco-Friendly Catamaran

Active

(303 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Come aboard for an incredible journey to discover the secrets of the stunning Benagil Caves and the beautiful Golden Coast of the Algarve, all from the comfortable cushions of our elegant eco-friendly solar-powered catamaran!

Sail in style with zero emissions and enjoy a serene atmosphere, free from harmful pollutants. Our boat offers first-class amenities—from a bar to lounge seating, deck, and even a restroom—ensuring your comfort and fun.

Start a tour of approximately 3 hours from Portimão Marina, taking in the views of the Golden Coast, passing by Carvoeiro, and exploring the famous Benagil Caves.

On warm days with calm seas, there’s always time for a refreshing swim (except on sunset trips). Just bring your swimsuit and a towel!

Join us for an unforgettable, fun, and eco-conscious nautical getaway!

Available options

Benagil Caves & Coast from Portimão on an Eco-Friendly Catamaran

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

The Fort of São João do Arade, sometimes referred to as the Castle of Arade, is a medieval fortification. The first fortification on the site consisted of a watch tower erected in the reign of King John II of Portugal. Later, following the settlement of Ferragudo (around 1520), it is believed that the castle was encircled by a defensive wall (built on the rudimentary walls of the older walls).
The origins of the Fort of Arade date back to the Philippine Dynasty, to defend the coast of the peninsula from attacks by pirates and privateers in service to the Crowns of northern Europe.

The lighthouse, of unusual design, consists of a small square turret attached to a one-story caretaker's house. It supports a red lantern on its terrace. The house, often compared with the appearance of a small schoolhouse, is painted white, with exposed stones and a red tiled roof. It is located on a promontory, used since prehistory for pagan rituals, on the eastern side of the entrance to the port of Portimão.
The Ponta do Altar Lighthouse was first proposed by Ricardo Peyroteu on June 21, 1884. It started operations of 1 January 1893. The tower is 10 meters high and 2.7 meters wide. The original light was white and used oil as the fuel source. It combined with two smaller lights at the ends of the two moles at the entrance to Portimão harbour.

This small islet, with an area of just 0.16 ha, is classified as IBA
(Important Bird Area), due to its importance as nesting site for ardeids (herons).
This place is especially interesting during spring, due to the existence of a colony of Cattle Egrets and Little Egrets - at this time of year the top of the islet is full of white dots, which are the herons in their nests.

Stop 4 Pass by

Torre da Lapa was perhaps built in the 16th century as part of the watchtower system that helped defend the Algarve coast.
For hundreds of years, up there, the men from the neighborhood took turns watching the coast, always keeping an eye on the boats of corsairs, mostly from North Africa. In case of danger, it was also up there that a bell was rung, smoke signals were made or, at night, a fire was lit, so that people had time to put their possessions and lives in a safe place.

One of the deepest caves in this area. Entering it is amazing! Only possible when weather conditions are favourable.

Stop 6

Algar de Benagil is one of the most widespread places when the subject is the Algarve beaches, including the international press. No surprises, this beach / cave is incredibly beautiful. Whenever the conditions are favourable, we will enter it. Prepare your camera!

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

32 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

271 reviews

5★

262

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Dogs or other pets are not allowed

Access to our boats is not suitable for people with reduced mobility

Baby Stollers and Wheelchairs are not allowed

Suitable for pregnant women

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please check in 15 minutes before departure time

Only water and food intended for young children are allowed on board

Smoking only allowed on the back of the boat with permition from the crew

ATTENTION: Our kiosk is not the check-in or boarding point. The Boarding Pier M is on the North Side of Portimão Marina, with car access via Rua Simão Correia.

Not recommended for pregnant women with high-risk pregnancies or in advanced stages of pregnancy

Meeting point

Check-in is 15 min before departure. Boarding is on the north side of Portimão Marina, by the administrative building (Rua Simão Correia).

Don’t enter just “Marina de Portimão” in Uber/taxi or you may be dropped on the south side, a 15-min walk away. We can’t wait for late arrivals.

Important notes

Thank you so much for booking with us!

We'll be very happy to welcome you aboard.

Please go to the meeting point at Pier M from Portimão Marina 15 minutes before the start of your tour.

Press this link to get directions to the boarding point at Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/KUBJ1ijkSLkC1o1NA or use the GPS: 37.121961, -8.528116

About Portimão

Portimão is a vibrant coastal city in the Algarve region of Portugal, known for its stunning beaches, rich maritime history, and lively atmosphere. It offers a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Praia da Rocha

Praia da Rocha is one of the most famous beaches in Portimão, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. It's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Portimão Museum

The Portimão Museum offers a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history and cultural heritage. It houses a variety of exhibits, including archaeological artifacts and traditional boats.

Museum 1-2 hours €5

Algar Seco

Algar Seco is a natural park with stunning rock formations, caves, and viewpoints. It's a great spot for hiking, photography, and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline.

Nature Half day Free

Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição

This historic church is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and a significant religious site in Portimão. It's worth a visit for its intricate design and cultural importance.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cataplana de Marisco

A traditional Portuguese seafood dish cooked in a cataplana, a copper cooking pot. It typically includes a variety of seafood such as clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish, cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices.

Dinner Contains seafood and shellfish

Bacalhau à Brás

A classic Portuguese dish made with shredded codfish, onions, garlic, and eggs, often served with fried potatoes and parsley.

Dinner Contains fish and eggs, can be made vegetarian with substitutions

Pastel de Nata

A popular Portuguese custard tart with a flaky pastry crust and a creamy egg yolk filling, dusted with cinnamon.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in Algar Seco Water sports at Praia da Rocha Sunbathing at Praia da Rocha Spa treatments Visiting Portimão Museum Exploring the historic center Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Portimão for beach activities and water sports. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the coastal attractions.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Western European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Portimão is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Faro Airport • 65 km from Portimão

By train

Portimão Train Station

By bus

Portimão Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

EVA Transportes operates a network of buses that cover Portimão and the surrounding areas. The buses are reliable and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Praia da Rocha City Center Alvor

Day trips

Alvor

5 km from Portimão • Half day

Alvor is a charming fishing village with beautiful beaches, scenic walks, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the busier areas of Portimão.

Lagos

25 km from Portimão • Full day

Lagos is a historic town with a rich maritime heritage, stunning beaches, and beautiful architecture. It's a popular destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike.

Silves

30 km from Portimão • Half day to full day

Silves is a historic town with a stunning castle, beautiful architecture, and a rich cultural heritage. It's a great place to learn about the region's history and enjoy traditional Portuguese charm.

Festivals

Carnaval de Portimão • February Festas de São João • June

Pro tips

Visit Praia da Rocha for stunning sunsets and vibrant nightlife
Explore the historic center and visit the Portimão Museum for a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history
Try local seafood dishes like cataplana de marisco and bacalhau à Brás
Take a day trip to nearby destinations like Alvor, Lagos, or Silves for a variety of experiences
Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and reduce your carbon footprint