Sesimbra: Secret Bays and Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling

Experience the Hidden Beaches of Sesimbra on a Boat Tour

Imagine gliding along the calm, clear waters of Portugal’s Lisbon District, visiting secret beaches and bays that are mostly known only to locals. For about $57 per person, you’ll spend roughly 2.5 hours on a boat that takes you past stunning cliffs, lush greenery, and unspoiled coastlines. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides (George and Marco receive glowing reviews), this tour offers a perfect mix of relaxing scenery, authentic marine encounters, and small-group intimacy—limit of 8 participants ensures you won’t be just another face in a crowd.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines the natural beauty of hidden beaches like Ribeiro do Cavalo with the chance to snorkel in pristine waters and see vibrant marine life firsthand. Plus, the guides’ friendly attitude and local tips enrich the trip, making it feel like a day spent with friends rather than a standard tour.

One possible consideration is the weather—since the tour is outdoor and depends heavily on calm waters and sunshine, it’s worth planning on a clear day. Also, no hotel pickup or meals are included, so you’ll want to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point and bring your own snacks if desired.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, small-group adventures, and exploring lesser-known spots. If you appreciate authentic experiences and want to avoid crowded beaches, this trip will hit the mark.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Discover secret beaches and bays away from the crowds.
• Snorkeling Included: Calm waters and marine life make for memorable underwater moments.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides share insights and local tips.
• Unspoiled Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views, sea caves, and rugged coastlines.
• Good Value: For under $60, you get a scenic boat ride, snorkeling gear, and regional drinks.

Exploring the Sesimbra Boat Tour in Detail

This tour offers a chance to see parts of Portugal’s coastline that most visitors never experience. Starting at Blue Coast Tours Sesimbra, you’ll meet your guides, who will brief you on safety, the day’s itinerary, and what to expect. The intimate size of the group means you can ask questions and get personalized attention, which makes the experience even more engaging.

Itinerary Breakdown

Praia da Cova is your first stop, a beautiful, less-frequented beach where you can take photos, enjoy a brief guided tour, or simply relax on the sand. The reviews highlight the scenic boat cruise as a highlight—”the waters are so clear, you can see the seabed,” as one traveler noted. Here, you’ll have around 30 minutes to enjoy the surroundings, snorkel in the calm waters, and soak in the views.

Next is Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach, praised for its unspoiled natural beauty. You’ll get to walk along the beach, explore the natural surroundings, and snorkel again. Many reviews mention the thrill of the marine life viewing—”we saw many colorful fish, and the water was so clear,” reports one traveler. The guides’ insights about local ecology add depth to the experience.

Praia da Mijona offers another opportunity to swim, snorkel, and take in lush landscapes. This stretch of coast is less developed, giving you a sense of wild Portugal. The calm waters make snorkeling enjoyable for all skill levels.

Inferno Beach is a smaller, more intimate spot—perfect for a quick dip or some sun. With around 20 minutes here, you get a taste of the rugged coastline and perhaps a moment of solitude. Reviewers remark on the “peaceful and secluded” nature of this spot.

The highlight for many is Baleeira Beach, where you can explore, relax, and even indulge in regional wine tasting—highlighted as a special treat. The 40-minute stay allows for a guided visit, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the natural beauty. The combination of scenic views and the friendly crew “makes you feel like a local,” as noted in reviews.

Finally, the boat returns to your starting point, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures, snap a few last photos, and appreciate the stunning coastline.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Stunning Scenery: The coastline is filled with jagged cliffs, sea caves, and lush vegetation, making every view picture-worthy. The boat’s gentle pace lets you really take it all in. Many travelers mention how “breathtaking” the landscapes are, especially around the secret beaches.

Marine Life & Snorkeling: The calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. Guides provide gear, and reviewers frequently mention how many fish and marine creatures they saw—”enough to keep kids and adults entertained.” The marine protected area of Parque Marinho Professor Luiz Saldanha enhances this experience with vibrant underwater ecosystems.

Authentic, Uncrowded Beaches: Unlike the busy Algarve, Sesimbra’s hidden spots like Ribeiro do Cavalo and Cova Beach remain wild and relatively untouched, offering a more genuine experience of Portugal’s coast.

Knowledgeable Guides & Local Tips: Guides like George and Marco impress with their friendliness and knowledge—sharing insights about local ecology, geology, and even recommending regional drinks. “They shared stories and took photos for us,” one review says.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy small-group adventures and want to escape the crowds. If you love snorkeling, stunning coastal scenery, and discovering secret beaches, you’ll appreciate the effort the guides put into creating a memorable journey. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers—those who value authentic experiences over commercialized tours.

Since the tour doesn’t include meals or hotel transportation, it’s best for those who have made their own arrangements to get to Blue Coast Tours in Sesimbra. Also, being outdoors means being prepared for sun, water, and possibly wind—bring sun protection and a towel.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Arrive early at Blue Coast Tours Sesimbra to get your gear and settle in comfortably.
• Wear comfortable clothes, swimwear underneath, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel.
• Book in advance—these small groups fill quickly, especially during peak season.
• Consider bringing a waterproof camera or phone case to capture underwater moments.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions as the boat is small but stable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, children should be comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling in calm waters. The overall duration and stops make it manageable for most kids.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear is provided on board, as are life jackets, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm and sun protection.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making the booking flexible if your plans are uncertain.

Are there any food options on the boat?
Food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or drinks if you want to stay fueled during the trip.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is outdoors, so it depends on good weather conditions. Check the forecast and be prepared for possible rescheduling or cancellation if conditions are unsafe.

How long are the stops at each beach?
Stops vary from about 20 to 40 minutes, enough to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Sesimbra boat tour combines scenic beauty, authentic beaches, and the chance to snorkel in protected waters—all for a very reasonable price. The small group size and friendly guides make it a personal, relaxed experience. The unspoiled beaches and spectacular coastlines are perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, more genuine slice of Portugal’s stunning shoreline.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a fun family outing, or a chance to see marine life up close, this tour offers a fantastic way to connect with nature without breaking the bank. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic experiences over touristy crowds, and who enjoy discovering hidden gems that most visitors miss.

Summary

In short, the Sesimbra: Secret Bays and Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling provides a beautifully balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and small-group intimacy at a great value. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge add a personal touch that elevates the experience, making it more than just a boat ride. If you’re in Lisbon or Sesimbra and looking for an authentic, relaxing day on the water, this trip is well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: