Private 4Hours Swimming Party on Sailboat in Lisbon

A Cozy Sailing and Swimming Escape in Lisbon

Imagine gliding through the calm waters of the Tagus River on a 33-foot sailboat, with Lisbon’s iconic sights like the 25 de Abril Bridge and Belém Tower drifting past your view. For four hours, you and up to seven friends or family members can enjoy a private sailing adventure that combines scenic sightseeing, refreshing swims, and engaging stories from a knowledgeable local crew.

This experience, offered by RSAILING, is a perfect way to see Lisbon from a different perspective—away from the crowds, yet close enough to capture all the city’s beauty from the water. It’s priced at a level that emphasizes quality and intimacy, rather than just being a party cruise.

Two things we love are the comfortable swimming platform that makes plunging into the blue waters easy and safe, and the high-quality sound system that turns the boat into a floating party or relaxing retreat, depending on your mood.

One consideration is that, as with all water-based activities, the weather can influence how much time you spend swimming or relaxing. Be sure to check the forecast and come prepared with sunscreen, swimwear, and a sense of adventure.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—those seeking a blend of scenic beauty, local insights, and a touch of luxury. It’s especially ideal for groups who want to escape the city noise and enjoy a private, personalized outing on Lisbon’s waters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive experience with groups limited to 8 guests ensures comfort and personalized attention.
• Scenic views of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks like the Belém Tower and 25 de Abril Bridge.
• Swim in clear, refreshingly cold Portuguese waters on a dedicated swimming platform.
• Sound system provides the option for relaxing tunes or lively music, perfect for different moods.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Family-friendly but not suitable for children under 3, or those with recent surgeries or motion sickness.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

From the moment you meet under the 25th of April Bridge, you’ll likely feel a mix of anticipation and curiosity. The meeting point, right at the marina’s Gate 1, is conveniently located near the iconic bridge—often called the Portuguese “Golden Gate”—making it easy to find.

Once aboard, you’ll settle onto comfortable sofas on the boat, ready to enjoy the views as your skippered vessel begins its gentle glide into the river. The crew, often described as friendly and knowledgeable, will share stories about Lisbon’s history and architecture—adding depth to your scenic cruise.

For those eager to cool off, the large swimming platform provides safe, easy access to the water. The water is noted to be cold but refreshing, and the clarity of the river makes swimming a true pleasure. As one reviewer mentions, “The water is cold but refreshing and so clear! A fabulous afternoon of perfection.”

During your trip, you’ll have ample opportunities to snap photos of landmarks like Belém Tower and the Monument of the Discoveries, which are especially stunning bathed in the late afternoon light. The boat’s sound system allows you to enjoy your favorite tunes, whether you want to relax or dance a little.

Throughout the tour, the guides will keep the atmosphere lively and informative, blending humor with intriguing facts about the city and its rich maritime past. This personal touch makes the experience feel more like a friendly day out with locals rather than a scripted tour.

In terms of timing, the tours run from 11 AM to 3 PM during the busy summer months (June to August). The 4-hour duration strikes a perfect balance—long enough to relax fully without feeling rushed.

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, although red wine, chocolate, and high heels are prohibited—mostly for safety and comfort reasons. Portuguese maritime law does regulate alcohol consumption onboard, so the crew might limit or end the tour if safety becomes a concern.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Most travelers find that the intimate size of the group makes this experience stand out. Unlike large party boats, you’ll get personalized attention from guides who are not only knowledgeable but also fun and engaging.

The scenic highlights—the views of Lisbon’s riverfront and landmarks—are spectacular, especially during sunset or midday when the light is perfect. Plus, the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters adds a refreshing element you won’t find on typical city tours.

Given the reviews, the quality of the guides and the stunning scenery are often highlighted as the best parts. For instance, one guest raved about the guides, saying, “We learned a lot about the region and the people of Portugal,” which underscores the tour’s educational appeal.

The price point, considering the private group and extra amenities like music and comfortable seating, offers good value for those seeking a personalized, relaxed alternative to crowded tours or typical boat rides.

Breakdown of the Itinerary

While this is a private experience, the general flow begins with meeting at the marina underneath the 25th of April Bridge. After a brief safety briefing, your crew—friendly and well-informed—will steer the boat into the river.

Your first stops will showcase Lisbon’s skyline, with panoramic views of key landmarks like the Belém Tower and the Discoveries Monument. The guides will point out these sites, sharing stories that bring the city’s history to life.

Next, you’ll have time to swim and relax. The boat’s expansive swimming platform makes it easy to enter the water, and the crew supplies the necessary safety measures. You’ll want to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and sunglasses for comfort.

You can choose to lounge on the boat’s sofas, listen to music, or mingle with your group. If you prefer, the guides will fill you in on local stories or Lisbon’s maritime past, making the experience both entertaining and educational.

As the tour approaches its end, the boat returns to the original meeting point, with the possibility of still catching a few more views of the city’s illuminated skyline if you’re lucky.

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Authentic Reviews: What Travelers Say

Authentic feedback highlights how much visitors appreciate the personalized service and the beautiful scenery. One reviewer notes, “The Captain and first mate were so pleasant and knowledgeable. We learned a lot about the region and the people of Portugal.” This personal touch is an important part of why many find the tour memorable.

The water’s cold but clear nature is a common theme, with guests describing it as refreshing after the warm sun. The sound system is also a hit, allowing guests to create a festive, relaxed, or even romantic atmosphere on deck.

The small group size and flexibility of the activity mean you can tailor the experience to your preferences, whether that’s more swimming, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the sun with good music.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience Most?

This private sailing tour is best suited for couples, small groups of friends, or families looking for a personalized, scenic escape in Lisbon. It’s ideal for those who enjoy being on the water, want a less crowded experience, and appreciate a blend of sightseeing and relaxation.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape the busy streets and enjoy a luxurious yet authentic perspective of Lisbon. The informative guides and the stunning views make it suitable for those interested in history or photography.

However, if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more energetic party atmosphere, this might not be the best fit. It’s a calm, scenic trip, rather than a wild party cruise.

FAQs

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks, but red wine, chocolate, and high heels are prohibited for safety and comfort reasons.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 guests can join this private experience, keeping it intimate and personalized.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old. It’s primarily designed for adults and families with older kids.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear to be prepared for swimming and sun exposure.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages do the guides speak?
Guides communicate in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Is this a party cruise?
No, this is a premium, relaxing experience, not a typical booze cruise. The tour does have a sound system, but alcohol intake is regulated for safety.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts 4 hours, from 11 AM to 3 PM during the summer months.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
Weather can affect the experience, especially swimming. It’s best to check the forecast and understand that the crew might modify the itinerary for safety.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing tour in Lisbon offers a unique way to see the city from the water, experience local maritime stories, and enjoy refreshing swims in the clear waters of the Tagus River. The combination of a small group, expert guides, and scenic landmarks makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking a luxurious yet authentic experience on Lisbon’s waters.

It’s especially well-suited for those who value personalized service, wish for a relaxed pace, and love the idea of combining sightseeing with leisure. If you’re after a memorable, intimate adventure that blends scenic beauty with cultural insights, this tour won’t disappoint.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a different perspective of Lisbon, this sailing and swimming experience offers a perfect balance of comfort, fun, and discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: