The Algarve isn’t just about stunning beaches and spectacular cliffs; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy drinking tours that combine scenic views, local food, and freshly brewed beverages. Whether you’re looking for a day on the water with a cold drink in hand or a relaxed brewery visit, Algarve offers a variety of options that suit different tastes and budgets. We especially like the Albufeira: Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ and Open Bar for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent reviews, or the Catamaran Cruise with BBQ & Open Bar for its unique perspective on the coast and caves. These experiences highlight Algarve’s perfect mix of natural beauty and lively social atmosphere.
Algarve’s drinking tours stand out because they often blend adventure with leisure, offering boat trips, snorkeling, and beachside barbecues. Plus, many tours include all-you-can-drink options, making them ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a good time. If you’re contemplating which tour suits your style, this guide will help you compare options and find the perfect match.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of drinking tours in Algarve to fit different interests and budgets. You’ll find coastal cruises with beach BBQs (see here), catamaran adventures with cave visits and open bars (see here), sunset cruises with live music (see here), and sailing boat tours with BBQs (see here). Plus, for beer lovers, there are brewery visits in Loule (see here) and craft brewery tours (see here). Each offers a distinctive taste of Algarve’s social scene and local flavors.
1. Albufeira: Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ and Open Bar
At number 1, this six-hour cruise combines sightseeing along the coast with a tender beach BBQ, and what’s more, there’s an open bar on board. The trip departs from Albufeira marina, heading westward along the Algarve coastline, where you can spot caves, dolphins, and the spectacular cliffs. The highlight is stopping at a secluded beach—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the sand. The crew provides free snacks, paddle boards, and a delicious BBQ, making it a true feast for the senses.
What makes this tour stand out is its amazing reviews—rated 4.7/5 from over 1,000 travelers—who praise the friendly crew, the beautiful scenery, and the value for money. Many mention that the boat has two stories, with sheltered indoor areas for when the wind picks up, and the upstairs for the best views. The open bar adds a fun, carefree vibe, which guests say makes the whole experience memorable. This cruise is ideal for those who want a relaxed day with plenty of opportunities for swimming and socializing, plus a tasty BBQ.
Bottom Line: If you want a classic Algarve coast experience with plenty of drinks and a beachside feast, this trip delivers. Best suited for travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere on the water.
2. Albufeira: Catamaran Cruise with BBQ & Open Bar on the Beach
Rated 4.7/5 from 685 reviews, this catamaran cruise offers a more luxurious spin on the coast exploration. The main draw is the chance to see the famous Benagil caves, one of Portugal’s most iconic natural attractions, from the water. Departing from Albufeira, the boat slowly glides past cliffs and caves, giving you plenty of photo opportunities.
The trip includes a delicious BBQ on a beach, where you can relax, swim, and sunbathe under the Algarve sun. What’s unique here is the option to take a small dinghy to get closer to caves, adding an extra thrill. The crew is highly praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, and the all-you-can-drink open bar makes the day even more enjoyable. Reviewers love how the food is plentiful and tasty, and many mention the beautiful private beach with crystal-clear water.
This tour suits travelers who want a bit of adventure and comfort, combining a scenic boat ride, cave exploration, and a relaxed beach BBQ. The small group size (around 20 people) ensures a more intimate experience, and the overall value for the price is high.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who love a scenic coastal adventure with a focus on caves and a leisurely beach party.
3. From Albufeira: Sunset Cruise and Beach BBQ with Open Bar
Rated 4.6/5 from 850 reviews, this sunset cruise is a fantastic way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Leaving in the late afternoon, the boat takes you along the coast to watch the sun set over the bay of Armação de Pêra, a spectacle of changing colors and calm waters. The highlight is the BBQ dinner on a nearby beach, paired with live music and an open bar.
Guests consistently praise the stunning sunset views and the relaxed atmosphere onboard. The beach BBQ is described as tasty and plentiful, with some reviews noting that the beach was moved but that it didn’t detract from the experience. The combination of music, fire dancing, and drinks makes this the perfect evening outing for couples or small groups. The trip offers a balance of scenic cruising, sunset, and a lively beach party, making it a popular choice among travelers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a romantic or laid-back evening experience with good food, drinks, and a stunning sunset backdrop.
4. Albufeira: Sailing Boat Cruise BBQ & Open Bar on the Beach
Rated an impressive 4.9/5 from 51 reviews, this sailing boat cruise offers a more intimate and authentic experience. Departing from Albufeira’s Marina, the trip takes you along the coast to visit Benagil and Carvoeiro. The highlight is the BBQ lunch on a private beach, with plenty of ice-cold drinks and the chance to swim in the ocean.
What makes this tour special is its smaller group size and the personalized attention from the crew, who are praised for their friendliness and professionalism. Guests mention the quality of the food and the beautiful views of the caves from the water. The dinghy ride to the caves adds a little adventure, and the overall experience feels more exclusive.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic sailing experience, enjoy quiet beaches, and prefer smaller groups for a more relaxed vibe. Although slightly pricier, the high ratings suggest excellent value.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer sailing over motorized tours and appreciate a cozy, personalized adventure.
5. Visit to a Family Brewery in Loulé with Tasting
Rated 5.0/5 from 3 reviews, this brewery visit offers a refreshing change from the coast trips. The owner leads the tour—covering the art of brewing, from raw ingredients to finished beer. You’ll sample five different beers, each brewed on-site, giving you a hands-on appreciation of the process.
This experience is quite intimate and informative, perfect for beer enthusiasts or those wanting a taste of local craftsmanship. The small family business is praised for its passion and knowledge, and the artwork on labels adds a special touch. It’s a quick, 1.5-hour outing, but one that leaves you with a new appreciation for Portuguese craft beer.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you’re into beer and want a behind-the-scenes look at local brewing traditions, especially if you prefer a quieter, more educational experience.
6. Tour of a Craft Brewery with Tasting
Rated 5/5, this craft brewery tour is a hands-on experience led by the brewer himself. You’ll learn about the history and art of brewing, then sample five beers brewed on-site. The tour’s interactive nature and personalized attention make it a hit among beer lovers.
The Nova Vida family brewery emphasizes quality and tradition, and the tasting includes a variety of styles. The 1.5-hour duration makes it a quick but highly informative experience. Guests appreciate the friendly environment and the chance to ask questions directly to the brewer, which adds depth to the tasting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to deepen their beer knowledge and enjoy a relaxed, educational experience with high-quality brews.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Algarve
When selecting a drinking tour, consider your interests and budget. Coastal cruises like the sightseeing cruise with beach BBQ or the catamaran trip are perfect for sun and scenery lovers who want a relaxed day on the water. If you prefer a romantic sunset, the sunset cruise offers both stunning views and good food. For those into craft beer, the brewery visits in Loule give an authentic taste of Portugal’s brewing scene, especially if you’re looking for something more educational and less touristy.
Budget-wise, the brewery tours are the most affordable, while the sailing and cruise trips tend to be more expensive but include more elaborate scenery and amenities. Booking early is advisable, especially in summer, as these tours are popular.
Final Thoughts
Algarve’s drinking tours offer a diverse range of experiences, from relaxing coast cruises to engaging brewery visits. For a lively day on the water, the Albufeira: Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ is a top pick, while the catamaran cruise is perfect for those wanting a bit more adventure. If winding down with a sunset drink sounds better, the sunset cruise will suit you. Finally, beer lovers should not miss the local brewery tours for a taste of Portugal’s craft brewing talent.
Whatever your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Algarve offers something for all who loves good drinks, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed vibe.