Travelers looking for a break from Lisbon’s bustling streets and seeking a taste of Portugal’s natural beauty might find this Berlenga Island full-day tour an appealing escape. Offered by Go2Lisbon – Tours & Transfers, this experience promises a mix of sea adventure, nature exploration, and relaxing beach time—all packed into an 8-hour outing.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines scenic boat rides with opportunities to snap great photos of historic forts and enjoy free time on the beach. The boat cruise, especially, offers a chance to see the rugged coastline of Peniche and the imposing St John Baptist Fort from a unique perspective. Plus, with options for snorkeling or cave visits, it caters nicely to travelers wanting some active fun.

However, one thing to consider is the lack of a guide during the island exploration, which means this is more of a self-guided adventure on land rather than a guided tour. For those wanting a more narrated experience, this might feel a bit limited. Also, the tour’s price point of around $142 per person should be weighed against the overall value, especially since lunch isn’t included and you’ll need to find your own food.

This experience suits travelers who love natural scenery, boat trips, and relaxed beach time, especially if you’re fine exploring independently once on the island. It’s a good fit for those wanting a taste of Portugal’s coastal wilderness without too many bells and whistles.

Key Points

Lisbon: Berlenga Island Full Day Tour - Key Points

  • Scenic boat ride provides a unique view of Peniche and the Berlengas Nature Reserve.
  • Flexible free time for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach.
  • Historic sights like the well-known St John Baptist Fort add a touch of history to the trip.
  • Self-guided land exploration means more independence but less commentary.
  • Cost includes transportation, boat trip, and snorkel gear, but not meals.
  • The tour duration of 8 hours allows a full day but requires good planning for lunch and beach time.
You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Lisbon: Berlenga Island Full Day Tour - What to Expect from the Tour

The tour kicks off in Lisbon, with pick-up from a central meeting point—My Story Hotel Figueira—at around 8:15 AM. From there, you’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle through the scenic Norte Region towards Peniche, a lively fishing town known for its maritime charm.

Once in Peniche, the real adventure begins with a 40-minute boat ride to Berlenga Grande. This boat ride is a highlight, offering panoramic views of the coast and the chance to see the famous St John Baptist Fort, perched on a rocky outcrop and often featured in photos of the island. Passengers have reported mixed experiences with seasickness—some travelers noted rough ocean conditions, but larger boats like the catamaran used here are generally more stable and less likely to cause discomfort.

Upon reaching the island, you’ll have some free time at the port—a perfect opportunity to grab refreshments, stretch your legs, and soak in the views. The island is a designated natural reserve, and a one-hour walk allows you to uncover its flora and fauna, offering a glimpse of Portugal’s protected wildlife and landscapes.

For lunch, you’re on your own—there is just one restaurant available, or you can bring your own picnic to enjoy on the beach. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility, but those craving a sit-down meal with local flavor might find the options limited.

After lunch, you can choose to either snorkel with the provided gear—crystal-clear waters and calm seas make for enjoyable swimming and sea life viewing—or take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore caves without getting wet. Several reviews mention how well-organized the cave trips are, especially when ocean conditions are rough, which can cause seasickness in less stable small boats.

The return journey to Lisbon wraps up the day, with a drop-off back at your original meeting point. This full-day trip offers a well-rounded experience of Portugal’s lesser-known coastal gem with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and adventure.

Analyzing the Value

Lisbon: Berlenga Island Full Day Tour - Analyzing the Value

The $142 per person price includes transportation, insurance, a round-trip boat ride, and snorkel gear. Considering the length of the trip and the variety of activities, many will find this to be fairly good value, especially if you’re eager to explore privately or avoid the hassle of organizing your own boat trips.

However, since lunch is not included, you should budget extra for food. The limited dining options on the island mean bringing your own supplies might be the most convenient choice, especially if you prefer picnic meals or have specific dietary needs.

Reviews are mixed but generally positive about the experience. A traveler mentioned that Berlenga is “worth visiting at least once,” and others appreciated the splendid scenery and caves. That said, some noted that the boat ride can be challenging in rough weather, so pack accordingly and be prepared for the possibility of seasickness.

The Bottom Line

Lisbon: Berlenga Island Full Day Tour - The Bottom Line

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy independent exploration, scenic boat rides, and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a guided, narrated experience, this might feel a bit underwhelming, but for those comfortable with self-guided walks and beach time, it offers a flexible way to see one of Portugal’s most scenic islands.

It’s a great option for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a full-day escape into nature with stunning views, caves, and marine activities. Just be ready for some walking on uneven paths and plan ahead for meals, as the island’s amenities are limited.

FAQs

Lisbon: Berlenga Island Full Day Tour - FAQs

How long is the boat ride to Berlenga Island?
The crossing takes approximately 40 minutes, providing a comfortable and scenic start to your day.

Is snorkeling included in the tour?
Yes, provided snorkel gear is included, giving you a chance to explore the waters and see underwater life.

Are guides available on the island?
No, the land exploration is self-guided, so you’ll be free to walk the trails and explore at your own pace.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking, and snacks or lunch since only one restaurant is available.

Is there a chance of seasickness?
Some reviews mention rough ocean conditions causing seasickness, but larger boats like the catamaran tend to reduce this risk.

What’s included in the tour price?
Transportation, insurance, round-trip boat ride, and snorkel equipment are included, but not lunch.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, weather can affect sea conditions, so consider visiting in late spring, summer, or early fall for a more predictable experience.

How much walking should I expect?
About an hour of walking is included in the land exploration, with some paths being steep or uneven.

To sum it up, the Lisbon to Berlenga Island tour offers a nice balance of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. It’s an excellent choice for anyone eager to see Portugal’s coast from the water, explore a protected natural reserve, and enjoy some beach leisure—especially if you’re comfortable with a self-guided experience and prepared for a day of activity.

You can check availability for your dates here: